Choosing your boat
Choosing your boat in the Galapagos is key to your enjoyment of the islands and as ever there is a choice to be made. The choice often depends on the state of your sea legs!
To begin with the Galapagos boats are divided into two categories, either cruise ships or smaller boats.
Cruise Ships
Cruise ships have a capacity of up to about 100 passengers and with much more communal space in general, they are more stable in the water. If steps are a challenge or indeed is climbing into upper bunk beds then this may be a better option for you. The cruise ships tend to have better on board facilities and larger cabins.
The main down-side of the large cruise ships is landing on the islands in such large numbers, even though they do use small boats for landings, congestion is, to an extent inevitable. With larger common areas there can be an increased number of social activities in the evening.
Smaller Boats
Smaller boats, in general, hold anywhere from 8 to 40 passengers;
There are 3 standards of small boat cruising around the
Luxury boats usually have two lower berths and are en-suite. They have more space and are much more comfortable overall. You will be cruising in style!
First Class boats may have upper and lower berths and the quality is usually of a good standard. Private shower and toilet are guaranteed. Still cruising in style!
Tourist boats generally have twin berths, upper and lower only, and often, but not always, with private facilities. Space is more limited in these boats and you will almost certainly have to climb vertical steps to move from one deck to another.
Sea sickness
If you or fellow passengers are prone to sea-sickness, then suddenly having private bathroom facilities becomes a number one priority. Bear this in mind when choosing your vessel.
To sail or not to sail….
Whilst sailing in the Galapagos is a romantic notion, the islands are not really known for their high winds. If you are on a sailing boat you may well get to cruise under full sail at times, but mostly you will be under motor.
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