For couples, a Galapagos cruise is as much about shared moments as it is about wildlife. The right cruise sets the tone for the entire journey, shaping how much space, privacy, and calm you experience between daily excursions. Larger ships with dozens of passengers can feel rushed and crowded, which often detracts from the sense of connection many couples are looking for on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Choosing a smaller cruise allows the experience to unfold at a gentler pace, with fewer guests, quieter evenings, and more opportunities to enjoy the islands together.

The cruises below are carefully selected Galapagos cruises carrying 20 guests or fewer. They span high-luxury, luxury-class, and premium first-class vessels, offering a range of styles that suit couples seeking comfort, intimacy, and meaningful exploration in one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations.

  1. The Ocean Spray

    Luxury

    The Ocean Spray is a 16-passenger luxury-class catamaran designed for the Galapagos Islands. It is an exceptional choice for couples who want a romantic and adventure-filled journey with high levels of comfort and stability as you cruise from island to island.

    The vessel was designed to maximize comfort, performance and space, creating a relaxed, intimate atmosphere that suits couples perfectly. Each day, you will head out with skilled naturalist guides for wildlife walks and guided excursions, and in between adventures you can enjoy time together on deck while watching the islands drift by. Alongside land excursions, you can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding experiences, Zodiac rides, and welcome surprises that make the trip feel special. With many return guests, the Ocean Spray is a favorite for the islands.

    The Ocean Spray offers spacious suites and social areas, a sundeck and a Jacuzzi. You will then enjoy delicious dining experiences for breakfast, lunch and dinner either al fresco in the open-air lounge or inside the vessel's comfortable dining room. The private balcony of your suite provides the perfect way to slow down together, take in the views, and stay connected to this remarkable environment. Premium eco-friendly amenities, deluxe bedding and natural light add to the sense of comfort and retreat between excursions. Aboard the Ocean Spray, you can choose from 3, 4 and 7-night cruises for both short escapes and deeper Galapagos exploration.

    Across the itineraries, you will visit secluded islands to find fascinating wildlife and incredible scenery, guided each day by top-ranked naturalist guides who share insights into the islands' unique ecosystems. Expect unforgettable moments with sea lions, marine iguanas, rays, tropical fish, and iconic Galapagos birdlife, alongside beautiful beaches, bays and volcanic landscapes. Whether you are celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary or simply want quality time together in one of the world's most extraordinary places, the Ocean Spray combines luxury, privacy and adventure in a way that is ideal for couples.

    You can message the Ocean Spray Cruise directly for itinerary options and availability for your travel dates using the tour bubble below.

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    4, 5, 6 & 8 days
    The Ocean Spray Cruise
    Baltra Island, Ecuador

    Aboard the Ocean Spray Cruise, you will embark on a memorable journey through the mesmerizing Galapagos Islands. The 16-passenger luxury catamaran of...

    • Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
    From $ 4,190
    / person
  2. The Elite Galapagos Cruise

    High Luxury

    The Elite is one of the newest and most modern high-luxury vessels in the Galapagos Islands. It is especially appealing to couples who value privacy, refined design, and a calm, spacious onboard environment after days of island exploration.

    Specifically designed for the Galapagos, the Elite was crafted for performance, comfort, and stability, allowing couples to relax as they cruise smoothly between islands. The vessel’s generous layout and seamless indoor-outdoor spaces create an atmosphere well suited to enjoying quiet moments together, whether on deck, in the lounge, or on a private balcony.

    The Elite offers you:
    • Golden Suites
    • Cozy exterior and interior bars
    • Al fresco dining area
    • Super-structure of 38 meters (124 feet) by 14 meters (46 feet) wide
    • All suites have private outdoor balconies and panoramic sliding glass doors
    • All convertible suites: king size bed or two double beds
    • Adjoining accommodations available on both decks
    • Suites' restroom with frosted glass wall for plenty of natural light
    • Two panoramic doors to access the catamaran's main areas
    • 180-degree panoramic view from the interior lounge
    • Integrated social areas blend indoor and outdoor designs and experiences
    • Social areas feature extended outdoor balconies
    • The sky deck is generously proportioned, featuring a whirlpool bath and exterior bar
    • Partially covered sky deck
    The Elite offers spacious and comfortable suites, luxurious interiors, private balconies, and a jacuzzi, creating an elegant setting where couples can unwind together. Click the short video above for a quick introduction.

    On Elite itineraries, enjoy guided tours of the islands, diverse wildlife encounters, and beautiful bays, beaches, and marine areas, offering a refined balance of discovery and relaxation that works particularly well for couples.

    Check availability for your dates and send your request to the Elite Cruise using the button below.
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    4, 5, 8 days
    The Elite Galapagos Cruise
    Baltra Island, Ecuador

    The Elite Cruise invites you on an extraordinary exploration of the Galapagos Islands. With modern luxury, the Elite had its maiden voyage in 2019 and...

    • High Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
    From $ 4,990
    / person
  3. The Endemic Galapagos Cruise

    High Luxury


    The sister vessel to the Elite, the Endemic offers the same level of modern luxury and comfort and is a strong choice for couples who appreciate space, stability, and contemporary design. Its smooth sailing and elegant atmosphere make it easy to enjoy the journey together between island visits.

    The Endemic features spacious staterooms with private balconies, stylish communal areas, and high-quality cuisine served in a relaxed yet refined onboard setting. As a twin-hulled catamaran, it offers excellent stability compared to many single-hulled yachts, enhancing comfort throughout the cruise. Daily excursions are led by skilled naturalist guides, providing memorable shared experiences ashore and in the water.

    Each cabin includes air-conditioning, a private balcony with expansive views, a spacious and impeccably designed bathroom, and the choice of a king-size bed or two twin beds. Wall-to-wall sliding glass doors invite in natural light, while exterior decks, sun terraces, and an outdoor whirlpool create inviting spaces for couples to relax between excursions.

    From the Endemic, you will explore wildlife-rich islands and secluded visitor sites across the Galapagos. Guided walks, snorkeling, and kayaking reveal iconic species such as giant tortoises, frigate birds, sea lions, and marine iguanas, set against dramatic volcanic landscapes. With both short and longer itineraries available, the Endemic delivers a luxurious Galapagos cruise experience that suits couples seeking comfort, stability, and shared discovery.

    You can send the Endemic a request for your travel dates using the button below.
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    4, 5, 6, 8+ days
    The Endemic Galapagos Cruise
    Baltra Island, Ecuador

    The Endemic Galapagos Cruise is a luxurious modern catamaran designed to offer you a fantastic experience of the Galapagos Islands. The luxury yacht ...

    • High Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
    From $ 4,990
    / person
  4. The Monique Galapagos Cruise

    Luxury

    The beautiful Monique Galapagos Cruise is one of the newest luxury catamarans in the Galapagos and is especially appealing to couples seeking a refined, intimate, and eco-conscious way to explore the islands together. Hosting just 16 guests, the vessel offers a calm onboard atmosphere, modern design, and a strong sense of privacy between excursions.

    Built with panoramic windows throughout and powered by an advanced system of 20 solar panels and lithium batteries, the Monique provides a quiet and environmentally responsible cruising experience. Spacious staterooms feature floor-to-ceiling views, elegant finishes, and a bright, airy design that allows couples to stay connected to the surrounding landscapes throughout the journey.

    On board, you will enjoy beautifully designed social spaces spread across three decks, including a panoramic indoor lounge, an elegant dining area, shaded observation terraces, and an expansive sky deck. The sky deck features an outdoor lounge, bar, al fresco dining space, and whirlpool, offering inviting settings to relax together after days spent exploring the islands. With a nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio and a dedicated Cruise Service Officer on each voyage, service is attentive and highly personalized.

    The Monique Galapagos Cruise offers 3, 4, and 7-night itineraries departing on Thursdays and Sundays. These thoughtfully curated routes showcase many of the Galapagos’ most iconic locations, including Rábida, North Seymour, Santiago, Isabela, and Fernandina. Depending on your itinerary, you may explore dramatic volcanic coastlines, tranquil beaches, and wildlife-rich marine environments through guided walks, snorkeling, kayaking, and Zodiac excursions led by expert bilingual naturalist guides.

    Combining modern sustainability, elevated comfort, and immersive exploration, the Monique delivers a premium Galapagos experience that works particularly well for couples who value quality time, thoughtful design, and meaningful shared adventures.

    You can message the cruise directly for itinerary options and availability for your travel dates using the tour bubble below.

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    4, 5, & 8 days
    The Monique Galapagos Cruise
    Baltra Island, Ecuador

    Aboard the Monique Galapagos Cruise, you will embark on an unforgettable voyage through one of the world’s most extraordinary natural sanctuaries. Yo...

    • Newest Galapagos Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
    From $ 4,190
    / person
  5. The Galaxy Sirius Galapagos Cruise

    Luxury

    Although not as large as some luxury Galapagos vessels, the Galaxy Sirius is a new, modern, and luxurious catamaran offering an elegant and intimate onboard experience. Its smaller scale, refined service, and calm atmosphere make it particularly appealing to couples who value comfort, privacy, and a more personal way to explore the Galapagos Islands.

    The operator runs a fleet of highly rated vessels and is one of the most respected companies in the Galapagos. As their newest yacht, the Galaxy Sirius stands out by offering two naturalist guides for just 16 guests, allowing couples to enjoy a more engaging, relaxed, and personalized experience both on board and during daily excursions.

    Aboard the Galaxy Sirius, you will enjoy spacious and stylish staterooms, most featuring private balconies, panoramic views, and thoughtful amenities that create a comfortable retreat between activities. Time on board is unhurried, whether relaxing together in the lounge, enjoying locally inspired cuisine, or taking in sweeping island views from the sundeck.

    Cruise options range from short escapes to longer adventures, offering flexibility for different travel styles and schedules. Each itinerary includes daily guided hikes, snorkeling excursions, panga rides, and paddleboarding sessions, all designed to showcase the Galapagos’ extraordinary wildlife and volcanic landscapes while allowing couples to share memorable experiences throughout the journey.

    As an example, a typical itinerary may begin on San Cristóbal Island, followed by visits to Española, Floreana, and Santa Cruz. Along the way, encounter blue-footed boobies, Galapagos sea lions, and marine iguanas, while exploring pristine beaches, coastal cliffs, and vibrant marine environments.

    The Galaxy Sirius is an excellent choice for couples seeking to experience the Galapagos in style, with the advantages of a small-group cruise, attentive service, and a refined yet relaxed onboard atmosphere.

    You can message the cruise directly for activity lists and availability for your travel dates using the tour bubble below.

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    5 & 6 days
    The Galaxy Sirius Galapagos Cruise
    Baltra Island, Ecuador

    The Galaxy Sirius invites you to experience the Galapagos Islands in elevated comfort and refined style. Designed for discerning travelers, this premi...

    • Luxury Cruise, Elevated Service
    From $ 5,700
    / person
  6. The Infinity Galapagos Cruise

    Luxury

    The Infinity Galapagos Cruise offers a refined and spacious way to explore the Galapagos Islands, appealing to couples who value comfort, privacy, and well-designed social spaces alongside immersive wildlife experiences. With just ten cabins on board, the Infinity provides a relaxed onboard atmosphere while maintaining the standards of a true luxury-class yacht.

    All cabins feature private balconies and panoramic windows, ensuring constant connection with the surrounding islands and seascapes. The vessel includes two generous suites and several interconnecting cabins, making it suitable for a range of travelers while still offering couples plenty of personal space to unwind between excursions. Thoughtful design, attentive service, and elegant finishes create a comfortable retreat after active days ashore.

    Guests can choose from 4, 5, or 8-day itineraries, each offering expertly guided daily excursions led by certified Galapagos National Park naturalist guides. Shore visits, snorkeling outings, and interpretive hikes showcase the region’s iconic wildlife and dramatic landscapes, while the onboard experience remains calm and unhurried.

    Between activities, relax in spacious communal areas including a barbecue-ready sundeck, al fresco dining spaces, and a welcoming indoor lounge. These shared spaces provide inviting settings to enjoy meals, scenic views, and quiet moments together. With attentive crew service and a dedicated cruise director, the Infinity delivers a seamless and well-balanced Galapagos experience.

    The Infinity is a strong option for couples seeking a comfortable, well-appointed cruise with generous cabin space, private balconies, and flexible itineraries that balance discovery with time to relax on board.

    You can message the cruise directly for itinerary options and availability for your travel dates using the tour bubble below.

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    4, 5 & 8 days
    The Infinity Galapagos Cruise
    Baltra Island, Ecuador

    The Infinity Cruise invites you on an unforgettable journey through the remarkable Galapagos Islands. Crafted for comfort and connection, the Infinity...

    • Luxury, Crafted For Small Groups & Families
    From $ 4,545
    / person
  7. The Eco Galaxy Galapagos Cruise

    Premium First Class

    Although not as opulent as some of the luxury Galapagos cruises above, the Eco Galaxy Galapagos Cruise offers a comfortable and well-balanced first-class experience that works particularly well for couples seeking adventure, value, and a quieter onboard atmosphere. The vessel combines practical comfort with a strong focus on wildlife exploration and sustainability.

    The Eco Galaxy provides spacious and comfortable cabins with private bathrooms, along with welcoming social areas, a bar, sundeck, and panoramic spaces to relax between excursions. Cabins are well suited to couples who prefer a simple, functional, and peaceful retreat after active days ashore. From the main vessel, you will head out on guided island tours led by certified Galapagos National Park naturalists.

    As you cruise from island to island, you will encounter remarkable wildlife and diverse landscapes, including volcanic coastlines, pristine beaches, and rich marine environments. The Eco Galaxy offers 5-day and 8-day itineraries, allowing couples to choose between a shorter escape or a more in-depth Galapagos experience.

    As an example, a typical itinerary begins on Santa Cruz Island with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Center, providing insight into giant tortoises and the islands’ unique ecosystems. The route then continues to Isabela, Fernandina, Santiago, and Rábida Islands, where guided walks, snorkeling, and panga rides reveal iconic wildlife and dramatic scenery throughout the journey.

    For couples who value meaningful exploration, eco-conscious travel, and comfortable accommodations over high-end indulgence, the Eco Galaxy offers a rewarding and authentic way to experience the Galapagos Islands.

    Send your request to the Eco Galaxy Cruise, receive detailed itineraries, and check availability for your travel dates using the tour bubble below.

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    5 & 6 days
    The Eco Galaxy Galapagos Cruise
    Baltra Island, Ecuador

    The EcoGalaxy Cruise invites you to explore the Galapagos Islands with a perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and ecological responsibility. Purpose...

    • Comfortable Cruise, Excellent Activity Access
    From $ 4,100
    / person
  8. The Natural Paradise Galapagos Cruise

    Luxury

    The Natural Paradise Galapagos Cruise is a luxury yacht offering an intimate and comfortable journey through the islands, well suited to couples seeking a calm, personalized experience. With space for just 16 guests, the vessel provides a tranquil onboard atmosphere while allowing you to explore the rich biodiversity of the Galapagos at an unhurried pace. A choice of ocean-view suites, junior suites, and staterooms offers private balconies and uninterrupted island views.

    Between guided excursions, couples can relax together in elegant onboard spaces, including the teak sundeck with Jacuzzi, the al fresco dining area, or the inviting indoor lounge and bar. Freshly prepared cuisine, attentive service from the dedicated crew, and the presence of a professional cruise director ensure a seamless and comfortable experience from start to finish.

    Cruises are available in 4, 5, or 8-day itineraries, each visiting a curated selection of the Galapagos’ most iconic destinations. Depending on your route, you may explore Española to encounter marine iguanas and waved albatrosses, Santa Cruz to observe giant tortoises, or Santiago to discover volcanic formations and tide pools. Daily activities include guided hikes, snorkeling, and kayaking excursions led by expert bilingual naturalist guides, offering memorable shared experiences throughout the journey.

    With its small guest count, refined social spaces, and focus on comfort and discovery, the Natural Paradise is a strong choice for couples looking to experience the Galapagos in a relaxed yet luxurious setting.

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    4, 5 & 8 days
    The Natural Paradise Galapagos Cruise
    Baltra Island, Ecuador

    The Natural Paradise Cruise offers you a fantastic, refined and intimate journey through the Galapagos Islands. Designed for comfort and elegance, thi...

    • Luxury, Different Cabin Options
    From $ 4,145
    / person
  9. The Galaxy Galapagos Cruise

    Premium First Class


    As a premium first-class vessel, the Galaxy Galapagos Cruise offers a comfortable and well-rounded way to explore the Enchanted Islands. With a relaxed onboard atmosphere and thoughtful design, it appeals to couples seeking a balance of comfort, adventure, and a more personal connection to the Galapagos, while still accommodating families and small groups.

    Built to host just 16 guests, the Galaxy features warm service, spacious social areas, and immersive itineraries led by certified naturalist guides. For couples, the smaller guest count creates a calmer experience both on board and during excursions. Whether hiking wildlife-rich trails, snorkeling alongside sea turtles, or enjoying panoramic views from the open-air sun deck, time aboard the Galaxy feels unhurried and engaging.

    The Galaxy Cruise offers you:

    • Comfortable cabins with panoramic windows and private bathrooms
    • Convertible and matrimonial cabin options suitable for couples
    • Personalized service from a dedicated crew
    • Guided daily excursions including hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and panga rides
    • Full snorkeling gear and wetsuits included
    • A sun deck and lounge for relaxing between activities
    • Ecuadorian and international cuisine prepared by an onboard chef
    • Eco-conscious amenities for responsible travel

    Each Galaxy itinerary brings couples face to face with the Galapagos’ extraordinary biodiversity, from blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas to historic sites such as Post Office Bay. By combining active exploration with comfortable accommodation and attentive service, the Galaxy delivers a thoughtfully paced Galapagos experience that works especially well for couples who want shared adventure without sacrificing comfort.

    You can message the cruise directly for itinerary options and availability for your travel dates using the tour bubble below.

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    5 & 6 days
    The Galaxy Galapagos Cruise
    Baltra Island, Ecuador

    The Galaxy Yacht Cruise invites you to explore the Galapagos Islands in comfort, style, and personalized service. Recently renewed for an enhanced gue...

    • First-Class Cruise, Different Cabin Options
    From $ 3,500
    / person

    Not what you're looking for?

    Browse all other Galapagos Cruises here. You can also contact our travel specialists for recommendations.

    Each request is sent directly to the cruise, lodge or tour operator.

    Compare tours

  10. The Orion Galapagos Cruise



    The Galaxy Orion is a freshly renovated expedition yacht offering an intimate and adventurous way to explore the Galapagos Islands. Its small size, personalized service, and relaxed onboard atmosphere make it especially appealing to couples who value shared experiences, meaningful exploration, and a more personal style of cruising.

    Hosting just a small number of guests, the Orion delivers attentive service, cozy cabins, and welcoming shared spaces designed to encourage connection while still allowing time to unwind together. The vessel strikes a balance between comfort and exploration, creating a calm base for discovering the islands by day and relaxing on board in the evenings.

    Led by expert naturalist guides, each day brings immersive encounters with the Galapagos’ extraordinary wildlife. Couples can kayak alongside sea turtles, snorkel with penguins around Fernandina Island, and hike volcanic trails alive with blue-footed boobies, Darwin’s finches, and Galapagos hawks. These shared adventures are at the heart of the Orion experience.

    On board, enjoy freshly prepared cuisine, relax on the open-air decks, or spend quiet evenings beneath the stars reflecting on the day’s discoveries. With its combination of warm hospitality, active itineraries, and intimate scale, the Galaxy Orion offers a rewarding Galapagos journey for couples who prioritize exploration, connection, and simplicity over opulence.

    You can message the cruise directly to check availability for your travel dates using the tour bubble below.
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    4, 5 & 8 days
    The Galaxy Orion Galapagos Cruise
    Baltra Island, Ecuador

    The Galaxy Orion is a newly renovated expedition yacht offering you an intimate, first-class cruise through the Galapagos Islands. The Orion is purpos...

    • First-Class Cruise, Small-Group Experience
    From $ 1,800
    / person

Not what you're looking for?

Browse all other Galapagos Cruises here. You can also contact our travel specialists for recommendations.

Each request is sent directly to the cruise, lodge or tour operator.

Compare tours
's avatar

Ash Card

Tour Advisor @TourTheTropics

Ash Card is a frequent visitor to the Tropics and has a passion for helping visitors get the best experiences from tropical locations. Ash is a contributor and tour advisor at TourTheTropics.com. Feel free to contact Ash for tour help in the tropics. When not helping tourists with tours and info, Ash can be found traveling, on wildlife tours or salsa dancing. Ash has completed a BSc in Biology, a Master’s degree in Zoology, and has undertaken a research scholarship at a world-class university on animal behavior. He has published scientific research in the Australian Journal of Zoology and the Journal of Behavioral Ecology. His goal is to help a global society live in balance with the natural world.

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