Why Small Ships Are the Best Way to See the Galápagos

Few destinations on Earth offer wildlife encounters as intimate and extraordinary as the Galápagos Islands. Located nearly 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a living laboratory of evolution, home to species found nowhere else on Earth. From swimming iguanas and playful sea lions to towering giant tortoises, the islands invite guests to experience wildlife without barriers.

Nearly three quarters of birds on the islands, practically all of the islands' reptiles and land mammals, and a third of its plants are native only to the Galápagos Islands. Because these species evolved without large land predators, they never developed a fear of humans. These are the same animals that inspired Charles Darwin's groundbreaking theory of evolution during his 1835 visit.

Travel to the Galápagos is strictly controlled to preserve its delicate ecosystems, making the choice of how you explore critically important. While multiple cruise lines and ship types offer voyages to the islands, not all deliver this extraordinary destination in the same way.

Small ship cruises stand apart as the most immersive and responsible approach, offering intimate access to remote sites and authentic wildlife encounters that larger vessels simply cannot match. For travelers seeking to truly connect with the islands' natural rhythms, a small ship cruise is the definitive choice.

Let's examine why small ship cruises are the best way to explore the Galápagos Islands.

More Access, Less Impact

Unlike larger vessels, small ships are typically capped at twenty guests. As a result, they can access parts of the Galápagos Islands that bigger boats cannot due to size restrictions. For example, small ship itineraries can include stops at Genovesa Island (home to many bird species unique to the Galápagos), the western part of Isabela Island (where Galápagos penguins nest), and Fernandina Island (home to finches and giant tortoises). These remote islands are only accessible via small ships due to their size and the National Park's strict visitor regulations.

In addition, small ships also adhere to stricter ecological regulations, minimizing their footprint in this delicate UNESCO-protected environment. The park also enforces a 14-day rule requiring all cruise vessels to wait two weeks before returning to the same visitor site. This regulation disperses tourist traffic across more than 80 designated landing sites throughout the archipelago, protecting the islands' delicate ecosystems while ensuring every visitor experiences pristine, uncrowded wildlife encounters.

Personalized Guiding and Deeper Immersion

Small ship cruises in the Galápagos usually offer a 1:10 guide to guest ratio. These expeditions allow for in-depth and interactive learning that cannot be matched from a larger boat, and include snorkeling with penguins and sea lions, hiking over volcanic terrain, or birdwatching in lush highlands.

Each excursion is carefully designed with both education and conservation in mind. Before every outing, naturalists conduct briefings that prepare you for what you'll encounter, from identifying specific bird species to understanding volcanic geology. This conservation-focused approach ensures that every wildlife encounter respects and protects the delicate ecosystem while maximizing your learning experience.

Small group excursions are lead by your naturalist on a zodiac, or small inflatable boat that leads you from cruise ship directly to wildlife and nature.

Naturalists in the Galápagos undergo in-depth training in order to be qualified to lead expeditions. They take months-long courses accompanied with tests in order to get a license to be a naturalist in the park. This license must be renewed frequently as well. As a result, naturalists are not just experts on the Galápagos and its volcanoes, nature, and life, but also on first aid and ensuring the safety of yourself and your fellow passengers.

Small ships also have the maximum number of guests that a naturalist can take on a single expedition. Most larger vessels carrying 90-100 guests must divide into multiple groups that take turns at each site, leading to longer wait times and less time actually exploring.

Comfort Without Compromise

An excursion in a destination as environmentally diverse as the Galápagos deserves to be paired with the best accommodations after a long day of adventure. Brands like Ecoventura combine expedition-level access with luxurious rooms and common areas. Premium small ships in the Galápagos feature panoramic windows in well-appointed suites and staterooms, bringing the stunning seascapes directly into your private space.

Luxury small ship cruises often include premium amenities such as laundry service, dedicated suite attendants, and enhanced travel arrangements, elevating both your onboard experience and your journey to and from the islands.

The finest small ship operators in the Galápagos maintain the highest standards of hospitality, with elegant lounges, spacious sun decks, and refined accommodations designed for both relaxation and enrichment after each day's adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are small ships more expensive in the Galápagos?

Typically, they are more expensive than other tour alternatives, with cruises ranging anywhere from $5,000 to upwards of $15,000. However, the value of small ships cruises in the Galápagos is significantly higher due to included excursions and expeditions, top-tier guides, and exclusive access.

Do small ship cruises visit all of the main islands in the Galápagos?

Yes, small ship cruise itineraries in the Galápagos rotate between key routes (North/West or South/East) over seven night periods.

Do cruises to the Galápagos depart from mainland Ecuador?

No. Galápagos cruises depart from ports on the Galápagos Islands, which can be reached via plane from the mainland. However, you can pair a Galápagos Islands cruise with pre and post cruise packages in destinations like Peru.

When is the best time to visit the Galápagos Islands?

The Galápagos Islands are a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and the type of wildlife or weather you prefer.

Warm Season (December to May)

This period is characterized by warmer temperatures and calmer seas. It's ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and observing courtship displays among many bird species. The islands are greener, and occasional tropical showers bring lush landscapes. Sea turtles and marine iguanas are nesting during these months, and water visibility is excellent for underwater activities.

Cool Season (June to November)

This is the cooler, drier season, with nutrient-rich currents drawing in vast marine life. It’s a particularly good time for diving and observing larger species like hammerhead sharks and whales. The cooler weather is ideal for hiking, and many bird species—like the waved albatross—are nesting during this time. While seas can be slightly rougher, the wildlife activity is exceptional.

Explore the Galápagos the Right Way

As small ship cruise specialists, we offer more than access—we offer insight. We take the time to understand your travel goals and match you with the best ship, itinerary, and timing for your Galápagos experience. Our team will also assist with pre- and post-cruise arrangements, including flights, hotels, and private transfers in Ecuador.

When you book with Small Ship Travel, you can travel with confidence, knowing that your journey has been expertly planned and thoughtfully curated.

Ready for a trip of a lifetime on a small ship cruise to the Galápagos Islands? Discover our carefully curated collection of small ship voyages, featuring premium operators like Ecoventura and Tauck.

Explore Galápagos Cruises