Did you know that sailboats, yachts, and catamarans offer a variety of unique cruises in this volcanic archipelago? And that these seafaring excursions have been divided into four cruise classes by the local authorities of the the Galápagos National Park to cater to various expectations and budgets from luxury, first class, superior, to budget?
Don’t wait any longer to travel to Galapagos and experience the wonders of this extraordinary province of Ecuador during your next cruise vacation in the Pacific Ocean. Dive into this jewel of nature and make your nautical holiday in the Galapagos islands even more sublime by exploring a range of captivating cruises that traverse the breathtaking Galápagos! Read More ↓
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FAQ
Which type of boat to choose?
The Yacht
A yacht is most of the times a motorboat that offers superior-class amenities, such as comfortable lounges, spacious cabins, entertainment facilities, and gourmet kitchens. Faster than other types of boats, yachts can reach more remote destinations in less time. providing a bit more flexibility in creating customized itineraries to meet travelers’ needs.
Yachts typically have a rigid hull allowing them to sail in harsh weather conditions. This added stability can help reduce seasickness providing a more comfortable cruise experience.
The Catamaran
Catamarans are two-hulled boats offering more stability and living spaces. Catamarans tend to be more stable than yachts (monohulls) and offer a smoother sailing experience. Cabins are often larger as well as common areas (outdoor spaces, such as sun decks or lounge areas), making them ideal for families and groups as they offer more room to relax and socialize.
Catamarans can also sail in shallow waters close to the coast, giving passengers the opportunity to discover lesser-known sites in the Galapagos.
The Trimaran
Looking for a fast, adventurous travel experience? Trimarans are ideal for you, but they may offer less living space than catamarans or yachts. Advantages:
– Stability: trimarans have three hulls, providing great stability and safety when sailing. This can help reduce seasickness and provide a more comfortable travel experience.
– Speed: In favorable wind conditions, trimarans are often faster than other types of boats. This allows them to cover greater distances in less time.
– Flexibility: As Catamarans, Trimarans can also sail in shallow areas and close to shore, offering passengers the opportunity to discover hidden and lesser-known sites in the Galapagos.
The Sailboat
Sailboats allow you to navigate while enjoying the silence and natural beauty of the Galapagos. However, sailboats can be slower and offer less living spaces.
<h4>The main advantages:
Eco-friendly: Sailboats primarily use wind power to navigate, making them much more environmentally friendly. This can be especially important for travelers who want to minimize their impact on the fragile Galapagos environment.
Tranquility: Sailboats tend to be quieter than powerboats, which can provide a more peaceful and relaxing travel experience for passengers.
Authenticity: Sailboats offer a more traditional and authentic sailing experience, with the ability to raise the sails and sail in harmony with the natural elements.
What's the difference between Luxury, First Class and Superior?
Compared to Luxury Class cruises, First Class cruises may have slightly smaller cabin sizes or fewer extravagant features, but they still offer well-appointed accommodations. The onboard dining experiences and services are excellent, ensuring guests enjoy gourmet meals and attentive staff.
When compared to Superior Class cruises, First Class cruises provide a step up in terms of comfort, service, and amenities. The cabins and common areas are typically more spacious and stylishly furnished. The onboard activities and entertainment options are diverse, offering enriching experiences.
In summary, First Class cruises in the Galapagos strike a balance between luxury and accessibility, making them an excellent choice for voyagers seeking a high-quality cruise experience with enhanced comfort and personalized service.
What are the Galapagos entry requirements?
To access the Galapagos Islands, visitors must comply some entry requirements. As the following:
– Travelers passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of the expected departure from the Galapagos.
– A round-trip airline ticket to the Galapagos.
– A “Transit card” (Tarjeta de Control de Tránsito – TCT) issued by the Ecuadorian authorities, which can be obtained at the international airport in Quito or Guayaquil before flying to the Galapagos. Now you can also apply online, contact us for more information.
– Travel insurance covering emergency medical expenses and evacuation in case of emergency.
– Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers from certain countries in Africa and Latin America specially where the disease is endemic.
– An entry fee for the Galapagos National Park must be paid upon arrival and in cash.
Visitors must follow the rules and regulations to minimize environmental impact on the fragile natural balance of the Galapagos Islands.
Which itinerary do you recommend?
Every cruise offers a range of itineraries from 4-15 days long and all of the Galapagos Islands offer a certain interest and particularity depending on whether you are attracted to land wildlife, marine wildlife, or landscapes. Whichever itinerary you choose, you will have a unique experience with rich wildlife to observe up close!
ITK Voyage loves the itineraries along the western route of the archipelago, around Fernandina and Isabela islands (two of the wildest islands in the archipelago)! However, if you want to see as many islands as possible, the central part of the archipelago offers an unequalled density of small islands.