Galapagos Islands Cruises

Explore the Enchanting Galapagos Islands with Cruise1st

The Galapagos Islands, a unique archipelago located off the coast of Ecuador, offers an extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in nature's wonders. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, inspiring Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. Fun fact: The Galapagos Islands are home to species that can't be found anywhere else on the planet, including the iconic Galapagos tortoise! Cruising the Galapagos allows you to experience its natural beauty while having the chance to explore multiple islands, each brimming with vibrant wildlife and stunning landscapes. It’s an adventure that promises once-in-a-lifetime moments and incredible memories.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Galapagos Itineraries

• Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity operates a fleet of 16 ships, with 3 specifically sailing to the Galapagos Islands. The Celebrity Flora and Celebrity Xpedition are the stars of the show, notable for their eco-friendly designs and luxurious amenities. Guests can enjoy spacious suites with panoramic views of the pristine surroundings. Cruises typically depart from Galapagos Islands, making for an easy and unique travel experience.

Luxury Cruises to the Galapagos Islands

• Silversea: This cruise line features a fleet of 12 ships, with 1 specifically offering itineraries to the Galapagos Islands—the Silver Origin. This luxury vessel is designed to enhance the immersive experience in the Galapagos, with an expert expedition team to lead you through every adventure. The typical ports of departure are two: San Cristobal Island or Galapagos Islands, ensuring a seamless transition into this extraordinary destination.

Top Harbours to Explore in the Galapagos Islands

• Galapagos Islands: As the heart of the archipelago, the Galapagos Islands serve as the gateway for exploring the unique wildlife and stunning nature. From here, you can embark on day trips to various sites like snorkeling with sea lions or walking alongside giant tortoises. The clear waters make it perfect for diving, while guided nature walks reveal the incredible flora and fauna.
• San Cristobal Island: This vibrant island features lush landscapes and a laid-back atmosphere. Cruise guests can visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the islands' ecology and conservation efforts, or explore the beautiful beaches of La Lobería, known for its sea lion population. Don’t forget to try local food—especially the fresh seafood!
• Santa Cruz Island: Home to the famous Charles Darwin Research Station, Santa Cruz is a must-visit for nature lovers. Here, visitors can learn about various conservation projects and meet giant tortoises. The island's highlands offer incredible hiking opportunities and views of the volcanic landscape, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
• Florena Island: Known for its stunning beaches and coral reefs, Florena offers visitors a tranquil setting for relaxation or exploration. While docked, you can snorkel or dive among vibrant marine life, including tropical fish and unique sea creatures. The island’s natural beauty is a true paradise for those looking to dive into underwater adventures.
• Isabela Island: Although not listed in top five visited harbours, Isabela is worth mentioning. It’s the largest island in the Galapagos and renowned for its diverse wildlife, including penguins, tortoises, and marine iguanas, creating an incredible wildlife-watching opportunity. Be sure to visit the Sierra Negra Volcano for breath-taking views and hiking trails.

When to Cruise to the Galapagos Islands

For those planning a Galapagos cruise, the best time to visit is during the warmer, drier months from June to December. During June to September, expect temperatures around 20-26°C, making it perfect for activities like hiking and wildlife observation. The months of December to May see slightly warmer temperatures of 24-30°C, ideal for lounging by the beach or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Each month brings its charm, so there’s no bad time to explore these islands!

Cost Overview for Galapagos Cruises

A one-week Galapagos cruise typically starts around $2,500 to $4,500 AUD, with two-week itineraries ranging from $5,000 to $8,500 AUD. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, prices may begin around $5,500 AUD for a week and can go upwards of $12,000 AUD for two weeks. Dining is often included onboard, but local eateries offer delicious meals at $20-$50 AUD per meal, while drinks typically cost around $8-$15 AUD.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you're considering a cruise to the Galapagos Islands, consider exploring these alluring alternatives:

• Antarctica: Known for its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife, a journey to Antarctica provides a dramatic contrast to the Galapagos, with incredible ice formations and the chance to see penguins up close.
• Arctic: Another remote region that captivates adventurers, the Arctic offers breathtaking scenery, polar wildlife, and mesmerizing northern lights, making it an exceptional cruising experience.
• Africa: Embarking on a cruise along the African coast provides opportunities to see stunning landscapes and wildlife, as well as explore cultures that are as vibrant as the scenery.
• Amazon River: For those looking for an entirely different environment, the Amazon River offers incredible biodiversity in an enchanting rainforest setting, rich with cultures and wildlife encounters.
• Australian Coast: Beautiful coastlines, stunning marine life, and plenty of beaches can be found along the Australian Coast, perfect for sun lovers and adventurers alike!

Ready for an extraordinary adventure to the Galapagos Islands? Cruise1st is here to help you plan the perfect cruise itinerary, combining unparalleled experiences with unique wildlife encounters. Let's set sail!