Sailing Tours & Trips in Galapagos Islands
Have you imagined sailing the Galapagos, exploring Santa Cruz's giant tortoises, Isabela's marine iguanas, Española's albatross, Bartolome's pinnacle rock, and Genovesa's frigatebirds? Sailing routes reach multiple islands across this 600-mile archipelago where vessels access outer islands, different anchorages, and snorkeling spots. This volcanic chain where Darwin's finches, blue-footed boobies, and sea lions literally changed how we understand evolution.
10 best sailing Galapagos Islands tours
Compiled by
MelissaGalapagos Islands travel expert at TourRadar
- Samba Tourist Superior Sail Boat - 8 Days
- Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
- Ocean Spray Catamaran 8 Days
- Independent Galapagos cruise aboard the Galápagos Legend
- Endemic Catamaran 8 Days
- Elite Luxury Catamaran 5 Days
- Archipel I Tourist Superior Catamaran - 5 Days
- Nemo III First Class Catamaran 8 Days
- Seaman First Class Catamaran 5 Days
- Alya Luxury Catamaran 5 Days
The Dutch-built Samba yacht, with its teak decks and seven comfortable cabins, takes you through Galapagos waters from Mosquera Islet to Darwin Bay. Remote sites like Vicente Roca Point are accessible while guests enjoy outdoor dining and wildlife observation areas.
Duration 8 days Destinations Baltra Island, Genovesa Island, Marchena Island, Isabela Island, Fernandina Island, Floreana Island, Santa Cruz Island Age Range Ages 6+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
- US$7,105
Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
“You do not want to do a shorter trip. 7.5 days on the boat was just about the right amount of time.”
Kenneth, traveled in January
The Grande Daphne yacht provides 7 nights of Galapagos sailing. Zodiac rides reach Black Turtle Cove's mangroves, while snorkeling at Devil's Crown and remote Genovesa Island await with expert naturalist guides.
Duration 10 days Destinations Quito, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora, Floreana Island, Punta Suarez, Española Island, Leon Dormido, San Cristóbal Island, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, Santa Fé IslandSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $8,190
19% Off- US$6,596+$220 local paymentsYou save $1,594
The luxurious Ocean Spray cruises through remote coves like Vicente Roca Point and Elizabeth Bay, offering kayaking and snorkeling adventures. Premium cabins with private balconies enhance this 8-day maritime experience.
Duration 8 days Destinations Baltra Island, Isabela Island, Fernandina Island, Santa Cruz Island, South Plaza Island, Santa Fé Island, Española Island, San Cristóbal Island Age Range Ages 6+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
19% Off- US$11,750
Duration 7 days Destinations Quito, Baltra Island, Seymour Norte, Bartolomé Island, Santiago Island, San Cristóbal Island, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, Guayaquil Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Globus From
19% Off- US$5,199+$220 upfront costs
Built in 2018, the Endemic Catamaran glides between Galapagos highlights like Elizabeth Bay and Darwin Bay. Golden Suites host 16 passengers exploring Tagus Cove's historic anchorage and Sullivan Bay's lava fields, with transparent kayaks for marine discovery.
Duration 8 days Destinations Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Genovesa Island, Santiago Island, Isabela Island, Fernandina Island, Rabida Island Age Range Ages 6+ Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
19% Off- US$13,490
The Elite Luxury Catamaran glides through pristine Galapagos waters from San Cristóbal to Vicente Roca Point and Las Tintoreras islets. Professional crew leads snorkeling adventures and zodiac rides while guests enjoy premium comfort.
Duration 5 days Destinations Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Genovesa Island, Santiago Island, Lobos Island, San Cristóbal Island Age Range Ages 6+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
19% Off- US$9,165
Tourist-superior Archipel I features eight comfortable cabins while sailing the Galapagos. The route spans nine islands, including Sullivan Bay and Gardner Bay. Water-based excursions showcase marine wonders from Prince Phillip's Steps to Post Office Bay.
Duration 5 days Destinations Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Isabela Island, Fernandina Island, Santiago Island, Rabida Island Age Range Ages 6+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
19% Off- US$4,765
Duration 8 days Destinations Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Genovesa Island, Santiago Island, Rabida Island, Isabela Island, Fernandina Island Age Range Ages 6+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
19% Off- US$7,190
Duration 5 days Destinations Baltra Island, Bartolomé Island, Seymour Norte, Genovesa Island, South Plaza Island, Santa Fé Island, San Cristóbal Island Age Range Ages 6+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
19% Off- US$5,565
M/C Alya's luxury catamaran takes guests through remote Galapagos coves at Santa Fe and Gardner Bay's crystal waters. The route connects 8 diverse islands, including North Seymour's wildlife colonies and Española's dramatic coastline.
Duration 5 days Destinations Baltra Island, Genovesa Island, Bartolomé Island, Santiago Island Age Range Ages 6+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
19% Off- US$7,765
What our customers ask about Sailing Tours & Trips in Galapagos Islands
What are the typical routes and highlights covered on a Galapagos Islands sailing tour?
A typical Galapagos sailing tour spans 6-8 days visiting several distinct islands. Most routes include Española Island where travelers spot waved albatrosses Floreana Island with its historic Post Office Bay and Genovesa Island's Darwin Bay for bird watching. The Solaris yacht focuses on western islands like Fernandina and Isabela where you can see flightless cormorants and Galapagos penguins. Higher-end vessels such as the Infinity explore eastern destinations including Santa Fe and South Plaza islands. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "Each island offered something unique - from the red sand beaches of Rabida to the incredible marine life at Vicente Roca Point on Isabela Island."
How much does a typical Galapagos sailing tour cost?
Expect to pay between USD 5000-8000 per person for a 7-10 day Galapagos sailing experience. The 7-day Galapagos Express on the Archipel I starts at USD 5260 while a 10-day voyage on the premium Treasure of Galapagos reaches USD 8650. These prices cover lodging meals guided tours and snorkel gear. Additional fees include the USD 100 park entry USD 20 transit card and flights to the islands. A TourRadar traveler shared: "While not inexpensive the experience was absolutely worth the investment given the unique wildlife encounters and comfort level aboard."
What types of vessels are available for Galapagos sailing tours?
Vessels range from modern catamarans to traditional motor yachts. The Infinity features 8 cabins with private balconies and a sun deck while the Reina Silvia offers 6 staterooms that can be configured with twin or king beds. For those seeking exclusivity the Grand Majestic provides private charters with dedicated staff and naturalist guides. According to a TourRadar traveler's review of the Treasure of Galapagos catamaran: "The boat was extremely comfortable with spacious cabins excellent viewing areas and professional crew who made the journey exceptional."
What wildlife can I expect to see during a Galapagos sailing tour?
Each island presents different wildlife viewing opportunities. Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island is known for green sea turtles and blue herons. Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island houses red-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls. The waters near Isabela Island's Vicente Roca Point reveal seahorses marine turtles and mola-mola sunfish. A TourRadar traveler shared: "We saw everything from playful sea lions at Gardner Bay to flightless cormorants at Punta Espinoza - each day brought new and amazing wildlife encounters."
What kind of meals are provided on Galapagos sailing tours?
Dining options blend local and international dishes served either buffet-style or as plated meals. Ships provide three daily meals plus snacks and can accommodate special diets. The Eden yacht for instance serves 7 breakfasts 7 lunches and 7 dinners featuring Ecuadorian specialties and fresh seafood. One TourRadar traveler noted: "Very good food especially vegetables - the chef prepared excellent meals throughout the cruise."
How many islands will I typically visit on a Galapagos sailing tour?
A standard 7-8 day sailing tour covers 6-8 major islands including Santa Cruz Isabela Fernandina Santiago and Floreana. Some vessels like the Solaris First Class Yacht visit up to 13 islands in a week stopping at locations such as Las Tintoreras Moreno Point and Espinosa Point. As one TourRadar traveler reported: "The itinerary offered a perfect mix of different islands each with its own unique landscape and wildlife."