SPECIALISTS IN LUXURY AND DISTINCTIVE CRUISE EXPERIENCES
GOLDEN GALAPAGOS CRUISES
AWARD-WINNING LUXURY
CRUISE OPERATOR IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
EXPERIENCES THE GOLDEN SIDE: LUXURY SUSTAINABLE EXPERIENCES
Our exceptional fleet offers luxury sustainable and distinctive cruise experiences, designed to take you beyond the surface. Delve into the inner workings of the Galapagos ecosystem during truly transformative expeditions. Whether you’re seeking a luxury Galapagos tour, a dedicated Galapagos expedition, or the best Galapagos cruise, Golden Galapagos delivers an unforgettable adventure.
WE ARE LOCALS: AUTHENTIC GALAPAGOS EXPERIENCE
Our deep connection to the Galapagos Islands sets us apart. With a 95% Galapagos-born crew, our expert guides bring you into their world from the inside. They share their unique perspective, helping you understand what you see and revealing hidden wonders you might otherwise miss on your Galapagos trip. This local insight ensures an authentic and enriching Galapagos experience.
WE ARE WOMEN -LED: CRAFTING EXCEPTIONAL LUXURY GALAPAGOS TOURS
Driven by our passion for our home and tireless ambition, we have dedicated our lives to creating experiences that exceed imagination. As a women-led company, we’ve surmounted every obstacle to deliver the best luxury Galapagos Adventures that truly showcase the magic of this archipelago. Our meticulous attention to detail ensures every aspect of your journey is flawlessly executed.
Why Golden Galapagos Cruises?
The scenery of the Galapagos Islands is one of the world’s greatest treasures. But what truly etches this place in your heart and the Galapagos trip in your mind is how you see it with us. The Golden touch is your private entrance to the exotic, a personal invitation into the mythical.
Our approach makes the natural beauty shine brighter, ensuring you’ll leave feeling fortunate to have witnessed it, forever connected to this world beyond imagination.
Why Golden Galapagos Cruises?
The scenery of the Galapagos Islands is one of the world’s greatest treasures. But what truly etches this place in your heart and the Galapagos trip in your mind is how you see it with us. The Golden touch is your private entrance to the exotic, a personal invitation into the mythical.
Our approach makes the natural beauty shine brighter, ensuring you’ll leave feeling fortunate to have witnessed it, forever connected to this world beyond imagination.
EXPERIENCES THE GOLDEN SIDE: LUXURY SUSTAINABLE EXPERIENCES
Our exceptional fleet offers luxury sustainable and distinctive cruise experiences, designed to take you beyond the surface. Delve into the inner workings of the Galapagos ecosystem during truly transformative expeditions. Whether you’re seeking a luxury Galapagos tour, a dedicated Galapagos expedition, or the best Galapagos cruise, Golden Galapagos delivers an unforgettable adventure.
WE ARE LOCALS: AUTHENTIC GALAPAGOS EXPERIENCE
Our deep connection to the Galapagos Islands sets us apart. With a 95% Galapagos-born crew, our expert guides bring you into their world from the inside. They share their unique perspective, helping you understand what you see and revealing hidden wonders you might otherwise miss on your Galapagos trip. This local insight ensures an authentic and enriching Galapagos experience.
WE ARE WOMEN -LED: CRAFTING EXCEPTIONAL LUXURY GALAPAGOS TOURS
Driven by our passion for our home and tireless ambition, we have dedicated our lives to creating experiences that exceed imagination. As a women-led company, we’ve surmounted every obstacle to deliver the best luxury Galapagos Adventures that truly showcase the magic of this archipelago. Our meticulous attention to detail ensures every aspect of your journey is flawlessly executed.
GUESTS’ AREAS
The best part of having is sharing
The best part of having is sharing. Living it for the first time through your unhinged awe and childlike wonder is what reminds us how lucky we are. Your curiosity, questions, observations, and experience inspire every decision we make. Our crew attention ratio, almost one-to-one, is another expression of our commitment to ensuring you have the best possible experience in our home.
lLeading the Way to Sustainability:
Carbon-Neutral Galapagos Cruises
Proud to be the first in the industry to achieve CO2 neutrality, Golden Galapagos is setting a new standard for responsible travel. With a robust commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and conserving the planet for future generations, travelers can feel good about their Galapagos vacation knowing they’re making a positive impact. Learn more about our commitment to sustainable luxury cruises in the Galapagos.
In 2023, we began our journey toward joining the global B Lab community, stating our permanent dedication to improvement, innovation, and accountability within a regenerative economic model.
After two years of rigorous assessment and measurable progress, Golden Experiences & Travel (GET) achieved B Corporation certification in September 2025. As part of GET, Golden Galapagos embraces this milestone as a reaffirmation of our purpose-driven approach to sustainable travel and responsible luxury.
Our Luxury Galapagos Cruise Fleet
Discover the Galapagos Islands and its remarkable sites and wildlife on board our luxury and sustainable catamarans. Each vessel offers a unique and intimate Galapagos cruise experience.
Endemic
6 EXPEDITIONS. DEPARTURES TUESDAY, THURSDAY AND SUNDAY.
Elite
4 EXPEDITIONS. DEPARTURES: TUESDAY AND SATURDAY.
Ocean Spray
6 EXPEDITIONS. DEPARTURES TUESDAY, THURSDAY AND SATURDAY.
Petrel
6 EXPEDITIONS. DEPARTURES MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY.
Monique
MAIDEN VOYAGE: APRIL 2ND, 2026
GRAND OCEAN SPRAY
MAIDEN VOYAGE: OCTOBER 3RD, 2026
Endemic
6 EXPEDITIONS. DEPARTURES TUESDAY, THURSDAY AND SUNDAY.
Elite
4 EXPEDITIONS. DEPARTURES: TUESDAY AND SATURDAY.
Ocean Spray
6 EXPEDITIONS. DEPARTURES TUESDAY, THURSDAY AND SATURDAY.
Petrel
6 EXPEDITIONS. DEPARTURES MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY.
Monique
MAIDEN VOYAGE: APRIL 2ND, 2026
GRAND OCEAN SPRAY
MAIDEN VOYAGE: OCTOBER 3RD, 2026
Inside infinity
GOLDEN IMMERSIONS
GALAPAGOS
GOING GOLDEN
OUR EXPEDITIONS
Our Galapagos expeditions feature curated routes by Golden Galapagos, promising amazing wildlife encounters with top naturalist guides, certified by the Galapagos National Park (GNP). We offer comprehensive Galapagos tours around the islands.
Golden Immersions
MAINSTREAM GALAPAGOS. 7 to 12 nights Galapagos Cruises
Off The Beaten Path
UNCONVENTIONAL GALAPAGOS. 5 to 10 nights Galapagos Cruises
Galapagos In Depth
LONG ROUTES, 7 TO 13 ISLANDS. 7 to 14 nights Galapagos Cruises
Galapagos in a glimpse
SHORT AND THRILLING ROUTES. 3 to 5 nights Galapagos Cruises
Golden Immersions
MAINSTREAM GALAPAGOS. 7 to 12 nights Galapagos Cruises
Off The Beaten Path
UNCONVENTIONAL GALAPAGOS. 5 to 10 nights Galapagos Cruises
Galapagos In Depth
LONG ROUTES, 7 TO 13 ISLANDS. 7 to 14 nights Galapagos Cruises
Galapagos in a glimpse
SHORT AND THRILLING ROUTES. 3 to 5 nights Galapagos Cruises
combine your experience
La Selva Eco Lodge
Located within Ecuador’s Yasuní Biosphere Reserve and the buffer area of the National Park — one of the most biodiverse areas of the planet — La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat was among the first Amazon rainforest lodges in Ecuador and today is still regarded as the premier eco-lodge in Ecuador’s Amazon basin.
Complement your Galapagos Cruise with Mainland Ecuador
Your adventure doesn’t have to end with your Galapagos cruise. Golden Galapagos provides luxurious and tailor-made extensions across mainland Ecuador, allowing you to explore the region’s cultural and natural highlights. Our custom tours improve your travel experience with single-day trips and multi-day adventures, including visits to historic cities, stunning landscapes, and rich traditions.
why our guests choose golden
EXCELLENT Based on 40 reviews Posted on Google Ben HagarTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fabulous experience aboard catamaran Elite for a a recent 7-night cruise. Boat was well designed and immaculate, crew went above and beyond in all respects, food was over the top. Our naturalist guide Javier added so much to our trip of a lifetime. We are already recommending Golden Galapagos, and Elite, to other friends considering a Galapagos trip.
Owner's reply
Hi Ben Hagar, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m thrilled to hear that you had a fabulous experience aboard the Elite and that our crew, along with Javier, made your trip unforgettable. Your recommendation means the world to us, and we can’t wait to welcome you and your friends back for another adventure in the Galapagos! Best regards, Ivonne Zumárraga Managing DirectorPosted on Google SEMTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was one of the best trips I've ever been on. It was really well organized and the staff couldn't have been friendlier and more accommodating to all the guests on board. There were activities planned throughout the day but we were also given plenty of downtime after lunch so we never felt exhausted. The snorkeling was just amazing! Reef, Galapagos and Hammerhead sharks, beautiful rays and turtles and playful sea lions thrilled us every outing. Our Naturalists, Javier, was incredibly knowledgeable and our crew leader Mike kept us organized and well cared for. The rooms were very comfortable and the food, especially the lunches! were tasty. There were 15 guests on this trip, all couples and singles, and we just all got on so well. It was a really great trip.
Owner's reply
Hi SEM, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m thrilled to hear that you had such an amazing trip with us. It’s great to know that you enjoyed the snorkeling and found our staff, especially Javier and Mike, to be friendly and accommodating. We strive to create a memorable experience for everyone, and it sounds like we hit the mark with you! We’d love to welcome you back for another adventure in the future. Thank you!Posted on Google Christine DelanyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Myself and my father went on the 7 night / 8 day itinerary A in February 2026 on the Ocean Spray. There are no words to describe how wonderful our entire experience was. From the moment we were met at Baltra airport, we felt completely cared for and in very safe hands. The entire crew were incredibly skilled at their jobs and obviously worked together as a very smooth team. They are predominantly from the Galapagos islands so many of them have grown up together. The result of this means you feel like you become a part of their family for your time on the boat! Our Naturalist guide was Carlos and as my father said repeatedly, he was exceptional. My father rarely uses that word to describe people so it's high praise indeed! Carlos really took his time and never rushed us through any activity. He seemed to be as excited as we were to see everything. He was generous in sharing both his knowledge and love for the Galapagos. We feel incredibly fortunate to have had him as our guide for the week. The itinerary was perfect. We felt like we got such a brilliant insight into the history and geography of the islands. This particular itinerary allows you to visit Fernandina, the youngest of the islands, and Espanola, one of the older islands. This allowed for us to see how the islands themselves evolve over the millennia. Activities were often modified to allow those with more mobility issues to do things too, for example if the planned walk was going to be over very uneven ground, a panga ride along the shore was offered as an alternative for those who would not feel comfortable on the walk. This meant that everyone onboard got to experience each place we visited. The boat itself in incredibly comfortable and spacious. The private balconies were an absolute treat for watching sunsets and sunrises, and for trying to soak it all in. The rooms all come with double beds but they can be separated in twin beds which is the option we had. I had concerns about sharing a small cabin with my father before arriving but all those concerns were gone as soon as we saw the room. So comfortable with space for both of us to unpack and not be under each other’s feet the whole time. There were so many small details which all came together to make this such a wonderful experience. From the superb and exciting meals served up by Chef Darwin and his team, to the hot towels after snorkelling, to the care and support given to me when I was seasick for a few days, it was honestly a week that I will never forget. The business is also women led, which I didn’t know before booking but now am very excited to have been able to support! A huge thank you to our Captain and crew for providing my father and I shared memories that we will forever treasure.
Owner's reply
Hi Christine Delany! 🌟 Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with us! I’m thrilled to hear that you and your father felt so cared for and connected to our crew and the beautiful Galapagos. It warms my heart to know that Carlos made such an impression—he's truly passionate about sharing the islands' magic! We can't wait to welcome you back for more unforgettable adventures in the future. Safe travels until then! Thank you! Warm regards, Ivonne Zumárraga Managing DirectorPosted on Google Amy Peck AbrahamTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. OMG! What an incredible experience to be aboard The Elite for a week for my 65th birthday. The yacht is as gorgeous in real life as the photos on the Golden Galapagos website. Vladimir Cruz, my “Golden Experience Designer” was always quick with a useful reply to my many questions; I’d never been on a cruise. Daily activities were tightly scheduled with all shore and water excursions led by our outstanding naturalist, Javier! The Elite crew members were all very kind and fun and helpful; shout out to Noemi who got me into my wetsuit daily! The food was DELICIOUS! Instead of more words to describe my great trip … I’ve got iPhone pictures to prove it!
Owner's reply
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Amy! I'm thrilled to hear you had such an incredible time celebrating your 65th birthday aboard The Elite. It warms my heart to know that Vladimir, Javier, and the entire crew made your experience special. And I love that Noemi helped you with your wetsuit—she’s a gem! 🎉 Your photos must be stunning; I hope they bring back all those amazing memories. We can’t wait to welcome you back for another adventure! 🌊 Warm regards, Ivonne Zumárraga Managing DirectorPosted on Google Kayla AndersonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had the most phenomenal time in Ecuador thanks to Golden Galapagos and it was hands down one of the most luxurious things we've ever done! We did 4 days at La Selva jungle lodge in the Amazon and 4 days on the Endemic boat in the Galapagos. From the very start when I sent an enquiry to saying goodbye at the airport we had such a wonderful experience thanks to the incredible service provided by everyone at Golden Galapagos & La Selva. Vlady was our account manager and made the booking process a breeze, all our transport was meticulously organised, the food over the whole trip was outstanding, all our guides were so knowledgeable and all the staff were so friendly and helpful. The accommodation was gorgeous and eco conscious and our itineraries were well planned with a good variety of things to do as well as down time for relaxing. We loved everything and highly recommend booking with Golden Galapagos.
Owner's reply
Hi Kayla Anderson! 😊 Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m thrilled to hear that you had such a phenomenal time in Ecuador and enjoyed both La Selva and the Endemic boat. It warms my heart to know that Vlady and our entire team made your experience memorable. We truly love what we do, and your kind words inspire us to keep providing top-notch service. We’d be delighted to welcome you back for more adventures in the future! Thank you!Posted on Google Ed AmbauenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Comunication prior to the trip was prompt and professional. The experience was more than I imagined, active and engaging. The crew was a perfect team effort and made us feel special. Vladimir and Golden Galapagos created a trip we will always remember. Choosing the best company with the best boats was well worth the extra expense. Don't miss this 7 night experience!!!
Owner's reply
Hi Ed Ambauen! 😊 Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m thrilled to hear that our communication and the entire experience exceeded your expectations. It’s great to know that Vladimir and the crew made you feel special—creating memorable moments is what we aim for! Your kind words about our team and boats mean a lot to us. We can’t wait to welcome you back for another adventure! Warmest regards, Ivonne Zumarraga Managing DirectorPosted on Google Samridhi GroverTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Awesome cruise with amazing staff. Truly a once in a lifetime experience.
Owner's reply
Hi Samridhi Grover! 😊 Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m thrilled to hear that you had an amazing time on your cruise with our staff. It truly means a lot to us to know we could provide you with such a memorable experience. We’d love to welcome you back for another adventure in the future! 🌊✨ Best regards, Ivonne Zumarraga Managing DirectorPosted on Google alberico morenoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Abbiamo fatto una crociera di 5 giorni con l'Endemic. Assolutamente favoloso. Tutto perfetto: le stanze, la pulizia, le escursioni, il cibo. L'attenzione dello staff è ottima, soprattutto per le persone anziane.
Owner's reply
Ciao Alberico, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! we're happy to hear that you had such a fabulous time on your cruise with us. It’s great to know that you enjoyed the rooms, excursions, and especially the attentive service from our staff. We truly aim to make everyone feel special, especially our seniors. We’d love to welcome you back for another adventure in the future! Best regardsPosted on Google Joel GoldbergTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We spent a week cruising the Galapagos on the Elite; it was an outstanding experience from booking to debarking. Here are some comments that may be useful to others: (1) Daniela did an excellent job answering questions and handling the booking. We made a couple of atypical requests concerning flights and entry permits, and found Golden Galapagos very accommodating. (2) The ship is best described as "understated". Nothing is fussy, fancy or overtly luxurious, but everything is user-friendly. Passenger cabins are huge and highly functional. (3) We avoid packaged tours and homogeneous groups, so were pleased to find that our fellow passengers included independent travelers from five countries, which made for some lively conversations. (4) A 16-passenger catamaran is not an ocean liner. There's significant engine noise while the ship repositions during the night (slightly less on the upper deck), and we rocked and rolled with the waves (slightly less on the lower deck). Earplugs and scopolamine patches are your friends if you're a light sleeper or susceptible to seasickness. (5) As older folks, we quickly realized this is a seriously active trip, and hustled to keep up with the daily schedule of hikes and snorkeling. A "moderate" activity level can translate to hiking several miles over uneven terrain. But it's fine to skip any activity and stay onboard if you want a break, and we wouldn't have swapped it for a less-strenuous experience. (6) The food was well-prepared and nicely varied on the whole, but don't expect a gourmet experience; we slogged through some tough steak and overcooked fish. The wine list needs a serious upgrade, and its pricing is a money grab. If you enjoy decent wines with dinner, consider BYO -- even with the corkage charge. (7) Yes, you'll see all the amazing critters and landscapes you expect to on a Galapagos trip. (8) Finally, the crew. They went out of their way to enhance our experience -- not in an obsequious manner, but highly competent, and helpful as needed. Our guide, David, was outstanding, but as the certified guides are independent contractors, you're unlikely to run across him.
Owner's reply
Dear Joel Goldberg, Thank you so much for your kind words and detailed feedback! We're glad to hear that you had such an outstanding experience on the Elite and that Daniela was able to assist you with your booking. It’s great to know you enjoyed the unique atmosphere of the catamaran and the lively conversations with fellow travelers. Your insights about the food and activity level are very helpful, and we appreciate your understanding of the nuances that come with such adventures.Posted on Google Sydney PriceTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A++ trip. We visited both the Ecuadorian Rainforest (La Selva Eco Lodge) and took a luxury boat trip to the Galapagos on the Endemic. Exceeded expectations on every level from transfers, to food and our naturalist guide experts. Highly recommend.
Owner's reply
Hi Sydney! 🌟 Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We love to hear that your trip to the Ecuadorian Rainforest and the Galapagos exceeded your expectations. Your kind words about our team and our experiences mean the world to us. We can’t wait to welcome you back in the future!