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Galapagos Islands Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trips

186 Galapagos Islands trips. Tours from 92 tour companies. 189 reviews. 4.9/5 avg rating.

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Letty Yacht Cruises In The Galapagos

By ROW Adventures

premier

5/5 Excellent

81 reviews

Small Ship Cruise

Why we love them

They’ve been recognized by major travel publications for their pioneering adventure travel expertise that spans back to their founding in 1979.

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Galapagos, San Cristobal

Highlights

See thePost office Bay, not the most scenic, but one of the most famous sites in Galapagos
Explore Los Gemelos, Spanish for “The Twins”, a pair of large pit craters where we find the bright red male vermilion flycatcher
Visit Las Bachas, (Spanish for “barges”) there is a long stretch of a soft white sand beach and interior lagoons where we find the Greater Flamingo
Explore largest colony of Magnificent Frigate birds found in Galapagos
Discover Interpretation Center opened on San Cristobal Island in 1999 by bus

Themes

Birding, Family Friendly, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"I have travelled with ROW numerous times, including four trips on the Rogue River. Every trip has been wonderful and every person associated with ROW has been nice, knowledgeable, professional and fun. The Rogue is a great river and the trip is an excellent one for two people or a large group—and I have done both. I’ve taken both of my kids, one time each, and have organized groups of colleagues twice; most recently in 2019 when 14 of us gathered. The guides at ROW are great and help to make the trip very enjoyable. The scenery, lodging and the wonderful outdoors including warm air and refreshing water, make for a wonderful escape from the everyday routine. The fact that this trip offers beds and indoor plumbing is a nice benefit and allows those who have an aversion to camping a chance to see the wilderness. I have recommended ROW and the Rogue trip more times than I can count and my group has already reserved our trip for 2021. What are you waiting for?"

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-19%$5,781

8 days From$4,700

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Dive Galapagos

By ROW Adventures

premier

5/5 Excellent

81 reviews

Small Ship Cruise

Why we love them

They’ve been recognized by major travel publications for their pioneering adventure travel expertise that spans back to their founding in 1979.

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Flexible schedule

Visits

Galapagos, Guayaquil, Quito, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz Island

Highlights

Enjoy excellent scuba diving in the Galapagos Islands,
Dive inspots that arefamous for schools of hammerhead sharks, giant manta rays, and whale sharks
Walk the shores and marvel at the volcanic rocks dotted with rare plants, seabirds, and reptiles
Experience up tofour dives in the islands per day on a planned, yet flexible, itinerary

Themes

50 plus, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

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-19%$7,620

8 days From$6,195

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Galápagos Expedition: Darwin’s Playground, Central and North

By Quark Expeditions

none

4.6/5 Excellent

100+ reviews

Small Ship Cruise

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Flexible schedule

Visits

Galapagos, Guayaquil, Isla Santa Fe, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz Island

Highlights

Snorkel with sea lions, marine iguanas and sea turtles, walk among giant Galapagos tortoises, and see one of the largest bird populations on Genovesa Island
Explore volcanic islands, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and Zodiac cruise through the Black Turtle Cove mangroves
Enjoy this journey on its own, or as part of an epic adventure combined with an Antarctic Explorer expedition

Themes

Birding, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Zodiac trips are fantastic. The whale watching is amazing."

Trip dates & details

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10 days From$5,998

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Discovering Machu Picchu and the Galapagos

By Road Scholar

preferred

4.4/5 Great

100+ reviews

Small Ship Cruise

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Strenuous

Trip pace

Flexible schedule

Visits

Aguas Calientes, Cusco, Galapagos, Guayaquil, Isabela Island, Isla Bartolome, Isla Floreana, Isla Santiago, Lima, Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, Pisa, Quito, Sacred Valley, Santa Cruz Island

Highlights

Learn about the incredible wildlife of the Galápagos Islands with the most knowledgeable, experienced naturalists
Use high-tech onboard tools like video microscopes, hydrophones and splash cams to discover the marine environment around you
Marvel at the mysterious beauty of Machu Picchu, the iconic mountain sanctuary left behind by the great Inca Empire

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, High Adventure, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Because I have Stage 4 cancer, I chose to spend the extra money for trip insurance in case my cancer recurred. When a scan showed that it had, I cancelled my trip. I sent to them the medical documents from the Mayo Clinic confirming my new diagnosis. They sent me an email telling me my oncologist needed to fill in a form. I asked my oncologist to do that and I submitted it by fax on April 6th. When I didn’t hear anything, I sent them more medical documentation and asked them to please push forward my refund as I have travel expenses from a clinical trial coming up. Several days later I received an email that they needed further documentation from my doctor. How much more documentation do you need than the patient has stage 4 metastatic cancer and is starting a clinical trial??? This is heartless to me. Please don’t plan to travel through Road Scholar if you’re medically vulnerable!!"

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17 days From$10,299

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Machu Picchu & the Galápagos

By Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T. Tours)

none

4.9/5 Excellent

100+ reviews

Small Ship Cruise

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Flexible schedule

Visits

Cusco, Galapagos, La Paz, Lima, Machu Picchu, Quito, Sacred Valley, Urubamba

Highlights

Visit Lima's National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology
See how entrepreneurial Peruvian women are turning their traditional craft into a business venture.
Visit the massive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo
Enjoy a moving musical performance by the Sinamune Disabled Children's Orchestra
See work by local artists, and hear musicians.

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"This letter is effectively what was communicated no less than 8 times in writing and conversation to OAT representatives up the chain, beginning 19 days before the trip. OAT was IMMOVABLE on allowing us to find an alternative travel companion and it was 100% due to rigid policy, not real barriers. We never expected a refund and wouldn't have blamed them if we could not fill my spot. They refused to even give us the opportunity. Appalling and sadly representative of their customer service. Congratulations, you lost two customers and one long time referral source. I only think it is fair that folks know the nature of the company at this point. An absolute shame. As a dedicated Edmund Hillary member of OAT with a history of introducing countless friends to your service including 4 who booked trips, I am writing to express my deep concern over the handling of our Galapagos trip booking in light of a recent medical emergency. This situation not only highlights significant gaps in customer communication and care but also underscores the need for immediate, effective action. Timeline of Events and Communication Issues: Initial Contact on 11/22: We contacted OAT 19 days before the trip, scheduled for 12/11, as soon as it became clear that extended surgical complications would prevent my travel. Policy of No Refunds or Changes Under 30 Days: We were informed that the trip is non-refundable under 30 days, which is understood. However, OAT also refused to allow a replacement traveler, posing zero risk to the company. Both of us called, met with the same response. Response from Exceptions Department on 11/22: The no-change policy was reiterated by the Exceptions Department on the same day. Written Escalation on 11/22: Both parties sent written letters to escalate the matter. Delayed Response Until 11/29: We did not receive any response until 11/29, with OAT mentioning the inability to make changes 12 days before the trip. Policy vs. Practical Reasons: The response seemed more policy-based than practical. We offered to cover the cost for a replacement traveler for the internal Galapagos flight, which was declined. The rep always returned to the policy prohibiting it. She further added we do not sell trips within 30 days. Upon looking the next day, I found no less than 7 different itineraries with no less than 13 different trips that I could have booked within 30 days. Further Escalation Request and Conversation on 11/30: A further request for escalation resulted in a 23-minute conversation on 11/30 without any change. Given these circumstances, I propose the following practical solution: Future Travel Credit in Exchange for Re-Selling My Space: If finding a substitute traveler is unfeasible, I suggest OAT resell my space to another interested party, crediting me for a future trip. This solution aligns with my preference and ongoing loyalty to OAT. The lack of a constructive response and rigid adherence to policy without considering exceptional circumstances is alarming. It not only affects this immediate trip but also impacts my ability to continue advocating for OAT in good conscience. An amicable and prompt resolution to this issue would speak volumes about OAT's commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility. Unless there is a prompt and constructive resolution to this matter, we will be forced to escalate our concerns further. This includes reaching out to higher management within OAT, engaging with consumer protection agencies, sharing our experience through travel forums, and social media for breach of service. Our preference is to resolve this amicably, yet the current trajectory leaves us little choice but to pursue these avenues. I implore you to seriously consider these options and respond in a manner that reflects OAT's values of empathy and customer support. Your immediate attention to this matter is not only appreciated but necessary for a resolution that respects both parties' interests. Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this critical issue."

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16 days From$5,095

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Galápagos Photo Expedition

By National Geographic Expeditions

preferred

3.5/5 Great

30 reviews

Small Ship Cruise

Lodging level

Luxury - 5 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Flexible schedule

Visits

Galapagos, Guayaquil, Santa Cruz Island

Highlights

Hone your skills while capturing images of wildlife in a variety of landscapes, from black lava fields to white-sand beaches, and from rocky cliffs to lush highland forests.
Photograph colonies of iguanas, frigate, sea lions, and birds unfazed by your presence.
See rare giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station.
Explore the waters of the Galápagos by kayak, glass-bottom boat, snorkel, or Zodiac.

Themes

50 plus, Eco, Sustainable & Green Travel, Education / Learning, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Photography

What travelers are saying

"We booked a National Geographic expedition Holland and Belgium by River. The promotional literature promised a 14-day deposit refund window. The “invoice” was marked “non-refundable” deposit. We completed the National Geographic Traveler Information. About 8 days later we received the “Travel Agreement” to be signed. We both approved and signed the National Geographic documents. A Cruise Line Travel agreement was enclosed but had no signature line. This document contained language which was unacceptable. We submitted the signed NatGeo documents. The following day we canceled the trip due to the unacceptable Cruise Line language. Cancellation was made 12 days after booking and no deposit was returned. We were told on the phone that the refund deadline was triggered by the 14 day window OR signatures on the Travel Agreement which ever came first. This was NEW information. To date, we have received NO refund of our $1000. We cancelled our trip within the advertised 14 day window."

Trip dates & details

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10 days From$6,290

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Galápagos Family Odyssey

By National Geographic Expeditions

preferred

3.5/5 Great

30 reviews

Small Ship Cruise

Lodging level

Luxury - 5 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Flexible schedule

Visits

Galapagos, Guayaquil, Isabela Island, Santa Cruz Island, Santiago

Highlights

--Discover the fascinating wildlife and geology of the Galapagos Islands on a family adventure aboard the National Geographic Endeavour or Islander. --Cruise to pristine islands and walk among colonies of animals and birds unfazed by your presence. --Snorkel amid sea turtles, quirky penguins, and playful sea lions; gaze into the old eyes of a giant sea tortoise; and sit among a colourful band of marine iguanas . --Participate in special kids' activities, such as stargazing, scavenger hunts, drawing and poetry workshops, and knot-tying lessons.

Themes

50 plus, Education / Learning, Family Friendly, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

Trip dates & details

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10 days From$6,290

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Epic Galápagos Photography Expedition

By National Geographic Expeditions

preferred

3.5/5 Great

30 reviews

Small Ship Cruise

Lodging level

Luxury - 5 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Flexible schedule

Visits

Galapagos, Guayaquil, Isabela Island, San Cristobal, Santiago

Highlights

Explore the Galápagos archipelago and undersea in great depth with hikes and Zodiac cruises
Tour paced for photo ops and timed to take advantage of the best light.
Shoot with and learn from top National Geographic photographers and the Lindblad-National Geographic Director of Expedition Photography
Go on daily photo assignments to help build your personal portfolio with wildlife legendary for uniqueness and lack of fear of humans - allowing for up-close and magical photo opportunities with blue-footed boobies, sea lions, giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and more.
Enjoy a mid-voyage photo seminar with our expert photographers and a special photography tour of the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Themes

50 plus, Education / Learning, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Photography

What travelers are saying

Trip dates & details

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17 days From$12,580

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Galapagos Islands Reviews & Ratings

4.9/5 Excellent

189 Reviews

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Great

Average

Disappointing

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Pam

Oct 2015

Written on

I have now had 5 Intrepid experiences

I have now had 5 Intrepid experiences and have found the tou...

Tour: Best of Galapagos

Jerry

Oct 2015

Written on

I thought the trip was good, but

I thought the trip was good, but there were a few things that kept ...

Tour: Best of Galapagos

Matthew

Sep 2015

Written on

Excellent local guide, amazing location, ethically sensitive

Excellent local guide, amazing location, ethically sensitive and w...

Tour: Best of Galapagos

Alizah

Sep 2015

Written on

Amazing trip. Amazing guide. Great itinerary. Fell

Amazing trip. Amazing guide. Great itinerary. Fell in love with the Galápagos Islands.

Tour: Best of Galapagos

Jennifer

Sep 2015

Written on

It was a great trip which selected

It was a great trip which selected highlights of the ...

Tour: Best of Galapagos

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Galapagos Islands Tour Selection Trips

Guided tours are essential if you want to see Galapagos wildlife; even private yachts are required to hire guides if they wish to tour the islands.
Small ship cruises allow you to make more island landings than big ships, and they can also get much closer to land to view penguins and other creatures visible mainly from the sea.
A Galapagos tour can be expensive – when you add up flight costs from the Ecuadorian mainland along with flying to Ecuador and the cost of the cruise and park entrance fee – so choose your tour company carefully.
Don’t even think about bringing home lava rock or other natural features from the Galapagos – you’d be subject to a $3,000 fine if caught.

Additional details

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