Make your next vacation in the Galapagos truly magical by going onboard a luxury-class cruise ship. If you prefer lounging in spacious accommodations and enjoying the options provided by diverse amenities, then a Galapagos cruise ship has every detail covered. After snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and other island adventures, Galapagos cruise ships offer plenty of onboard activities where you can meet and mingle with fellow guests.

Learn about Galapagos islands cruise ships in this guide and the many options they offer during your vacation. Find out what cruise ships are and what differentiates them from catamarans and other tour options? On board these luxury vessels, you’ll also learn about the best tour packages included in a Galapagos cruise.

For personalized travel planning and inquiries, contact us at 1-877-205-5608 or visit our Contact Us page.

What is a Galapagos Cruise Ship?

Compared to yachts and catamarans, a Galapagos cruise ship is a larger vessel designed for extended exploration of the unique island chain. It offers amenities like spacious cabins, dining rooms, onboard naturalist guides. The cruise experience will also differ from that of a yacht or catamaran in several ways.

Galapagos cruise ships typically accommodate more passengers, providing a more social atmosphere with group activities and lectures. At Columbus Travel, our tour providers offer luxury cruise ships with capacities of 40 to 100 guests. Enjoy the company of friends and family, or bring your entire team on board and share the experience of a lifetime.

Galapagos Islands cruise ships are more stable, offering a smoother ride in rough seas. In contrast, yachts and catamarans offer a more intimate experience with fewer guests, providing a closer connection to the ocean and islands. 

Why Go On Vacation on a Galapagos Cruise Ship?

Vacationing in the Galapagos with friends and family becomes truly memorable on a cruise ship. You can share the unique adventure while experiencing the wonders of nature and wildlife together, enjoying scenic views as your backdrop, and relaxing in world-class luxury.

Here are more reasons why Galapagos vacations are best enjoyed on a cruise ship:

• Excellent Onboard Facilities: Luxury-class Galapagos cruise ships typically feature a variety of amenities designed to enhance your experience. These may include options such as glass-bottom boats for underwater viewing, expansive sundecks for relaxation, and spacious cabins with a range of choices including interconnected rooms, suites, and staterooms. While many ships offer these amenities to ensure comfort and luxury, the availability and extent of these features can vary between different vessels.

• Diverse Capacity and Personalized Experience: With ships accommodating 40 to 100 guests, there is a perfect option for every traveler’s needs and budget. The smaller capacity cruise ships allow for a more personalized experience, but you still have a good-sized crowd onboard. It’s the perfect option if you prefer a more intimate setting. However, if you prefer a lively social environment with more fellow travelers you can opt for our cruises, which have more room and capacity.

• Safety and Comfort: Cruise ships for the Galapagos Islands are designed specifically for safari cruises. These ships prioritize passenger safety and comfort, ensuring that you have the best travel experience as you enjoy the scenery and wildlife in the Galapagos. Furthermore, including a doctor on board ensures immediate medical assistance, adding peace of mind during your adventure. These well-equipped vessels are built to handle the unique conditions of the Galapagos, offering a stable and secure journey.

• Specialized Itineraries and Accessibility: Cruise ships in the Galapagos follow carefully crafted itineraries that maximize wildlife sightings and island exploration. Their larger size allows access to various locations, combining popular sites with lesser-visited gems, providing a comprehensive overview of the archipelago’s natural wonders.

• Enhanced Wildlife Viewing: Unique features like glass-bottom boats allow guests to observe marine life without getting wet, offering a unique perspective of the underwater world. This is particularly advantageous for those who may not wish to snorkel or dive but still want to experience the rich biodiversity of the Galapagos waters.
• Expert Guidance and Education: Onboard naturalist guides offer insightful lectures and guided excursions, enriching your understanding of the Galapagos’ unique ecosystems. These experts provide valuable context and information about the wildlife and geology, making your trip educational and memorable.

The best vacations in the Galapagos are enjoyed with fellow travelers who share your interests. Cruise ships allow guests to enjoy all these amenities while mingling with other guests. At Columbus Travel, we offer some of the best cruise options for travelers, suited to their needs and budget.

World Class Galapagos Cruise Ships from Columbus Travel

When booking a tour with our team, we work closely with you to tailor a tour package that will give you the best experience during your vacation. Here are some of the options you can choose from:

La Pinta

La Pinta is a luxurious cruise ship for up to 48 guests, offering exceptional service and facilities for a family-friendly Galapagos experience. With a “Young Pirates” program for children, it provides entertainment for all ages.

The ship features a Jacuzzi, gym, natural history library, and elegant dining room serving diverse cuisine. Spacious cabins have panoramic windows and private bathrooms. All meals, purified drinks, guided excursions, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and wetsuits are included, ensuring a comfortable and enriching adventure.

Isabella II

The Isabela II is a luxurious 40-passenger yacht for an exceptional Galapagos experience. It features 20 spacious cabins, a sun deck with a bar, a Jacuzzi, an observation area, and three public decks, including a bar salon and dining room. Guests can enjoy a well-stocked library, snorkeling, or the glass-bottom boat. Three naturalists provide engaging lectures and guided excursions. Included are all meals, purified drinks, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and wetsuits, ensuring a comfortable and enriching adventure.

MT Galapagos Horizon

Experience unparalleled luxury aboard the MT Galapagos Horizon, the only trimaran in the Galapagos. This eco-friendly, fuel-efficient vessel offers stability and speed.

The Horizon features eight luxurious staterooms with private balconies, air conditioning, and well-appointed baths. Amenities include complimentary kayaks, snorkel gear, wetsuits, a rooftop Jacuzzi, and paddle boards.

Enjoy all meals, non-alcoholic beverages, guided excursions, and onboard activities. The Horizon combines environmental commitment with ultimate comfort for an unforgettable Galapagos adventure.

Book a Cruise with Columbus Travel Today

Are you planning a unique vacation in the Galapagos Islands? Columbus Travel offers authentic island experiences on world-class cruise ships, where you can enjoy the company of friends. Contact us today to learn more and to book a luxury cruise.