The Galapagos Islands are heaven for wildlife lovers, birdwatchers, scientists, and everyone that expects a dream trip. The islands that inspired Darwin’s evolution theory is a living museum where you can observe endemic species that are not found anywhere else on the planet. 

However, the focus of any traveler will almost always focus on finding the best possible way to enjoy the destination. So immediately the doubt arises. Travel by cruise or by land?

Both cruises and land tours in the Galapagos Islands offer promising adventures that will forever be remembered for the majesty of the destination. Galapagos cruises offer more structured itineraries that will allow you to see more islands and have the peace of mind that everything is under control. On the other hand, land-based vacations allow guests more flexibility with their itinerary and thus may offer more independence during the travel. 

But there is a key to fully enjoy a Galapagos trip. Which option offers best-viewing wildlife?

Definitely, Galapagos cruises are the best way to see the largest number of iconic Galapagos species in their natural habitats, as they can travel to the furthest islands in less time because of most travel at night.  You can enjoy the wonders of an island by day and wake up to start an adventure in a new place the next morning!

Furthermore, the cruise’s guides are experts on the Galapagos destinations, and carefully plan out each day of the cruise to make sure that their guests see the treasures the islands can offer. Quite simply, with on a cruise to Galapagos, you will be able to immerse yourself in all the history and wonders that the islands hide.

Recognize the characteristics of an Island Hopping and a Galapagos cruise, and decide which one best suits your tastes

 Galapagos Cruise 

Itineraries:  Galapagos cruises offers a complete guide to spending enough time sailing in remote islands that can only be reached by cruise.

Enjoy more the landscapes: You’ll be able to get a bigger picture understanding of the islands. 

Take advantage of your time: For travelers who want to maximize their time in the Galapagos, cruises are the key.  Because cruises navigate at night, you’ll be able to awake the next morning on another destination. 

 Restful and relax: If you travel with a cruise director operator everything is going to be under control. Part of the cruising experience, in the Galapagos Islands, is that you get to simply sit back, relax, and enjoy.

 All-inclusive:  The itinerary is planned, meals are set, and everything you need is on the ship.

Comfort: Aboard each cruise, you’ll find relaxing accommodations, amenities, and personalized services. There are 16-passenger and 80-passenger cruises. Small cruises are more private and offer an exclusive experience, with an ideal social distance guarantees safety

Adventure: If you are an ocean lover the cruises offer a wide variety of water and land activities like kayaking, snorkeling, paddleboarding, hiking, and more are available expedition.

New friends: exclusive cruises of only 16 passengers you can socialize with the travelers of other cultures and the crew.

Reservations: You can choose the itinerary you like best and book it online. Also, the operators will offer you all the services and information before your arrival in the Galapagos Islands.

Last-minute reservation: On cruises, it can also be included at the last minute in discount prices, but the disadvantage is not being able to choose an itinerary, not being able to choose the cabin, and not being able to program the duration of the cruise according to the vacation plan. So it is preferable Book at least 3 months in advance because this option is the most preferred for families, groups of tourists traveling as a couple that looks for a trip without hotel, food, transportation, or security concerns.

 Island Hopping 

Reservations:  This option needs more effort because you have to book a stay in a Galapagos hotel or lodge on an island (or many stays on multiple islands), and hopping back and forth between the different islands day after day.

More flexibility: Some travelers like to do everything at the last minute. 

Your plans: You decide your plans each day, where to visit, where to go.

Extra budget: As the islands hopping does not have a pre-established itinerary, we advise you to have an extra budget for your needs or an emergency.

New friends: if you explore the towns on your own you can socialize with the people of the community of Galapagos

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