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 — North & Central Islands aboard the Eden
- Galápagos - Central and East Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager
- Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
- Galapagos Cruise - South East Islands in 4 Days aboard the Monserrat
- Ocean Spray Catamaran 8 Days
- Galápagos — North, Central, & South Islands aboard the Eden
- Galápagos – West and Central Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager
- Galápagos - Central and East Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager (Cruise Only)
- Galápagos – West and Central Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager (Cruise Only)
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 — North & Central Islands aboard the Eden
“Very efficient, friendly and competent.”
Charlotte, traveled in October
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, Puerto Ayora Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $4,049
25% Off- US$3,037
Galápagos - Central and East Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager
“The experience was so unique and pictures don't do it justice. The excursion was not only fun but educational.”
Catherine, traveled in April
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, Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora, Española Island, Gardner Island, Punta Suarez, San Cristóbal Island, Leon Dormido, Santa Fé IslandSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $7,899
35% Off- US$5,134
Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
“Once we boarded Daphne, we we were treated very well, snorkeling was amazing, sea lions and seals came and played.”
Lois, traveled in November
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
35% Off- US$7,925+$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
35% Off- US$2,595+$550 upfront costs
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
35% Off- US$11,750
Galápagos — North, Central, & South Islands aboard the Eden
“The trip was amazing. The food was simple but delicious.”
Xingyan, traveled in January
The Eden yacht cruises the Galápagos for 7 nights. Guests visit remote locations like Black Turtle Cove, anchor at Sullivan Bay, and unwind at Gardner Bay. Comfortable twin cabins with ensuite facilities and full-board meals included.
Duration 10 days Destinations Quito, Baltra Island, Genovesa Island, Bartolomé Island, Santiago Island, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora, Floreana Island, Española Island, Punta SuarezSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $5,779
35% Off- US$3,756
Galápagos – West and Central Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager
“What a great experience, it was the best.”
Catherine, traveled in June
The Reina Silvia Voyager provides luxury cabin accommodation through the Galápagos. The itinerary includes Elizabeth Bay zodiac excursions, snorkeling at Champion Islet, and kayaking Buccaneer Cove across 7 nights of sailing with expert naturalist guidance.
Duration 10 days Destinations Quito, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora, Floreana Island, Isabela Island, Fernandina Island, Santiago Island, Seymour Norte Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $7,899
30% Off- US$5,529
The Reina Silvia Voyager sails through 12 diverse Galápagos islands. Views include dramatic Kicker Rock, Darwin Bay's mangroves, and Gardner Bay's protected waters. Daily activities feature snorkeling and kayaking in crystal-clear waters.
Duration 8 days Destinations Baltra Island, 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 $7,199
35% Off- US$4,679
The Reina Silvia Voyager catamaran takes guests through the Galápagos. Highlights include snorkeling at Champion Islet and Punta Vicente Roca, zodiac rides through Elizabeth Bay, and kayaking at Buccaneer Cove. Eight days of luxury sailing between 7 distinct islands with expert naturalist guidance.
Duration 8 days Destinations Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora, Floreana Island, Isabela Island, Fernandina Island, Santiago Island, Seymour Norte Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $7,199
30% Off- US$5,039
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."