Galapagos Cruises

This typically depends on cruise length, comfort level of your boat and choice of cabin category, although seasonal and single supplements may also apply. On average, short cruises of 5 days or less cost from $2,500 pp, and longer cruises of 8 days or longer from $5,000 pp based on double occupancy.

Prices typically exclude the cost of flights to the islands (around $500) and the National Park entrance fee (currently $100, soon to be $200 starting 1 Aug 2024). Most cruises are all-inclusive with the exception of alcoholic beverages and tips. To help reduce the cost, keep apprised of last minute Galapagos Islands cruise deals or consider a private Galapagos cruise charter which often prove more cost effective if traveling in a group.

You do not need a visa for the Galapagos Islands per se, but you may require a visa for entry into Ecuador dependent upon your nationality. U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Ecuador for stays less than 90 days in any 12-month period, however your passport must be valid for at least six months at the date of entry and have one blank page for your entry stamp. There are, however, several entry requirements for the Galapagos (see below).

To enter Galapagos, travelers must present the following documents at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil before their flight to the islands:

• Passport
• Return air tickets between the mainland and Galapagos
• Private travel health insurance
• Transit Control Card, which is available at the airport for a cost of $20 (cash only)

Travelers also need to complete and sign an affidavit for the Galapagos Biosafety and Quarantine Control Agency who are in charge of preventing invasive species and preserving the delicate environmental balance of the Islands. It involves providing basic personal and flight details, and answering three questions regarding the transport of any animal or plant products to the islands.

Visitors can do this is one of 3 ways:

1. Up to 48 hours before their Galapagos flight: Complete their declaration form digitally at https://declaracion.abgalapagos.gob.ec/ — a confirmation code will be sent via email and must be presented upon arrival at either San Cristóbal or Baltra airport.
2. At the airport: Scan the QR code available at Quito or Guayaquil airports on the day of the flight.
3. On the flight: Complete the traditional paper form provided during the flight prior to arrival.

Upon arrival at the airport in Galapagos, travelers must then present their Transit Control Card, and pay the requisite National Park entry fee before they are allowed to enter.

We will happily organize your pre-registration of the Transit Control Card and pre-payment of the National Park entry fee (where possible) to smooth this process.

We always recommend a minimum of 5 days to adequately experience the Galapagos Islands and strongly advise 8 days to truly appreciate their incredible endemic species and otherworldly landscapes. To comprehensively explore every major island of the archipelago, consider an epic 15 day Galapagos cruise.

The cruises offer a wide selection of international and Ecuadorian food, including a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, chicken, rice and pasta, as well as fish and seafood which, as you might imagine, is abundant and fresh. The most famous local dish is the ceviche, made with freshly-caught lobster, octopus, squid, or shrimp.

Most cruises will serve meals in a relaxed buffet-style. However, high-end vessels may offer more formal dining arrangements. Please let us know beforehand of any specific dietary requirements or allergies for us to inform the chef on board.