Planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands? If you want to uncover the archipelago's unrivaled beauty in all of its glory, you will need to do some cruising to travel between the islands. While there are large vessel options available, there is nothing quite like discovering the unspoilt region on a small ship.

Large cruises accommodate large crowds of tourists, but in contrast, intimate vessels cater to smaller, more exclusive groups, offering a more serene and tranquil ambience both onboard and during your island explorations. Not only that, they significantly enhance your wildlife spotting opportunities. 

For those of you planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands and wanting to find the best small ship cruise, we have shared all you need to know to find the perfect vessel for your adventure. 

Why Choose a Galapagos Island Small Ship Cruise?

Small ship cruises offer a unique and unparalleled way to explore the Galapagos Islands. Unlike large vessels that accommodate hundreds of tourists, small ships provide a more exclusive experience with a select group of fellow travelers.

The intimate nature of small ship cruises to the Galapagos Islands allows for a tranquil and immersive exploration of the destinations. When disembarking to explore the islands, you can enjoy a quieter environment, minimizing the chance of disturbing the animal residents of the archipelago.

Along with making the overall experience more enjoyable for you and the wildlife, the peaceful ambience also heightens your wildlife-spotting opportunities. Moreover, the smaller number of passengers on board allows for more personalized attention from the crew and a higher likelihood of forming meaningful connections with your fellow travelers on board.

In short, there are a host of advantages that come with opting for a small ship Galapagos Island cruise, from increased wildlife sightings to the opportunity to bond with other passengers.

The 7 Best Small Ship Galapagos Cruises

We have a magnificent selection of luxury small-ship Galapagos cruises on offer. Check out some of our top picks below.  

1. Elite

The Elite is a chic 16-passenger plush catamaran with 9 luxury cabins. Each is complete with ample storage space and climate-controlled bathrooms stocked up with L’Occitane amenities.

During your time onboard, you will have a concierge at hand to cater to your every need. In addition, you’ll be supplied with sized equipment and wetsuits and be able to enjoy a wonderful selection of gourmet meals.

You can pick from a choice of 4 itineraries onboard the Elite, each of which will take you to many of the best places to see in the Galapagos Islands. Itinerary A, for instance, begins in San Cristobal before going on to North Seymour, Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, Bartolome and then returning to San Cristobal.

Along the way, you’ll be able to tick off the likes of Dragon Hill, Sierra Negra Volcano and Kicker Rock. In doing so, you’ll be able to experience many of the best things to do in the Galapagos Islands across 8 jam-packed days. During your adventure, you can go hiking, snorkeling and kayaking to see all of the most incredible animals in the Galapagos Islands.

With so many adventures up for grabs on this glamorous catamaran, it’s no wonder why Elite has scored so highly as one of the best small ship cruises in the archipelago. 

2. Endemic

Endemic is one of our newest luxury small ship Galapagos cruises. The stylish 8-suite vessel boasts a sleek exterior with a spacious sundeck for lounging. It also has a bar where you can head for a refreshing beverage after each day's thrilling adventures.

While dining in the chic lounge area, you’ll be able to bond with fellow passengers. You will also be able to watch all of the latest releases on the wide-screen television, a feature that can prove particularly handy for those going on a family vacation to the Galapagos, as well as for adults craving a little downtime. 

There are 6 different itineraries to choose from on the Endemic, each one beginning on the island of Baltra. Picture yourself on the pristine shores of Bachas beach, before heading on to the famous Darwin Bay. 

Throughout the rest of your adventure, you can tick off Sierra Negra Volcano, Humedales, Wall of Tears, Elizabeth Bay and more. Tastefully decorated and offering a magnificent adventure, Endemic is certainly one of the best small ship Galapagos cruises.

3. Ocean Spray

If you’re seeking elegance and sophistication while exploring the Galapagos, Ocean Spray is the perfect choice for you. Its meticulously designed interior is bright and refined, with airy suites and private bathrooms.

Prepare to be sitting in the lap of luxury during your trip aboard Ocean Spray, relaxing in the jacuzzi on the sundeck and sitting down to  5-star meals prepared by the yacht's professional chefs, offering a delightful blend of local and international cuisine. 

Passengers are provided with snorkeling equipment and an underwater camera to record marine adventures. Just like the other small ships on the list, you'll have the opportunity to choose from a curated selection of activities. 

One of the itineraries, for example, starts with a visit to Kicker Rock, one of the best dive sites in the Galapagos. The striking marine area is home to sea turtles, rays and white-tip sharks. Then, you and the rest of the passengers will head on to Witch Hill, Post Office Bay, Devil's Crown, Cormorant Point, Black Turtle Cove and more. 

4. Infinity

Infinity is another of the best small ship Galapagos cruises. The vessel sleeps up to 16 passengers across its 9 sleek suites. A professional crew of 10, including a cruise director and a bilingual guide, is dedicated to ensuring your every need is met during your time aboard the luxury catamaran.

When you find yourself peckish, a gourmet meal will be served by experienced onboard chefs and you’ll even be able to enjoy al fresco on the deck. One of the most incredible perks of taking a small ship Galapagos cruise is being able to sit down to a delicious picnic with the waves crashing around you and unique species popping up to greet you. 

As for your itinerary on this dazzling vessel, prepare to explore all the top spots in the archipelago. From the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station to the picturesque Gardner Bay, you'll be able to tick off many of the most iconic destinations in the Galapagos. 

Of course, this will involve delving into the region’s remarkable biodiversity. Aboard the Infinity, you’ll cross paths with many famous residents such as giant tortoises, land iguanas and Darwin Finches in a terrific adventure with many of the planet’s most unique creatures. 

5. Grand Majestic 

The Grand Majestic is one of the finest Galapagos Islands small ship cruises. The chic vessel is perfect for those looking to explore one of the earth’s most extraordinary archipelagos in style. It was recently refurbished in 2018 and is one of the fastest motor yachts in the Galapagos Islands. 

Prepare to enjoy a wealth of luxury amenities while soaring from one sensational destination to the next. The vessel is complete with an al fresco dining area, jacuzzi, lounge and sundeck. The Grand Majestic sleeps up to 16 across its gorgeous staterooms and master suite.

When you’re not enjoying the plush comforts onboard, you’ll be hiking, snorkeling and kayaking across the archipelago’s spectacular landscapes. If you’re seeking the most stylish small ship Galapagos cruise, this might just be the one for you. 

Your adventure begins on either San Cristobal or Baltra and will last between 4 and 8 days, depending on which itinerary you opt for. Throughout your adventure, you will see many of nature’s most unique and fascinating creations such as Espumilla Beach, the Twin Craters on Santa Cruz and Darwin Bay.

6. Alya

Recently renovated, Alya is one of the best small ship cruises in the Galapagos. This elegant catamaran offers a perfect blend of luxury and adventure as it glides through the magnificent waters of the archipelago.

Nicknamed “The Jewel of the Galapagos”, the vessel accommodates up to 16 passengers across its 9 chic cabins, 8 of which boast their own private balcony. Alya boasts its own library, dining room and sundeck with a panoramic jacuzzi. 

While the yacht sounds tempting enough in itself, you may be wondering what you’ll be doing on this small ship Galapagos Islands cruise. Your adventure will begin on the arid terrain of Baltra Island. From here, your route will vary depending on which itinerary you opt for. 

However, you can expect to be heading to wonderful destinations like the volcanic origins of the archipelago known as Sullivan Bay, along with the spectacular Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz. 

Alya is widely acclaimed as the best small-ship cruise in the Galapagos, offering a sensational blend of opulent accommodation and extraordinary destinations.

7. Cormorant II

Recently built, the Cormorant II is one of the newest Galapagos small ship catamaran cruises. The luxury vessel has 9 chic suites, each with its own private balcony and large bathroom full of plush L’Occitane amenities. 

You’ll be able to completely relax and unwind on this lush Galapagos cruise. After a day of investigating the archipelago’s wildlife and landscapes, return to reenergize and rejuvenate in the jacuzzi or on the upper deck.

In addition, you will be provided with sized gear and wetsuits and 5-star meals prepared by professional onboard chefs. Your excursions will take you on snorkeling adventures, kayaking explorations and hiking across the archipelago’s unique terrain. 

Embark on a spectacular adventure aboard the Cormorant II, greeting land iguanas on Santa Fe Island, investigating the historic site of Post Office Bay, exploring the expansive caldera of Sierra Negra Volcano and much, much more. This yacht is certainly one of the best small ship Galapagos cruises.

Summary

Exploring the Galapagos Islands promises an adventure like no other. From greeting some of the most unique and rare creatures on earth to hiking to huge volcanic craters, you are sure to have the most incredible experience. 

To fully embrace the wonders of this extraordinary destination, you will want to find the best Galapagos small ship cruise for you and your party. Whether you seek speed and luxury or a glamorous catamaran with indulgent amenities, there is an intimate vessel out there for you.

Looking for a small ship cruise to explore the Galapagos Islands? Take a look at our magnificent selection of cruises and tour packages that will take you to all of the most incredible spots in the archipelago in style. Get in contact to start turning your dream vacation into a reality.