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
- Galápagos - South & East Islands aboard the Yolita
- Galápagos Land & Sea - Central & South Islands aboard the Yolita
- Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
- Galapagos Cruise - South East Islands in 4 Days aboard the Monserrat
- Letty Galapagos Cruise
- Galápagos - North, West & Central Islands aboard the Yolita
- Galápagos - North & Central Islands aboard the Eden
- Galápagos - Central, South & East Islands aboard the Yolita
- Galápagos - Central and East Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager
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
Galápagos - South & East Islands aboard the Yolita
“Was the most excellent adventure ever!”
Alexander, traveled in June
The Yolita yacht sails remote Galapagos shores on a 4-night adventure. Snorkel at Corona del Diablo and Gardner Bay, cruise past Kicker Rock's cliffs, and float between North Seymour and Santa Cruz islands with expert naturalist guides.
Duration 7 days Destinations Quito, Seymour Norte, Leon Dormido, San Cristóbal Island, Lobos Island, Gardner Island, Punta Suarez, Santa Fé Island, South Plaza Island, Puerto Ayora Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $5,019
25% off- US$3,764
Galápagos Land & Sea - Central & South Islands aboard the Yolita
“The itinerary of the tour was superb and made full use of the time without it feeling like doing too much.”
William, traveled in August
The Yolita yacht offers three nights of Galápagos sailing. The itinerary features Devil's Crown reef and historic Post Office Bay, moving from Santa Cruz to Floreana Island with complete snorkeling equipment for marine encounters.
Duration 7 days Destinations Quito, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, Floreana Island, Santiago Island Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $4,619
20% off- US$3,695
Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
“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 $7,925
15% off- US$6,769+$220 local payments
Galapagos Cruise - South East Islands in 4 Days aboard the Monserrat
“The cruise was excellent. I only wish I booked a longer cruise.”
Daniel, traveled in March
Duration 4 days Destinations San Cristóbal Island, Española Island, Gardner Island, Punta Suarez, Floreana Island, Puerto Ayora, Baltra Island Age Range Ages 18+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator Via Natura Ecuador From
15% off- US$2,595+$550 upfront costs
Duration 7 days Destinations Baltra Island, Rabida Island, Santiago Island, Fernandina Island, Isabela Island, Puerto Ayora, Lobos Island, San Cristóbal Island Age Range Ages 12+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator Rebecca Adventure Travel From
15% off- US$6,700
Galápagos - North, West & Central Islands aboard the Yolita
“Just what I had hoped for and have had on other G Adv tours. Great CEO he made it great.”
Thomas, traveled in May
The Yolita yacht provides 7 nights of sailing from Genovesa's bird sanctuaries to Isabela's volcanic shores. Guests enjoy panga rides at Elizabeth Bay and snorkeling opportunities at Bartolomé Island.
Duration 10 days Destinations Quito, Santa Cruz Island, Genovesa Island, Bartolomé Island, Santiago Island, Puerto Villamil, Isabela Island, Fernandina Island, Rabida Island, Daphne Island Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $6,999
25% off- US$5,249
Galápagos - North & Central Islands aboard the Eden
“The Galapagos did not disappoint.”
Steven, traveled in December
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, Puerto Ayora Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $4,179
40% off- US$2,507
Galápagos - Central, South & East Islands aboard the Yolita
“The experience was an educational adventure - not just a vacation. Omar was keen to share that knowledge with the group.”
Kathryn, 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, Leon Dormido, San Cristóbal Island, Lobos Island, Española Island, Santa Fé Island, South Plaza Island, Puerto Ayora, Floreana IslandSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $7,219
20% off- US$5,775
Galápagos - Central and East Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager
“The itinerary and activities were well thought through to ensure maximum enjoyment for the guests.”
Shaun, traveled in June
The Reina Silvia Voyager sails through Darwin Bay's mangroves and Gardner Bay's beaches. Zodiac landings reach multiple islands, while snorkeling at Santa Fé and sunset views around dramatic Kicker Rock highlight the journey.
Duration 10 days Destinations Quito, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora, Española Island, Punta Suarez, San Cristóbal Island, Leon Dormido, Santa Fé Island, South Plaza Island, Genovesa IslandSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $8,149
30% off- US$5,704
Explore our featured Galapagos Islands tours
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What people love about Sailing Tours in Galapagos Islands
- Galápagos Land & Sea - Central & South Islands aboard the Yolita
Well organized, good and knowledgeable guides.
This trip was everything and more than I hoped for. Apart from some problems with Avianca airline which is out of Intrepid’s control, the trip ran smoothly and covered all the things it said it would. The scenery and wildlife were spectacular, the crew were very professional and the food was in abundance. Nothing seemed to be a problem to them. My cabin had one bed light not working that I reported and also the toilet seat was very loose making it interesting in rough seas! and there was a broken handle which had been hidden in the drawer none of which was an issue as I was lucky enough to have the cabin to myself. I would query the location of the hotel accommodation and ask why it is not closer to the historical town? EVERYTHING else was just perfect- really!
Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
- Galápagos - North, West & Central Islands aboard the Yolita
Absolutely amazing experience made exceptional by the knowledge, enthusiasm and kindness of the guide and crew.
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."