Get to see more of the Galapagos Islands onboard a cruise
Galapagos Cruise Categories
Did you know that there are different cruise categories?
As well as hotels around the world, cruises in Galapagos are rated in categories, from economy cruises, which are the most basic ones, to superior tourist, luxury cruises where you can find amenities like cabins with balconies, jacuzzi on board and a cruise director with personalized attention.
In this category, you will find a wide range of cruises. The big ones with up to 100 passengers capacity, offer not only accommodation but also several alternatives for entertainment onboard. There are also smaller cruises with a capacity for 16 passengers, that offer personalized service and also high-end accommodation.
Most luxury cruises offer a private balcony in their cabins and a Jacuzzi onboard. Also, there is a Cruise Manager on board, who helps in terms of communication so that the guests have everything they need. To show you an example, the Catamaran Alya fits all of these and more, with its comfortable and exclusive design, and artistic decoration.
First class ships differ from luxury ships because in most cases the cabins do not have balconies and they do not have a cruise director on board, however the crew is very dedicated and provides excellent service. In this category, there is a catamaran called EcoGalaxy, which was built for a specific segment: "ecological guests".
We recommend the EcoGalaxy Catamaran, for its eco-friendly characteristics and the support for the environment that it generates, it was built following strict ecological parameters and sails in Galapagos with less environmental impact. For passengers traveling together or in a group, there are some options in this category that offer a family atmosphere and personalized service, one of them is the Galaxy Yacht for example.
Tourist superior category cruises are smaller than the first class ones. This kind of cruise is perfect for adventure lovers. The spaces are also smaller in the cabins and social areas compared to first class. Beds are usually bunk beds, except for the Bonita Yacht, which offers different kinds of accommodation, like matrimonial, twin, and triple cabins.
The economic yachts are the smallest ones in Galapagos and have a quite limited space in cabins and social areas.
These cruises are a good option for passengers with a limited budget, but still want to have an experience on a cruise.
Capacity
Capacity varies depending on the size of the vessel and the service is different between large and small cruise ships. There are yatchs with a capacity of 16 guests and larger ships that can host up to 100 guests.
Small cruises generally have a capacity of 16 guests, their biggest advantage is to offer personalized service. Also, guests onboard will have a closer group experience knowing each other much better, becoming a family onboard, and also can be the beginning of a new friendship after the trip.
Big cruises, that are from 48 passengers up to 100 offer more entertainment alternatives for their guests while they are onboard, as well as big social areas. However, personalized service might be quite limited.
Itineraries
DID YOU KNOW THAT THERE ARE DIFFERENT ITINERARIES THAT
THE GALAPAGOS NATIONAL PARK ASSIGNS TO EACH OF THE CRUISES?
Stay
The Galapagos Archipelago is a National Park, and its conservation depends on locals and tourists, that's why the authorities assign an itinerary to every cruise to avoid agglomerations and preserve flora and fauna on every island.
These itineraries can go from 4 to 15 days, which gives you different options to choose from, depending on your time and budget.
However, you have to consider, the first day you'll arrive at the islands at noon and on the last day you will have to be at the airport before noon, so maybe the 4-day option will be a bit too short.
If your time is limited, we highly recommend that you take a 5 or 6-day cruise, as your trip to the Galapagos will be one of the most treasured experiences of your life.
For those who have more time, we recommend cruises of 8, 10, 11 or even up to 15 days.
Catamaran or Monohull?
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOU?
In Galapagos, it is quite common to find catamarans and monohull yachts as the main cruise option. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Just to mention a few, catamarans have a great advantage for passengers who get seasick easily, as they do not move much and are more stable than monohull yachts.
Also, the space in social areas and cabins is wider in catamarans. Monohull yachts are a good option for those seeking adventure while sailing or even experimenting with hoisting the sails on sailing yachts. What is certain is that both will offer you a wonderful experience in the Enchanted Islands.
