Expedition Galapagos

Puerto Ayora, Ecuador

SG
Shark Guardian
  • Email address verified
Aug 11 - 20, 2026
Group size: 1 - 14
Expedition Galapagos
Puerto Ayora, Ecuador

Shark Guardian
  • Email address verified

Aug 11 - 20, 2026
Group size: 1 - 14

About this trip

Quick Facts

Destinations: Galapagos Western Archipelago, Darwin And Wolf Islands

Dates: 11th Aug - 20th Aug 2026

Type of trip: Private liveaboard charter
Duration: 9 nights (7 nights on the liveaboard)
Fly in/out:  Quito, Ecuador


EARLY BIRD PRICE ONLY AVAILABLE TILL 31ST MAY - THESE WILL SELL QUICK!


Dive into the wonders of Galápagos Islands on Shark Guardians biggest expedition yet!


Join us for 8 days and 7 nights scuba diving on board one of the newest liveaboards to cruise the archipelago, including the world renowned Darwin and Wolf Islands, and contribute directly to marine citizen science projects and research.

Our Home for the Week

Embark on an exhilarating journey into the vibrant waters of the Galapagos Islands on now of the newest liveaboards to cruise the world-famous archipelago.  


Dive alongside majestic sharks, playful sea lions, graceful manta rays, ancient turtles, charming penguins, and even marine iguanas—all in a single, breathtaking location that pulses with life.  


The boat offers a range of cabin options to suit every traveler's needs:

  • Main Deck Cabins: Two twin cabins provide stunning panoramic views, along with a versatile cabin that can be arranged as either a matrimonial or twin setup.
  • Lower Deck Cabin: Two twin cabin on the lower deck provides a cozy option for families, friends, or couples.
  • Upper Deck Cabins: Four twin cabins offer convertible double beds, making them ideal for couples or friends. These cabins feature large windows that flood the room with natural light, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean.

All cabins are adorned with endemic, local-style decor and feature functional closets, lower beds, air conditioning with personal climate control, reading lights, and charging ports.  


We welcome solo travellers!! If you are travelling solo, you will be placed within the cabin of your choice with a same-sex participant.


Dining and Relaxation: The vessel’s dining room, with expansive ocean-view windows, provides a delightful culinary journey through local and international gastronomy. The lounge area, decorated with art inspired by the astonishing Galapagos wildlife, invites guests to relax.  Between dives, unwind aboard a luxurious liveaboard featuring a charming lounge and restaurant, offering delightful meals to replenish your energy. Relax in the comfortable lounge area, equipped with a TV, DVD player, and a small library.  After a day of adventure, chill out on the shaded deck,  or in the jacuzzi, taking in the magnificent oceanic vistas and reflecting on the day's discoveries.

Retire to your cozy cabin, thoughtfully furnished with a selection of the finest ecological hospitality products, ensuring an eco-conscious stay that prioritises your comfort and sustainability.

Dive Requirements & Conditions

To join this trip, divers must have an Advanced Open Water certification and a minimum of 75-100 dives at  the time of booking.  This is not a trip suitable for new divers and some experience drift diving in  cooler waters will be beneficial. 


The Galapagos Islands have two distinct seasons. The high season, from July to November, coincides with the Humboldt current's maximum strength, bringing nutrient-rich upwellings from the depths. This season offers the best chance to dive with whale sharks at Darwin and Wolf.

During these months, water temperatures are cooler, visibility is lower, currents are stronger, and seas can be rougher at times. However, popular species such as scalloped hammerheads and large schools of fish are abundant.


Cold-Water Diving: The Galapagos is considered a cold-water destination. Regular temperatures at Darwin and Wolf range from 21-24°C (70-78°F) but can be warmer in the early months of the year. Thermoclines in the Western Islands, including Punta Vicente Roca and Cabo Douglas, can dip as low as 13°C (54°F), keeping these regions cooler year-round.

Cancellation Policy

By signing up to the trip you agree to our Shark Guardian Expedition cancellation policy.

What’s included

  • Liveaboard accommodation
    7 nights/8days
  • Domestic flights
    Return flights Quito-Galapagos (normally £500!)
  • Hotel in Quito
    x1 night in Quito on 11th Aug & x1 night in Quito on 19th Aug
  • Food and drinks
    3 meals daily, plus between dive snacks
  • Diving
    2-4 dives daily - up to 20 dives
  • Land tour
    A land tour on Santa Cruz
  • Water & hot drinks
    Unlimited filtered water & hot drinks (tea, coffee, hot chocolate)
  • Dive equipment
    Use of tanks, weights and belts
  • Transfers
    All transfers from hotel in Quito to airport, boat end return
  • Dive guides
    Multilingual local guides
  • Trip hosts
    Liz, Co-director Shark Guardian & Katy, former Shark Guardian trustee & blogger at Katy Jane Dives
  • Nitrox
  • Internet access
    Via Starlink, works at most locations, but never guaranteed!
  • Donation
    Donation to Shark Guardian

What’s not included

  • International flights
    From your home country to Quito, Ecuador
  • Dive equipment
    Tanks and weights included, everything else can be rented if required
  • Food and drink in Quito
  • Soft/alcoholic drinks
  • Last evening meal
    After returning to Quito, you are welcome to join our final group meal!
  • Entry visa
  • Dive & travel insurance
  • Crew gratuities
  • National Park fee
    $200
  • TCT Tourist Card
    $20

Available Packages

Early Bird Lower Deck Twin Room Shared
Deposit:£1,100
Available until June 8, 2024Sold Out

Lower Deck Cabin: A shared twin cabin on the lower deck provides a cozy option for families, friends, or couples.


Each Lower Deck cabin aboard the Galaxy Diver II offer 13 square meters of space, providing a comfortable retreat for up to two guests.


Bedding: The convertible twin/doublearrangement adds flexibility, ensuring cozy accommodation.


Amenities:

  • Ensuite Bathroom: Hot and cold water available for refreshment.
  • Climate Control: Air conditioning keeps the cabin at a comfortable temperature.
  • Essentials: Hairdryer, towel dryer, and safe box for securing valuables.

Connectivity: A telephone for internal communication and a loudspeaker for announcements keep you connected.



With two cabins available, the Lower Deck offers a comfortable and convenient option for your Galapagos adventure.


Please note if you book this package as a solo traveller you will be sharing this room with another group member of the same sex.



£5,500
Deposit:£1,100
Early Bird Main Deck Matrimonial Cabin
Deposit:£1,100
Available until June 8, 2024

The Main Deck Matrimonial Cabin offers 13 square meters of comfortable living space, perfectly designed for couples.  You must be making a booking for two people to be eligible for this package.

Bedding: The cabin features a comfortable double bed, perfect for couples looking for a private set up.

Amenities:

  • Ensuite Bathroom: Equipped with hot and cold water, providing a refreshing and convenient option.
  • Climate Control: Air conditioning maintains a comfortable temperature throughout your stay.
  • Essentials: Includes a hairdryer, towel dryer, and safe box for securing valuables.

Connectivity: The cabin includes a telephone for internal communication and a loudspeaker for announcements.


With this cabin's warm ambiance and functional design, the Main Deck Matrimonial Cabin offers a convenient and inviting option for your Galapagos adventure.

£5,500
Deposit:£1,100
Early Bird Upper Deck Twin/Double Shared
Deposit:£1,100
Available until June 8, 2024Sold Out

The Upper Deck cabins aboard the boat offer 15 square meters of space, a bit larger than the others, providing a comfortable retreat for up to two guests.


Bedding: The convertible twin/double arrangement adds flexibility, ensuring cozy accommodation.


Amenities:

  • Ensuite Bathroom: Hot and cold water available for refreshment.
  • Climate Control: Air conditioning keeps the cabin at a comfortable temperature.
  • Essentials: Hairdryer, towel dryer, and safe box for securing valuables.

Connectivity: A telephone for internal communication and a loudspeaker for announcements keep you connected.

Views: Located on the Upper Deck, these cabins offer beautiful ocean views.


With four cabins available, the Upper Deck offers a comfortable and convenient option for your Galapagos adventure.


Please note if you book this package as a solo traveller you will be sharing this room with another group member of the same sex.

£5,500
Deposit:£1,100
Early Bird Main Deck Twin/Double Shared
Deposit:£1,100
Available until June 8, 2024

The Main Deck Twin Cabins aboard the Galaxy Diver II offer 13 square meters of comfortable living space for up to two guests.

Bedding: The twin/double convertible arrangement provides flexibility, allowing for a cozy setup.

Amenities:

  • Ensuite Bathroom: Featuring hot and cold water, ensuring a refreshing experience.
  • Climate Control: Air conditioning keeps the cabin at a comfortable temperature.
  • Essentials: Hairdryer, towel dryer, and safe box for securing valuables.

Connectivity: Each cabin includes a telephone for internal communication and a loudspeaker for announcements.


With three cabins available, the Main Deck Twin Cabins provide a comfortable and convenient option for your Galapagos adventure.


Please note if you book this package as a solo traveller you will be sharing this room with another group member of the same sex.

£5,500
Deposit:£1,100

Available options

Full dive equipment rental package
£225

This add on includes rental of all your dive gear for the duration of the liveaboard.

- BCD

- Wetsuit (7mm full length)

-Boots & Hoodie

- Fins

- Regulator with octopus and console

- Mask (frameless)


Does NOT include a dive computer.  If you require this, please also choose the additional add on for dive computer rental.


The person who rents the equipment is responsible for any loss or damage to the rented equipment while in his/her possession and agrees to return it in the same condition as received. All rental gear must be rinsed with fresh water and properly cleaned before it is returned. In case of damages, the renter will have to cover its expenses

Dive computer rental
£60

The person who rents the equipment is responsible for any loss or damage to the rented equipment while in his/her possession and agrees to return it in the same condition as received. All rental gear must be rinsed with fresh water and properly cleaned before it is returned. In case of damages, the renter will have to cover its expenses

BCD rental
£65

The person who rents the equipment is responsible for any loss or damage to the rented equipment while in his/her possession and agrees to return it in the same condition as received. All rental gear must be rinsed with fresh water and properly cleaned before it is returned. In case of damages, the renter will have to cover its expenses

Wetsuit
£60

The person who rents the equipment is responsible for any loss or damage to the rented equipment while in his/her possession and agrees to return it in the same condition as received. All rental gear must be rinsed with fresh water and properly cleaned before it is returned. In case of damages, the renter will have to cover its expenses

Fins
£35

The person who rents the equipment is responsible for any loss or damage to the rented equipment while in his/her possession and agrees to return it in the same condition as received. All rental gear must be rinsed with fresh water and properly cleaned before it is returned. In case of damages, the renter will have to cover its expenses

Regulator, octopus & console
£65

The person who rents the equipment is responsible for any loss or damage to the rented equipment while in his/her possession and agrees to return it in the same condition as received. All rental gear must be rinsed with fresh water and properly cleaned before it is returned. In case of damages, the renter will have to cover its expenses

Mask
£25

The person who rents the equipment is responsible for any loss or damage to the rented equipment while in his/her possession and agrees to return it in the same condition as received. All rental gear must be rinsed with fresh water and properly cleaned before it is returned. In case of damages, the renter will have to cover its expenses



Itinerary

Day 1 - August 11th
Arrive in Quito

Quito, Ecuador 


Today is the day you arrive at the accommodation in Quito. Our hotel will be located within a short drive from the airport to ensure a quick and smooth journey to the airport the following morning.


The hotel is approximately 40 minutes from the city centre.  If you arrive early enough, why not book a taxi and have a Quick Look at what the capital city of Ecuador has to offer?  You could always go and visit the equator line whilst you are here!

Your Organizer


SG
Shark Guardian
Shark Guardian is a UK Charity for shark and marine conservation worldwide. Teamed with professional divers, shark researchers and marine biologists, Shark Guardian has four main departments of operation: Conservation, Education, Research and expeditions