How to choose a Galápagos cruise
A fleet of fully crewed ships cruises around the Galápagos, from motor yachts with just eight cabins, to small ships and mega catamarans. With such a range of cruises available, how do you choose the Galápagos cruise that’s right for you?
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Think about duration
Tailor made, luxury cruises can last anything up to two weeks, but a week-long cruise is easily enough, packing in a brilliant mix of popular islands and lesser visited locations, too. In general, the central, larger islands of Isabela, Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal feature on most itineraries, but by traveling overnight, a cruise can reach remoter spots, such as Genovesa in the north and Española and Floreana in the south, all in the space of a week.Consider the size of the boat
There are pros and cons to both big and small vessels. The maximum number of passengers any Galápagos cruise ship is permitted to carry is 100, but vessels of this size cannot visit certain areas. Smaller ships can explore more of the region, but often offer less luxury onboard.Smaller boats, on the other hand, offer a lovely sense of intimacy. When there are just 16 passengers and a small crew, it’s easy to get to know your fellow travelers and friendships quickly blossom. Traveling on a small boat also has a sense of old-school romance – you feel like the first pioneers that went to Galápagos – and allows you to get really close to this very special place. Some of that quiet exploration is lost with a larger boat. From a practical point of view, on a small craft you’ll also spend less time waiting to get on and off, which can be an issue on bigger ships.
Check out the facilities
You’ll find larger cabins onboard a luxury ship, some with their own private balcony, while on smaller vessels, cabins are compact. They may be en suite, but are generally deliberately small to maximise living area space. This will include, on even the dinkiest vessels, a lounge, dining area and sun deck, where you can view wildlife or just stretch out and relax. That said, many itineraries are pretty packed, so you’ll spend most time off the ship exploring.Luxury cruise ships have more space and boast better facilities, including treats like hot tubs, a sauna and cabins with private balconies. There may be a library and cinema, too, and the food can be really sophisticated with extensive wine lists. As well as carrying wetsuits and snorkelling gear, luxury vessels may have their own kayaks and a glass-bottomed boat, too.
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Daily departures throughout the year.
Learn about who’s onboard
Unless you’re on a cruise specifically designed for families, you won’t come across children. Most cruises have a minimum age requirement, often 15 or 16 years old. Solo passengers are welcome, but generally pay a single supplement or may have the option to share a cabin with another solo passenger of the same sex.All ships have to carry a certified naturalist; the Galápagos National Park trains and strictly regulates guides in the islands. Don’t assume that all guides speak English, however – they don’t, so double check – and be aware that the most experienced guides gravitate to the more luxurious ships. For a really educational and intellectual experience, choose a cruise that has onboard experts, in addition to the guide, in fields such as conservation, ecology or marine biology.
Even small boats with just 16 passengers may have a crew of up to eight people, including a skipper and chef, with more on larger, luxury vessels. Ask if the crew has been recruited from the islands or mainland, and if possible, choose a trip that supports the local economy through employment.
Factor in your fitness
Seasickness is occasionally an issue. Although the waters are usually calm, there are times when it can get rough and choppy. Steady sea legs (and a sturdy stomach) are needed when walking around the boat during bad weather. Bring seasickness medication if you’re concerned.