Galapagos Cruises

After discovering, cataloging and, unfortunately, devouring the near mythical giant tortoises of the Galapagos, Charles Darwin published 'The Origin of Species', and extensive expose into the then-unknown Island cluster. The book featured a myriad of birds and mammals that existed in no other regions of the world; animals that had perpetually evolved due to the lack of natural predators—or so the theory goes.

While there exists a guide of the Galapagos, what Darwin never got around to publishing was a guide to the Galapagos. Which is why it should come as no surprise that the Islands' most notorious attraction is the namesake of the revolutionary scientist himself, The Charles Darwin Research Station.

Visitors to this free reserve can experience the quirk and trepid motions of the baby tortoises, land iguanas and, the star of the exhibit, Lonesome George, the infamous giant Galapagos tortoise and soon-to-be dad.

However, the best way to legally experience the most and best of the Galapagos is to board a boat. Several styles of charters and Galapagos cruises exist, and all run the gamut of prestige—from budget to ritzy. While some are merely spectator affairs, the luxury Galapagos cruises will almost undoubtedly allow you to de-board and visit the Islands' national park. There you will experience species of animals unafraid, friendly to visitors. So much so that you will need to maintain a watchful step.

For those visiting for the first time, it is advised that you check, first, with the boat incase there are any particular physical requirements or limitations. And, as always, remain diligent to the area's natural inhabitants, as they are merely a flicker of flame in a rainstorm.

The Galapagos Islands are known for many things. The same natural wonders that made the Galapagos such an interesting place to study by pioneers like Darwin have also made it an interesting place to vacation. Outdoor enthusiasts from all corners of the world who are traveling on a variety of different budgets make the trek to these islands every year. Whether they find interest in the unique bird populations on land or the one-of-a-kind underwater environment, these travelers share in common a true interest in adventure travel.

For underwater adventurists, the Galapagos Islands provide a unique experience. Thriving reefs, marine life and some of the best underwater visibility (often 100 feet or more) on the planet help to give the Galapagos Islands a reputation as one of the seven underwater wonders of the world. This is partially due to the fact that around 70,000 square kilometers of Galapagos marine areas are considered to be protected and the islands are far enough out of the way to make the destruction of this environment less likely.

What you can expect from a Galapagos diving trip
To begin with, the Galapagos Islands offer something for divers of all skill levels. That being said, the water conditions of many dive areas are much more appropriate for intermediate and advanced divers. For any diver, the Galapagos is sure to deliver a life changing experience.

Currents - Due to strong currents, most dives done in the Galapagos are drift dives. Throughout different seasons, the Humboldt and Panama currents affect dive conditions. Divers not experienced in drift diving may want to steer clear of the dives offered in current-heavy areas.

Water Depth - While there are plenty of dives which take place shallower water, many of the most impressive dive experiences are to be had at deeper depths around 70-100 feet and beyond.

Temperature - Thermoclines play a big role in diving in the Galapagos. Surface temperatures reach between 18 and 30 degrees Celsius throughout the year. These temperatures can fluctuate as much as 5 degrees Celsius as you descend.

Marine Life - Expect to see abundant marine life on any dive in Galapagos. As this area has been protected from hunting for quite some time, various marine specie populations have grown tremendously. Sharks, rays, sea lions, whales, reef fish and much more are not uncommon sites. In fact, rare whale sharks are seen fairly regularly in some dive zones.

Safety
Travelling with an experience dive company is important. It's also important to make your level of dive experience clear to your dive guides. Many dive charters do provide on-board safety equipment so you should ask about that as well. Lastly, since 2001, a hyperbaric chamber has been available in the Galapagos in case of emergencies.

Whether you trek to the Galapagos on a live aboard dive charter or enjoy a luxury cruise through the islands, take at least a couple days to explore everything the Galapagos have to offer, under the surface. A dive opportunity like you'll find in the Galapagos would be a shame to miss and an experience to remember.