Where better for a family adventure than the idyllic and wildlife-rich Galapagos Islands.
The Galapagos Islands are a living paradise, where your whole family can snorkel alongside playful sea lions, watch blue-footed boobies perform their quirky courtship dance, and walk among giant tortoises.
It's like stepping into a nature documentary.
More than just a usual trip to relax on a sun bed, a Galapagos cruise is an adventure the whole family will remember for a lifetime.
And the best part? You can experience all of this in comfort on a well-equipped family-friendly cruise -- complete with deckchairs on the terrace and top deck to relax in the tropical sun between activities.
Offering you and your family the best family experience of the Galapagos, we recommend the top small-group first-class and luxury catamarans.
We will introduce you to them below.
On the following handpicked cruises, expert naturalist guides bring the wonders of the islands to life, ensuring kids and adults alike have an unforgettable experience.
From stunning beaches to incredible wildlife encounters, these journeys combine adventure, education, and luxurious relaxation in perfect balance. This is all while offering attentive high-level service.
Our Recommended Family Cruises
To help you get the most from your Galapagos adventure, we've selected the best family-friendly first-class and luxury Galapagos cruises known for their spacious accommodations, engaging activities, and expert guides who make the experience unforgettable for kids and parents alike.
The first few are luxury vessels for a higher-end Galapagos experience. For a first-class experience, although each has been chosen for a family cruises, one of the considerations should be the Bonita. This is one of the most family-friendly small-boat Galapagos Cruises there is with a range of accommodation options.
With these in mind, get ready for an adventure that will inspire curiosity, create lasting memories, and bring your family closer together in one of the most extraordinary places on Earth.
Top Family Galapagos Cruises
The following first-class and luxury cruises have high ratings for their comfort, personalized service, and ability to cater to different activity levels offering your family an incredible experience on the Galapagos.
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The Elite
With its elegant design, large interconnecting suites featuring private balconies, and small-group excursions, the Elite is an exclusive cruising experience. The Elite offers you a first-class luxury catamaran designed for comfort, space, and personalized service. You can choose from 4, 5 and 8 day Galapagos itineraries. Complementing the impressive vessel, you will enjoy immersive excursions guided by expert naturalists, all while being cared for by a professional and attentive crew, ensuring an unforgettable and relaxing family adventure.
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
Check availability for your dates and send your request to the Elite Cruise using the button below.
4, 5, 8 daysThe Elite Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe 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 -
The Endemic
You and your family will experience the Galapagos Islands in luxury and comfort aboard the Endemic equaled only by its sister vessel, the Elite (above).
This is a luxury catamaran, which was designed for relaxation and discovery. The vessel offers you spacious suites featuring private balconies, panoramic views, and easy-access amenities. Friendly expert guides will lead your family on engaging excursions, while attentive staff ensure every need is met. Itineraries aboard the Endemic include 4, 5, 6, and 8 day cruises with extended itineraries available.
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Comfortable Luxury: The Endemic's spacious suites offer private balconies, panoramic windows, and easy-access features for a stress-free experience.
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Relaxed Exploration: Enjoy expertly guided excursions tailored to different activity levels, making it easy to explore the unique wildlife and landscapes of the Galapagos.
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Personalized Service: With attentive staff and gourmet dining, every detail is designed to provide you and your family with an incredibly memorable Galapagos experience.
Check availability for your dates and send your request to the Endemic using the button below.
4, 5, 6, 8+ daysThe Endemic Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe 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 -
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The Ocean Spray
The Ocean Spray is a celebrated Galapagos cruise. It's a fantastic choice for a family adventure. The cruise provides a stable and luxurious catamaran designed for adventure and relaxation. You can choose from 4, 5, 6 and 8 day itineraries.
And with spacious cabins, private balconies, and a sun deck with a Jacuzzi, your family will enjoy an incredible experience aboard the Ocean Spray. From the comfortable vessel, you will then head out on expertly guided wildlife excursions. Enjoy personalized service and breathtaking views at every turn making this an unforgettable family adventure. The Ocean Spray is a favorite cruise with many returning guests.-
Spacious Comfort: Enjoy large cabins with private balconies, which offer stunning views and a peaceful retreat after daily excursions.
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Relaxed Adventure: You will explore the iconic wildlife of the Galapagos with professional-guided tours. These are tailored to different activity levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
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Exceptional Service: Enjoy world-class dining, attentive staff, and personalized care throughout your journey for a seamless, worry-free adventure.
You can message the cruise directly for itineraries and availability for your travel dates using the tour bubble below.
4, 5, 6 & 8 daysThe Ocean Spray Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorAboard 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 -
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The Eco Galaxy Galapagos Cruise
Offering 5 and 6 day itineraries, you will step aboard the Eco Galaxy to explore the Galapagos Islands in first-class comfort and sustainable style. The cruise was purpose-built for intimate island exploration. This first-class motor catamaran offers a harmonious blend of comfort, experience, and ecological responsibility.Designed to accommodate just 16 guests, the Eco Galaxy features eight well-appointed cabins. Four of these are on the main deck and four on the upper deck. Each cabin offers either twin or double beds, private bathrooms with hot water, air conditioning, and convenient telephone and internet access to stay connected as you cruise.
Between island visits, relax in the ship’s comfortable social spaces. Bask under the equatorial sun or gaze at the stars from the sundeck, unwind in the cozy lounge with a book or cocktail in hand, and enjoy fresh cuisine in the onboard dining room crafted to energize and delight.
Guided by certified naturalist guides, aboard the Eco Galaxy you and your family can expect immersive and enriching excursions each day. Activities include guided hikes to discover unique island wildlife, snorkeling in pristine marine habitats, kayaking along scenic shores, and photographing iconic species like blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas.
From volcanic landscapes to white-sand beaches, the Eco Galaxy promises you a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're here to witness the incredible biodiversity or to disconnect in nature, this vessel offers a well-rounded and memorable Galapagos experience you can share for years to come.
You can message the cruise directly for activity lists and availability for your travel dates using the tour bubble below.
5 & 6 daysThe Eco Galaxy Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe 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 $ 3,800
/ person -
The Galaxy Galapagos Cruise
With its recent renewal, the Galaxy Galapagos Cruise offers you a comfortable way to explore the Enchanted Islands. This first-class yacht provides the perfect balance of comfort, style, and adventure and is ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking a deeper connection to the Galapagos.
Built to host just 16 guests, the Galaxy features warm service, spacious social areas, and immersive island itineraries led by certified naturalist guides. Whether you’re discovering wildlife-rich trails, snorkeling with sea turtles, or enjoying panoramic views from the open-air sun deck, the Galaxy makes each moment aboard feel personal and memorable.
The Galaxy Cruise offers you:
- Comfortable cabins with panoramic windows and private bathrooms
- Triple and convertible cabin options for families or friends
- Personalized service from a dedicated crew
- Guided daily excursions: hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and more
- Full snorkeling gear and wetsuits included
- A sun-deck and lounge for relaxing between adventures
- Ecuadorian and international cuisine prepared by an onboard chef
- Eco-conscious amenities for a responsible voyage
Each Galaxy itinerary brings you face-to-face with the Galapagos’ extraordinary biodiversity—from blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas to the stories of early explorers at Post Office Bay. Blending adventure and comfort in an intimate setting, the Galaxy is an ideal choice for those seeking a thoughtfully curated Galapagos experience.
Check dates and request availability with the cruise using the button below.
5 & 6 daysThe Galaxy Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe 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 $ 3,200
/ person -
The Bonita Galapagos Cruise
The Bonita Galapagos Cruise is one of the most celebrated Galapagos cruises for families. The vessel sits at the bridging point between first class and tourist superior, often referred to as family-class, and was designed with familes in mind.
The spacious cabins have different configurations to suit families and the vessel was fully renovated in 2022. Offering 5 and 7 day cruises, this family-class motor yacht was designed to offer you a relaxed and enriching experience through one of the world’s most remarkable ecosystems. This is also at an accessible price point.Built for intimacy and connection, the Bonita accommodates just 16 guests in a variety of cozy, flexible cabins. With a mix of matrimonial, twin, and rare triple options, the vessel is ideal for couples, friends, families, and solo travelers alike. Each cabin features a large private bathroom with hot water, air-conditioning, and daily housekeeping to ensure your stay is as comfortable as it is adventurous.
Between excursions, you can unwind in the indoor lounge or on the open deck as the Galapagos landscape drifts by. Enjoy fresh Ecuadorian cuisine with international flair, prepared by experienced onboard chefs who cater to a range of dietary needs. And diets from vegan and vegetarian to gluten-free and pescetarian can be accommodated, but it's always best to send this on the request form. Toast the day's discoveries with a cocktail, local beer, or glass of wine while watching the sun set over the sea (alcoholic beverages available at extra cost).
Led by a certified bilingual naturalist guide, each day aboard the Bonita delivers immersive exploration of the islands. You’ll hike volcanic trails to encounter iconic Galapagos wildlife, snorkel in clear waters alongside sea turtles and reef fish, ride pangas through mangrove-lined coves, and paddle along the coast by kayak or paddleboard in calm, protected areas. All gear is included, and all activities are guided and supervised for your comfort and safety.
Whether you’re here to marvel at sea lions, blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas, or simply to reconnect with nature, the Bonita Cruise offers you and your family a warm and welcoming base for an unforgettable journey through the Enchanted Islands.
5 & 7 daysThe Bonita Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorStep aboard the Bonita, a renovated family-class yacht offering an accessible and worry-free way to experience the Galapagos Islands. The Bonita deliv...
- Family-class Cruise, Flexible Cabin Options
From $ 2,700
/ person -
The Galaxy Orion Galapagos Cruise
The Galaxy Orion Galapagos Cruise is a first-class expedition yacht well suited to family travel. Fully renovated and accommodating just 16 guests, this intimate vessel blends adventure, comfort, and personalized service. It's a fantastic choice for families seeking a meaningful and enriching journey through the Galapagos Islands.
With all exploration gear included, expertly guided activities, and a warm, welcoming crew, the Galaxy Orion offers a safe and engaging way to experience one of the planet’s most fascinating wildlife destinations. You can choose from 4, 5 and 8 day cruises.The Orion’s cozy, well-appointed cabins are available in matrimonial and twin configurations. This is perfect for families traveling together. Each cabin includes air-conditioning, a private bathroom, and daily housekeeping to ensure comfort and convenience throughout your stay. Whether you’re a family of wildlife enthusiasts, young adventurers, or multigenerational travelers, the Orion provides a relaxed environment where everyone can unwind and reconnect between excursions.
Onboard, you’ll enjoy freshly prepared meals featuring Ecuadorian and international cuisine, with dietary needs accommodated when requested in advance. Between guided outings, relax on the open deck or in the indoor lounge while the kids recount their sea lion sightings or penguin encounters. All equipment for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding is included, and all activities are supervised and family-friendly.
From hiking alongside giant tortoises to snorkeling with tropical fish and sea turtles, each day brings new discoveries led by a certified bilingual naturalist guide. The small group size means more flexibility, faster access to visitor sites, and a more personal connection to the islands’ iconic wildlife and landscapes.
Whether you’re introducing your children to nature’s wonders or sharing an unforgettable multigenerational holiday, the Galaxy Orion offers your family a safe, comfortable, and adventure-filled base for discovering the magic of the Galapagos Islands together.
4, 5 & 8 daysThe Galaxy Orion Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe 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 $ 1,650
/ person
Choosing your Family Galapagos Cruise
Choosing the right cruise for your family isn't just about wildlife and scenery. It's about making sure every member of your family, from young explorers to parents and grandparents, has an enjoyable and stress-free experience.
To help you decide, we've outlined key things to consider when selecting a family-friendly Galapagos cruise, along with our top picks for luxury cruises that cater to families with children.
Spacious Cabins and Family-Friendly Layouts
Comfort matters, especially when traveling with kids or seniors. You might want to look for ships that offer interconnecting cabins, spacious suites that allow families to stay together or single cabins so family members can have their own space. Some family-oriented vessels also have triple or quad accommodations, perfect for parents with younger children.
Catamarans, with their wide decks and extra stability, are a great option for minimizing motion sickness while providing plenty of room to roam.
Summary of the suites of some recommended luxury cruise cabins:
32 m² (344 ft² approx)
Single Cabin:
18 m² (194 ft² approx)
32 m² (344 ft²)
Single Cabin:
14 m² (151 ft²)
35–37 m² (377–398 ft²)
Interconnected Suites:
2 Golden Suites are interconnected
1 Golden Suite connects with Single cabin
20–22 m² (215–237 ft²)
Twin Cabins:
20 m² (215 ft²)
9–10 m² (97–108 ft²)
Main & Upper Deck Cabins:
10 m² (108 ft²)
7.85 m² (84.5 ft²)
13 m² (140 ft²)
Upper Deck:
15 m² (161 ft²)
Engaging Activities for All Ages
The Galapagos is an outdoor playground, but not all cruises are equally suited for families. Choose a cruise that offers:
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Kid-friendly excursions with shorter hikes and plenty of wildlife viewing
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Snorkeling gear in all sizes, including child-friendly masks and flotation devices
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Guides trained to work with families, keeping kids engaged with storytelling and hands-on learning
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Flexible activity options so parents can opt for more relaxed experiences while kids explore
Some cruises even offer special children's programs, where young explorers can take part in activities designed just for them while parents enjoy some downtime.
Dining and Onboard Services
Family-friendly cruises understand that meal times need to be flexible and enjoyable for everyone. Look for cruises that offer:
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Kid-friendly menus and meal times
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Flexible dining arrangements for picky eaters
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Plenty of common spaces where families can relax and enjoy time together
Smaller Groups and Personalized Attention
A smaller cruise with fewer passengers creates a more intimate experience, allowing your family to get to know the crew, guides, and other travelers. This makes it easier to accommodate individual needs, from dietary preferences to customized excursions.
Choosing your Family Galapagos Cruise Itinerary
Each of the islands offers some main attractions and points of interest.
Different animals can be more easily seen in different areas and different islands. There are also some amazing hidden beaches to visit on your cruise, so selecting the best itinerary can be an important part of your cruise planning.
Most Galapagos itineraries have been selected to give you an in depth experience of the best of the islands. But they each offer something different. We recommend choosing an itinerary option to make the most of your family interests.
We recommend sending the cruises above a range of dates, such as a month of travel and mentioning which islands or interests suit your family best.
To make it a little easier for you, here's an interactive map of the different Galapagos Islands. The yellow markers indicate key points of interest and attractions.
You can click these to learn a little about the islands and compare with the itineraries you have received from the cruises using the tour contact buttons above.
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.
Ash Card
Tour Advisor @TourTheTropicsAsh 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.
