The best way to experience the Galapagos Islands is aboard a small-ship cruise. With the many cruises for the Galapagos, it can be difficult to choose a vessel for your experience. The larger vessels that accommodate 50 to 100 visitors can seem crowded and lack the personal touch of smaller vessels.
A small-ship cruise keeps the experience intimate and provides a more personal tour of this incredible region.
The following tours are our selection of small ship Galapagos Cruises defined as accommodating 20 people or less. These include high-luxury, luxury-class and first-class ships to suit a diversity of preferences.
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The Elite Galapagos Cruise
With its first voyage in 2019, the Elite is one of the newest and most modern luxury vessels for the Galapagos Islands. Imagine exploring the Galapagos with skilled guides to see iconic wildlife and returning to the modern opulence of the Elite.
Specifically designed for the Galapagos, the Elite was crafted for performance, comfort and stability for you to focus on enjoying this remarkable destination.
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
On Elite itineraries, enjoy guided tours of the islands, diverse wildlife, beautiful scenery and some fascinating bays, beaches and marine areas.
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 Galapagos Cruise
The sister vessel to the Elite above, the Endemic offers the same level of comfort and luxury. Enjoy spacious suites, delicious cuisine and expertly guided Galapagos excursions.
The opulent vessel offers spacious staterooms with private balconies, lavish communal spaces, and delectable culinary delights. Embarking on this magnificent vessel, you will enjoy exciting tours under the guidance of knowledgeable naturalist guides.
Surpassing the majority of Galapagos cruises in terms of stability and comfort, the Endemic showcases masterful craftsmanship, ensuring your enjoyment over your island-hopping cruise.
Each cabin boasts air-conditioning, a private balcony offering breathtaking vistas, an expansive and flawlessly appointed bathroom, and the choice between a king-size bed or two twin-size beds.
From the luxurious Endemic, you will embark on meticulously designed excursions to different Galapagos Islands. Accompanied by your guide, you will discover the iconic giant tortoises, graceful frigate birds, playful sea lions and famous marine iguanas.
You can send the Endemic a request for your travel dates 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 -
The Ocean Spray
The Ocean Spray is a 16-passenger luxury-class catamaran designed for the Galapagos Islands. Aboard the vessel, you will explore the Galapagos Islands in a high levels of comfort.
The cruise was designed to maximize comfort and performance as you cruise from island to island. You will enjoy guided tours around the islands to find incredible wildlife. And in addition to wildlife walks, you can enjoy snorkeling and kayaking tours to explore different reefs and bays. With many return guests, the Ocean Spray is a favorite for the islands.
The Ocean Spray offers you spacious and comfortable accommodation, a sundeck and a Jacuzzi. You will then enjoy delicious cuisine in the vessel’s elegantly designed dining room. The private balcony of your accommodation then provides a way to maintain connection to this incredible environment. Aboard the Ocean Spray, you have a choice of 4-day, 5-day, 6-day and 8-day cruises for in=depth exploration of the Galapagos. To provide a summary of the islands and wildlife you will enjoy, here is a summary of the Ocean Spray 8-day cruise ‘B’ itinerary.
The Ocean Spray Cruise B itinerary begins on San Cristobal Island to enjoy the sea lions and the famous Leon Dormido Galapagos land-form. You will also enjoy beautiful bays, beaches and some fantastic wildlife sightings, including sharks, rays and tropical fish.
You will then visit Floreana Island to see the wildlife-rich Devil’s Crown where you can snorkel to spot a diversity of colorful fish. After this, enjoy a beautiful bay on Santa Cruz Island to see diverse marine life before visiting Pinnacle Rock, which is another iconic landmark in the Galapagos. The next day, explore the beautiful coral beach at Darwin Bay and the Prince Phillip’s Steps, which lead you through Galapagos birdlife up a steep path.
The next day will be spent exploring the island of Genovesa, including Espumilla Beach, Buccaneer Cove and Puerto Egas. Around Genovesa, enjoy hearing stories about pirates, view the beautiful black-sand beach, and see some incredible wildlife.
On the last two days, you will explore North Seymour Island, the highlands of Santa Cruz and Mosquera Island. While here, you can spot iconic giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, orcas and other Galapagos wildlife.
Check availability for your travel dates, view more itinerary options and send The Ocean Spray Cruise a request using the button 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 -
The Petrel Galapagos Cruise
The Petrel Galapagos Cruise is another 16-passenger luxury catamaran to explore the Galapagos Islands. This is the sister vessel of the Ocean Spray above. Enjoy incredible up-close experiences with iconic Galapagos wildlife. And you will explore on island walks, kayaking tours and snorkeling the waters guided by some of the best naturalist guides on the Galapagos. In addition to incredible wildlife, learn about the fascinating history and see some iconic and beautiful landmarks, beaches and scenery.
The Petrel is a motorized and luxurious catamaran designed for performance, comfort and stability. This means you will enjoy a comfortable cruise as you move from island to island to exploring the archipelago.
Aboard the Petrel, you have a choice of different itineraries available with two alternative itineraries for each of their 6-day and 8-day cruises. The also offer a cruise of 4-days and 5-days for those who have less time available.
To give an example of what to expect, here is a summary of the 4-day cruise aboard the Petrel:You will begin the cruise by exploring San Cristobal Island. Enjoy a visit to the giant tortoise breeding center for an introduction to these iconic animals. The next day will be spent on Espanola Island for the famous Gardner Bay for some amazing experiences of sea lions, marine iguanas and pelicans. You will then head to Floreana. Here, you will explore the famous Devil’s Crown, Cormorant Point and the Post Office Bay. Enjoy some fantastic animal sightings, such as sharks, rays and hundreds of tropical fish as you snorkel wildlife-rich areas. Visit the saltwater lagoon to see flamingos then learn about the human history of Post Office Bay.
After Floreana, you will visit Santa Cruz Island and the Charles Darwin Research Center before returning home with a transfer to the airport.
4, 5, 6 & 8 daysThe Petrel Luxury Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe luxurious Petrel Galapagos Cruise offers you an extraordinary journey of the Galapagos Islands. Over 3, 4, 5 or 7-night itineraries, you will cru...
- Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
From $ 4,190
/ person -
The Galapagos Horizon Cruise
The Galapagos Horizon Cruise is a luxury trimaran offering you one of the smoothest and most stable rides in the Galapagos. It is the only trimaran operating in the archipelago, purpose-built to combine comfort and performance while you explore this unique wildlife destination. Designed for small groups of just 16 guests, the Horizon features eight spacious cabins, each with a private balcony and panoramic windows for sweeping views of the islands.
As you cruise through the Galapagos, you will enjoy a premium onboard experience with stylish social areas including a modern lounge, elegant indoor and al fresco dining spaces, and a sun deck with Jacuzzi. The refined design ensures you’re comfortable between excursions and well-positioned to soak in the scenery.
On the Horizon, you can choose from carefully crafted 4, 5 or 8-day itineraries. These include a curated selection of the Galapagos’ most iconic locations. Depending on the cruise, you may visit Española for sea lions and marine iguanas, Fernandina for flightless cormorants and penguins, Genovesa for nesting birds, or Isabela for lava landscapes and rich marine life. Each day, enjoy guided walks, kayaking and snorkeling adventures led by expert bilingual naturalists.
Combined with a professional cruise director and attentive crew, the Horizon offers a seamless combination of luxury, wildlife, and exploration in one of the world’s most fascinating destinations.
You can message the cruise directly for itinerary options and availability for your travel dates using the tour bubble below.
4, 5, 7 & 8 daysThe Galapagos Horizon Trimaran
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe Horizon Galapagos Cruise offers you an exceptional voyage through the enchanting Galapagos Islands. Purpose-built for both comfort and elegance, t...
- Luxury, Only Trimaran in Galapagos
From $ 4,145
/ person -
The Infinity Galapagos Cruise
The Infinity Galapagos Cruise is a refined and modern motor yacht built for comfort, exploration, and connection. Designed with families and small groups in mind, this luxury vessel accommodates just 20 guests across 10 spacious cabins, including two large suites and several interconnecting rooms ideal for traveling together. Each cabin features a private balcony and large panoramic windows to keep the breathtaking landscapes always within view.
While on board, enjoy the Infinity’s elegant social areas, including a sundeck with barbecue facilities, al fresco dining spaces, and a stylish lounge for relaxing between excursions. With a dedicated cruise director and professional crew, you’ll enjoy smooth service and thoughtful details throughout your voyage.
Choose from 4, 5, or 8-day itineraries to explore the diverse ecosystems of the Galapagos. Depending on your route, highlights may include visiting the wave-sculpted cliffs of Española Island, snorkeling in the turquoise waters of Gardner Bay, or observing giant tortoises in the Santa Cruz highlands. Each day offers guided nature walks, snorkeling, or panga rides, led by expert bilingual naturalist guides.
With a perfect blend of adventure and luxury, the Infinity Galapagos Cruise delivers a memorable and enriching journey through one of the world’s most remarkable wildlife destinations.
Message the Infinity directly for itineraries and availability for your dates using the tour bubble below.
4, 5 & 8 daysThe Infinity Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe 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 -
The Natural Paradise Galapagos Cruise
The Natural Paradise Galapagos Cruise is a luxury yacht offering an intimate and comfortable journey through the islands. With space for just 16 guests, this vessel is designed to offer you a personalized and tranquil experience while you explore the rich biodiversity of the Galapagos. Choose from a range of comfortable cabins, including spacious ocean-view suites, junior suites, and staterooms. These offer private balconies for uninterrupted views of the islands.
Between guided excursions, relax in elegant onboard spaces such as the teak sundeck with Jacuzzi, the al fresco dining area, or the inviting indoor lounge and bar. Fresh cuisine, exceptional service from the dedicated crew, and a professional cruise director ensure a seamless and enriching experience from start to finish.
Cruises are available in 4, 5, or 8-day itineraries, each taking you to a curated selection of the archipelago’s most iconic destinations. Depending on the itinerary, you may visit Española to encounter marine iguanas and waved albatrosses, Santa Cruz for a chance to see giant tortoises, or Santiago to explore dramatic volcanic formations and tide pools. Each day offers guided hikes, snorkeling, and kayaking excursions led by expert bilingual naturalist guides.
Check availability and send your request to the cruise with the button below.
4, 5 & 8 daysThe Natural Paradise Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe 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 -
The Alya Galapagos Cruise
The Alya Galapagos Cruise offers a luxury catamaran to enjoy a cruise of the Galapagos Islands. As one of the newest vessels for the islands, the Alya offers comfort, personalized service, spacious suites and elegantly styled living areas.
In addition to enjoying the comfortable suites and social areas, you will also enjoy delicious cuisine in the Alya’s dining room. The dining room is surrounded by windows to keep you connected to this incredible environment. You can then enjoy a variety of drinks in the bar.
You can then enjoy a choice of itineraries dependent on where you wish to explore and how many days you have available on the Galapagos Islands. Enjoy guided island walks to find incredible wildlife, visit beautiful beaches, and kayaking and snorkeling opportunities to see abundant marine life.
5 & 6 daysThe Alya Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe Alya Galapagos Cruise invites you on a sublime exploration of the Galapagos Islands. The Alya combines elegant design, advanced navigation technol...
- Luxury, All Cabins With Private Balconies
From $ 4,200
/ person -
The Galapagos Angel Yacht
The Galapagos Angel Yacht is a sleek and modern vessel offering an elevated level of comfort and style while exploring the Galapagos Islands. This is the newest first-class vessel for the Galapagos, which is owned and operated by an experienced cruise operator with a favorite fleet of vessels.
Accommodating just 16 guests, the yacht features two spacious suites and six convertible double cabins, each with panoramic windows to keep the islands in view throughout your journey. Designed with contemporary European elegance, the Angel delivers a refined yet adventurous experience in one of the world’s most unique destinations.Onboard amenities include WiFi access for sharing your journey in real-time, along with a stylish lounge and dining area where you can unwind between excursions. Whether you're traveling as a couple, with family, or part of a private charter, you’ll enjoy attentive service from a professional crew and expert guidance from certified bilingual naturalists.
Cruise options range from 4, 5, 7, to 8 days, each itinerary showcasing the stunning diversity of the Galapagos. Highlights may include snorkeling among sea lions and rays at Genovesa, hiking the lava fields of Santiago, spotting giant tortoises on Santa Cruz, or birdwatching on Española. Each day includes carefully guided hikes, marine excursions, and wildlife viewing opportunities in the company of experienced naturalist guides.
With its modern design, exclusive feel, and expert-led itineraries, the Galapagos Angel is a stylish and comfortable way to discover the wonders of the Enchanted Islands.
4, 5 & 8 daysThe Galapagos Angel Yacht
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe Galapagos Angel Yacht offers you a comfortable voyage through the Galapagos Islands. As one of the newest additions to the region’s premier fleet,...
- Newest First-Class Yacht, European-Build Quality
From $ 2,745
/ person -
The Eco Galaxy Galapagos Cruise
Although not as opulent as some of the above luxury Galapagos cruises, the Eco Galaxy Galapagos Cruise offers a comfortable experience aboard a first-class vessel. Enjoy spacious and comfortable cabins and well-equipped bathrooms.
The vessel offers comfortable accommodation, social areas, the bar, sundeck and balconies. In addition to enjoying the Eco Galaxy vessel itself, head out from the main vessel on guided island tours.
See some incredible wildlife and beautiful scenery as you cruise from island to island. Aboard the Eco Galaxy Cruise, you have a choice of the 4-day, 5-day, 6-day and 8-day itineraries.
As an example, the 6-day cruise ‘B’ itinerary begins on Santa Cruz Island and a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Center to learn about the islands and for an introduction of what to expect on your cruise.
The itinerary then includes Isabela Island, Fernandina, Santiago and Rabida Island. Enjoy some incredible wildlife and beautiful scenery.
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
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.
