When choosing a Galapagos trip, price is probably, the most important decision maker. For this reason, we want to be give some important tips to help you choosing your boat.
A higher priced boat normally gives you more space and amenities, better crew service, more educated multilingual guides, and hence, a better once-in-a-lifetime experience. By choosing a Galapagos tour in this category, you are assuring yourself that your visit to the Islands will be all that you expect it to be.
Nevertheless, there are good economic boats, with less space and amenities, but with friendly crew members, more home-style food, and guides with a reasonable level of English and good knowledge about the islands and its natural history, but of course, the service and quality of your trip may vary.
There are 4 different categories of boats in Galapagos, and in general terms, here some tips to determine categories:
Luxury boats usually have two lower berths and are en-suite. They offer larger cabins and public areas, experienced multilingual naturalist guides, international-gourmet food and higher security standards.
Prices range from $1500 - $2000
* for a 5 day and 4 night tour and from $2000 - $4000
* for a 8 day and 7 night tour.
First class boats may have upper and lower berths and the quality is in general of a good standard. They also have private showers and toilets as well as air condition and experienced multilingual guides.
Prices range from $1000-1500
* for a 5 day and 4 night tour and from $1.500 - $3000
* for a 8 day and 7 night tour.
Tourist class boats, generally have two berths, upper and lower and private facilities, but space is more limited.
$700 - $1000
* for a 5 day and 4 night tour and from $1200 - $2000
* for a 8 days and 7 night tour.
Economy boats are normally converted fishing boats, so space and facilities are very limited. Toilets and showers are usually shared, and food that even being good is quite simple.
Range from $350 - $700
* for a 5 day and 4 night tour and from $550 - $1200
* for a 8 day and 7 night tour.
All Tours include: Accommodations based in double cabins [
single cabins under request], transfers in Galapagos, all meals through the cruise, daily guided excursions.
All Tours do not include: Airfare to and from Galapagos, Galapagos, national Park fee [
100* USD per person], soft and alcoholic beverages, tips, laundry and personal expenses.
*The prices are approximately
