Share The LOVE How to Dive The Galapagos Diving in the Galapagos possibly ranks at the pinnacle of many diver’s must-dive wish lists. It has a solid reputation as one of the planet’s most unique locations and is home to many endemic species. In addition, it guarantees large, rare marine life encounters. To make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime dive trip, take some time and plan your trip carefully to ensure your safety and protect the fragile ecosystem of the islands. Feel free to ask us for help too. Here are a few guidelines to make your planning easier. How to Get There Located in the Pacific Ocean, The Galapagos islands are about 600 miles (965 kilometres) off the coast of Ecuador in South America. Here are the most common ways to get to the Galapagos: Choose your point of departure No direct flights to the Galapagos exist, so you must depart from Ecuador. Flight to Ecuador Arrange a flight to Ecuador. This can be done by transiting through the United States or several South American countries. For most countries, Ecuador issues a visa on arrival, but it pays to check your eligibility beforehand. Then by plane You can fly to the Galapagos Islands from Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador. There are two airports in the Galapagos: Seymour Airport (GPS) on Baltra Island and San Cristobal Airport (SCY) on San Cristobal Island. Several airlines offer flights to the Galapagos, including LATAM, Avianca, Tame, and Aeroregional. By ferry There are ships between Ecuador and the Galapagos, but these can take up to three days and are usually cargo-type ships. We highly recommend taking the flight, and several liveaboard operators can offer discounted rates on the air tickets. Where Should You Stay For Your Galapagos Dive Trip? Even given the remoteness of the Galapagos, you still have both the options of a dive liveaboard or a dive resort. Unlike incredible destinations such as Socorro or areas of Indonesia, you can still find your scuba holiday in a Galapagos dive resort. Consider A Liveaboard That said, we recommend a liveaboard if possible. A dive liveaboard in the Galapagos will allow greater dive times and location flexibility. A great liveaboard will have an itinerary that gets you to the best spots at the best time to dive and will have a highly experienced crew that understands the area thoroughly. The travel time to further off dive sites will be lessened for your comfort, and you can get more dives out of your dive day. The Best Dive Liveaboards In The Galapagos Here are some of the best dive liveaboards in the Galapagos that Infinite Blue works with and highly recommends. These are vessels that cater for divers full-time; there other others that divide their itineraries between naturalist cruises and dive itineraries. But you are here for the diving. The Galapagos Master The Galapagos Master is a luxury liveaboard that offers 7 to 10-day diving cruises in the Galapagos Islands. The boat has spacious cabins, a large salon, and a sundeck. The diving itinerary includes some of the best dive sites in the Galapagos, including Wolf and Darwin islands. Built for speed and stability, the Galapagos Master exceeds safety requirements and has all the necessary environmental certifications for diving in the islands. The Humboldt Explorer The Humboldt Explorer is a dependable liveaboard with a highly experienced crew offering 7 to 10-day diving cruises in the Galapagos Islands. The boat has comfortable cabins, a spacious lounge, and a sundeck with a Jacuzzi. The diving itinerary includes some of the best dive sites in the Galapagos, including the Wolf and Darwin islands. The Humboldt Explorer has been carrying divers safely to one of the most exhilarating dive destinations on the planet for over a decade. The Tiburon Explorer The Tiburon, sister ship to the Humboldt Explorer, finished construction in 2020, ready to take discerning divers on the dive trip of a lifetime. This 38-meter-long steel-hulled mono hull has been constructed with divers in mind and sets a new standard of comfort, safety, and luxury in the Galapagos. The Explorer Fleet is the first to have been approved by Green Fins for sustainable dive and boat practices, so you can be assured the Tiburon and crew take their environmental responsibilities seriously. The M/Y Galaxy Diver The Galaxy Diver is a steel-hulled vessel that has been completely rebuilt and renovated to accommodate up to 12 divers in comfortable cabins. The very experienced and attentive crew have extensive knowledge of the area and will take you diving in the most precious of sites of the Galapagos Islands. The Galaxy Diver offers 7-night, specially curated dive itineraries. The Galapagos Agressor III Part of the world-renowned Aggressor Fleet, this liveaboard meets all the expected exacting standards you come to know and love. Purpose-built for dive cruises, the 30 m-long steel-hulled ship provides a luxurious platform for up to 16 divers. The Galapagos Agressor III specializes in 7-night dive itineraries. For more information and help on arranging your Galapagos liveaboard, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. The Best Dive Sites in The Galapagos The Galapagos Islands are known for their incredible marine biodiversity and striking geological formations, making them a premier dive destination. Here are some of our top dive sites in the Galapagos: Wolf Island One of the top dive sites in the north Galapagos, known for its abundance of large marine life, including schools of hammerhead, Galapagos, and whale sharks. Darwin Arch Another world-renowned dive site in the Galapagos that offers the chance to see large schools of hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and manta rays. Gordon Rocks This is a popular dive site for experienced divers due to its strong currents and deep waters. It’s known for its abundance of hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, eagle rays, and sea turtles. Cousin’s Rock A must-visit site for macro photography enthusiasts, with abundant small marine life, including seahorses, nudibranchs, and octopuses. Punta Vicente Roca Well known for its dramatic underwater landscape, including a wall covered in colourful soft corals and sponges. It’s also a great spot to see marine iguanas and penguins. Cabo Douglas This dive site is located on the western side of Fernandina Island and is known for its large schools of hammerhead sharks and Galapagos sharks, sea turtles, and eagle rays. Pinnacle Rock Located in Bartolomé Island, and is famous for its unique underwater landscape, including a towering rock formation covered in coral and sponge gardens. It’s also a great spot to see penguins, sea lions, and reef fish. These are just a few of the best dive sites in the Galapagos Islands. The islands offer a diverse range of stunning dive spots with unique marine life and underwater landscapes. Where to Eat in The Galapagos? The Galapagos are remote and ecologically sensitive, meaning ingredients can be difficult to source, and in many instances, you will be unable to carry your own food. There are, however, several options for plant-based eating on the islands. If you are staying in a dive resort, you must communicate your dietary needs to your hosts, and we recommend keeping up a constant dialogue to ensure you are catered for. The availability of plant-based food on a liveaboard can vary, but we help you work with the operator to ensure your preferences are well taken care of. There are several options for plant-based eating on the islands. Here are a few suggestions: Santa Cruz Island One of the main islands for departing dive cruises where most divers will spend some time. Look out for the Ukku Acai Bar for acai bowls, smoothies and juices. The Galapagos Deli has vegan options and vegan ice cream! You can also pick up vegan snacks at the main supermarket for your dive trip. Isabela The largest island in the Galapagos is also home to some great vegan options along the sandy main road. Keep an eye open for Booby trap which many people rate as the best restaurant in the Galapagos and provide some great vegan food. Also, Shwarma Hot have some plant-based items available. San Cristobal This is the other main island for dive liveaboard departure and the political centre of the Galapagos. Consider visiting Calypso for vegan pizza or Muyu, a pilot programme of the Galapagos Foundation. Muyu specializes in utilising all locally sourced or foraged organic ingredients lessening carbon emissions and supporting local livelihoods. It can be a little tricky making sure your diver’s dietary preferences are well catered for in the Galapagos, but with a bit of planning, you can do it, and don’t be afraid to give us a shout for help. What next? The Galapagos islands will stand to be one of the best dive destination decisions you have made in your life; it can take a little planning and knowledge to make it work just right, but don’t let that stop you. If you need some advice, Infinite Blue are here to help. Written By: Brett Robertson (Diver and Vegan) PADI Platinum Course Director | Dive educator | Dive resort and liveaboard owner | Vegan advocate for conservation projects and plant-based lifestyles, and a burgeoning serial runner. See author's posts
