How to Get to The Galapagos?
Fly into Ecuador via Quito, the capital, or Guayaquil, its largest metropolitan area. Neptune's Daughter assists in booking your connecting flight to this top cruising destination, including airport transfers to and from the boat for a seamless experience. Since flights to the Galapagos depart early in the morning, we recommend spending the night before in Quito or Guayaquil. The flight to the islands takes approximately two hours, bringing you to the doorstep of one of the best Galapagos cruise operators for your unforgettable adventure.
Activities
Discover the unparalleled beauty of the Galapagos, one of the world’s best cruising destinations, with a variety of immersive land and water activities, including hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, panga rides, horseback riding, biking, and scuba diving on dedicated liveaboard dive boats. Each of Neptune's Daughter’s best Galapagos cruises features an English-speaking naturalist guide who shares insights into the islands’ rich flora and fauna. Additional onboard experiences include visits to the ship's bridge, engaging cooking classes, and festive party nights for a well-rounded adventure.
The Galapagos Weather
The Galapagos, one of the best cruising destinations, offers excellent cruising conditions year-round. The warm season begins in December and lasts through May, with tropical weather brought by the Panama currents. During this time, seas are calm with occasional tropical showers, keeping the islands lush and vibrant. Temperatures range from 80-90°F (26-32°C), while water temperatures are around 78°F (25°C) with visibility extending 60-75 feet (20-25 meters), perfect for exploring the region’s stunning marine life on the best Galapagos cruises.
From June to November the weather is dry, with very light winds. Both water and sea temperatures tend to go down due to the Humboldt current. The temperatures are around 68-75 Fahrenheit (20-24 Celsius) and the water temperatures are around 70-73 Fahrenheit (21-23 Celsius). Swimming and diving during this time might feel more comfortable while using a wetsuit - provided by the cruise operator.
Galapagos Islands Travel Tips
Planning a trip to the Galapagos requires a bit of preparation to make the most of your experience. Pack breathable layers, reef-safe sunscreen, a sun hat, and sturdy water shoes for wet landings and island hikes. A good camera and binoculars are a must to capture the unique wildlife found only in the Galapagos. Most Galapagos tours provide snorkeling gear, but you’re welcome to bring your own. Always follow local guidelines to help protect this fragile ecosystem, and if you're traveling during peak Galapagos holidays, book early to secure your spot on a small-ship cruise.
Galapagos Islands Specialty Cruises
Neptune's Daughter offers one of the best Galapagos cruises, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure amid breathtaking natural landscapes. Our boutique cruise expedition, allows you to explore one of the most sought-after cruising destinations in an intimate setting. Dive or snorkel into crystal-clear waters to witness vibrant coral reefs, watch graceful boobies hunt for fish, and see playful seals frolic underwater. As you navigate past dramatic rock formations, each turn of the coast unveils new wonders, making a Galapagos cruise an unforgetable journey into nature’s finest marvels.
Where to Start Your Galapagos Islands Trip?
There are two main airports in the Galapagos Islands—San Cristóbal (SCY) and Baltra (GPS)—both accessible via a 2.5-hour domestic flight from Quito or Guayaquil in Ecuador. These airports serve as gateways to your Galapagos Islands vacation. When booking a cruise through us, we’ll arrange flights that align with your embarkation point to ensure a smooth transition. If you prefer to book flights independently, a $60 per person handling fee applies, and we cannot be responsible for delays that may cause you to miss your boat. To start your journey stress-free, we recommend booking flights as part of your cruise package.
The Neptune's Daughter Difference: A Curated Trip to the Galapagos
Neptune’s Daughter offers thoughtfully curated Galapagos Islands tours designed for intimate, immersive travel. We partner exclusively with top-rated operators, offering vessels that typically host just 16 guests—ideal for exploring remote islands with expert guides. Whether you're looking for a naturalist-led experience, diving-focused itinerary, or private yacht charter, we tailor your Galapagos tours to match your interests. Our team handles every detail with care, ensuring your Galapagos holidays are as seamless and enriching as the destination itself.
Start Planning Your Dream Galapagos Excursion:
Frequently Asked Questions
01
What wildlife can I expect to see in the Galapagos?
On a Galapagos cruise, you’ll encounter an extraordinary array of wildlife, including giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, playful sea lions, and rare bird species. Known as one of the best Galapagos cruising destinations for biodiversity, these islands are home to species found nowhere else on Earth.
03
For divers, is a liveaboard the best way to explore the Galapagos Islands?
Yes, a liveaboard cruise is one of the best ways to experience the Galapagos, as it offers easy access to remote islands, top diving and snorkeling sites, and diverse cruising destinations. A liveaboard allows you to maximize your time exploring both the land and underwater marvels of the Galapagos.
05
What should I pack for a Galapagos adventure?
Pack lightweight, quick-drying clothing, sun protection, a waterproof jacket, sturdy walking shoes, and a swimsuit. Essentials for the best Galapagos cruising experience also include snorkeling gear (if preferred), binoculars, and an underwater camera to capture the stunning marine and wildlife encounters. The cruise operator is offering snorkel equipment as well as wetsuits for swimming and diving in colder waters.
02
Do I need prior scuba diving experience for Galapagos dive tours?
No! Unless indicated, all of our Galapagos cruisers are tailored for non-divers, letting you enjoy snorkeling tours, which allow for incredible marine life sightings without the need for advanced skills. Other activities offered on all of our cruises are: hiking, panga rides, kayaking and stand-up-paddling. For liveaboard Galapagos dive tours, prior scuba diving experience is recommended due to strong currents and unique underwater conditions.
04
What are the top snorkeling spots in the Galapagos Islands?
Top snorkeling spots in the Galapagos include Devil’s Crown near Floreana Island, where vibrant fish and rays thrive, and Kicker Rock near San Cristóbal, known for hammerhead sharks and sea turtles. Gardner Bay and Punta Espinoza also offer incredible snorkeling experiences for spotting marine life up close.
06
How can I book a Galapagos travel tour with Neptune’s Daughter?
To book a Galapagos travel tour with Neptune's Daughter, contact us directly through our website, email, call or text via Whatsapp. Our experts will review the different itineraries cruising options, and will assist in selecting the best Galapagos cruising experience for you, arrange domestic flights, and provide any additional requests for a seamless adventure.
07
What is the difference between a Galapagos cruise and a land-based tour?
A Galapagos cruise allows you to visit multiple islands and remote sites accessible only by boat, while a land-based tour keeps you on one island with day trips to nearby areas. Cruises offer a more immersive experience with less travel time between excursions.
08
How far in advance should I book my trip to the Galapagos?
We recommend booking your trip to the Galapagos at least 6–12 months in advance, especially for small-ship cruises and peak Galapagos holidays, to ensure availability and the best itinerary options. Of course there is always the chance of finding what you want last minute!
09
How do I get to the Galapagos Islands?
You’ll need to fly to mainland Ecuador (Quito or Guayaquil) first, then take a 2.5-hour domestic flight to either Baltra or San Cristóbal in the Galapagos. Neptune's Daughter can assist with booking both international and domestic connections.
10
Do I need a guide to visit the Galapagos National Park?
Yes, most areas of the Galapagos National Park can only be visited with a licensed naturalist guide to ensure the protection of the islands’ delicate ecosystems. All of our Galapagos cruises include at least one, and sometimes two naturalist guides, all are bi or tri lingual (Spanish, English and French).
11
What are the Galapagos National Park entrance fees?
The entrance fee is currently USD $200 for adults and USD $100 for children under 12, payable in cash upon arrival. Ecuador also charges a $20 Transit Control Card fee at the airport before departure. When booking a cruise with Neptune's Daughter, we add these fees to your cruise price.
12
What are the most important National Park rules I should know?
Do not touch or feed wildlife, keep a distance of at least 2 meters, stay on marked trails, and avoid littering. These rules help preserve the unique environment of the Galapagos Islands.
13
What Makes These Islands So Special?
The Galapagos Islands are home to species found nowhere else on Earth, offering an unparalleled opportunity to see wildlife in its natural habitat. Their volcanic landscapes and pristine waters make them a UNESCO World Heritage treasure.
14
Where Should You Go to See Specific Wildlife?
Head to Española Island for waved albatross, Fernandina for marine iguanas and flightless cormorants, and North Seymour for blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds. If you want to see giant tortoises, visit Santa Cruz’s highlands or San Cristóbal’s interpretation center trails.
