Ocean Cruises in Ecuador

What our customers ask about Ocean Cruises in Ecuador

• When is the best time to take an Ocean Cruise in the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador?

  The Galapagos Islands welcome visitors throughout the year. The peak season runs from December to May with calmer seas and temperatures around 80°F (27°C). These conditions are ideal for spotting wildlife and swimming near Genovesa Island and Española Island. The dry season from June to November brings cooler temperatures but offers excellent snorkeling opportunities particularly around Champion Islet and Devil's Crown. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The weather in March was perfect for our cruise - warm enough for snorkeling but not too hot for hiking."

• What type of wildlife can I expect to see on an Ecuador Ocean Cruise?

  The Galapagos Islands present rich wildlife viewing from both ship and shore. North Seymour Island hosts blue-footed boobies and frigate birds while Fernandina Island is known for its marine iguanas. The Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island provides close encounters with giant tortoises. Waters between Isabela and Floreana Islands often reveal whales dolphins and sea turtles. Snorkeling spots like Champion Islet let visitors swim alongside sea lions and tropical fish. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The wildlife encounters were incredible - we saw everything from Galapagos penguins at Tagus Cove to flamingos at Cormorant Point."

• How many islands can I visit during an Ecuador Ocean Cruise?

  Most Galapagos Ocean Cruises cover 6-9 islands in 4-8 days. The Western route explores Isabela Fernandina and Santa Cruz islands while the Eastern journey takes in San Cristóbal Española and Floreana islands. Cruises depart from either Baltra or San Cristóbal Island including stops at notable sites like Prince Philip Steps on Genovesa Island and the Charles Darwin Research Station. One TourRadar traveler noted: "Our 8-day cruise aboard the Archipel I took us to 9 different islands each offering unique landscapes and wildlife experiences."

• What type of accommodation can I expect on an Ecuador Ocean Cruise?

  Galapagos cruise vessels offer accommodations ranging from standard cabins to upscale suites. The M/C Anahi catamaran provides six twin cabins (14m²) on the main deck and two suite cabins (25m²) on the upper deck with modern amenities. The Isabela II features ocean-view staterooms while the Grand Queen Beatriz offers balcony cabins. As one TourRadar traveler commented: "Our cabin on the Archipel I was surprisingly spacious with large windows and modern amenities - much more comfortable than expected."

• How many passengers are typically on an Ecuador Ocean Cruise?

  Galapagos cruise vessels typically carry between 16-32 passengers ensuring personal attention and environmental protection. The Archipel I hosts 16 guests while the larger Santa Cruz II accommodates up to 90 passengers across five decks. Smaller vessels like the Monserrat with 10 cabins provide intimate experiences at locations such as Punta Suárez and Post Office Bay. A TourRadar traveler shared: "Having only 16 passengers on our cruise meant we got plenty of attention from the naturalist guides and could really get to know our fellow travelers."

• What dining options are available on Ecuador Ocean Cruises?

  Galapagos cruises serve three daily meals combining local Ecuadorian and international dishes. The M/C Anahi offers breakfast buffets with tropical fruits eggs and pastries followed by lunches and dinners featuring seafood meats and vegetarian options. Vessels like the Grand Queen Beatriz can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Water tea and coffee flow freely throughout the day. A TourRadar traveler praised: "The food aboard exceeded our expectations - fresh varied and beautifully presented especially the seafood caught around the Galapagos Islands."