I never imagined four days could feel like two weeks… in the best possible way. Today, I’ll try to put into words what I lived in the Galapagos aboard a cruise. It’s not easy—when nature shakes your soul, words fall short—but I want to try, because I hope you get to experience it too, someday.
I had been to the Galapagos before, but this time we decided to do it differently: we wanted to discover new islands, go farther, see what we hadn’t seen yet. That’s why we chose to explore it by sea. And it was, without a doubt, the best decision we could’ve made.
The beginning of the adventure: From Baltra to the boat
It all started in Baltra, one of the gateways to the archipelago. From the very first moment, everything was perfectly organized: we were greeted with wide smiles, life jackets ready, and clear directions. A short ride on a small boat took us to the ship.
Excitement was in the air. There was something lovely about not knowing yet which cabin would be ours—it felt like the adventure began with a touch of suspense. We got one with a private balcony: cozy and perfect for gazing out at the sea.
Once onboard, the cruise became a floating community. We were divided into small groups of about 10 people, each named after a typical Galapagos animal. I was part of the “Albatross” group. From then on, everything settled into a wonderful rhythm:
waking up to the soft sound of the loudspeaker announcing the next excursion, breakfast with an ocean view, and heading out to a new island that looked like something from another planet.
Islands straight out of a documentary
Each landing felt like a small miracle. Sometimes we stepped onto dry land, other times we got our feet wet, but we always discovered something new: blue-footed boobies with their chicks, sleepy sea lions, iguanas that looked like dinosaurs. On one of the islands, a cloud of birds flying over us created such a surreal moment—it felt like a scene from an animated movie. But no—it was Galapagos, no filter needed.
There were hikes, snorkeling sessions, moments of silence and wonder. And the best part: the guides are incredible. Each group has one guide who stays with you for the entire journey, so you end up forming a kind of mini family. They take care of you, get to know what you like, and are always ready to share stories, reveal each island’s secrets, and even help you get the best photos (yes, even that!).
Life onboard: Rest, connection, and simple pleasures
Between excursions, the boat spoiled us. Warm snacks, fresh juices, coffee always available, bubbling jacuzzi, sunrise yoga classes, themed nights with Ecuadorian food and “paila” ice cream. They even held photo contests—one was won by a little boy, and we all clapped like he was our nephew.
There was no internet. And while that might sound intense, it was a gift. We disconnected from the world to reconnect with ourselves, with nature, and with that small community that already felt like a family.
At every meal, we shared a table with other passengers. We were paired with a lovely Ecuadorian family. Even though many people were from different countries, the atmosphere was so warm that conversations flowed, laughter echoed, and real
connections were made.
Sleeping while sailing, waking up in a new world
Each night, while we slept, the boat sailed to a new island. You’d open your eyes in the morning and the scenery had changed.
And the best part: you choose how to experience it. If you wanted to join every activity on the itinerary—great! But if you preferred to read in the library, float in the jacuzzi, or watch dolphins from the deck, that was just as perfect. Everything was valid. Everything added to the experience.
Is it worth exploring the Galapagos by cruise?
Yes. A thousand times yes. Experiencing it by cruise lets you discover its essence in a deep, smooth, intimate way—with respect, awe, and an organization that makes you feel safe, joyful, and fully connected.
Today, if I close my eyes, I’m back on that island full of boobies, at that moment when our guide asked for silence so we could hear the sea and the birds, and I feel again that sensation of being part of something so much greater than myself.
After this journey, I understand why everyone says the Galapagos is different every time you visit. It doesn’t matter how often you come—there’s always something new to discover.
So, if you ever dream of this place, consider it: get on a boat, put your phone away, and let nature show you it’s very best.
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