Choosing the best option for exploring the riches of the Galapagos Islands is perhaps one of the biggest dilemmas that face travelers and travel agents. With a great offer of charming hotels and a variety of cruises and yachts, the extraordinary archipelago can be experienced in many ways: from the most radical adventures to tours with comfort and accessibility. 

Deciding whether it’s better to visit the Galapagos on a cruise or by land takes research, planning and an understanding of the customer’s style and priorities and what each lodging (boat or hotel) has to offer. According to Daniela Bustamante of Metropolitan Touring, the first step is to ask yourself: “What things should I (or my client) definitely not miss?” (link to previous blog: How to find out the perfect match for a cruise itinerary for your client )

As the experts say, in order to have the most rewarding experience, the ideal solution is to combine elements of both cruise- and land-based tours. But we understand that this is not always possible. That’s why we’ve gathered here some of the main benefits and differences between each activity.

Galapagos land-based experience:

If they prefer to stay on land, travelers will need to pick a hotel and have one of the islands as their base. From there, they can visit other islands and join different tours and activities, usually designing the itinerary as they see fit. Hotels like Montemar Eco Luxury Villas and Pikaia Lodge , on Santa Cruz Island, offer various facilities and services, such as spas, swimming pools, bars and restaurants, with full or half board, as well as extra activities to explore the destination.

+ Pros of experiencing the Galapagos by land:

• You can delve deeply into the essence and culture of the selected island 
• Explore the destination independently and at your own pace
• Choose from a variety of adventures: hiking, cycling, paddling, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, sport fishing and leisurely walks around the island
• Enjoy the comfort and experiences of the best hotels, including relaxation and fine cuisine
• No chance of getting sea sick

Galapagos cruise-based tours:

The growing fleet of boats in the Galapagos, varying from the most luxurious to more economical cruises, represents an opportunity to attract many different travelers. Each cruise or yacht frequently follows different itineraries and offers specific facilities and culinary proposals, focusing on a unique experience. REMOTE Community members Haugan Cruises, Golden Galapagos and Metropolitan Touring have a large fleet, departing on varied dates and navigating around different islands.

+ Pros of experiencing the Galapagos by cruise:

• You can visit 3, 4 or 5 islands on the same journey – explore different regions of the archipelago and more remote islands
• Observe a greater variety of wildlife
• Appreciate the fantastic views of the ocean
• Save yourself some legwork and enjoy a pre-set suggested itinerary with scheduled, guided activities that are already included in the program
• Join a group of other explorers

Learn more about the REMOTE Community hotels and cruises in Ecuador by clicking here and selecting “Ecuador” in the search space.