Have been dealing with Galapagosonline. Any comments on this company? Am interested in staying at Finch Bay Hotel for 4 nights, open to comments, as well since I can't get a response from them online.

Is that instead of a cruise? Assume you realize Finch Bay Hotel is a water taxi drive in/out of Puerto Ayora?

Was down there last fall www.guanguiltagua.com

[email protected] got me great discounts

everywhere great local operator yours not so much

complaints on the boards foreign expat owned many

scammers down there.

Per Elizabeth Cruise is best I like the Eric Flamingo Lety

cruises best with discounts or short cruises can be booked

on Seaman II and Galaven from $750 for 4 days bout what

Finch will cost you not anywhere near as good as cruise.

But good discounts with www.guanguiltagua.com and EXCELLENT

response to my E mails unlike many others...

land-based tours are very comfortable and you can transfer to different islands on the public boats (2 pm) You have to have licensed guide to get in to areas of the national park

Be sure to visit Kioska street in Puerto Ayora, in the evening for the best local sea food. Check out "Williams" restaurant, about half way down the street.

I would expect replies from operators within 24 hours.

Finch Bay is a good choice if you are seeking a land tour. If you are considering a cruise, best to talk to an expert. Itinerary changes from the Galapagos National Park have made things more complicated (even boat tours from Finch Bay are affected). If an agency does not respond within 24 hours be wary. Here is a handy guide on How to Choose Your Galapagos Cruise. http://www.adventuresmithexploration....php/advid/373

Galapagosonline offers many tour options, not only hotel-based, so should provide you with a variety of options. I personally like cruises best, but if you have the time and money, then a cruise first and a few days on land are a great way to experience the islands, as well as the local culture.
It is important that you feel comfortable with the company you book with, as they will be the ones in charge of your holiday of a lifetime!!!!
Good luck!

Would love to do the cruise but my man-friend is 6'6" szo was concerned about beds on these boats. Going in Oct.

The boat we were on had full size beds - no different than a hotel.

http://www.eclipse.com.ec/

(and I'm 6 feet)

Our family has booked a trip for Oct. with Friendly Planet Tours where we will stay at the Mango Adventure lodges on 3 islands. Looking forward to it. Has anyone done this?

heyjude2919 - do you mean Mangrove lodges?

Gosh yes, I must have been typing fast. Thnaks.