Why Galapagos?

Galapagos Cruise: A Unique and Unforgettable Experience

Galapagos Islands: Where Adventure Meets Nature

Over 485 years ago, in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, a one-of-a-kind paradise was discovered: the Galapagos Islands.

Today, this iconic archipelago is recognized as one of the most astonishing places on Earth — a destination where science, evolution, and magic beautifully converge. Exploring its breathtaking landscapes aboard a luxury Galapagos cruise is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering travelers the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. The archipelago’s unique geological formation and rich biodiversity have created an ecosystem that continues to amaze both explorers and scientists alike. Sailing on a Galapagos Islands cruise or embarking on a private Galapagos tour allows visitors to encounter endemic species up close and discover volcanic landscapes found nowhere else in the world.

Darwin’s Inspiration in the Galapagos Islands

The extraordinary variety of species across the Galapagos Islands — and the contrasts Charles Darwin observed between them and their mainland relatives — sparked the groundbreaking theory of evolution by natural selection.

UNESCO World Heritage Site (1978)

Located 1,000 km off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands remain one of the most extraordinary ecosystems on Earth. Their extreme isolation, the convergence of powerful ocean currents, and unique geography have created a natural world unlike any other.

Galapagos Islands Biosphere Reserve

Declared a Biosphere Reserve in 1984, the archipelago’s volcanic origins and isolated climate have given rise to an ecosystem unlike any other. With scarce rainfall, low humidity, and cooler waters, the Galapagos nurture a remarkable diversity of species.

Discover and Explore Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands’ volcanic origins, remote location, and extraordinary wildlife have given rise to a true natural wonder — an exotic ecosystem found nowhere else on Earth. Recognized worldwide for its uniqueness, the archipelago offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the most fascinating destinations on the planet.

Discover and Explore Galapagos

Darwin’s Inspiration in the Galapagos Islands

UNESCO World Heritage Site (1978)

Galapagos Islands Biosphere Reserve

why our guests choose golden

    Excellent4.9186 reviews
 4.9
 Excellent186 reviews
 
 
 
    
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Helen MacPhee 
 4 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A week on Endemic.  Absolutely fantastic.  Everything excellent and thoroughly enjoyable.  Strongly recommend as a lifetime experience. Thank you to everyone who made it possible.  Special shout out to Andreas, Jefferson, Enriquez and Katarina ( spelling?!?) who were truly exceptional.  Strongly recommended to anyone who has found this site!
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Helen M 
 4 days ago
 
 
 Verified An exceptional experience
We spent 5 days with the Endemic. The weather was not perfect - but everything else was. I cannot recommend this team highly enough. Knowledge, humour, food, company ( but I suspect we were lucky with our 14 fellow passengers). Wildlife unbelievable, cabin beautiful, not sure we will ever top it. Special shout out to Andreas, Jefferson, Enriquez and katarina who looked after the cabins(I apologise if I have the names slightly wrong - MY bad): I have no idea how they kept us so well chaperoned, comfortable and frankly entertained. Awesome and a forever memory.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Bhavik S 
 6 days ago
 
 
 Verified Amazing!
Top of the line on all aspects. Service, small group, amazing staff. Felt pampered all the way through
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Jo B 
 38 days ago
 
 
 Verified Perfect
Everything was perfect could not find a thing to fault. From the hot towels and hot chocolate when we returned from snorkelling, to the three services per day of the ‘cabins’ (which are the size of hotel rooms with floor to ceiling windows and private balconies) this is the cruise ship to pick if you can. Carlos is an amazing guide and clearly made sure that we had maximum time on every excursion to enjoy the walks, the wildlife and the water — we saw groups from other ships come and go while we were still there numerous times. The whole crew are amazing and the chef must be a magician to produce the meals we had on a ship. This is a Galapagos owned, women led company with an all - Galapagos crew. I booked the single cabin and was upgraded to a double, also unexpected and wonderful. Everyone on the ship was as happy as I was.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Joshua L 
 44 days ago
 
 
 Verified The best travel experience of my lifetime!
I have traveled to many countries over the past 30 years and had many incredible experiences, but without question, this was the very best travel experience of my life. From the moment of our first panga ride from the pier in San Cristobal, every expectation was surpassed. The crew of the luxury ship, M/C Elite were ready to meet our every need while also ensuring our safety every step of the way! From our Cruise Director Roberto's attention to every detail, to the fantastic drinks and service from bartender Raimi, and the non stop 5-Star food prepped by Chef Bolivar and his amazing sous chef, as well as Justin and all the other sailors and the Captain who all treated us with great respect and ensured that every minute amounted to the trip of a lifetime. And of course, I must sing the praises of our amazing Naturalist Guide, Carlos Palma. Not only is he a vast wealth of knowledge about everything the Galapagos has to offer, but he also kept us safe during island excursions and made sure we respected the islands and the magnificent wildlife that brings so many people to the wonderful Galapagos. I hope we return to Galapagos one day and if we are able to, we will certainly be back aboard the M/C Elite! Many thanks to the entire crew!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Chris Steinmetz 
 48 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +13
Sailing through the Galapagos aboard the MONIQUE was the perfect combination of luxury, adventure, and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experiences. From the moment we stepped aboard, we knew this was going to be an extraordinary trip.

The yacht was stunning, with spacious rooms and beautifully designed public areas that were both elegant and exceptionally comfortable. The food was spectacular, the service was first-class, and each day brought a new adventure exploring the remarkable islands and wildlife of the Galapagos.

A special thank you to Walter, our naturalist, whose knowledge, enthusiasm, and passion made every excursion fascinating, and to Ramiro, our bartender, for his outstanding service and hospitality.

My family loved every minute of the experience. Golden Galapagos delivered an unforgettable journey that blended adventure, discovery, and luxury perfectly.

Absolutely worth the investment. We would enthusiastically cruise with Golden Galapagos again!
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Florida Chris 
 49 days ago
 
 
 Verified What an incredible experience aboard the MONIQUE in the Galapagos
Our 4-day cruise aboard the MONIQUE luxury yacht through the Galapagos Islands was truly an unforgettable experience and exceeded our expectations in every way. The yacht itself was absolutely beautiful and genuinely luxurious. Our rooms were remarkably spacious, beautifully appointed, and extremely comfortable. The public areas were equally impressive — thoughtfully designed, well structured, and perfect for relaxing between excursions while enjoying the incredible scenery of the Galapagos. The staff was exceptional throughout the entire cruise. Everyone was warm, professional, attentive, and clearly committed to making the experience special for every guest. The food was spectacular, with outstanding meals served throughout the trip, and the daily excursions were fascinating, well organized, and one of the highlights of our entire South American journey. A very special thank you to Walter, our naturalist, whose knowledge, enthusiasm, and passion for the Galapagos made each excursion incredibly interesting and memorable. We would also like to recognize Ramiro, our bartender, for his wonderful service, personality, and hospitality throughout the cruise. My entire family truly enjoyed every aspect of the experience. Golden Galapagos delivered a first-class combination of luxury, service, adventure, wildlife, and unforgettable scenery. We would absolutely travel with Golden Galapagos again and would highly recommend the MONIQUE to anyone considering a luxury Galapagos cruise. It is definitely worth the investment — both for the quality of the experience and for the memories you take home with you. An exceptional experience from beginning to end! I can also make this a little shorter and punchier for a Google review while keeping this longer version for TripAdvisor.
  
 
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   Terri from Honolulu 
 64 days ago
 
 
 Verified Loved the Elite Golden Galapagos trip!
We were on the Elite ship for 7 nights & it was fabulous. All the Galapagonians running the ship, including our guide Morris & cruise director Roberto, were knowledgeable, kind, and paid meticulous attention to us. When I got seasick, they provided a seasick pill that works better than Dramamin - problem solved. I have a walking handicap & crew member Andreas accompanied me on all walks. The rooms are huge and have an outside lanai, which we frequently enjoyed. The top deck for views ir lounging was great too. The food was absolutely delicious & dinners (with main entree options each night) were beautifully plated. Snorkeling was spectacular too & we had full faith in Morris & the crew for all activities. I'm looking forward to doing other Galapagos routes with them. The only improvements I can think of were that it would have been helpful to have a safety bar in the bathroom by the sink/toilet. There were 2 in the shower itself. And, they do not offer a laundry service, which we would have been happy to pay for. Definitely a 5 star experience. Our thanks to the entire crew!
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sunil C 
 74 days ago
 
 
 Verified Fabulous experience in Galapagos
Great experience on the Elite - we loved the Galapagos and would highly recommend this trip
  
 
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   laficoco 
 85 days ago
 
 
 Verified Unforgettable cruise - simply great!
We spent 4 nights on the Ocean Spray catamaran and it was without a doubt an unforgettable adventure. From the first to the last minute, we were perfectly taken care of, and the personal contact with the crew was excellent. All crew members were super friendly and on hand with a smile in every situation. True professionals are at work here, because safety and comfort are taken very seriously: whether it is snorkeling or a shore excursion, the equipment and dinghies are in top condition. Our cabin was super spacious and our small private balcony was especially great. The common areas also offered enough space for all passengers. Together with our nature guide Rafa, we were able to explore various uninhabited islands on foot. Respect for nature and the animals was very important at all times. This also applied during the daily snorkeling trips. Rafa's knowledge about the natural diversity of the Galapagos Islands was truly enormous! Certainly also worth mentioning was the food. All meals were very hearty and super delicious. Big praise for the entire crew! I would book another stay on the Ocean Spray at any time!
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   stanford_susie 
 90 days ago
 
 
 Verified Expensive but worth every penny
Amazing experience- from being escorted through the airport to transportation to the boat, and of course the stunning experiences on each of the islands visited. Expensive but worth every penny couldn’t recommend enough.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   HodgygarraX 
 92 days ago
 
 
 Verified Ocean Spray
We had a wonderful trip on the Ocean Spray. The staff and service were fantastic. Accommodation spacious, food delicious and the guide was very knowledgeable. Highly recommend this tour
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Laura T 
 101 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +1
Our extended family of 8 traveled to the Galápagos Islands by way of the Ocean Spray. The level of quality, attentiveness, and care from the entire crew was beyond anything we could have hoped for. Enyo, Estefy, and the entire Ocean Spray crew was so thoughtful. Our naturalist, Carlos, was truly amazing and incredibly knowledgeable. We could not have asked for a better experience in the Galapagos! We are already talking about returning to do the other half of the islands. Would use Golden Galapagos, and more specifically the Ocean Spray crew, again without hesitation!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Megan Golden 
 115 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We just returned from an incredible 4-day trip on the Ocean Spray. Everything was perfect. Beautiful scenery, comfortable rooms, fun activities, excellent food, and a staff that went above and beyond. I have a severe food allergy and the chef and cruise coordinator worked very hard to make sure I was safe. I would recommend this trip to anyone!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lee White 
 132 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Golden Galapagos did a great job with our back to back Galapagos itineraries (two weeks).  From our excellent booking agent (Dani), to a very high service boat crew (they were all awesome), and two great guides, it was a very well done trip and we were comfortable and taken care of the whole way.  And saw gazillions of animals and fish.  Great experience.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Stefanie Sigal 
 137 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Would highly recommend Vladimir at Golden Galapagos.  He was terrific and helped with every detail.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Barbara Prinz 
 152 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. An unforgettable week in paradise!

The dream destination Galápagos has found its absolute perfection with GoldenGalapagosCruises. Already during the preparation, Vladimir Cruz proved to be the perfect travel designer: He was always responsive, immediately delivered top solutions, acted extremely forward-looking and increased our anticipation to the maximum.

The M/C Elite is a luxury catamaran that leaves nothing to be desired. Especially the large suites are extremely pleasant and bright. The service on board is also impeccable and the culinary experience is at a very high level. The crew conveys a wonderful, family feeling - without exception, everyone on board works highly professionally.

The activities under and on the water as well as on land are first-class selected; idle is not an option here. Morris Garcia in particular has completely inspired us with his deep expertise, the tangible enthusiasm for his homeland and his tireless drive to get the most out of every excursion.

If you are planning a trip to the Galápagos Islands and want to make this dream destination an unforgettable experience, there is hardly an alternative to Golden Galapagos Cruises.

THANK YOU for an unforgettable week in paradise!

For more: Instagram
@barbara_zzi_ontour
#galapagos
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lee White 
 157 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We did two weeks on the Elite in Galapagos. We had excellent service during booking, prep, and travel arrangements. All logistics were done very well.... And the crew on the boat and both guides were fantastic. I highly recommend Golden Galapagos. Really excellent performance on all accounts.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ben Hagar 
 211 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +4
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.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   SEM 
 226 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex 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.