Recommendations for Galapagos islands tours
 

Hi,
I am considering opting for the Galapagos Islands tour (www.galapagosislands.com)
First class boat just under $,4000 USD.
Are there any better options, both in terms of experience & price out there?

Thanks very much !

We used Galapagos Travel on a 15 day trip and loved it. There were only 16 passengers on the boat...Tip Top IV. We had small cabins, but were never in them. Saw lots of islands...did lots of hiking, snorkeling, and riding in pangas (rubber rafts) to see the shoreline. I can't recommend them highly enough.

Hello m_raje!

Each boat has a standard Galapagos National Park approved itinerary but time spent at each site will depend on environmental variables such as wildlife and weather. Any adjustments will be decided upon by your captain. On most boats, space in cabins is restricted – this is particularly true of motor sail-boats. If you are used to normal cruise ships then you are likely to find Galapagos cruise boats/ships relatively basic. Cabins near the engine rooms/propeller shafts will suffer most from noise.
We always suggest our clients doing a 7 night trip if possible, to get as much exposure to the wildlife of the Galapagos. However, some 4 night itinerary are good (as the Anahi one). In any case, you must choose an operator very carefully to ensure that all National Park rules are being strictly observed.

Cheers,

Laurent

Thanks guys ! Much appreciated.
Yes - we are planning on doing the 8 day / 7 night tour too and can't wait !

Have a nice trip and let us know more about your experience you've had when you're back! :)

Laurent

Hi m_raje
The Tip Top is an Ecuadorian run fleet. Not just Ecuadorian but Galapagueño! Rolf Wittmer, the founder of this fleet, is the son of of one of the original settlers of the islands, Margret Wittmer, who lived on Floreana from the early 1930s until her death around 2000. Margret wrote a book about their experiences getting started on Floreana; you can probably find it at a public library or at a used-book seller. There is a copy in the library on the boats. We consider that 30 years in the market and tradition are important facts to take in consideration when you are planning a once in a lifetime trip, enjoy the Galápagos!!!!