A Day on a Galapagos Cruise

Our travelers often ask what life is like on a Galapagos cruise. What excursions will be available, what is the schedule, and what can be expected?

The exact answers to these questions will, of course, vary between ships and itineraries, but as a general rule, it goes something like this:

• Early morning (often at about 6:00 a.m.): Wake-up call.

• Breakfast

• Morning (usually around 7:30 a.m.): Board your zodiac boat and set off for your first excursion.

• Late morning/midday: Return to the ship to relax and have lunch, take a nap, watch for seabirds, dolphins, and whales, or just observe the beauty of the islands. During this time your boat may navigate to a different island or visitor site.

• Mid-afternoon: Set out for your afternoon excursion.

• Late afternoon: Return to the ship to enjoy a cocktail and time to shower and relax before dinner. Your guide also will go over the plan for the following day.

• Dinner

• Time to relax, socialize, or star-gaze before turning in for the night. While you sleep, the ship is navigating to the next visitor site. 

A few notes:

• The day’s early start allows you to take advantage of the cooler hours of the morning, when wildlife is most active.

• Your excursion group will have a maximum of 16 passengers per guide.

• Your exact excursions will depend on your itinerary, but often include snorkeling, either from the beach or directly from your zodiac. Other excursions involve going ashore to hike or walk on the islands, and for some you may board a vehicle, such as to drive into the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. Some ships also offer kayaking.

• All excursions are optional! If you feel like relaxing on the ship, that is always an option.

For a much more complete look at a typical day in the Galapagos Islands, check out this blog by Marci Koltonuk.  If you’re ready to start planning, you can also take a look at some of our Galapagos itineraries or contact us today!