The Galapagos Islands

"The rumbling clang of our anchor chain rang out like a desecration, and we came to rest in Conway Bay, the very harbor where the most famous pirates of all time had anchored. I looked around at the island spread out before me, listened in vain for any sound from shore, and let the fact sink deep within me - in my turn I had come to the Galapagos and another dream of my boyhood had become real."

William Beebe, Galapagos: World's End, 1924

Special promotions
Galapagos

Mary Anne 8 day cruise from $3,000 per person with 2 nights in Ecuador luxury hotel

Nemo II 8 day catamaran cruise from $2,200 per person

Samba 8 day cruise from $1,910

Special Galapagos Best departures in 2008

Come and discover Darwin's enchanted islands. Galapagos Best offers you the opportunity to retrace the steps of pirates, buccaneers, whalers, sailors and of course Charles Darwin. We run a program of 8 day cruises in Galapagos which focus on the islands' natural history, walks, bird and whale watching, kayaking, with briefings on the next day's activities every evening.

To make things more exciting, you will have the chance to go snorkeling every day, and sometimes twice a day. We also provide kayaks on board so you can enjoy some extra sports and enjoyment as well. If you have time, we also have extensions programs in mainland Ecuador; Indian markets, birding, flowers and city tours anywhere in the country.

A typical day on a Galapagos Best cruise

The yacht anchors at each island destination, and passengers are ferried to the landing point in small boat called “pangas” (dinghies).

On shore you will follow specially marked trails which may alter slightly from season to season. These skirt the birds' nesting-areas and you will also see marine iguanas, land iguanas, and on some islands, giant Galapagos tortoises in the wild. The Galapagos wildlife is world-renowned for its tameness, and you will be astounded at how close you can pass by these unique species. You will also experience a young volcanic landscape and many different types of vegetation.

All groups must be escorted by a naturalist guide who will point out everything there is to see and answer your questions.

Some islands have excellent swimming beaches and snorkeling areas. Imagine a giant manta ray or sea turtle passing you silently through the water, a Galapagos penguin speeding past, or playing somersaults with a young sea lion! Everyday there will be a memorable experience.

On some cruises there will be opportunities to ride horses to the highlands or watch out for whales and dolphins.

On some of the trails, the terrain can be quite rough. You will enjoy your Galapagos experience more if you are fit!

More about our Galapagos Best cruises

Our yachts
Our guides
Island tours
Scuba Diving
What to pack
Photography
When to travel
Itineraries
Galapagos tour costs

Memories are made of this - kayaking in Galapagos