Scuba Diving:
Scuba Diving in the Galapagos on Our Luxury Liveaboard Dive Yacht
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There are few places on earth where visitors can experience the thrill of getting up close and personal with quite such a bewildering array of animals as the Galapagos Islands.
“In a lifetime spent making natural history films, I’ve been to many wonderful places, but none more extraordinary than here, the Galapagos Islands” raved David Attenborough, who knows a thing or two about thrilling wildlife encounters.
For many, one of the things that really puts the Galapagos on the map is the wildlife beneath the waves; the waters around the islands are well-known to offer some of the greatest diving experiences anywhere on the planet, with multiple shark species, a huge number of tropical fish and rays, as well as whale sharks, sea turtles and marine iguanas all regular sightings when diving the seas here.
So if scuba diving is your thing, look no further than our liveaboard luxury yacht Galapagos Sky.
First, for those looking to dive in the Galapagos, it is worth knowing a little about how things work in the islands. The Galapagos National Park authorities regulate itineraries for all touring vessels in the Galapagos Islands. In general, diving from the vessels that visit the islands is not allowed. So, whilst visitors on our luxury expedition yachts Origin, Theory and Evolve can enjoy a fantastic range of excursions including snorkeling, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and zodiac rides, not to mention land-based expeditions including treks and bird-watching, diving isn’t permitted.
However, a handful of vessels do have a permit that allows for scuba diving, and, as luck would have it, our very own luxury liveaboard Galapagos Sky is one of them.
Of course, guests staying on our other Galapagos expedition cruises do have options if you would like to dive:
– The day our yacht is in port in Santa Cruz, you can arrange to scuba dive with a local dive shop. We would be happy to provide transportation to/from the dive shop, although note guests taking this option will miss the visit we offer to the Darwin Station and tortoise reserve in the highlands that day.
– Before or after your week-long itinerary, stay at a hotel in Santa Cruz or San Cristobal, and arrange to dive on day trips with a local dive shop.
– Book a two week trip; one week on Origin/Theory or Letty and one week on our dive liveaboard, the Galapagos Sky, to really make the most of your time in the Galapagos. All vessels in the Ecoventura fleet begin and end the cruise in San Cristobal on Sunday, meaning a seamless transfer from one yacht to another. What’s more, for those opting for two weeks back to back, we are offering a 5% discount.
With the Galapagos marine wildlife drawing visitors in from far and wide, a week on board Sky is not to be missed.
With a maximum of 16 passengers on board, the Galapagos Sky provides an exclusive diving experience, with luxury accommodation and fine dining on board and highly experienced guides and crew, ensuring you’ll have an extraordinary Galapagos experience both above and below the water.
Our diving itinerary offers approximately 19 dives over the course of a 7-night cruise, as well as various land excursions to explore the islands.
The Galapagos Sky is one of just a few dive boats that spends 3 full days at the remote northern islands of Wolf and Darwin – often regarded as among the best dive spots in the world and famous for the huge gatherings of hammerheads and other sharks.
And whilst Darwin’s Arch – an iconic rock formation instantly recognizable to anyone who knows the area – collapsed last year after centuries of erosion (now known affectionately as Darwin’s Pillars), nothing has changed about the spectacular diving underneath as sharks and rays still gather in thrilling numbers.
In addition to the extensive dives available around Wolf and Darwin, the Sky itinerary has another ace up its sleeve. “We are fortunate to be able to dive with the endemic marine iguanas at Cabo Douglas – many scuba-liveaboards in the Galapagos don’t have Cabo Douglas on their permit” explains Amy Lionetti, our resident diving expert. “They are like miniature Godzillas, feeding on underwater algae for up to an hour at a time” and are a truly memorable sight for all luck enough to have experience it.
Back on board, we have revamped our menus to focus on delicious, locally-sourced and sustainable cuisine, using the best that the Galapagos and Ecuador have to offer. What’s more, with the exception of certain premium wines and spirits, we now have an open bar policy, so a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic offerings are included in your rate.
Diving in the Galapagos is available all year round, with incredible marine diversity every week of the year. Conditions do change however, as a result of changing sea currents and temperatures.
June to November is whale shark season, so the best opportunity to spot these gentle giants. Lucky visitors might spot them gliding through the water accompanied by an entourage of other species, including cleaner fish, tuna, mackerel and remoras.
December to May is the warmest season for Galapagos diving, and these months are often associated with large gatherings of hammerhead sharks. One truly spectacular phenomenon is known as a “wall up”, when huge groups of these sharks gather in tight proximity at reef points to form a solid wall – a sight not for the faint-hearted.
The warm season is known as “Manta” season, and for good reason – many rays, including giant mantas as well as mobulas, spotted eagles and golden rays to name a few, gather in large schools at this time of year.
For those interested in more information, take a look at the Sky website where you will find further details on the diving set up, as well as the vessel itself.
If you have any questions about the liveaboard diving experience, or would like to plan your trip, please get in touch with us today – we look forward to welcoming you on board.
VIP – Private Moments package:
Private Moments is a compilation of VIP services that we can provide to our guests aboard the Theory and Evolve.
Ecoventura has curated services for clients seeking a truly unique experience while in the Galapagos. Whether celebrating a milestone birthday or anniversary, or for guests who appreciate spending private moments during a luxury expedition cruise, Ecoventura offers a experience that will last a lifetime.
The VIP Private Moments package includes:
- A private naturalist guide for all excursions (limit one guide for 2-4 guests).
- Private VIP transfers to and from the airport in Galapagos to the dock.
- A private zodiac ride at sunset or a private breakfast served on the sundeck.
- Priority for a private table in the dining room during dinner.
Additional charge: $800 per person in 1 suite, $400 per person in 2 suites (maximum 4 guests).
Family Departures:
"To do so as a family and witness your children or grandchildren first hand taking in the stark beauty of the islands, searching for tortoises under sour apple trees, or blowing bubbles in the ocean with sea lion pups is equal parts amazing and unforgettable."
{Kelly S, California (USA) August 2020, Theory}
Galapagos Luxury Family Cruises
Onboard the Ecoventura fleet, we offer designated family departures geared toward families who prefer to travel with other families with children, teenagers, college-age, and multi-generational. Luxury family departures are offered during major school breaks and feature exclusive age-appropriate activities that bring the magic of the Galapagos to a multi-generational audience.
During departures with teenagers, for example, our excursions will be at a faster pace and more physically demanding. Expect longer hikes and more kayaking and snorkeling opportunities. Travelers with younger children can participate in onboard games and cooking classes. This, of course, is only an example of how we can customize the specific family departure based on the age group aboard.
The following sailings in 2024 are family-oriented departures when one of three identical luxury expedition yachts: Origin, Theory & Evolve is designated exclusively for families. As a reminder, Itinerary A is for our Beaches and Bays, Southern and Central Route. Itinerary B is for our Volcanic Wonders, Western and Northern Route. Please check with us at the time of booking. Some family trip dates may already be sold out.
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Discounts for Children on Galapagos Family Trips
Children age 17 years and younger at the time of sailing are entitled to a 15% discount off the cruise rate. Children age 11 and under have 30% discount on airfare and the park entrance fee is $50 with proof of age and a copy of the child’s passport showing date of birth. Children age 5 and under are not accepted unless the parents or legal guardians sign a hold harmless release. Designated family and family teen departures are offered during school breaks. Children age 4 and under are permitted on private charter only.Â
Read Blogs About Galapagos Family Cruising
- CHILD’S PLAY, WHY A GALAPAGOS TRIP WITH THE KIDS SHOULDBT BE MISSED Ultimate Family Trip
- A voyage to the Galapagos with the Grandkids
- Food fun for kids on Ecoventura family departure
Culinary - Tastes of Ecuador:
"The food was sensational, plentiful, fresh and fantastically prepared. I loved the Ecuadorian-inspired dishes and the lunches on the sun deck. Additionally, every excursion was followed by tasty tapas and fresh juices."
{Patricia, Guest, Origin - June 2021.}
Galapagos Islands Culinary Cruises
Food is one of life’s greatest pleasures, so rather than resting on our laurels after our hugely popular culinary departures over the years, we decided to up the ante.
Enter, stage left, Estuardo Vilela, head chef of Ecoventura’s fleet of luxury yachts, Origin and Theory (to be joined in 2023 by sister ship Evolve). Estuardo is responsible for curating menus and feeding 20 passengers three exquisite meals a day, seven days a week (not forgetting the endless amuse bouches and snacks offered up between excursions), as well as the yachts’ hardworking crew.
Estuardo and his team are continuously innovating and experimenting, introducing new ingredients and dishes to create sumptuous menus that challenge and dazzle in equal measure. In anticipation of taking to the seas for another culinary cruise season, the team has recently released their updated menus, and we’re confident they won’t disappoint.
What Dishes to Expect on a Culinary Cruise
Dishes such as Grilled Octopus Basque-style and Crab croquettes served with kiwi chutney and lemon confit are expertly created in quite possibly one of the most compact kitchens on Relais & Chateaux’s prestigious books. But this in no way hampers Estuardo’s efforts.
“Cooking on a yacht that has a small kitchen is not a limitation, as long as there is a passion for cooking” Estuardo explains. With three or four courses for dinner and a menu that changes every day, passengers are guaranteed never to tire of Estuardo’s offerings.
Given the location, and the fact that ingredients are sourced locally where possible – around 70% of ingredients come from the surrounding islands – seafood features heavily. The grilled prawns with cilantro gremolata, and langoustines in garlic aioli, are particularly divine!
But the menus are highly varied, with a host of dishes available to choose from each day, from various soups through to beef filet with tamarind chimichurri, and everything in between, as well as a host of desserts for those with a sweet tooth!
"Cooking on a yacht that has a small kitchen is not a limitation, as long as there is a passion for cooking."
{Estuardo Vilela - Head Chef - Ecoventura}
Media and Accolades
"Our luxury expedition yachts, Origin & Theory, are the only Relais & Chateaux vessels in the Galapagos – an accolade we at Ecoventura take great pride in. Relais & Chateaux is the watchword not only for luxury accommodation and second-to-none service, but mouth-watering cuisine." explains President, Santiago Dunn.
Travel Writer Sam Bradley had the pleasure of chatting with Estuardo about his cooking experiences in the Galapagos and he shares them in the well-known We Said Go Travel blog. It’s heartening to hear how rewarding it is for Estuardo to see happy smiling guests enjoying his food, and in some instances, sharing his kitchen too!
“Not long ago we had a charter group on board, and one of the guests had organized rare white truffles. I was very excited to be preparing these for the first time, and the client happened to also be a chef so together we prepared a delicious risotto!” Estuardo recalls the story.
Whilst the main purpose of our passengers travelling to this unique corner of the globe is typically to admire the phenomenal flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands, our aim is to elevate their overall experience to the highest degree in terms of luxury, service and cuisine.
Drinks Are On Us!
Alongside Estuardo’s enticing menu for Origin & Theory, we are also very proud of our newly released selection of signature and classic cocktails – all of which are part of our open bar policy.
It’s hard to envisage a better way to reflect on a busy day exploring the Enchanted Isles than relaxing early evening on deck sipping a refreshing Pisco Sour… or might that be a Kicker Rock? Hang on, what about a Rabida Spritz? Perhaps with such a tempting line up, it’s rather hard to imagine after all!
Best come and sample for yourselves, so please do not hesitate to contact the team who would be delighted to help organize your “Gourmet Galapagos” adventure.
Truth be told, with our open bar, all-inclusive meal schedule and epicurean delights throughout the day, each an every departure on our luxury yachts have a culinary focus. However, we do occasionally have guest chefs come aboard on specific dates.
Currently, no dates are set for a culinary departure; however, please do check back again.
Read Blogs about Galapagos Culinary Cruises
Photography Expeditions:
Famed local photographers will help you capture and preserve your trip to the Galápagos Islands in beautiful photographs. Travelers will learn basic lighting tips, receive a printed guide featuring images of the Galápagos’ endemic creatures, and participate in a farewell slideshow featuring some of the finest work produced during the sailing. This photography sailing will be held on the Origin, Theory & Evolve.
The Galapagos is famously known as one of the world’s leading photography destinations, famed as it is for its incomparable range of marine and terrestrial plant and animal life. Photogenic sealions sprawl on every beach or frolic in the shallows, whilst blue footed boobies bob and prance for anyone keen to watch.
Marine iguanas soak up the sun's warmth on rocks throughout the islands, and up in the hills giant tortoises, known to live well over 100 years, have seen it all and aren't concerned by just a few more visitors coming to take a look.
The wildlife has evolved here with very few natural predators; the islands are 600 miles from the Ecuador mainland, meaning the only animals that live here swam, flew or floated, which ruled out almost all mammals and large meat-eaters. This in turn means that the creatures that call the Galapagos home have a confidence and curiosity that is seldom found in the planet's other nature hotspots, where animals warily scan the horizon and are quick to flee at a moment's notice.
As a result of this evolutionary quirk, budding photographers and visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to taking the perfect holiday snap.
And given this remote, largely uninhabited archipelago - 97% of the island land mass is a protected national park, while the surrounding waters are a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve - remains mostly untouched and heavily protected, with dramatic volcanic scenery, gorgeous white sand beaches and vivid sunrises and sunsets, it is about as picture perfect as you can imagine.
Brush up on your photography
We have run a host of successful specialist photography trips over the past few years and, due to popular demand, are now doubling our number of tours. We are thrilled to be able to offer guests a choice of two itineraries, with eight photography departures planned for 2024.
Spring 2024
April 21-28 (Itinerary A "Beaches and Bays", which covers the southern and central regions of the archipelago)
April 28-05 May (Itinerary B "Volcanic Wonders", which explores the northern and western reaches of the islands)
May 16-26 (Itinerary A)
May 26-02 June (Itinerary B)
Fall 2024
October 06-13 (Itinerary A)
October 13-20 (Itinerary B)
November 03-10 (Itinerary A)
Nov 10-17 (Itinerary B)
These voyages are the same itineraries that we would cover on a non-photography departure cruise, and so are perfect for anyone looking to explore and enjoy the Galapagos, not just photography afficionados.
There is no need to bring professional cameras or long lenses, and all levels are welcome!
One of the benefits of booking a photography tour are earlier or later disembarkations to take advantage of the best natural lighting, and the pace may be slower to allow time for that perfect angle shot.
Meet the experts
Our photography expeditions are hosted by two specialist and highly experienced naturalist guides, Antonio Adrian and Fernando Sanchez. Between them they know the Galapagos Islands like the back of their hand, and just so happen to be specialist photography instructors to boot!
Antonio Adrian
With degrees in environmental and educational sciences, skilled naturalist and certified photography instructor Antonio Adrian has authored numerous books and papers on natural history, evolution and environmental management. He is a qualified dive specialist who has travelled widely and has a passion for the Galapagos.
Fernando Sanchez
Naturalist Fernando Sanchez trained as a photography instructor with the National Geographic Society and, having worked in the archipelago for many years, has an exhaustive knowledge of this unique ecosystem and its inhabitants. Fernando is a specialist in sustainable development and environmental education and passionate about preserving the islands.
In the frame
With their infectious energy and enthusiasm, and in-depth knowledge – both of photography and the enthralling Galapagos Islands – Antonio and Fernando make excellent additions to our committed crew. Whether you’re looking to finesse and finely tune your already advanced photography talents or are simply keen to learn a few basics, or would just like to learn more about the islands and the wildlife, these voyages are bound to fit the bill.
You will be guided across pristine beaches and the islands’ more rugged reaches to rarely-visited corners of the archipelago, with untold photographic opportunities round every corner.
Antonio and Fernando will help you to get the best out of your camera, assisting with composing the best shots and making the most of the light. You’ll soon learn to get snappy with the speedy but spectacular Galapagos sunrises and sunsets. Prepare to be astonished by how close you can get to the locals; amusing boobies, curious sea lions, inquisitive mockingbirds, gentle giant tortoises – among countless others – are just begging to be photographed.
When to visit?
Owing to its equatorial location, any time of year is a good time to visit the archipelago, which enjoys a consistently warm and pleasant climate. December to May tends to be warmer and more humid, while the period from June to November is drier and cooler (although here on the equator it is all relative!), so you can take your pick depending on your preference.
Promotion – 10-15% off!
To celebrate the launch of our expanded photography departure offerings in 2024, we have decided to offer a 10% discount on all week-long departures for the dates outlined above.
In addition, departures for itineraries A and B run back to back on consecutive weeks, allowing guests to book a fortnight’s trip to experience both itineraries and explore all of the Galapagos on one extended voyage. For those looking for an extended back to back trip, we are offering a further 5% discount on the second week.
Here’s your chance to take advantage of one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations, learning from the experts before returning home with a portfolio of stunning shots and memories to last a lifetime. All abilities catered for; satisfaction guaranteed!
Our photography themed tours are always popular and tend to sell out well in advance, so contact us today to reserve your spot.
Yoga Retreat Sailings:
Join like-minded travelers and pursue your passion for yoga in the most inspiring place on earth with our yoga-themed sailing since December 2018. Your host, Ecuador-born Gustavo Plaza, is a skillful yogi with more than three decades of experience in a variety of practices, including alignment-based yoga, meditation, Pranayama, eastern philosophy, and Yoga Nidra. Onboard the Origin, Theory & Evolve travelers will begin each morning with a yoga class, before gathering in the dining room for a nutritious, sustainably harvested breakfast. Throughout your journey, Plaza will lead regular afternoon yoga sessions and will prepare you for a restful sleep one evening with a Yoga Nidra to cultivate relaxation and self-awareness.
Currently, Ecoventura can arrange for a yoga instructor for charters only.
Solo Trips:
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
Traveling solo may seem daunting, those who take the plunge find that it can be exciting and empowering. Stepping out of your comfort zone, believing in yourself and discovering what you’re capable of can be amazingly liberating. After all, in the words of author Neale Donald Walsch, “life begins at the end of your comfort zone“.
Do you ever find that you spend so much of your life rushing around that it can be easy to forget to take time for yourself? Traveling solo can be a great way of boosting your wellbeing. It gives you time to pause, reflect, enjoy some solitude and appreciate number one. You may surprise yourself and discover an inner strength and confidence you didn’t know you had.
A solo trip gives you the freedom to embark on a life-changing adventure without having to dance to anyone else’s tune. You can do what you want, when you want, following your own agenda and engaging with people as much or as little as you like. Lone travelers can find that they are particularly receptive to meeting new people and being part of an organized tour is a great way of enjoying the company of other like-minded individuals. Having said that, you can always retreat for some privacy and quiet time – when you’re travelling solo, you don’t have to fit in to anyone else’s schedule!
Week-long itineraries with Ecoventura – the perfect way to try out some solo travel
A voyage with Ecoventura offers the perfect solution for solo wander-lusters. Our trio of luxury expedition vessels – Origin, Theory and Evolve – are the only Relais & Chateaux ships sailing the Galapagos Islands. Our yachts accommodate no more than 20 guests at any one time, providing a comfortable and intimate cruise experience. With the lowest guest-to-guide ratio in the archipelago, our dedicated team is on call 24/7 to ensure you will want for nothing.
Each ship offers ten light, bright designer staterooms boasting stunning panoramic views over the Pacific Ocean. Our guests are always impressed by the high levels of comfort, service and amenities on what truly are floating boutique hotels. Our chefs serve up exquisite dishes using the finest, fresh, locally sourced ingredients – just what you would expect from Relais & Chateaux members, even floating ones. Our expert naturalist guides, handpicked for their exhaustive local knowledge of the archipelago, are walking encyclopaedias and their passion for the Galapagos is infectious.
Special offer for individual guests
Travelers can choose between one of two sensational 7 day/8 night itineraries; perfect ways to explore these remarkable islands on your own, whilst giving the structure and comfort of a pre-designed route that shows off everything the Galapagos have to offer.
And what’s more, we are currently offering solo travelers a special promotional price on selected departures in 2023. SINGLE CABINS are available on selected 2023 departure dates for just $10,950 (a considerable saving of $6050 from our standard cabin rates).
On board, you will enjoy your very own spacious stateroom (the same size cabin as when occupied by two people) with private bathroom; equipped with all the luxury amenities you can expect from yachts that consistently set the bar for luxury small-ship cruising in the archipelago.
There are a number of communal areas perfect for kicking back and relaxing. Our roomy and relaxed salon lounge is where guests tend to gather for briefings and to socialize in the evenings. The sundeck comes complete with a Jacuzzi, sun loungers and daybeds and regular refreshment is on offer from our open bar. Our well-equipped fitness center is popular with those keen to keep in shape onboard.
As a solo traveler, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get to know other, like-minded guests through group meet-ups and excursions, shared dining experiences, and swapping wild-life stories at the end of a busy day exploring the islands. The environment on board is a perfect balance to mix and mingle as much, or as little, as you’d like.
Please note that the special offer quoted above is limited to two cabins per departure and is not available in combination with any other discount or promotion.Â
