Galapagos Islands

Liveaboards target Darwin Island between June and November when cold currents bring plankton. Sightings concentrate in mid season with stronger flow. Conditions include cool water, surge, and blue-water safety stops. You need Advanced certification, solid current experience, and thick exposure protection. If you prefer calmer seas and warmer water, plan December to May and focus on mantas, turtles, and shark action at sites like Gordon Rocks and Cousins Rock.

After arrival at GPS, take the airport bus to the Itabaca Channel, ride the short ferry across to Santa Cruz, then board a public bus or taxi to Puerto Ayora. The total transfer typically takes about 90 km drive-equivalent including the ferry step. Keep small bills for tickets and water taxis. Expect biosecurity checks and baggage screening as part of the protected area protocols.

Warm season from December to May often brings surface temps around 24°C to 28°C with occasional thermoclines. Cool season June to November can drop localized temps to around 16°C in western upwellings and at depth. Most divers use a 5 mm to 7 mm suit with hood year-round. Snorkelers are comfortable in 3 mm to 5 mm in warm months and thicker with a hood in cool months.

Pay the Transit Control Card on the mainland before check-in and keep the card for exit. On arrival at GPS or SCY, pay the National Park entrance fee based on your nationality and age. Some islands collect small dock or municipal fees, notably Isabela on arrival by ferry. Bring cash for these transactions. Fees support conservation, park management, and local municipalities.

From Santa Cruz, Gordon Rocks is iconic but requires comfort in current and negative entries. Cousins Rock and Mosquera can be friendlier on calmer days. From San Cristobal, operators choose sites to match conditions and experience. Western sites like Punta Vicente Roca offer dramatic walls but include cold thermoclines. Always follow operator guidance and be ready to change the plan with weather.

Freediving and snorkeling must follow park rules. Use licensed operators or visit authorized sites where guides supervise activities. Drift-style freediving should be organized through shops that provide floats, lines, and boat cover. Respect wildlife distances and avoid resting animals on lava shelves. In all seasons, carry sufficient exposure protection and hydrate between sessions.

Public speedboats connect Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Isabela, and Floreana, usually morning and afternoon. Crossings take about 2 to 2.5 hours and can be bumpy from July to November when trades are stronger. Buy tickets at least a few days ahead and arrive early for bag checks. Bring seasickness meds and a dry bag for spray on deck.

Keep at least 2 m from animals, never feed or touch wildlife, stay on marked trails, and follow guide instructions at all times. Biosecurity inspections prohibit seeds, soil, and many fresh foods. Drones are generally restricted. Pack out all trash and use reusable bottles. Violations can result in fines or removal from visitor sites.

It is strongly recommended to carry dive accident insurance that includes hyperbaric treatment and evacuation. A recompression facility operates in Puerto Ayora, but complex cases evacuate to mainland Ecuador. Confirm coverage details, bring policy numbers, and share them with your operator before boarding day boats or liveaboards.

Base on Santa Cruz for access to the Charles Darwin Research Station, Tortuga Bay, and highland tortoise ranches. Add Isabela for Sierra Negra crater hikes and quiet beaches. San Cristobal offers coastal trails and viewpoints near town. Book day tours like Bartolome or North Seymour in advance during popular months to secure spots with English-speaking naturalist guides.