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Sail Among Living Evolution in the Galápagos

Americas, Iconic, Wildlife

Experience the Galápagos by small ship, exploring remote islands, abundant wildlife, and volcanic landscapes with expert naturalists while travelling in a low impact, conservation led way.

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Why we love building this experience into our itineraries:

There is a rare stillness in the Galápagos. The natural world feels untouched, and each landing brings a sense of gentle discovery. Travelling by small expedition vessel lets you move quietly between islands. You arrive in sheltered coves at sunrise, then step ashore where marine iguanas warm themselves on dark volcanic rock. The rhythm is unhurried and beautifully connected to place.

The islands tell an extraordinary story. Walking the paths Darwin once explored creates a moment of reflection on how these landscapes shaped our understanding of life. One morning you may watch blue footed boobies diving in coordinated lines. Later the same day you might drift over underwater formations shaped by the volcanic forces beneath the sea. Each island feels distinct. Española reveals the intricate dance of the waved albatross. Fernandina shows the earth still forming and shifting.

A cruise is the most thoughtful way to experience the Galápagos. Visitor numbers are carefully limited. Guides are trained naturalists who bring depth and clarity to every walk. Each landing is structured to protect fragile ecosystems while still allowing you to experience the character of the islands. The result is a journey that feels calm, intentional and deeply respectful of the place you have come to explore.

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5 reasons this belongs on your Bucket List:

  • Unscripted wildlife moments - Encounters happen naturally, whether a sea lion moves beside you in the water or a giant tortoise grazes nearby.
  • Islands shaped by ongoing volcanic forces - Fernandina and Isabela continue to evolve, offering a clear view of geology in motion.
  • Extraordinary birdlife found nowhere else - Species such as the blue footed booby and waved albatross make the islands feel like a living observatory.
  • A protected environment with meaningful limits - Strict controls on routes and visitor numbers keep each experience gentle and low impact.
  • Guided interpretation that enriches every moment - Licensed naturalists help you understand the stories behind the wildlife and landscapes you encounter.

Watch this video

Enjoy our highlight video of the Galapagos Islands

Frequently Asked Questions

The Galápagos offers rewarding travel throughout the year. June to November brings cooler seas and nutrient rich currents that attract abundant marine life. December to May offers calmer waters, warmer temperatures and lush landscapes. Wildlife remains active in every season, so the ideal time depends on the conditions you enjoy most. Some travellers prefer the soft light and quieter feel of the mid year months. Others lean towards the warmth and colour of the new year period.
A four to seven night cruise provides a balanced introduction to the islands. You will visit several locations and gain a strong sense of the archipelago’s diversity. Travellers with more time often extend to ten nights for a slower and more immersive experience. Longer itineraries allow access to remote islands and create a relaxed rhythm that suits thoughtful travel. If your journey includes mainland Ecuador or wider South America, the cruise naturally becomes the centrepiece.
Options range from intimate yachts to refined expedition vessels carrying around forty to one hundred guests. Smaller yachts offer a personal feel and fewer people on each landing. Larger ships provide added stability, generous cabins and well designed communal spaces. All operate within strict environmental guidelines and include licensed naturalists on every excursion. The right choice depends on the atmosphere you prefer, your comfort needs and how you enjoy spending time at sea.
Travellers with moderate mobility usually find the activities comfortable. Guided walks take place on uneven volcanic terrain, and snorkelling is offered in calm bays. Boarding the ship’s zodiac boats requires light agility, and some landings involve stepping into shallow water. Many vessels offer different activity levels so you can choose the pace that suits you each day. You are always welcome to remain on board if you prefer a quieter moment while others explore.
The archipelago is protected through strict conservation measures. Ships hold specific permits, routes are assigned and only certified naturalist guides lead land activities. Waste, fuel and wildlife interaction policies are tightly controlled. Travelling by small ship spreads visitors across multiple islands and reduces pressure on sensitive habitats. These measures ensure the experience feels calm and respectful while supporting the long term health of the ecosystem.

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