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

Tagus Cove Western Discovery

Trip highlights:

Chinese Hat
Fernandina
Moreno Point
Tagus Cove
Urbina Bay
Flightless cormorants

From $4,545£3,440 per person

Ship: Calipso
Next departure: 18 Mar – 22 Mar 2027
Duration:: 5 Days
Comfort level:: Premium
Total guests:: 16

From $4,545£3,440 per person

Ship: Calipso
Next departure: 18 Mar – 22 Mar 2027
Duration:: 5 Days
Comfort level:: Premium
Total guests:: 16

Your journey

A short way to reach the far west, which most cruises skip.

You see lava tubes at Chinese Hat, then flightless cormorants and Galápagos hawks on Fernandina. On Isabela you visit the old pirate anchorage at Tagus Cove, the raised coast at Urbina Bay and the tide pools at Moreno Point. Most days mix a hike, a snorkel and a dinghy ride. Your ship is the Calipso, a comfort yacht with a dive deck.

Mainland Ecuador

1 Day 1: San Cristobal Island

In the morning, you'll arrive at San Cristobal Airport and transfer to the boat. In the afternoon, you'll visit Witch Hill on San Cristobal Island, enjoying its picturesque beach, observing wildlife, and snorkeling.

San Cristóbal
2 Day 2: Bartholomew & Chinese Hat

In the morning, you'll visit Bartholomew Island, hiking to the summit for iconic views of Pinnacle Rock and snorkeling with potential penguin sightings. In the afternoon, you'll explore Chinese Hat Islet, observing unique geological formations like lava tubes and flows.

Chinese Hat, Bartolomé
3 Day 3: Fernandina & Isabela Islands

In the morning, you'll explore Espinoza Point on Fernandina Island, observing flightless cormorant nesting sites and Galapagos hawks in a pristine ecosystem. In the afternoon, you'll visit Tagus Cove on Isabela Island, hiking trails with scenic views and exploring its historic anchorage site.

Isabela, Fernandina
4 Day 4: Isabela Island

In the morning, you'll explore Urbina Bay on Isabela Island, observing the effects of a significant land uplift and enjoying snorkeling opportunities. In the afternoon, you'll visit Moreno Point on Isabela Island, enjoying birdwatching and observing marine life in tide pools and along rocky shores.

Isabela
5 Day 5: North Seymour Island

In the morning, you'll explore North Seymour Island, observing abundant sea lions, blue-footed boobies, and frigate birds in its arid landscape. Later on, you will transfer to the Baltra Airport.

Baltra, North Seymour

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 $4,545£3,440 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 $4,545£3,440 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.