Galapagos Cruise

The Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Ecuador. They were discovered in 1535 by Fray Tomás de Berlanga, the Bishop of Panama, during a voyage to Peru. The archipelago consists of 13 main islands, 6 smaller islands, and over 100 islets and rocks, formed through volcanic activity over millions of years. Renowned for their unique biodiversity, the islands played a key role in allowing Charles Darwin to formulate his theory of evolution. Today, the Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to species found nowhere else on the planet.

The Galapagos Islands are among the planet's most biodiverse destinations, home to endemic wildlife including Darwin’s finches, Galapagos sea lions, land iguanas, and giant tortoises. In West Galápagos, species like Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, and marine iguanas thrive courtesy of the nutrient-rich waters brought by the Cromwell Current. Meanwhile, East Galapagos hosts flamingos in brackish lagoons and nesting birds like blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds. Lava lizards are also common in the east, with species varying by island.

Our rates include elegant design cabin accommodations; all onboard meals, non-alcoholic beverages, house wines, and beer; small-group excursions with expert guides; use of snorkeling equipment, wet suits, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards; onboard lectures and evening entertainment; laundry service; complimentary high-speed satellite internet; and entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park. We will provide group transfers from/to the airport if you arrive and depart on our recommended flights. The only extra expenses incurred will be airfare, cocktails, optional boutique purchases, and gratuities.

Life is relaxed while sailing on Aqua Mare. We have a no shoes policy on board and invite guests to dress casually during meals in the dining room.

We recommend you to bring the following items:

• Hiking or tennis shoes

• Water shoes or strap-on sandals (for wet landings)

• Flip-flops (optional)

• Lightweight clothing with SPF protection – sun shirts, short and/or long-sleeved tops, shorts, and trousers

• Underwear and socks

• Sweater or fleece for the cold season (June – December)

• Hat/caps and sunglasses (preferably polarized)

• Rain jacket or windbreaker

• 2+ bathing suits

• Sunscreen

• SPF lip balm

• Toiletries*

• Mosquito repellent with DEET 7 (OFF is recommended)

• Camera (with charger, extra batteries, and memory cards)

• Underwater camera for snorkeling

• Your favorite TV shows pre-downloaded onto a laptop or tablet for your entertainment

For those sailing on the West Galapagos itinerary, there will be an excursion prior to embarkation on the first day. The following is recommended:

• Dress in comfortable clothes, socks, and sneakers

• Carry sunscreen, a rain jacket, hat or cap, and a camera in your carry-on bag

We provide the following on board:

• Sunblock

• Insect repellent

• Water bottles

• Beach bag

• Powerful hair dryer in every cabin

• 220-volt and 115-volt European outlets in all cabins

• Universal electrical adaptors on board

• 8x32 Binoculars

Aqua Mare offers unlimited access to high-speed Wi-Fi.

Citizens of over 90 countries may visit Ecuador visa-free for up to three months. Nationals of certain countries may require a visa; contact the nearest Ecuadorian embassy or consulate to confirm entry requirements and check for any necessary vaccinations. Aqua Expeditions covers the cost of entrance to the Galapagos National Park as well as the Transit Control Card fees for all guests sailing on Aqua Mare.

Guests are strongly advised to purchase trip cancelation insurance, which will reimburse the cost of air tickets and other non-refundable trip payments. International medical, baggage loss, and delay insurance are also recommended. Insurance companies such as Travel Guard and Allianz are options that guests may consider.

Unfortunately, we are unable to refund your booking should you miss your vessel departure due to any weather-related flight cancelation since flight cancelation s are beyond our control and we are required to comply with our schedules.

If Aqua Mare is unable to sail (i.e. due to force majeure or mechanical failure), Aqua Expeditions reserves the right to substitute another vessel. If this option is not taken, Aqua Expeditions reserves the right to cancel the trip upon a refund pro rata per cruise night not used or, as an alternative, offer credit towards a future expedition on Aqua Mare.

The minimum recommended age for children is 5 years old. Guests must be at least 18 years of age to travel without their parents or guardians. If any occupant in the cabin is under 18, then a guest of at least 18 years old must be booked in the same cabin.

Aqua Mare features seven individually designed cabin, spread out across three decks. The main difference between each category lies in the dimensions of the cabin, reflected in the difference in rates. Cabins aboard Aqua Mare are some of the largest in the Galapagos Islands, ranging from 172 square feet (16 sqm) to 861 square feet (80 sqm), and showcase the attention to detail of Italian craftsmanship and décor, ensuring a luxurious sanctuary to retreat into while exploring the beautiful Galapagos Archipelago.

Our talented chefs are well-versed in a variety of preparations and can cater to vegetarian, vegan, kosher, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets, as well as other more specific preferences. Whether it’s allergies, dietary restrictions, or lifestyle preferences, our team will do their best to serve you world-class meals based on the preferences indicated in your guest account or online check-in. You will have the option to specify your dietary needs when completing the online check-in for your expedition.