Naturalist and snorkeling tours in the Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are a bucket-list adventure travel destination unlike any other, and while experienced scuba divers flock to the islands in droves, it was the archipelago’s dramatic scenery and endemic flora and fauna that first captured the attention of travellers from around the world. 

But even if you’re not planning on scuba diving, a liveaboard cruise is almost certainly the best way to experience the Galapagos in all its glory. Exploring several islands during a single trip and offering excursions led by local experts, these naturalist itineraries allow visitors to make the most of every minute in this isolated archipelago.

In this article, our experienced travel experts share their knowledge of naturalist liveaboard cruises in the Galapagos – including the different naturalist routes to choose from and a selection of the islands’ best liveaboard vessels.

As with any popular liveaboard destination, the Galapagos is home to plenty of operators and vessels, each offering its own selection of voyages. But, while each itinerary may be unique to a particular vessel or fleet, they always follow fairly standardised routes, simply throwing in a touch of their own flair along the way – simply to ensure visitors have the best possible time in the region. That’s because each of these standardised routes have been tried, tested, and found to deliver the most exciting experiences in the region.

Most vessels embark and disembark around the central island of Santa Cruz, or one of its surrounding satellite islets such as Baltra or Santa Fe, although some naturalist tours choose to operate out of San Christobal. 

Possible stops: Santa Cruz, Santiago, North Seymour, Santa Fe, Genovesa

The first of these circuits could be considered the central route as it focuses on the central islands of Santa Cruz and Santiago. Many of these itineraries will also include islands such as North Seymour and Santa Fe, as well as venturing almost 100-kilometres north to visit the island of Genovesa. Of the many naturalist excursions on offer here, popular highlights include the highlands of Santa Cruz and the island of Bartolome, off the east coast of Santiago.

Possible stops: Santa Cruz, North Seymour, Santa Fe, Floreana, Espanola, San Christobal

This itinerary also tends to spend some time exploring some of the central islands, particularly Santa Cruz, though North Seymour and Santa Fe may also be on the cards. Beyond the central region, this route includes the archipelago’s southeast fringe, visiting islands such as Floreana, Espanola, and San Christobal. Iconic attractions in this region include Post Office Bay and Baroness Lookout on Floreana, as well as Kicker Rock and the Interpretation Centre on San Christobal.

Possible stops: Isabela, Fernandina, Santa Cruz, Santiago

The Galapagos Islands’ western itinerary typically circumnavigates the sizable island of Isabela, exploring the neighbouring island of Fernandina along the way. As with the southern route, this circuit lends itself to brief forays into the central region, with Santa Cruz and Santiago both frequently visited at the start or end of the trip. Highlights enroute include Elizabeth Bay and Vicente Roca Point on Isabela Islands, as well as Espinoza Point on Fernandina.

• Affordable vessel with a straight-forward design
• 32-metres long, accommodates up to 16 guests
• Snorkelling, kayaking, hiking, paddleboarding, and more

This impressive eco-conscious liveaboard represents the most affordable option in this list. With a straight-forward design and welcoming atmosphere, Bonita aims to ensure guests of all kinds can enjoy the wonders of the Galapagos, without compromising on comfort. Even families will feel right at home! At 32-metres in length, this vessel accommodates up to 16 guests in eight inviting cabins and offers a choice of several itineraries lasting between five and six days. Bonita’s interior spaces are flooded with natural light, unpretentiously styled, and decorated with colourful, cushioned furnishings to further enhance the casual, contemporary vibe. Of course, throughout each voyage, guests will enjoy delicious drinking and dining experiences and a wide range of excursions.

• State-of-the-art technologies to improve sustainability
• 31-metres long, accommodates up to 16 guests
• Snorkelling, kayaking, hiking, paddleboarding, and panga rides

EcoGalaxy is an attractive, 31-metre catamaran operating several superb naturalist cruise itineraries throughout the Galapagos Islands. As the name suggests, this vessel was built specifically for sustainable exploration, utilising state-of-the-art technologies to reduce its environmental imprint. Even before setting sail, this vessel was fully committed to conservation, managing to reduce water consumption and wood use by 50% throughout the construction process. Spread over four decks, EcoGalaxy accommodates up to 16 passengers in eight spacious staterooms, ensuring plenty of space for all. The vessel’s interiors are pleasantly styled with richly coloured furniture and natural upholsteries, setting a cosy tone for each trip. And, when it comes to excursions, guests can get their fill of adventure – and then some – with snorkelling, kayaking, hiking, paddleboarding, and panga rides all on the cards. 

• Unique routes lasting between three and 14 nights
• 36-metres long, accommodates up to 16 guests
• Several single cabins and no necessary supplements

Operated by the experienced Andean Travel Company, Solaris offers superb naturalist cruises in the Galapagos Archipelago, operating original and unique routes lasting between three and 14 nights. At 36-metres long, Solaris is a spacious 16-passenger yacht, guaranteeing an intimate, comfortable and very exclusive experience. What’s more, this liveaboard is great for solo travellers, featuring several single cabins and no necessary supplements. The vessel aims to showcase the region from new and novel perspectives, and is crewed by an entirely Ecuadorian team, allowing guests to benefit from their passion for the country. Thankfully, the cruise director, bar staff, and naturalist guide are all bilingual, ensuring stress-free experiences at all times, whether relaxing on board or exploring this enchanting archipelago.

• Stylish modern catamaran built in 2023
• 36-metres long, accommodates up to 16 guests
• Fashionable furniture and an open-air hot tub

Standing several decks high and painted the colour of midnight, Galaxy Sirius is an eye-catching modern catamaran appropriately named after the brightest star in the night sky. Built in 2023, this brand-new liveaboard offers exciting naturalist voyages throughout the Galapagos Islands, with two onboard guides to ensure guests receive highly personalised service during each excursion. Despite its inky facade, this vessel is light and open within, creating a comfortable, homely environment that exudes sophistication. Nine spacious staterooms accommodate up to 16 passengers aboard Galaxy Sirius, and each comes complete with its own private balcony for extra exclusivity. Social spaces are both plush and picturesque, complete with fashionable furniture and an open-air hot tub, providing plenty of chic backdrops for new cherished memories. 

• Large and luxurious vessel with high standards of service
• 43-metres long, accommodates up to 20 guests
• Outdoor Jacuzzi, onboard gym and an open-bar policy

Origin is an awe-inspiring liveaboard vessel embarking on exquisite naturalist cruises in the Galapagos. Together with its twin vessel, Theory, this breathtaking boat promises ultra-luxurious facilities and unprecedented standards of service in such a remote and rugged region. Accommodating up to 20 guests, Origin’s numerous spacious staterooms and chic social areas are furnished with materials such as marble and memory foam, and enhanced by magnificent ocean views. Additional exclusive facilities include an open-air Jacuzzi and onboard gym, as well as an open-bar policy that includes all beverages. It goes without saying that Origin is also perfectly outfitted for adventure, coming equipped with two custom zodiacs and dedicated naturalist guides to help guests make the most of their time in the Galapagos.

• Eye-catching superyacht that outperforms most others
• 50-metres long, accommodates up to 16 guests
• Open-air gym, large Jacuzzi, and suite of watersports facilities

Aqua Mare is an eye-catching superyacht that outperforms other vessels to deliver once-in-a-lifetime liveaboard cruises in the Galapagos Archipelago. Refurbished in 2021, this liveaboard is the epitome of elegance, showcasing industry-leading interior design packed with premium furnishings, personalised details, and fittings worthy of royalty. Extravagant facilities onboard Aqua Mare are almost endless, with particular highlights including an convertible open-air workout zone, a six person on-deck Jacuzzi, and the multipurpose “Beach Club” which is located at the water level and serves as an extension of the outdoors. Despite measuring an impressive 50-metres in length, this extraordinary vessel caters to a maximum of only 16 guests, guaranteeing a 1:1 guest to crew ratio, including two onboard expert naturalist guides. And, when it comes to guided adventures, Aqua Mare proudly presents a comprehensive suite of non-motorised watersports facilities – such as tandem and single kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkelling gear – along with two military-grade tenders to transport guests between excursions.