Galapagos Charter – How to Book a Galapagos Private Boat

If you are traveling to the Galapagos Islands with a group you might be considering whether to arrange a Galapagos charter, aka booking a Galapagos private cruise or share a vessel with other guests. When you charter a private boat you will be able to customize your journey to your group’s specific needs and interests while enjoying personalized service. A Galapagos charter guarantees an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most sought-after expedition destinations. Here’s what to consider when making a decision and how to go about it. 

Galapagos Charter – All You Need to Know

Choosing the Galapagos Islands for a group travel destination is the best decision. It offers an unparalleled array of natural landscapes and activities that will surely bring your group together in many ways. How you decide to explore the Enchanted Islands is the next most important decision. It all comes down to your group’s specificities and preferences: age range, level of activity, common interests, and particular needs.

Guests watching Blue Footed Boobies.

Why Charter a Galapagos Boat? 

Chartering a boat allows you to explore the Galapagos Islands on your own terms. You can choose the best itinerary for your group or custom-make it to your liking. Determine which islands you want to visit, how long to stay on each one, and the activities you are interested in, according to your event or group’s needs. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a corporate getaway, a destination wedding, a school trip, or an adventure with friends, a Galapagos charter can provide the perfect opportunity to explore this unique and fascinating destination.

Why Should You Hire an Agency to Organize Your Charter for You?

Organizing group travel is not an easy task, from choosing the best destination to coming up with a plan that suits your group’s requirements, you want to make sure your journey meets everyone’s expectations. Hiring an agency to help you come up with the best experience is a way to make sure every aspect of your journey is taken care of, right down to the smallest detail. From health and safety requirements to lodging, activities, and services, an agency will leave no knot untied. Make sure your agency is licensed, experienced, and helpful. Traveling to a remote destination is an unforgettable experience as much as it is an investment of time and money. Your agency will ensure your itinerary fits your budget and your expectations. Leave the planning and worrying to them while you and your group enjoy the magnificent Galapagos Archipelago. 

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Sea lions resting on Galapagos beach.

Benefits of Chartering a Boat in the Galapagos Islands

A Galapagos private cruise is the best option for you and your group. Here are some of the advantages and benefits you get when chartering a boat in the Galapagos Islands. 

1. Customization: With a charter, you have complete control over the itinerary you choose. Most Galapagos small ship cruises have set itineraries. When you charter a boat, you can choose the one that suits you best based on your requirements. Consider the islands you want to visit, how long you wish to stay at each one, and what activities you want to do while you’re there. This allows you to tailor your trip to your group’s specific interests and preferences.
2. Privacy: When you charter a boat, you have the entire vessel to yourself. This means you don’t have to share the space with other travelers or worry about crowds. You can relax and enjoy the islands in a more intimate way.
3. Flexibility: If you’re on a tour or sharing a ship with other guests, you may be limited by a set schedule. With a charter, you have a certain flexibility to change your plans, almost at any time, as long as your traveling dates, weather, and other possible limitations allow it. 
4. Unique Experience: A Galapagos charter provides an experience like no other. You’ll be able to explore the islands in an intimate way, by doing what you think your group will enjoy best, and you’ll have the opportunity to see its unique wildlife up close.

Guest enjoying their experience on a Galapagos cruise.

NOTE: Keep in mind you are in a Natural Park where other ships and tours operate within a set calendar. The limited number of visitors allowed per location is closely monitored by the Park. However, that’s exactly why no matter what you visit in the Galapagos National Park, you will have the place to yourself without disturbing the wildlife that inhabits it. 

If you are considering to go to Galapagos on a cruise check out all boats availability in Rebecca Adventure Travel Catalog and see for your self the best dates to travel.

What to Consider to Charter a Boat in the Galapagos Islands

Chartering a boat in the Galapagos Islands does not have to be hard or complicated. Your agency will make sure everything sails smoothing from beginning to end, no pun intended. From helping you to choose the best yacht, catamaran, or small cruise ship to the itinerary that might best suit you, and everything in between. If you’re interested in chartering a boat in the Galapagos Islands, there are a few things you need to consider:

• Group Size:

  Before you start looking for a charter, you need to determine how many people will be traveling with you. This will help you narrow down your options and find a boat that can accommodate your group.

• Budget:

  Remember to set a budget and stick to it. Keep in mind that the cost will depend on the size of the boat, the length of your trip, and the amenities included.

• Itinerary:

  Think about what you want to see and do in the Galapagos Islands. This will help you create an itinerary that meets your needs and interests. Consider how activity-oriented is your group, is there a particular preference towards a particular sport? Is the group curious about one particular wildlife species more than others? All of these questions will help you choose the most appropriate itinerary.

• Boat Type:

  There are many types of boats available for charter in the Galapagos Islands, from luxury yachts to smaller catamarans. Consider your budget, group size, and preferred level of comfort when choosing a boat. No matter which direction you go, the Galapagos Islands promise a unique and entertaining adventure.

A group enjoying their trip to the Galapagos.

Chartering a Boat for Events and Tours

Many events and moments in our lives are worth celebrating Sharing them with our loved ones, our friends, and our colleagues, makes them even more special. A destination wedding, a company retreat, a school trip, a birthday vacation, or simply exploring a new destination with a group of friends, no event or occasion is small enough. Chartering a boat is indeed a great option when it comes to doing something different and special. 

• Weddings:

  Getting married in the Galapagos Islands can be something out of a dream. Chartering a boat for your wedding allows you to exchange vows in a fascinating location, surrounded by your loved ones, while at the same time having an unforgettable experience.

• Corporate Retreats:

  A Galapagos charter can be an excellent choice for a corporate retreat or team-building event. You can customize your itinerary to include activities that promote teamwork and collaboration, such as snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking. Get to know your friends and colleagues outside of their comfort zone and allow the magnificent setting to bring out the best in everyone.

Galapagos Charters for Academia

• Educational Tours: The Galapagos Islands are a fascinating destination for students of all ages. Itineraries and tours with small cruise ships, yachts, and catamarans are held to strict safety and health protocols. With safety taken care of, students and companions can focus on what really matters, enjoying. Chartering a boat allows you to create a customized educational experience that combines learning and adventure while encouraging bonding and communication. What students take from a trip to the Galapagos Islands will go beyond education. Talk about a renewed appreciation for nature and life, a commitment to protect our fragile ecosystems, and possibly new lifelong friends.

Wedding celebration on the Galapagos.

Services, Amenities, and Activities Offered on a Galapagos Cruise Charter

A Galapagos cruise offers a wide range of services, amenities, and activities that make your trip even more comfortable, entertaining, and memorable.

• Guided Tours:

  Galapagos charters offer guided tours conducted by expert naturalists who lead groups on expeditions. They will help you spot wildlife and teach you about the unique ecosystems of the islands.

• Activities:

  The diverse array of activities offered on a Galapagos cruise allows adventurers to explore the islands in many different ways while challenging themselves physically and mentally. Activities are not too extraneous and visitors can push themselves as much as they want. Choose between hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and even scuba diving. Activities may vary depending on the ship and itinerary of your choosing. The Galapagos Islands are famous for their incredible biodiversity, and a charter allows you to explore life up close both above and below water. 

• Onboard Amenities:

  Depending on the type of boat you choose, you may have access to amenities like rooms with private balconies, diverse social areas, hot tubes, glass-bottom boats, libraries, a bar, or a gourmet kitchen. Different services allow for different experiences, but all are as enjoyable and memorable as the next. 

Guests hiking in the Bartolome.

What types of vessels are there in the Galapagos and which one should you choose? 

There are about 70 independent cruise boats currently operating in the Galapagos Islands. This means there is a vessel that will definitely fit your budget and other specific requirements. 

Options of vessels in the Galapagos vary according to your budget. These are the two main types of vessels from which to choose, however, many options are found in between: 

• Tourist-class vessels are one of the most basic options yet equally enjoyable in terms of experiencing the archipelago. This option offers a small ship (up to 14 cabins) with a level I Naturalist Guide, 3 meals a day, and cabins that might include bunk beds. Activities offered are plenty, and they might include wetsuits and snorkeling gear.
• Luxury-class cruises are a more complete option in terms of amenities. Gastronomy is usually a high point, some of the vessels offer hot tubs and more social areas, and cabins might be more spacious. Wetsuits and snorkeling gear are usually included. Additionally, you will have a level III Naturalist Guide.

Types of Galapagos vessels also vary according to their size, number of guests they can accommodate, services and amenities offered, itineraries, and number of team and crew members available per guest. Ships and boats in the Galapagos are divided into catamarans, yachts, vessels, and sailboats. Our guide to knowing which is which will let you choose the best option for you.

Top Galapagos ships, yachts, and catamarans:

1. Alya
2. Samba
3. Galapagos Legend
4. Archipel I
5. Seaman Journey

Complement your Galapagos charter with a stay in a Galapagos Hotel

Many hotels in the Galapagos offer special rates for groups and can help you arrange activities, catering, and other details. In terms of services and amenities offered by hotels in the Galapagos, you can expect a wide range of options, like spa services, gourmet dining, and beach access. 

Guest at Galapagos Safari Camp Hotel.

Fantastic Galapagos Hotels at your disposal:

1. Hotel Indigo – San Cristobal
2. Finch Bay – Santa Cruz
3. Scalesia Lodge – Isabela
4. Eco Hotel Arena Blanca – San Cristobal
5. Ikala Hotel – Santa Cruz

Note: Chartering a hotel in the Galapagos Islands is also an option and can be a great way to experience this awe-inspiring destination. It allows you to cater to your group’s requirements and interests. With an array of options available, from quaint hostels to luxury resorts, you can find the one that best suits your needs and budget. 

A Galapagos Charter Is the Way to Go

Chartering a boat in the Galapagos Islands can be an unforgettable experience. It offers a level of customization, privacy, and flexibility that you won’t find on a tour shared with other guests. No matter what itinerary and type of vessel you choose as your Galapagos private boat, your agency will make sure your trip goes smoothly. Leave it to us to take care of every detail to ensure you have the adventure of a lifetime in one of the most fascinating places on Earth, the  Galapagos Islands. 

Family enjoying their Galapagos holidays.

Contact our destination experts today to begin planning your Galapagos charter and group travel. We are looking forward to speaking with you.

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