The Galapagos Islands are a unique destionation where wildlife does not fear humans. This is not something new to many people. It is a bucketlist trip for nature fans and in current times it is one of the top destinations open for visitors from around the globe.
For travelers looking to be away from it all and explore the more remote areas of the Galapagos archipelago, we recommend embarking on a liveaboard cruise heading to the western side of Isabela island and Fernandina.
This area of the Galapagos Islands can only be reached on an expedition style cruise. Yachts and small ships that visit this area of the famous archipelago are usually more robust and have better stamina, meaning they will be more in the high end category.
Why the west island area of the Galapagos Islands is special?
Any area of the this enchanted archipelago you decide to visit will be special and unique, yet the western islands of the Galápagos carry a special charm due to being so secluded and one of the less visited corners of this nature prodigy.
Here are some reasons to go west:
- It cannot be accessible on a day tour
- It is the only place where you can spot the flightless cormorant
- You have the possibility of seeing tropical penguins (even swimming with them)
- The boat will cross the Bolivar channel which is one of the most marine life rich areas of the islands
- Marine iguanas and other endemic creatures strive due to the richer nutrients of the area, quantities of animals is higher
- Most likely you will be the only boat in the bay at times giving you and your group the ultimate privacy
- Snorkeling is amazing as you will be floating alongside turtles, sea lions, manta rays, penguins, flightless cormorants, marine iguanas and reef sharks amongst other creatures
How long are the itineraries to this area of Galapagos?
The western island itineraries usually are 4 night / 5 day routes or longer. Here are some sample routes from several yachts that are featured by Voyagers Travel:
8 days cruise - https://www.voyagers.travel/galapagos/itineraries/cruise-itineraries/northern-southern-island-galapagos-catamaran-cruise-seaman
7 days cruise - https://www.voyagers.travel/galapagos/itineraries/cruise-itineraries/bonita-yacht-7-days-itinerary
6 days cruise - https://www.voyagers.travel/galapagos/itineraries/cruise-itineraries/itinerary-b-alya
5 days cruise - https://www.voyagers.travel/galapagos/itineraries/cruise-itineraries/deluxe-western-islands-cruise-large-ship-voyage
Is it possible to charter our own yacht for our group?
Yes, it is possible and it carries several advantages:
- The itinerary can be customized.
- Your group has privacy and can hold special lectures and motivation activities
- It will save you money, the per person price for Galapagos cruise trips is lower when you book a yacht charter
- You can customize the food
- Set your visitor times, if you are keen on nature program early days with your guide, otherwise you can plan to sleep in... (but why would you sleep in if you are in Galapagos?)
For more details on organizing a Galapagos yacht charter check out guide: https://www.voyagers.travel/galapagos/galapagos-private-charters
All programs in the Galapagos islands can be customized and combined in order to offer a full travel option to Ecuador and the islands. Feel free to contact Voyagers Travel to request a bespoke program.