Galapagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands sit approximately 1,050 kilometers off Ecuador's western coast, forming a remote volcanic archipelago in the eastern Pacific Ocean. Operating as one of the world's premier expedition cruise destinations, the islands welcome small expedition ships that anchor in sheltered bays rather than traditional commercial ports. Fringed by mangroves, arid cactus forests, and dramatic black lava shores, the archipelago's unique climate and marine life are shaped by cool oceanic currents like the Humboldt and Cromwell currents, creating an otherworldly natural sanctuary.

The islands possess a legendary history of discovery, originally nicknamed "Las Encantadas" (The Enchanted) by Spanish sailors in 1535 before serving as a haven for buccaneers and whalers. In 1835, Charles Darwin arrived aboard HMS Beagle, spending five weeks observing the archipelago's distinct flora and fauna, which directly inspired his groundbreaking theory of natural selection presented in On the Origin of Species. Most modern expedition cruises depart from Baltra Island, where arriving passengers transfer via shuttle bus from the airport to the main cruise docks.

Excursions focus entirely on guided nature walks, snorkeling adventures, and wildlife observation led by certified naturalist guides. Zodiac tenders transport guests ashore to hike across volcanic calderas, walk among colonies of blue-footed boobies, and observe lumbering Galápagos giant tortoises in the wild. Snorkeling excursions offer encounters with playful Galápagos sea lions, marine iguanas grazing on underwater algae, sea turtles, and penguins swimming along coral reefs.

Expedition dining highlights fresh Ecuadorian ceviche, grilled fish with peanut sauce, plantain empanadas, locro de papa soup, and exotic fruit juices.

Wildlife photographers, nature lovers, and expedition cruisers will find this isolated archipelago unforgettable for its endemic species, volcanic geology, and living laboratory of evolution. Explored the Galápagos Islands or have a future cruise booked to this port? Log this on The Cruise Globe to see the cruise's track.