Introduction
The Galapagos Archipelago consists of 13 major
islands, 17 smaller islands and more than 40 rocks covering an area of 3100
square miles. 90% of the land surface and the entire ocean area are
incorporated into the Galapagos National Park. Within the National Park there
are 54 landing sites, the only locations travelers are permitted to visit
within the park. Each cruise calls on a selection of these visitor sites in a
pre-determined itinerary authorized by the National Park Service. Each
itinerary is coordinated allowing our guests a unique island experience while
minimizing the effect of tourism on the islands.
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Cruising in the Galapagos
Islands
Designing your perfect cruise is best started by
selecting a boat, or a couple of boats, that meets your needs. We will confirm
availability and begin creating your the vacation of a lifetime. Everyone at
Absolute Adventure Travel is ready to provide you the support you need to make
your Galapagos Cruise a dream come true.
Selecting the perfect Galapagos Yacht or Cruise Ship
to complete your dream adventure can be simple. By providing you the
specifications and itineraries, you can now make well-informed choices. The
most common cruise length is 8 days/7 nights though if you have time
constraints some boats offer 4 day/3 night or 5 day/4 night options.
Absolute Adventure Travel guides you through what to
expect during your tour of the islands. We help navigate through the
information to making the perfect choice. Your needs are our first concern
whether you are traveling with children, have limited time, or have a special
diet.
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How long can you travel for?
The majority of Galapagos Island cruises are either 5
or 7 nights. Additionally you will need at least one more night to travel from
the USA to Ecuador and ideally you will add a second night in Quito before your
cruise departs to avoid problems in the event your flights are delayed. The
majority of flights arrive in Quito late evening and depart for the USA late
night. A realistic time for your cruise, including travel from and back to the
USA will be 8 nights total for a 5 night cruise and 10 nights total for a 7
night cruise.
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What is your budget?
We offer cruises on the very best vessels cruising the
Galapagos Islands. The price will vary between vessels, time of year, and
whether you are booking a cabin for yourself or chartering an entire vessel. In
addition to the cost of the cruise you will also have the cost of your flight
from the USA, two nights in a Quito hotel, your flight from Quito to the
Galapagos Islands and return, Galapagos Islands tax (currently US$100 per
quest). A cruise package, excluding your flight from the USA, might run from
around US$2,400 per person to US$3,800 per person depending on the vessel
chosen and the length of cruise.
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Year Round Destination
The Galápagos Islands are located on the
equator and it is a true year-round destination with seasonal temperatures
varying only slightly. The best time to visit is really up to the demands of
your schedule.
The Galapagos Archipelago has a sub-tropical climate,
allowing cruises to operate on a year round basis. Temperatures are determined
almost entirely by the ocean currents that are influenced by the trade
winds.
Generally, December to May is warm and sunny. The sea
is at its warmest and is usually calmer at this time of year.
June to November is cool and breezy. Use the
temperature chart below to plan your Galapagos vacation! Temperatures are shown
in Fahrenheit.
|
Temperatures |
JAN |
FEB |
MAR |
APR |
MAY |
JUN |
JUL |
AUG |
SEP |
OCT |
NOV |
DEC |
|
Max. Air Temp. |
84 |
86 |
88 |
86 |
82 |
78 |
76 |
74 |
76 |
77 |
78 |
80 |
|
Min. Air Temp. |
70 |
74 |
74 |
72 |
72 |
68 |
66 |
64 |
62 |
64 |
66 |
68 |
|
Avg. Sea Temp. |
74 |
76 |
76 |
76 |
74 |
74 |
72 |
66 |
68 |
70 |
72 |
74 |
|
Avg. Rainfall (in.) |
1 |
1 |
2 |
1.5 |
0.75 |
0.25 |
0.5 |
0.25 |
0.5 |
0.25 |
0.5 |
0.5 |
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Your Vessel Options:
There are many boats that offer cruises around the
Galapagos Islands - from huge cruise liners carrying hundreds of passengers to
small sailing boats and motor yachts catering to small groups of eight or ten
guests.
We have sought out those owners that offer first class
and luxurious vessels that accommodate ten to fifty guests. Those vessels that
look after our guests with first class service, top quality food, highly
educated, English speaking guides and first rate safety.
