Galaxy Alya Catamaran | Luxury Galapagos Cruise
Overview
Available languages
5 days
Mobile ticket
Explore the enchanting Galapagos Islands aboard the luxurious M/C Alya. This cruise combines stunning landscapes with exceptional service and cuisine. Enjoy a blend of Ecuadorian and international flavors as you savor gourmet meals prepared by our skilled chef. Daily excursions guided by experts allow you to discover unique wildlife and breathtaking views through activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking. With spacious cabins and modern amenities, your journey promises comfort and relaxation amidst nature's wonders.
Experience daily land excursions led by naturalist guides.
Snorkeling equipment provided, ensuring safety and fun underwater.
Enjoy gourmet dining with local and international dishes.
Choose from 5 or 6-day itineraries exploring various islands.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What To Expect
Santa Cruz
Canal de Itabaca
Your voyage to the captivating Galapagos Islands commences! Upon your arrival at Baltra Airport, you'll be greeted by our National Park-certified naturalist guide, ready to introduce you to the unique wonders of this pristine archipelago
Black Turtle Cove
We dive into our Galapagos adventure at Black Turtle Cove, aptly named for the thriving “Tortugas negras” population or green sea turtles. We navigate this natural sanctuary on dinghies, cruising amidst serene mangrove forests and tranquil water channels. Expect sightings of reef sharks, diverse ray species, and a plethora of bird species, including herons, pelicans, and boobies. Remember, this magical cove is a significant breeding ground for turtles and a nursery for various shark species! Mangroves, White-tipped and black-tipped reef sharks, Green sea turtles, Rays, Herons, Blue footed boobies, Reef sharks
GENOVESA ISLAND
Darwin Bay
Start your day surrounded by the bustling avian life of Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island, a birdwatcher's paradise. As soon as your feet touch the sandy terrain, you're welcomed by a symphony of seabird calls, with frigatebirds, boobies, and gulls soaring overhead or nestled in the foliage. The trail meanders through colonies of sea lions, marine iguanas, night herons, Darwin finches, Galapagos doves, mockingbirds, and more. Snorkel Experience: Dive into the bay's underwater realms, teeming with vibrant fish, elusive sharks, graceful rays, and playful sea lions. With multiple snorkeling spots, from cliff-lined deep waters to shallow beachside areas, you're guaranteed a spectacular aquatic show.
Genovesa
Next stop, El Barranco. Known for its fractured lava cliffs serving as the perfect dwelling for storm petrel colonies, this unique ecosystem draws a significant population of short-eared owls. A trail alongside these cliffs reveals red-footed and Nazca boobies aplenty. Resting in the shadows at the cliffs' base, you may spot Galapagos fur seals and numerous seabirds. Snorkel Experience: The deep blue waters along the cliffs offer another underwater escapade with a profusion of colorful fish, sharks, rays, and sea lions. Highlights: Nesting great frigatebirds, Galapagos sea lions, Genovesa ground finch, Genovesa cactus finch, Galapagos mockingbirds, Galapagos fur seals
SANTIAGO ISLAND
Sullivan Bay
Step back in time at Sullivan Bay, an open book to the volcanic birth of these islands. Traverse the well-preserved Pahoehoe lava field, studying its delicate, unique textures. The seemingly lifeless landscape gradually unveils a resilience of nature, with pioneer plants, lava lizards, and tiny birds emerging on careful observation. Keep your eyes on the shoreline for resident penguins, pelicans, and oystercatchers. Snorkel Experience: A dip in the water here starkly contrasts the barren land. The coral sand beach and the dinghy access point reveal a marine world with fish schools, Galapagos penguins, reef sharks, turtles, and rays.
Bartolome Island, Galapagos, Ecuador
Stand atop Bartolome Island for unparalleled views of the lunar-like landscape, punctuated by scattered volcanic cones, Pinnacle Rock, and the bay of Sullivan. Bartolome is a jewel in the Galapagos crown and home to a vibrant population of penguins. Snorkel Experience: A swim or snorkel from the beach opens up an underwater playground renowned in the Galapagos. Penguins, a multitude of fish, colorful invertebrates, sea lions, turtles, rays, and reef sharks make this snorkeling experience unforgettable. Highlights: Volcanic landscapes, Pinnacle rock, Herons, Bluefooted boobies, Galapagos penguins
CHINESE HAT
Welcome to the perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone of Chinese Hat! Separated from Santiago by a slender channel, this idyllic islet is framed by turquoise waters, coral sand beaches, and dark lava rocks – an unexpected haven for penguins. A shore trail brings you up close to a small colony of sea lions. Snorkel Experience: Experience a world of vividly colored fish, sleek reef sharks, and perhaps a swift penguin chasing after a school of anchovies. It's a mesmerizing underwater spectacle you want to take advantage of. Highlights: Lava tubes, Galapagos sea lions, Galapagos penguins, Oystercatchers, Galapagos hawks
Our afternoon destination is Mosquera, largely a barren sand bar with rocky outcrops and salt-resistant vegetation. Stroll along the beach, observing the playful antics of sea lion pups in the surf and tide pools. Keep an eye out for endemic lava gulls, often spotted in mid-flight hunting for their next meal. Snorkel Experience: Given favorable wave conditions, snorkel at the northern tip of the island or one of the smaller, sheltered beaches for another immersive marine encounter. Highlights: Stunning Views, Galapagos sea lions, Oystercatchers, Lava gulls, Shorebirds
SANTA CRUZ
Charles Darwin Research Station
Spend your morning at the renowned Charles Darwin Station. As a nonprofit organization working closely with the Galapagos National Park, the station is committed to the preservation and study of the archipelago's biodiversity. Discover the myriad initiatives underway to safeguard native species and combat invasive threats to the Galapagos ecosystem. This visit offers the unique opportunity to see giant tortoises bred in captivity. Galapagos giant tortoise and land iguanas breeding program, Galapagos mockingbirds, Darwin finches, Galapagos flycatchers
Your Galapagos adventure comes to an end. Today, you will be transferred to Baltra Airport, where your National Park naturalist guide will assist you with final details before your flight back to mainland Ecuador. As you bid farewell to this paradise, take with you the unforgettable memories of one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations
Options
Galaxy Alya Catamaran | Luxury Galapagos Cruise
Pickup included
What‘s Included
Private transportation
WiFi on board
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Air-conditioned vehicle
Restroom on board
Meals
Does not include transit card ($20) Entrance fee to Galapagos National Park $200 per person for foreigners $100 per person for nationals
Pickup points
Baltra Airport
Ecuador
San Cristobal Airport
Ecuador
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Reviews
12 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great experience on the Alya and a fantastic crew
rohanp733,Jun 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Such an incredible experience. The abundance and closeness with nature is incredible. We did 2 tours back to back and so glad we had the chance to get fully immersed in the experience on the boat. But the crew made this experience what it was. All the crew on the Aliya were phenomenal- so genuine, helpful, smiley and always going above and beyond. Jorje was there for everything, and really spearheaded the service. He sets the standard for what fantastic service should be. Couldn’t recommend more. Also want to shout out Carol and Jonathan! Carol for just incredible food and great vibes. Late into the evenings we could hear him singing downstairs whilst cleaning up- goes to show what a superb guy he is aswell as an incredible chef. Then Jonathon who might be the smiliest person I’ve ever met and with one look he cheers up your day.
Amazing family experience in the Galapagos
RPW083112,Jun 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had the most amazing time aboard Alya in the Galapagos. Our experience on board was wonderful. All of the staff were friendly and attentive, especially helping us with our 6-year old and ensuring that our animal lover had vegetarian meals that she enjoyed (thanks, Jorge!). Chef Carol and sous chef Jaero made the most delicious and fresh meals, and made mealtime an experience in itself. The snorkeling was incredible, especially with sea turtles and sea lions swimming along side us. I never imagined how spectacular the natural landscape and wildlife would be. I especially appreciate how eco-friendly everything was. We are so sad to go. This was the trip of a lifetime and I can’t recommend it enough! Thanks to all of the staff!
Paradise
N1248QDjamiep,Jun 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00If you’re looking to make the very most of your time this is the trip for you. It was packed with walks, dinghy rides and snorkeling. Nothing too strenuous, but always something going on and if you need a break you could skip one activity without having to miss the next. The food was incredible. The crew were fantastic.
Galaxy cruise
kimberlybT3891PV,Jun 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing staff, rooms, and excursions. Food was excellent! 5 stars! Highly recommend!
Alya a wonderful experience
499harryw,Jun 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Whilst visiting Peru, we took the opportunity to visit the Galápagos Islands and we were so lucky that we managed to get on the Alya. It has been the jewel in the crown of our holiday. The Alya is a very personal experience, catering for small groups. From the moment we’re arrived to the very end the crew have been amazing. Jeorge has fronted the crew and advised us all the way acting as our lead host supported by a wonderful genuinely warm and very friendly crew. The food has been amazing, the itinerary great, with walks, kayaking and snorkelling. Our guide Edward has shared his passion, enthusiasm and knowledge of the wild life, history and the wonderful sea’s around the islands teaming with such beautiful exotic fish, sea lions, sharks and penguins. An amazing experience that I’m sure if you choose you will also agree. Many thanks to the Alya team and wish them the very best for the future.
A Top Lifetime Experience
Vicki0215,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent service by all crew members. We took the 4/night cruise. Spotless and very well maintained ship. My vegan diet was respected - and I enjoyed the food. We appreciated the tasty snacks between meals. Meals were beautifully presented. Patricio Vargas was a fabulous guide - fun, flexible, always educating us, and keeping us safe. The snorkeling, hiking, and touring multiple islands brought new adventures and wildlife - both on land and sea - each day.. All was very organized.
The trip was informational and relaxing.
hicksjoy,May 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The crew was very professional and efficient. Always there to help with questions and catered to our every need. They were friendly and eager to learn about us and they shared their stories as well
Alya Galápagos
petehO4786YH,May 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We spent 5 nights on Alya and it was incredible. The staff was perfect. The bartender Santiago was amazing and made excellent strong drinks. Jamie the cruise director had a wonderful sense of humor. Fabrício the naturalist was so knowledgeable and clearly loved the islands deeply. The islands themselves were everything we hoped for. The sea lions were a highlight, so playful, never experienced anything like it. Can’t wait to come back and do the west islands.
Great boat and mostly great crew
PHXtraveler2012,Apr 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00We loved the boat and majority of crew, including Santiago and Jaime. We were disappointed in the naturalist, Fatima. She’s very knowledgeable but also somewhat rude and uncaring. From the start when Galaxy messed up our arrival clearance (we’d prepaid the entrance fee to Galápagos but weren’t on the list to arrive at Baltra), she wrote off the issue. Then in our first briefing I asked her to speak louder as my husband and our friend have hearing challenges. She was standing next to me when I asked and then scoffed at me. She wasn’t customer service oriented in any way, even though tips are a big part of the expectation. The food was great, really nice rooms, and the pangas were good. Most crew were exceptionally helpful to all guests, always offering assistance. I was disappointed that kayaking and paddle boarding were only offered one time. It was mostly snorkeling. The timing of excursions could be improved with one day having a dry landing straight to a beach for snorkeling, then a wet landing, and finally a separate snorkeling trip. I think I took 3 showers and washed my hair twice that day. A spin dryer for wet clothes would be an amazing addition! I’d go again but would be concerned about which naturalist was assigned.
“Amazing experience, but the guide made a difference (not for good)”
Q500WCcarlag,Apr 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00I want to start with the positive: the experience of touring the Galapagos Islands in a catamaran is simply spectacular. The boat Alya is very comfortable, the food is very good and the service of the crew was extraordinary. I really want to congratulate the whole team, because they try so hard to make you feel at home. The islands are stunning, the biodiversity is unique and being able to see the animals so closely is priceless. Now, there is one important point that affected our experience: the tour guide. Our group was very diverse (Asia, Europe, the United States and us Mexicans), which in principle is very enriching. However, we felt that better integration of the group was lacking. Our guide, Fatima, has a lot of knowledge, but her treatment was distant and sometimes cutting. From the beginning we asked if she could speak to us in Spanish when possible, as my 9-year-old daughter does not fully understand English. Despite this, during the activities she never made sure that she (or we) were understanding the explanations. He often spoke only at the head of the group, making it difficult to hear or follow the information. There was a particularly delicate situation during a snorkel in an area with strong current. As my daughter tried to climb into the panga, another passenger pushed her to climb first, putting her at risk. The guide witnessed the situation and did not intervene. Fortunately, the panga driver reacted quickly and helped my daughter climb safely. Overall, we felt there was little sensitivity to adapt to a diverse group, especially considering we were in a Spanish-speaking country. This caused us to lose interest in various explanations and affected part of the experience. Despite this, the rest of the trip was wonderful. The Alya crew did an amazing job and it is certainly an experience worth living. I would recommend this cruise, but I would suggest paying special attention to the quality and handling of the guides as they make a big difference to the experience.
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Operated by GALAXY CRUISES