Step into the world of the Galapagos Islands, where the search for the best value for money Galapagos luxury cruise boats is like discovering a hidden treasure amidst a sea of options. Imagine this: cruise ships that exude opulence without the extravagant price tag, crews devoted to providing top-tier experiences, amenities that redefine value, and itineraries curated for the discerning traveler seeking both luxury and sensible spending. Join us as we set sail to uncover the true gems of affordable luxury in the Galapagos cruise circuit, revealing the vessels that seamlessly blend extravagance with exceptional value for those seeking an unforgettable experience without compromising on luxury.
Given the multitude of Galapagos luxury ships that cruise the Galapagos Islands, picking one that suits your preferences can be a tedious task. This guide breaks down essential aspects such as amenities, crew-to-passenger ratio, dining experiences, accommodations, and itineraries, offering comprehensive insights into 12 high-end Galapagos catamarans and yachts.
Ship: Built in 2023, the brand-new Cormorant II is a luxury mega-catamaran that caters to an exclusive group of 16 guests. With regular sailings throughout the year, Cormorant II delivers year-round adventures in a stylish and comfortable setting.
Amenities: Spread over four passenger decks, you’ll have access to a host of amenities during your downtime on the luxury catamaran. Soak up the views in the 180° view lounge, unwind in a variety of social areas like the saloon, dining room, bar and coffee station on the main deck, or head to the Jacuzzi on the sun deck for more outdoor time. For more active pursuits, visit the fitness area, equipped with a weight machine, exercise bikes and ample floor space for yoga and gentle stretches. Or, make use of the complimentary snorkeling equipment, wet suits, kayaks and paddle boards.
Crew: An enthusiastic team of 12 crew members, one cruise director and one bilingual guide welcome you on board, making this a nearly one-to-one guest-to-guide ratio for the most personalized experiences.
Dining: With an open seating plan, the onboard dining areas are equipped with eight-person tables to encourage meeting other travelers. While breakfast and lunch are served buffet style, dinners come plated for a more elegant affair. You can expect a wide array of refreshing juices, fruits, salads and desserts with every meal, whether you’re enjoying international or regional dishes.
Rooms: The nine well-appointed and air-conditioned suites onboard range in size from 32.8m² to the 62m² Premium Suites, which feature private Jacuzzis for the ultimate luxury. Each accommodation, regardless of category, is equipped with either one king bed or two convertible twin beds, plus a private balcony and panoramic windows so you never have to miss out on the views. Families and larger groups can consider the four interconnected suites.
Itineraries: Cormorant II offers four sailings, including four, five and eight-day options. The short and sweet four-day one explores San Cristobal, Española, Floreana and Santa Cruz Islands, while you can select from two eight-day itineraries. One explores the outer islands, including Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, Santiago, Bartholomew and North Seymour Islands, while the other eight-day itinerary focuses on the inner islands, including Santa Cruz, Genovesa, South Plaza, Santa Fe, San Cristobal, Española and Floreana Islands.
Price: from 5,150 USD per person.
Ship: Following the region’s strict regulations to generate clean energy and reduce waste, Endemic is a carbon-neutral catamaran and a top choice for eco-conscious passengers. With elegant exteriors and top-notch amenities, this 16-passenger luxury catamaran has been sailing the Galapagos since July 2018.
Amenities: Across the catamaran’s three decks, you’ll find a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces to relax in. Join others in the briefing area for lectures and to access books and videos on the region, or head to the sky deck, where you’ll find the Jacuzzi, inviting lounge chairs, a conveniently placed cocktail bar, an al fresco dining area and a barbecue station.
Crew: Your time on board one of the most luxurious Galapagos ships will be enriched by one knowledgeable guide and a crew of 12, including a cruise director and a professionally trained chef.
Dining: In the al fresco dining area on the sky deck, gorge on international and regional dishes crafted by a professional chef, which feature locally grown ingredients. While breakfast and lunch are served buffet style, dinner is a combination of à la carte and buffet. In between meals, visit the always-open coffee and snack bar to satiate your appetite.
Rooms: Accommodations consist of eight luxury and air-conditioned Golden Panoramic Suites, all of which feature either one king-sized bed or two twin beds. Each 32 m2 unit also boasts a small social area, workspace, sofabed and private balcony.
Itineraries: Endemic boasts six sailings to suit a host of preferences, including four, five, six and eight-day options. For a short four-day tour of the region’s highlights, visit Bartholomew Island, Floreana Island, Chinese Hat Islet and North Seymour and Santa Cruz Islands. The two eight-day itineraries offer a more comprehensive exploration of the region. While the western route focuses on the attractions of Isabela Island, the eastern route explores Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Española, Santa Fe, South Plaza, Bartholomew, Floreana and North Seymour Islands.
Price: from 4,490 USD per person.
Ship: Though similar to Endemic in terms of layout and amenities, Elite didn’t start sailing the Galapagos until June 2019. As a carbon-neutral ship, this 16-guest vessel boasts sophisticated water filtration systems and follows strict maintenance schedules to minimize pollution, making one of the most luxurious Galapagos ships also one of the top choices for eco-conscious travelers.
Amenities: A host of amenities are spread over the three floors of the catamaran. For an afternoon of tanning, soaking in the hot tub or lounging at the bar, head to the sky deck. Spend time in the library learning the region’s history, flora and fauna, or access the complimentary wet suits, fins and snorkeling equipment for an immersive afternoon.
Crew: Elite is staffed by a crew of 10, plus one cruise service officer and one bilingual guide.
Dining: Three wholesome meals are served each day, beginning with a buffet-style breakfast which includes a variety of options like pancakes, french toast, fruits, cheeses and freshly baked croissants. While lunch also follows a buffet-style plan, dinners are a formal affair and are served in the al fresco dining area, with meals crafted from fresh ingredients provided by local farms whenever possible.
Rooms: Featuring contemporary décor, eight Golden Suites and one single suite are spread across the main and upper decks to make up the catamaran’s accommodations. Ranging from 35 to 37 m2, each unit is equipped with one queen-sized or two single beds, an ensuite bathroom with a rainforest shower and a balcony and panoramic windows that provide endless views.
Itineraries: Select from four sailings, which range from four to eight days in length. The four-day itinerary travels the southern islands including San Cristobal, Española, Floreana Islands and Mosquera Islet while the eight-day sailings offer a more thorough exploration of the region. One focuses on the western and eastern islands and highlights spots like Sierra Negra Volcano and Arnaldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center on Isabela Island. The other itinerary explores the southern and northern islands, with stops to see giant tortoises in the Highlands of Santa Cruz, as well as the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center.
Price: from 4,490 USD per person.
Ship: Built in 2018, Galapagos Horizon is billed as the first trimaran that was built in Ecuador, and the only luxury trimaran to date to sail the Galapagos. Boasting three hulls, the eco-friendly trimaran moves at a faster pace relative to catamarans, shortening travel time between islands while reducing fuel consumption.
Amenities: The lavish amenities on board include a generously sized indoor lounge, cozy bar, al fresco dining area and an inviting solarium where you’ll find the Jacuzzi and lounge chairs. You can also make use of the complimentary snorkeling equipment, wet suits, kayaks and paddleboards.
Crew: Nine enthusiastic crew members, one cruise director and one bilingual naturalist guide warmly welcome you on board one of the most luxurious Galapagos ships.
Dining: Led by internationally trained chefs, the menu highlights a mouthwatering variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and locally sourced poultry and seafood across a range of regional and international dishes.
Rooms: Eight elegantly styled double cabins occupy the main and upper decks. Ranging in size from 29 to 32 m2, all air-conditioned accommodations feature either a private balcony, a king-sized bed or two convertible twin beds. Its crisp, white linens are contrasted by dramatic artwork of the ocean and decor with bold shades of navy. The accommodations are completed with a small social area, a sofa bed, a desk and a closet.
Itineraries: This luxury trimaran offers four itineraries, including options for four, five and eight-day journeys. The four-day itinerary focuses on the eastern islands, visiting San Cristobal, Española and Santa Cruz Islands with the opportunity to spot colonies of sea lions at play at Lobos Island. An eight-day option explores the northern and eastern islands, with stops at San Cristobal, Española and Santa Cruz, Bartholomew, Santiago, Genovesa and North Seymour Islands while the other eight-day itinerary focuses on the western islands. You’ll spend two full days exploring Isabela Island, the largest of all the islands, visiting points like Tagus Cove and Moreno Point.
Price: from 4,050 USD per person.
Ship: Launched in 2018, this 20-guest yacht stands out for its comfort and premium service. Its nautically themed interiors in shades of blue, white and gray showcase sleek designs, creating a luxe yet inviting atmosphere. Boasting expansive accommodations and a dedicated team, Infinity is one of the most luxurious Galapagos ships for those seeking a five-star and service-oriented experience.
Amenities: Made up of three decks, you’ll find a plethora of indoor and outdoor spaces for your relaxation. The main deck hosts the dining room, a porch for wildlife viewing and a spacious lounge complete with audio and video entertainment. Head to the upper deck for handcrafted cocktails at the bar, and visit the sun deck to soak in the Jacuzzi and savor your meals outdoors. The yacht is also equipped with snorkeling equipment, wet suits and kayaks for your recreational enjoyment.
Crew: 10 crew members, one cruise director and two bilingual guides enrich your experiences aboard.
Dining: While some meals are served al fresco on the sun deck depending on conditions, others are served in the indoor dining room, which is equipped with two tables that fit 10 guests each. Crafted using only the freshest ingredients from local markets, a delightful blend of Ecuadorian and international dishes are featured for each meal and are served buffet-style alongside a selection of fresh juices, fruits and desserts. Dinners are a plated affair, and you’re invited to gorge on an assortment of snacks in between meals.
Rooms: 10 accommodations are spread across the main and upper decks, with eight double cabins and two double suites. Two units conveniently interconnect for larger groups and families. Ranging in size from 22 m2 to 32 m2, the roomy and air-conditioned accommodations each come equipped with an ensuite bathroom with biodegradable L’Occitane products, a private balcony, a sitting area and either convertible twin beds or one king-sized bed.
Itineraries: With four, five and eight-day itineraries, you can select from four different sailings. Each of the two eight-day options focuses on different islands in the region, with one highlighting western and eastern islands like Isabela and Fernandina Islands. The other eight-day itinerary highlights the northern and southern islands, exploring Genovesa, Floreana and Española Islands, while the four-day cruise visits Santa Cruz, Genovesa, Santiago and Rabida Islands, for those who are short on time.
Price: from 3,950 USD per person.
Ship: Named after a critically endangered seabird endemic to the Galapagos, this 16-guest luxury catamaran was built in 2015 and renovated in 2019. Boasting a sustainable ethos, Petrel offers a luxurious cruise experience as a part of a fleet of carbon-neutral ships.
Amenities: Discover a blend of expansive indoor and outdoor areas across the catamaran’s three decks for your onboard relaxation. On the partially shaded sun deck, sip on handcrafted cocktails at the fully-stocked bar and savor meals in the al-fresco dining area. On the main deck, you’ll find an indoor dining area, a six-person whirlpool, a sunning area and several inviting lounge chairs. Join your naturalist guide for daily briefings on excursions in the briefing area and read up on the volcanic islands in the library, where you’ll also find a TV, stereo and laptops for your convenience. For more water-based fun, make use of the complimentary wet suits and fins, double kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.
Crew: Committed to providing unparalleled service on board, the team is made up of 10 crew members and one multilingual guide.
Dining: Featuring a variety of fresh and locally sourced fruits, vegetables, poultry and seafood, a team of expert chefs and kitchen staff prepare a mix of international and Ecuadorian dishes for every meal. Wholesome snacks are available all day for times you need to refuel in between.
Rooms: Two spacious 43 m2 master suites, four 30 m2 double staterooms and one 14 m2 single cabin make up the accommodations on board. Each well-appointed and air-conditioned unit boasts large picture windows, a private balcony, its own bathroom with biodegradable amenities and two convertible twin or one king-sized bed.
Itineraries: With six sailings, you can select from a variety of four, five, six and eight-day cruises on this luxury catamaran. The short and sweet four-day one focuses on the southern islands, visiting San Cristobal, Española, Floreana and Santa Cruz Islands. One of the two eight-day options focuses on the western and eastern islands, with multi-day visits to the highlights of Isabela Island plus Fernandina, Santa Cruz, South Plaza, Santa Fe and San Cristobal Islands. The other eight-day itinerary focuses on the northern and southern islands, including Genovesa Island for attractions like Darwin Bay and Prince Phillip’s Steps.
Price: from 3,670 USD per person.
Ship: Built in 2011, the 16-guest catamaran boasts interiors characterized by neutral hues of gray, crisp white walls and wood panelling to create an ambiance of understated luxury. Committed to preserving the environment, Ocean Spray offsets its carbon emissions through CanopyCo, a local organization focused on the restoration of Ecuador’s forests.
Amenities: Explore the numerous amenities spread across the three decks of the luxury catamaran, which all invite you to unwind on board. Lounge in the chairs or Jacuzzi on the shaded sundeck, sip on a cocktail at the bar or read up on the region in the library. For a more fast-paced afternoon, make use of the kettlebells and dumbbells in the fitness area or embrace aquatic adventures with the kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling equipment.
Crew: The dedicated team is made up of 10 crew members, one cruise director and one park-certified bilingual naturalist guide.
Dining: Gorge on a mouthwatering selection of international and regional cuisine on board each day. While breakfast and lunch are served buffet style with a spread of fresh fruits, yogurt, salads, meat and seafood dishes, dinners are a complete three-course affair, and highlight fresh and local produce where possible.
Rooms: Get a restful night’s sleep in one of nine air-conditioned Golden Staterooms on board. The eight double cabins and one single cabin are spread across the upper and main decks. While the single cabin is 15 m2 and the others 28 m2 in size, all come equipped with a private balcony, a large closet, a desk and sofa, plus either two twin beds or a plush king-size bed.
Itineraries: Ocean Spray offers six different sailings that range from four to eight days in length, all focused on different regions of the Galapagos. See the highlights on a four-day cruise and explore points like Lobos Island, Kicker Rock and Post Office Bay on San Cristobal, Floreana and Santa Cruz Islands. For longer sailings, go with one of two eight-day options, with the western route visiting Isabela, Fernandina, Santa Cruz, South Plaza, Santa Fe, Española and San Cristobal Islands, and the other itinerary visiting San Cristobal, Floreana, Santa Cruz, Genovesa and Santiago Islands.
Price: from 3,670 USD per person.
Ship: Built in 2017, this 16-guest catamaran is one of the most luxurious Galapagos ships. Delivering personalized service and sporting three decks of lavish amenities and private balconies to highlight the views, you’ll feel pampered from start to finish.
Amenities: Unwind in a number of indoor and outdoor spaces across the catamaran’s three passenger decks. Sunbathe on the loungers, enjoy meals al fresco or soak in the Jacuzzi in the solarium. Head to the lounge, made lively with carefully curated contemporary artwork, and laze on the couches or peruse the cozy library before grabbing a drink at the next-door bar. For families, the lounge is also home to a toy library. Those in pursuit of more adventure can make use of the snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, kayaks and paddle boards.
Crew: An enthusiastic team of eight, plus one cruise director and one bilingual guide, welcome you on board.
Dining: With the dining program led by a professional chef, you’re invited to gorge on a rotating selection of international and regional cuisine each day, offered both buffet-style and à la carte. Adopting sustainable practices and prioritizing working with local vendors, the food on board is always fresh. In between, fuel up on snacks and hit the 24-hour coffee and tea station.
Rooms: Make your home away from home in one of nine cabins spread across the main and upper decks. Ranging from 18 m2 to 22 m2 in size, all well-appointed cabins feature an ensuite bathroom, either a king or two twin-sized beds and oversized windows that highlight dramatic views of the surroundings. All but one unit are equipped with a private balcony.
Itineraries: Select from three itineraries, which are five and six days in length. Travel to Santa Cruz, Genovesa, Santiago and Bartholomew Islands, with stops at Chinese Hat Islet and Mosquera Islet on the five-day sailing, or go for one of two six-day cruises. While one explores Isabela, Fernandina and Santiago Islands, the other visits North Seymour, South Plaza, Santa Fe, San Cristobal, Española and Floreana Islands.
Price: from 3,500 USD per person.
Ship: Elegance, comfort and luxury come together on board Natural Paradise to provide an exclusive group of 16 guests with authentic and personalized experiences in the Galapagos. Outfitted with lavish spaces and interiors, this luxury yacht has been a top choice among discerning travelers since its first sailing in 2016.
Amenities: Home to ample indoor and outdoor space, you’ll find plenty of amenities spread across the yacht’s four decks. Head to the teak sundeck for a soothing soak in the Jacuzzi or to enjoy a barbecue meal in the cozy al fresco dining space. On the main deck, you’ll find a lounge, a well-stocked bar, a dining room, a library and a coffee station. For active explorations, make use of the complimentary snorkeling equipment, wetsuits and sea kayaks.
Crew: An experienced team of 10 crew members and a certified bilingual naturalist guide enhance your onboard experience.
Dining: Equipped with two eight-person dining tables, the dining space adopts an open seating policy and all meals are served buffet-style. With a focus on fresh and local ingredients like fruits and seafood, the rotating menu features different hot and cold dishes each day, including gourmet soups and salads.
Rooms: Nine spacious and comfortable cabins across three decks make up the accommodations on board. Ranging between 16 m2 and 33 m2, the yacht boasts three different room categories: Suite, Junior Suite and Stateroom. All cabins are air-conditioned and equipped with ensuite bathrooms and either one king bed or convertible double twin beds. For a cabin with a private balcony, opt for one of the four units on the upper deck.
Itineraries: Choose from four sailings onboard one of the most luxurious Galapagos ships, ranging in length from four to eight days. If you’re short on time, opt for a tour of the highlights on the four-day sailing, which travels from Baltra to Santa Cruz, Genovesa and Santiago Islands. The two eight-day sailings highlight different regions of the Galapagos. While one explores San Cristobal, North Seymour, South Plaza, Santiago and Genovesa Islands, the other visits Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, Floreana and Española Islands.
Price: from 3,250 USD per person.
Ship: Priding itself on providing unparalleled service and offering some of the most luxurious amenities on a Galapagos cruise, the 16-guest mega-yacht is designed for private charters. Built in 2018, the Grand Majestic tops out at a maximum speed of 25 knots and remains the fastest yacht to sail the Galapagos, shortening travel time between sites. The interior’s dazzling chandeliers and marble finishes give it an elevated feel.
Amenities: Divided between three passenger decks, various indoor and outdoor spaces invite you to unwind onboard one of the most luxurious Galapagos ships. On the sun deck, go for a relaxing dip in the Jacuzzi and enjoy your meals al fresco. On the main deck, enjoy the views from the lounge, grab a cocktail from the bar or read up on the region in the library, which also hosts daily briefings about the next day’s activities. You can also make use of the complimentary snorkeling equipment, wet suits and kayaks.
Crew: Grand Majestic is staffed by a dedicated team of nine crew members and one knowledgeable bilingual guide.
Dining: With two eight-person tables and an open seating policy, the dining room encourages interaction between guests. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served buffet style, with a range of meats, fish, shellfish, salads and pasta dishes to suit all preferences. In between meals, snacks and desserts keep you satiated all day.
Rooms: Spread across the lower and main decks, rest your head in one of eight generously sized and air-conditioned accommodations on board. Ranging in size from 12.25 m² to 39 m², the seven staterooms are equipped with ensuite bathrooms, two convertible twin beds and portholes to enjoy the view. Or, splurge for the master suite, which is lavishly outfitted with his and her bathrooms, a plush king-sized bed and panoramic windows.
Itineraries: The luxury Grand Majestic offers four sailings that range from four to eight days in length. The short and sweet four-day option features the southern region’s highlights, with stops at San Cristobal, Floreana, Española and Santa Cruz Islands. For a longer journey, pick from two eight-day sailings. One follows the western route, exploring Isabela, Fernandina and Santiago Islands, while the other journeys to San Cristobal, Floreana, Española, Santa Cruz and Genovesa Islands.
Price: from 3,050 USD per person.
Ship: Custom-built in 2011, the modern 16-guest luxury motor yacht was recently renovated in 2022 to provide an elevated experience. Earning the World Travel Award for South America’s Leading Boutique Cruise in 2017, 2018 and 2019, this high-end vessel promises top-tier expedition cruises through the Galapagos.
Amenities: Experience the epitome of relaxation with a blend of inviting indoor and outdoor spaces aboard. At the solarium, bask in the sun on the plush daybeds and sun loungers or unwind in one of the two Jacuzzis. Indoors, socialize at the saloon, visit the cozy library and video library and check in with your naturalist guide in the lounge. The yacht also offers complimentary use of snorkeling equipment and twin sea kayaks for added enjoyment.
Crew: The team on board consists of nine experienced crew members and one bilingual guide.
Dining: Savor daily buffet-style breakfasts and lunches, complemented by family-style dinners each evening. The expertly crafted menu, overseen by a professional chef, offers a delightful fusion of international and Ecuadorian flavors. Explore culinary delights such as shrimp ceviche and coconut fish with rice, and engage in cooking classes and barbecue sessions in the inviting al fresco dining area.
Rooms: Choose from eight spacious and air-conditioned suites across three categories, which include the Balcony, Sea Star and Galapagos Suites. Ranging in size from 25 m2 to 35 m2, each accommodation comes equipped with an ensuite bathroom, a mini-bar, flat-screen TV plus sofabed, picture windows framing scenic views and the option of convertible twin beds or a queen bed. For your own private terrace, consider indulging in the Balcony Suite.
Itineraries: Choose from three different sailings, which consist of one five-day and two six-day options, all of which explore different regions of the Galapagos. These itineraries prioritize abundant wildlife sightings and provide ample opportunities to hike among the dramatic volcanic landscapes. While the southern route highlights Española and Floreana Islands on a six-day journey, the other six-day itinerary focuses on the western islands like Isabela and Fernandina Islands with stops to see Moreno Point, Elizabeth Bay and Espinoza Point.
Price: from 4,280 USD per person.
Ship: This first-class motor catamaran was built in 2007 and set sail in the Galapagos in 2008. Refurbished in 2015, Seaman Journey offers an intimate group of 16 guests an exclusive and authentic experience.
Amenities: Ample indoor and outdoor social spaces can be found across three passenger decks for some downtime. Head to the upper deck lounge and sun deck to lay in the loungers and enjoy meals outdoors, or grab a drink from the two bars and dive into the region’s history and wildlife at the cozy library. For a more active afternoon, access the free snorkeling gear and two-person sea kayaks.
Crew: A dedicated team of nine, including a seasoned bilingual naturalist guide, warmly welcomes you on board.
Dining: The dining program on this luxury catamaran emphasizes fresh ingredients, which are highlighted across a spread of local and international dishes, like shrimp ceviche, lamb stew, sushi and pizza. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style alongside fruit juices and salads, while dinner is enjoyed family-style, which always includes a selection of meat, poultry and seafood.
Rooms: Eight spacious and comfortable air-conditioned rooms make up the accommodations on board. Six 15 m2 Standard Ocean View Cabins boasting either two convertible twin beds or one queen bed are situated on the main deck while two larger suites can be found on the upper deck. Regardless of category, all accommodations are equipped with ensuite bathrooms, a writing desk and a closet for your comfort.
Itineraries: This luxury catamaran offers four sailings that range from three to seven nights in length, with each of the sailings exploring different islands in the region. The three-night itinerary includes points like Darwin Bay and El Barranco on Genovesa Island, one of the northernmost of the Galapagos Islands, and you can select from two eight-day sailings for longer journeys. While one visits the western islands, including Isabela, Fernandina and Santiago Islands, the other itinerary visits San Cristobal, Española, Floreana and Santa Cruz Islands.
Price: from 2,390 USD per person.
You know now everything about the best value for money luxurious catamarans and yachts of the Galapagos. But if choosing remains intricate, contact a Galapagos Cruise Experts for tailored guidance amidst this abundance of choices.
For those who can affoard it, we offer a range of more opulent and high-end alternatives that boast both luxury and a higher price point here.