How to Choose a Luxury Galapagos Cruise 
There are dozens of luxury yachts and small cruise ships that sail the Galapagos. Here's how to choose which one is the best fit for you.

Small Yachts vs. Cruise Ships  
Luxurious small yachts carry from 12 to 20 passengers and have a more intimate feel and more personalized service than the relatively larger cruise ships which carry from 48 to 100 guests. Larger vessels tend to be more stable in the water (for passengers prone to seasickness), though small luxury catamarans such as the Cormorant, Ocean Spray and the new Petrel are more stable than small single hulled yachts.

Cruise Length 
The greatest luxury in Galapagos is the ability to stay there longer! Longer cruises cost correspondingly more per day. The length of your cruise may be the most important factor in choosing your trip to Galapagos. Most cruise boats offer 4 day, 3 night cruise packages which are significantly lower price than longer cruises of 5, to 15 days. But, on a 4 day cruise, you only get to spend two full days on the islands, and most experts agree that this simply isn't enough time. 

Best Itineraries
Shorter cruises tend to visit either the Central or Southern Galapagos Islands, whereas longer cruises have the time to explore the more remote Western Islands and can even do a circumnavigation of the Galapagos. What itinerary is best for you depends on what wildlife and visitors spots are the highest priority for your trip. Use our Galapagos wildlife guide to understand where your highest priority species live.

Luxury Cruise Extensions
Stay in a luxury hotel after your cruise to take full advantage of your time on the islands and explore areas not  accessible on cruises. Also, consider a tour extension to the Amazon region of Ecuador, where luxury lodges such as La Selva Lodge and Sacha Lodge introduce travelers to the planet's most biodiverse region. Venture on the ultimate South American luxury expedition to the Galapagos and Machu Picchu.

Still not sure which option is best for you? Contact one of our Galapagos luxury travel specialists for help planning the perfect trip.
 

There are so many high-end yachts and small ships in Galapagos to choose from that it's hard to know where to start. Here's some of our favorites:

Small Catamaran Yachts
Most of the luxury catamarans in the Galapagos are among the newest vessels in the islands and provide some of the best small yacht experiences due to spacious rooms, dining halls, modern minimalistic design, and are relatively stable in the water versus single hull yachts. Our favorite small luxury catamarans are the Petrel (new in 2016), Cormorant, Ocean Spray,  Sea Star Journey and the Celebrity Xploration.
 
Small Cruise Ships
The other major class of luxury vessels are the relatively larger yachts and ships that can carry between 32 and 100 passengers. The 48-passenger Celebrity Xperience Galapagos Eclipse is among the most spacious boats in Galapagos, and the National Geographic Evolution is excellent for families.

• Expertly Designed Small-Group Tours: Embark on an exclusive Galapagos luxury tour led by an acclaimed Resident Tour Director®. These journeys are meticulously crafted to provide insider access and an intimate small-group experience, ensuring a personalized adventure.
• Small-Ship Cruises: Explore the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands on small-ship cruises. Choose from four- to six-night journeys or opt for private Tailor Made expeditions featuring exclusive charters. Sail in comfort and style, immersing yourself in the beauty of the islands.
• Luxury Family Vacations: Create lifelong memories with your family on a luxury Galapagos and Ecuador vacation. Family adventure experts curate small-group family journeys or custom private Tailor Made travel, tailored to suit your family's preferences. Ideal for holidays and celebrations, these trips ensure an unforgettable experience for everyone.
• Tailor Made Tours: Elevate your travel experience with private luxury Tailor Made tours to the Galapagos and Ecuador. Experts will design a bespoke tour exclusively for you, catering to your preferences. Enjoy customized luxury adventures, accommodations, private air transportation, and more.
• Memorable Meals: Fuel your adventures with exquisite dining experiences. Experienced chefs prepare daily delicacies that cater to individual tastes and preferences, ensuring that every meal becomes a cherished memory.
• Seamless Ship-to-Shore Access: Enjoy easy daily excursions and guided adventures with convenient access to the islands. Expeditions are designed to immerse you in the beauty of the Galapagos Islands swiftly and effortlessly.
• Luxurious Stateroom Retreats: Indulge in relaxation and rejuvenation in refined staterooms after exhilarating days of exploration. Experience attentive service and eco-friendly amenities, providing a serene oasis for rest and rejuvenation.
• Local Expertise: Discover the Galapagos Islands through the eyes of expert Naturalist Guides. With a remarkable Guest to Guide ratio, they share their extensive knowledge, ensuring extraordinary encounters with unique wildlife and a deeper understanding of the islands' secrets.
• Spectacular Wildlife Sightings: Witness incredible wildlife encounters, from sea turtles to sea lions and soaring birds. A Galapagos luxury tour promises thrilling sightings every day, forging unforgettable connections with the islands' extraordinary biodiversity.
• Responsible Travel: Prioritize sustainability and conservation during your Galapagos luxury tour. Minimize your impact on the environment, leaving a positive legacy for future generations to enjoy the remarkable beauty of the islands.

Shore Excursions in Small Intimate Groups: Embark on captivating shore excursions that reveal the wonders of the Galapagos Islands. Explore exclusive visitor sites, accompanied by certified naturalist guides who will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the unique wildlife and volcanic landscapes, ensuring an intimate and immersive experience.

Fine dining & Beverages: Enjoy the freedom of open-seating dining, allowing you to dine at your leisure and savor carefully curated menus featuring fresh ingredients and delectable dishes. Throughout your luxury cruise, beverages, including selected wines and spirits, are provided, enhancing your onboard experience with a touch of indulgence.

Personalized Service: Experience the epitome of personalized service throughout your journey, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction. Our dedicated staff is committed to attending to your needs, making your luxury cruise an unforgettable and tailored experience.

Medical Officer on Board: Travel with peace of mind knowing that a qualified medical officer is available on board, providing medical assistance if needed. Your safety and well-being are of utmost importance during your Galapagos journey.

Exclusive Visitor Sites: Discover the hidden gems of the Galapagos Islands with access to exclusive visitor sites. These sites offer a more intimate and less crowded experience, allowing you to witness the pristine beauty of the islands and forge deeper connections with nature.

Private and Safe: Rest assured that all cruises in the Galapagos implement stringent measures, hygiene regulations, and management processes to ensure a private and safe environment. Your well-being is our top priority throughout your journey.

Ample Personal and Social Spaces: Enjoy generous personal and social spaces on board, including sophisticated lounges and observation decks. These areas provide the perfect setting to unwind, socialize, and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the Galapagos Islands.

Immersive Activities: Delve into the magic of the archipelago through guided activities that cater to your sense of adventure. Explore the captivating underwater world through kayaking, snorkeling, and other exciting activities, provided with top-quality equipment for your daily excursions.

Luxurious Experience: Celebrate, reunite, and escape in bespoke luxury and safety. Indulge in a high-end travel experience with personalized service, allowing you to create cherished memories in a serene and awe-inspiring setting.