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
- Ultimate Galapagos: Central Islands (Grand Daphne)
- Galápagos — Central, South & East Islands aboard the Yolita
- Galápagos — North & Central Islands aboard the Eden
- Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
- Cormorant II Luxury Yacht 8 Days
- Aqua Mare Luxury Yacht 8 Days
- Galapagos Encompassed - 17 days
- Galapagos Express - Central & West Islands aboard the Archipel I
- Galapagos Escape - Solaris (Itinerary B)
- Galapagos Escape - Solaris (Itinerary C)
Ultimate Galapagos: Central Islands (Grand Daphne)
8 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We saw every animal we came to see and much more. We snorkeled with sharks, sea lions and stingrays!”
Steven, traveled in June
M/Y Le Grande Daphne offers zodiac excursions to prime sites like Las Bachas Beach and Punta Vicente Roca. Daily snorkeling activities and magnificent sunset views await from the yacht's expansive sun deck.
Duration 10 days Destinations Quito, Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Rabida Island, Isabela Island, Fernandina Island, Santiago Island, Bartolomé Island, Sombrero Chino Island, Seymour NorteSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Intrepid Travel From
- US$8,080+$230 local payments
Galápagos — Central, South & East Islands aboard the Yolita
21 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Very happy with G and this tour.”
David, traveled in October
The Yolita yacht provides seven nights in the Galápagos, reaching prime sites like Devil's Crown and Gardner Bay. The route covers 8 distinct islands while offering comfortable cabins and freshly prepared meals.
Duration 10 days Destinations Quito, Seymour Norte, Santa Cruz Island, Española Island, Punta Suarez, Santa Fé Island, South Plaza Island, Floreana Island Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $6,699
25% Off- US$5,024You save $1,675
Galápagos — North & Central Islands aboard the Eden
13 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Incredible place, incredible guide and fantastic people. This really was a trip of a lifetime!”
Joshua, traveled in May
The Eden yacht provides wet and dry landings throughout the Galápagos. The route extends from Baltra Island to Darwin Bay for snorkeling, then to Sullivan Bay's lava formations. Panga boat transfers and full snorkeling equipment included.
Duration 7 days Destinations Quito, Baltra Island, Genovesa Island, Bartolomé Island, Santiago Island, Santa Cruz Island, Floreana Island, Española Island, San Cristóbal Island Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $4,049
25% Off- US$3,037You save $1,012
Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
8 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Amazing trip and amazing destination. We saw pretty much everything we had hoped for and more.”
Sarah, traveled in March
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
25% Off- US$8,595+$220 local payments
The luxury Cormorant II sails through Galapagos waters, visiting remote coves and beaches. The journey connects Baltra to pristine Darwin Bay and Gardner Bay, offering kayaking at Baroness Point and snorkeling at Champion Islet's vibrant walls.
Duration 8 days Destinations Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Genovesa Island, South Plaza Island, Santa Fé Island, San Cristóbal Island, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, Lobos Island, Española Island, Gardner IslandSee all destinations Age Range Ages 6+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
25% Off- US$12,894
The luxurious Aqua Mare takes you through secluded coves like Tagus and Buccaneer. Prime snorkeling spots at Urbina Bay and wildlife-rich sites like Espinosa Point are accessed with expert naturalist guidance.
Duration 8 days Destinations Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Floreana Island, Isabela Island, Fernandina Island, Santiago Island, Rabida Island, Seymour Norte, Daphne Island Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
25% Off- US$12,600
M/C Anahi provides 15 days of remote Galapagos exploration. The route includes Elizabeth Bay's mangroves, Leon Dormido Rocks, and Devil's Crown snorkeling, with first-class cabin accommodation.
Duration 17 days Destinations Quito, Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora, Isabela Island, Las Tintoreras Islet, Puerto Villamil, Fernandina Island, Santiago Island, Rabida IslandSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator On The Go Tours From
25% Off- US$11,795
Archipel I sails from Puerto Ayora through central and western Galapagos waters. The route features Vicente Roca's snorkeling caves, Black Turtle Cove's panga rides, and volcanic island navigation with expert naturalists.
Duration 7 days Destinations Quito, Guayaquil, Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora, Isabela Island, Fernandina Island, Santiago Island, Rabida Island Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Explore! From
25% Off- US$4,740
The 118ft Solaris offers sundeck views and snorkeling equipment while sailing from Darwin Bay's caldera to Santa Fe's coves. Ten crew members and naturalist guide enhance 6-day sailing through volcanic archipelago.
Duration 6 days Destinations Quito, Galapagos Islands, Santa Cruz Island, Seymour Norte, South Plaza Island, Santa Fé Island, Guayaquil Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From $6,300
3% Off- US$6,100You save $200
The 118ft Solaris, equipped with four kayaks and snorkel gear, takes you through the Galapagos. Highlights include Gardner Bay's sea lion colony, Devil's Crown's coral reefs, and marine life at Black Turtle Cove, with expert naturalist guidance.
Duration 6 days Destinations Quito, San Cristóbal Island, Española Island, Floreana Island, Santiago Island, Bartolomé Island, Santa Cruz Island, Baltra Island, Guayaquil Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From $6,300
3% Off- US$6,100You save $200
What people love about Sailing Tours in Galapagos Islands
- Ultimate Galapagos: Central Islands (Grand Daphne)
The tour exceeded our expectations. The activities were great, the accommodations were excellent, the food was fantastic, and the Grande Daphne's staff went above and beyond to make the experience exceptional.
- Galápagos — Central, South & East Islands aboard the Yolita
Excellent tour of Galápagos Islands. Varied itinerary and good use of time. Great leader and all the staff thoroughly helpful and professional.
- Galápagos — North & Central Islands aboard the Eden
Great guide and wonderful crew. And of course the Galapagos did not disappoint
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."
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