When is the best time to visit the Galápagos?

The Galápagos is a year-round destination. December to May is the warm season, with sunny days, occasional tropical showers and calmer seas. June to November is cooler and drier, with cloudier skies, livelier seas and richer marine life. Christmas, New Year, Easter and July–August are the busiest times and sell out first, so we recommend booking 9–12 months ahead for those dates.

How long should my cruise be?

Cruises run from 4 to 15 days. Four or five days covers one region of the islands well. Seven or eight days lets you reach more remote islands and see a wider range of wildlife. For the ultimate Galápagos experience, cruises of up to 15 days complete a full loop of the archipelago, visiting its central, southern, western and northern islands. We recommend at least five days if you can!

How do I get to the Galápagos Islands?

Fly into Quito or Guayaquil on mainland Ecuador, then take a short domestic flight to Baltra or San Cristóbal, where your cruise begins. We recommend arriving in Ecuador at least a day before your cruise. We can book your domestic flights and time them to your ship’s departure.

Are there any entry fees?

Yes. Every visitor pays a Galápagos National Park fee of US$200 per adult (US$100 for children under 12, free for under-2s), plus a US$20 Transit Control Card. Normally the park fee is paid in cash on arrival and the card is bought at Quito or Guayaquil airport before your flight. To save you the hassle, we can pre-book both for you, so they’re ready when you travel.

What’s included in the price?

Cruise prices usually include your cabin, all meals and snacks on board, soft drinks and juices, and all listed excursions and activities. You’ll be accompanied by dedicated bilingual naturalist guides, certified by the Galápagos National Park. Snorkelling equipment is also provided.

Should I choose a cruise or a land-based trip?

A cruise lets you reach remote islands and visitor sites that can’t be visited on day trips, and you travel between islands while you sleep. A land-based trip suits travellers who prefer staying on dry land, want more flexibility or are travelling on a tighter budget. We can also combine the two.

Which itinerary is best for seeing specific wildlife?

Each itinerary visits different islands, and some species only live in certain areas. For example, waved albatrosses nest on Española, penguins and flightless cormorants are found in the west, and Genovesa is famous for red-footed boobies. Tell us what you most want to see and we’ll match you to the right route.

Is a Galápagos cruise suitable for children?

Yes, all our ships welcome families. Most ships have a minimum age of 7, but a few especially family-friendly ships have no minimum age at all. We can recommend the best options and cabins for your family.

Can you cater for dietary requirements?

Yes. Most ships can cater for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other dietary needs, as well as allergies. Just let us know when you book and we’ll pass the details to the ship in advance.

Is there Wi-Fi on board?

Some luxury ships offer free Wi-Fi, while others charge extra for it. Connection is usually via satellite and can be limited, so expect to be largely offline while at sea. Most guests find it part of the magic.

Can I combine my cruise with mainland Ecuador or Peru?

Absolutely. Many guests add a few nights in the Andes, the Amazon rainforest or Quito’s historic centre, or extend to Machu Picchu in Peru. We’ll build your whole trip around your cruise dates.

I’m travelling solo - can I join a cruise?

Absolutely. Many travellers cruise the Galápagos on their own. Some ships offer shared cabins with another guest of the same gender, some have single cabins with no supplement, and others charge a single supplement for a private cabin. We’ll find the best option for you.

Can I go scuba diving on a cruise?

Most cruises focus on snorkelling rather than diving. Some ships offer diving as an optional extra, and there are also dedicated liveaboard dive cruises for certified divers. Let us know if diving is a priority and we’ll recommend the right ship.

How much luggage can I bring?

Domestic flights to the Galápagos usually allow one checked bag of up to 23 kg and one carry-on. Soft-sided bags are easier to store on board. All luggage is checked at the airport to stop non-native plants, seeds and animals reaching the islands.

Some crossings can be choppy, especially from June to November. Catamarans and larger ships tend to be the most stable. Bring seasickness tablets or patches just in case, and let us know if you’re worried. We can suggest itineraries with shorter crossings.

Pack light, breathable clothing, plus a warm layer and a waterproof jacket. You’ll also want a hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sun cream, swimwear, comfortable walking shoes and sandals for wet landings. Don’t forget binoculars and a camera.

What currency is used, and should I bring cash?

Ecuador uses the US dollar. Bring cash for park fees, tips and small purchases, as ATMs are limited on the islands and some places don’t accept cards.

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance isn’t mandatory, but we highly recommend it. Choose a policy that covers medical treatment, emergency evacuation and cancellation for your whole trip.

The Calipso yacht, with a navy hull and white superstructure, cruising on deep blue open sea

Punta Cormorant Southern Discovery

Trip highlights:

Cormorant Point
Post Office Bay
Santa Fe
South Plaza
Flamingos
Land iguanas

From $2,845£2,153 per person

Ship: Calipso
Next departure: 22 Feb – 25 Feb 2027
Duration:: 4 Days
Comfort level:: Premium
Total guests:: 16

From $2,845£2,153 per person

Ship: Calipso
Next departure: 22 Feb – 25 Feb 2027
Duration:: 4 Days
Comfort level:: Premium
Total guests:: 16

Your journey

A short trip with plenty of character, good if you only have four days.

You walk among land iguanas and sea lions on South Plaza and Santa Fe, leave a postcard in the barrel at Post Office Bay for the next traveller to deliver, and look for flamingos at Cormorant Point. You also visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the San Cristóbal Interpretation Center. Your ship is the Calipso, a comfort yacht with a dive deck and sundeck jacuzzi.

Mainland Ecuador

1 Day 1: South Plaza Island

In the morning, you'll arrive at Baltra Airport and transfer to the boat. In the afternoon, you'll visit South Plaza Island, observing sea lions and colorful land iguanas amidst Opuntia cacti and seasonally changing Sesuvium vegetation.

Baltra, South Plaza
2 Day 2: Floreana Island

In the morning, you'll visit Post Office Bay, participating in the historic mail tradition, followed by exploring the scenic Baroness Viewing Point and its intriguing history. In the afternoon, you'll observe flamingos at Cormorant Point's lagoon and unique beaches, like the Green Beach and Flour Sand Beach.

Floreana
3 Day 3: Santa Fe & Cruz Islands

In the morning, you'll explore Santa Fe Island, hiking to a scenic viewpoint or through a prickly pear cactus forest. In the afternoon, you'll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station/Fausto Llerena Breeding Center on Santa Cruz Island, observing giant tortoises of various ages and learning about their conservation.

Santa Cruz, Santa Fe
4 Day 4: San Cristobal Island

In the morning, you'll visit the Gianni Arismendy Interpretation Center on San Cristobal Island, learning about the Galapagos' history and conservation efforts. Later on, you will transfer to the San Cristobal Airport.

San Cristóbal

What's included...

Seven nights aboard the comfort Calipso Yacht with all meals onboard included and prepared by onboard chefs.
Accommodation in selected cabin
All meals throughout cruise
On shore excursions escorted by an English-speaking Naturalist guide
Transfers to and from the Islands
Use of snorkeling equipment and wet suits
Use of Kayaks (depending on the itinerary)
Water, coffee and tea
Carbon Footprint Compensation
2 FREE transfers for Galapagos flights and airport assistance for 8-day cruises**
2 FREE hotel nights in Quito or Guayaquil the days before or after the cruise for 8-day cruises**
1 FREE hotel night in Quito or Guayaquil the day before the cruise for 4 and 5-day cruises**
1 FREE transfer for Galapagos flight and airport assistance for 4 and 5-day cruises**

Not included...

Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($200 per adult, $100 per child (12 and under)
Transit Control Card (TCT) – $20 per person
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (available for purchase onboard)
Personal expenses, tips, and travel insurance
Flight ticket round trip to Galapagos

**Applies when purchasing roundtrip Galapagos airfare from Cruise Operator . Valid only during the operational dates of the cruise. (does not apply on 2X1 promotions).

Comfort level: Premium

Calipso

Fresh, Modern and Made for Comfort

On board:

Sun deck with Jacuzzi
Expert Naturalist Guides
Wetsuits
Kayaks on board

Cabins

King/Twin Cabin

Calipso’s Convertible Cabins can be arranged with either a king-size bed or two twin beds, and feature panoramic windows that fill the space with natural light and island views. Each includes a private bathroom with hot water, individual air conditioning, a TV, a hairdryer, USB charging and storage space. Six of these cabins are on the Upper Deck and two on the Main Deck.

Size: 12.2m² (131 ft²)
Beds: Double or twin
Location: Main Deck, Upper Deck
Guests: 2

Private bathroom
Air conditioning
Panoramic windows
Hair dryer
TV
Safe

Select for $2,845£2,153 pp

Twin Cabin

Calipso’s Lower Deck Twin Cabins feature one twin beds and porthole windows, offering a cozy, quiet retreat after a day of exploring. Includes a private bathroom with hot water, individual air conditioning, a TV, a hairdryer, USB charging and storage space.

Size: 11.3m² (122 ft²)
Beds: Twin
Location: Lower deck
Guests: 2

Air conditioning
Private Bathroom
Porthole windows
TV
Hair dryer
Safe

Select for $2,845£2,153 pp

Extend your trip

Adding extra nights on land gives you more time to relax, explore and enjoy your destination at your own pace. Arrive before your cruise to settle in, recover from your journey and start your holiday feeling refreshed. Or extend your trip after disembarkation to discover more of the local sights, culture and cuisine before heading home.

Post-cruise Machu Picchu Highlights

Machu Picchu Highlights: Add for Added for $1,272£963 pp
Pre-cruise Quito Express

Quito Express: Add for Added for $677£512 pp

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit the Galápagos?

The Galápagos is a year-round destination. December to May is the warm season, with sunny days, occasional tropical showers and calmer seas. June to November is cooler and drier, with cloudier skies, livelier seas and richer marine life. Christmas, New Year, Easter and July–August are the busiest times and sell out first, so we recommend booking 9–12 months ahead for those dates.
How long should my cruise be?

Cruises run from 4 to 15 days. Four or five days covers one region of the islands well. Seven or eight days lets you reach more remote islands and see a wider range of wildlife. For the ultimate Galápagos experience, cruises of up to 15 days complete a full loop of the archipelago, visiting its central, southern, western and northern islands. We recommend at least five days if you can!
How do I get to the Galápagos Islands?

Fly into Quito or Guayaquil on mainland Ecuador, then take a short domestic flight to Baltra or San Cristóbal, where your cruise begins. We recommend arriving in Ecuador at least a day before your cruise. We can book your domestic flights and time them to your ship’s departure.
Are there any entry fees?

Yes. Every visitor pays a Galápagos National Park fee of US$200 per adult (US$100 for children under 12, free for under-2s), plus a US$20 Transit Control Card. Normally the park fee is paid in cash on arrival and the card is bought at Quito or Guayaquil airport before your flight. To save you the hassle, we can pre-book both for you, so they’re ready when you travel.
What’s included in the price?

Cruise prices usually include your cabin, all meals and snacks on board, soft drinks and juices, and all listed excursions and activities. You’ll be accompanied by dedicated bilingual naturalist guides, certified by the Galápagos National Park. Snorkelling equipment is also provided.
Should I choose a cruise or a land-based trip?

A cruise lets you reach remote islands and visitor sites that can’t be visited on day trips, and you travel between islands while you sleep. A land-based trip suits travellers who prefer staying on dry land, want more flexibility or are travelling on a tighter budget. We can also combine the two.
Which itinerary is best for seeing specific wildlife?

Each itinerary visits different islands, and some species only live in certain areas. For example, waved albatrosses nest on Española, penguins and flightless cormorants are found in the west, and Genovesa is famous for red-footed boobies. Tell us what you most want to see and we’ll match you to the right route.
Is a Galápagos cruise suitable for children?

Yes, all our ships welcome families. Most ships have a minimum age of 7, but a few especially family-friendly ships have no minimum age at all. We can recommend the best options and cabins for your family.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?

Yes. Most ships can cater for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other dietary needs, as well as allergies. Just let us know when you book and we’ll pass the details to the ship in advance.
Is there Wi-Fi on board?

Some luxury ships offer free Wi-Fi, while others charge extra for it. Connection is usually via satellite and can be limited, so expect to be largely offline while at sea. Most guests find it part of the magic.
Can I combine my cruise with mainland Ecuador or Peru?

Absolutely. Many guests add a few nights in the Andes, the Amazon rainforest or Quito’s historic centre, or extend to Machu Picchu in Peru. We’ll build your whole trip around your cruise dates.
I’m travelling solo - can I join a cruise?

Absolutely. Many travellers cruise the Galápagos on their own. Some ships offer shared cabins with another guest of the same gender, some have single cabins with no supplement, and others charge a single supplement for a private cabin. We’ll find the best option for you.
Can I go scuba diving on a cruise?

Most cruises focus on snorkelling rather than diving. Some ships offer diving as an optional extra, and there are also dedicated liveaboard dive cruises for certified divers. Let us know if diving is a priority and we’ll recommend the right ship.
How much luggage can I bring?

Domestic flights to the Galápagos usually allow one checked bag of up to 23 kg and one carry-on. Soft-sided bags are easier to store on board. All luggage is checked at the airport to stop non-native plants, seeds and animals reaching the islands.
Will I get seasick?

Some crossings can be choppy, especially from June to November. Catamarans and larger ships tend to be the most stable. Bring seasickness tablets or patches just in case, and let us know if you’re worried. We can suggest itineraries with shorter crossings.
What should I pack?

Pack light, breathable clothing, plus a warm layer and a waterproof jacket. You’ll also want a hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sun cream, swimwear, comfortable walking shoes and sandals for wet landings. Don’t forget binoculars and a camera.
What currency is used, and should I bring cash?

Ecuador uses the US dollar. Bring cash for park fees, tips and small purchases, as ATMs are limited on the islands and some places don’t accept cards.
Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance isn’t mandatory, but we highly recommend it. Choose a policy that covers medical treatment, emergency evacuation and cancellation for your whole trip.