Galapagos luxury cruises will not disappoint any travelers looking for a variety of cruises available that can be specifically tailored to your needs. Due to the sensitive nature of the ecosystem in the Galapagos archipelago, only smaller vessels and yachts are allowed to tour the islands, not the gigantic cruise liners most people are familiar with. The small size of your Galapagos Islands luxury cruise means that a great deal of customization is possible, especially if you are traveling with a group. Adjustments can also be made en route to accommodate the needs of the travelers on the tour. However, the small size of Galapagos luxury cruises also means that they will be more expensive than a typical cruise on a large liner. Cruise ships can range from sixteen passengers on a private yacht to 100 on a larger ship, depending on your preference.

After choosing the size of ship you prefer, you will want to decide how long you want to spend on your Galapagos Islands luxury cruise. A seven- to nine-day tour will give you a more comprehensive understanding of the islands, and enough time to do all the activities you want to do, such as snorkeling, hiking, scuba diving, turtle watching, and perhaps an afternoon to relax at the beach. A three- to four-day tour will just give you the highlights of the islands, and a few encounters with wildlife, perfect if you don't have a lot of time. Remember though, that because ships have to navigate to different locations in the archipelago, you will be spending quite a bit of time on board. With that in mind, you may wish to book a longer tour, to give you greater chances of seeing rare species while on shore.

All cruises will offer tour guides, but look for Galapagos luxury cruises that offer more in the way of interpretation—perhaps education sessions during your time on the ship, as well as a solid sustainability policy to protect the fragile ecosystems of the Galapagos. Some boat tours even boast that they are carbon-neutral, offsetting all use of fossil fuels by carbon credits. A pleasant observation deck is a must for those breathtaking views of the islands and ocean, as well as for dolphin and whale-watching. If you suffer from sea sickness, opting for one of the top-of-the-line catamaran boat tours is a good way to ensure speed and stability while on the open seas.

Galapagos Islands Map

Setting up your Galapagos Islands luxury cruise well ahead of time is the best way to get all the features you want, make the best use of your time, and to carefully consider your planned itinerary. If you are traveling with a family, family or group rates can give you a better deal if you book your Galapagos vacation package in advance. Once you arrive in the Galapagos Islands at the airport on Baltra Island, your tour guides will be there to meet you and to transport you to the cruise ship, allowing you to start enjoying your vacation immediately.