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Meet the ancient giant tortoises of the Galapagos

Galapagos Snorkeling Trips

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    • Galapagos
Chinese Hat (Sombrero Chino) Island, Galapagos
from $5,600
Savings
EXPLORE

Eastern Islands

8 Day Itinerary aboard Tip Top IV
  • Visit Charles Darwin Center
  • Sail around Kicker Rock
  • Explores Rabida its landscapes
  • Sunbathe in Las Bachas Beach
Activity Level
Variable
Visit the Galapagos Islands aboard Tip Top IV during this 8-day cruise, where you'll enjoy the snorkeling in South Plaza, a panga ride in Turtle Cove, the Hill at Pitt Point and excursions on Chinese Hat, Sullivan Bay, and Santa Fe.
Cruise Details
0
Elizabeth Bay, Isabela Island, Galapagos, Sea Lion
from $5,600
Savings
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Western Islands

Santa Cruz Island to Mosquera - 8 Day Itinerary aboard Tip Top IV
  • Explore Black Turtle Cove wildlife
  • Visit Prince Philip’s Steps
  • Cruise Elizabeth Bay Islets
  • Visit historic Post Office Bay
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Set sail on an 8-day Galapagos Islands cruise aboard a first-class yacht. Cruise through Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, and Floreana to explore volcanic landscapes, mangroves, and wildlife habitats. Encounter giant tortoises, penguins, and marine iguanas while enjoying guided hikes, snorkeling, kayaking, and panga rides.
Cruise Details
0
Exploring the Galapagos - Kicker Rock
from $6,190
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Northern Islands Cruise

5 Day Itinerary aboard M/C Elite
  • Visit Charles Darwin R. Station
  • Snorkel across Darwin Bay
  • Discover the beautiful Kicker Rock
Starts / Ends
Baltra / San Cristobal
Activity Level
Variable
Board the Elite for a 5-Day sailing expedition across one of the most unique archipelagos on the planet, the Galapagos Islands. Experience the beauty and natural charm of these volcanic islands while visiting Santa Cruz, Genovesa, Rabida and San Cristobal.
Cruise Details
0
Golden Land Iguana on Santa Fe Island
from $5,850
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Eastern Islands

8 Day Itinerary aboard Beluga
  • See Galapagos giant tortoises
  • Observe the endemic Waved albatross
  • Enjoy the Gardner Bay beach.
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Sail the eastern Galapagos Islands aboard the magnificent 16-passenger motor yacht Beluga, which includes San Cristobal, South Plaza, Santa Cruz, and Genovesa, which are among the most spectacular in the archipelago.
Cruise Details
0
Galapagos snorkeling
from $5,850
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Western Islands

8 Day Itinerary aboard Beluga
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Cruise Details
0
Family in the Galapagos
from $4,400
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Eastern Islands

8 Day Itinerary aboard Cachalote Explorer
  • Observe the Galapagos tortoise
  • Ride a boat to Black Turtle Cove
  • Climb up Prince Phillip's Steps
  • Snorkel around Devil's Crown
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Cruise through the Eastern Galapagos Islands on the Cachalote Explorer. Spend time learning about the history of the island and watch as seabirds soar and sea lions play on this 8-day tour.
Cruise Details
0
Punta Suarez, Espanola
from $4,990
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Southeastern Islands Cruise

4 Day Itinerary aboard M/C Elite
  • Admire Española's unique wildlife
  • Snorkel across Osborn Islet
  • Explore Mosquera Islet
Starts / Ends
San Cristobal Airport / Baltra
Activities
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Activity Level
Variable
This cruise may be short on days but it's big on amazing wildlife, such as the Galapagos giant tortoise, marine iguanas, and playful sea lions. Discover San Cristobal, Espanola, Floreana and more on this 4-Day Galapagos cruise. Snorkel in the crystalline waters and view colorful fish, rays, and sea turtles.
Cruise Details
0
Punta Suarez, Espanola
from $4,400
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East-Central Islands

6 Day Itinerary aboard Beluga
  • Explore El Junco Lagoon
  • Visit the Research Center
  • View lava tubes and lava flows
  • Cruise through mangroves
Activity Level
Variable
Cruise around the Galapagos archipelago aboard the Beluga and learn about the wildlife and geological activity unique to this region. Snorkeling among marinelife, exploring the islands on foot, and visiting the Charles Darwin Research Center are all highlights included on this short cruise!
Cruise Details
0
Sea lion soaking in some Galapagos sun
from $4,400
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West-Central Islands

6 Day Itinerary aboard Beluga
Activity Level
Variable
Cruise Details
0
Overlook at Pitt Point
from $4,190
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San Cristobal, Floreana & Santa Cruz

4 Day Itinerary aboard Ocean Spray
  • Visit Lobos Island
  • Admire Galapagos unique wildlife
  • Discover Devil's Crown
Starts / Ends
Isla Lobos / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Discover the spectacular Galapagos Islands on this 4-day small ship cruise aboard the Ocean Spray. Observe the unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of this stunning archipelago, visiting San Cristobal, Floreana, and Santa Cruz.
Cruise Details
0
Chinese Hat (Sombrero Chino) Island, Galapagos
from $3,463
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Central Islands

5 Day Itinerary aboard Tip Top IV
Activity Level
Variable
Cruise Details
0
Sea lion by the kayaks
from $2,750
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Eastern Islands

4 Day Itinerary aboard Tip Top IV
Activity Level
Variable
Cruise Details
0
Sea Lions lounging in Buccaneer Cove
from $2,900
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Western Islands

5 Day Itinerary aboard Nemo II
  • Ride a zodiac in Tagus Cove
  • Explore the cliffs of Isabela
  • Climb Prince Phillip's Steps
  • Take a trail to a flamingo lagoon
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activities
Snorkeling, Wildlife Viewing, Small Ship Sailing
Activity Level
Variable
Get close to giant tortoises on a tour of the Western Islands Discover the history behind Buccaneer Cove and take a stroll along a coral reef on this 5-day cruise aboard the Nemo II.
Cruise Details
0
Pinnacle rock in Bartolome
from $2,670
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Central and Western Islands

5 Day Itinerary aboard Fragata
  • Hike & observe wildlife on Mosquera
  • Panga ride visit to Vicente Roca
  • Snorkeling and observe penguins
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Charles Darwin Center
Activity Level
Variable
Sail along Galapagos islands on Fragata yacht, and discover in 5 days the magic of this heavenly place, visit Isbela, Fernandina, Santiago and Santa Cruz.
Cruise Details
0
Elizabeth Bay, Isabela Island, Galapagos, Sea Lion
from $2,670
EXPLORE

Central Islands II

5 Day Itinerary aboard Fragata
  • Relax on Tortuga Bay
  • Visit history places
  • Hike to Dragon Hill
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Discover the stunning landscape of Galapagos aboard Fragata yacht in 5 days, where you enjoy in a panga ride on Black Turtle, snorkeling at red beach on Rabida, learns about history in wall of tears and observe a unique wildlife in Santa Cruz.
Cruise Details
0
Enjoy a blissful snorkeling trip.
from $2,137
EXPLORE

Central Islands I

4 Day Itinerary aboard Fragata
  • Observe giant tortoises
  • Practice ornithology in Isabela
  • Enjoy the landscape of Rabida
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Black Turtle Cove
Activity Level
Variable
Diving in the magic waters of Galapagos in a cruise aboard 4 days in Golondrina Yacht. Explore the islands and enjoy the different activities like snorkeling, swim and sail around unique landscapes.
Cruise Details
0
La Pinta
from $381,349
EXPLORE

Private Charter - Western Islands Aboard La Pinta

7 Day Itinerary aboard La Pinta
  • Snorkel around Champion Islet
  • View lava how flows
  • Hike across North Seymour Island
  • Play with sea lions
Starts / Ends
North Seymour / Baltra
Activities
Kayaking, Hiking, Whale Watching
Activity Level
Variable
Experience the Galapagos Islands like never before during this 7-day Western Islands private cruise aboard La Pinta. Discover the volcanic landscapes of Punta Espinoza in Fernandina, the spectacular red beaches of Rabida on Santa Cruz Island, and snorkel or glass-bottom boat ride along the coast of Champion Islet in Floreana.
Cruise Details
0
La Pinta
from $287,358
EXPLORE

Private Charter - Eastern Islands Aboard La Pinta

5 Day Itinerary aboard La Pinta
  • Snorkel with fish in Gardner Bay
  • Visit the Charles Darwin Station
  • View lava lizards at Pitt Point
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Charles Darwin Center
Activity Level
Variable
Familiarize yourself with the Galapagos Eastern Islands on a private cruise aboard La Pinta. This 5-day voyage takes you to the islands of San Cristobal, Espanola, and Santa Cruz Island. Swim with playful sea lions, take coastal and inland hikes, and admire the famous giant tortoises and red-footed boobies.
Cruise Details
0
217-234 of 409 Results

Best Spots for Snorkeling in the Galapagos

Snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands is a highlight of any Galapagos tour. From volcanic formations to lava tunnels, the islands offer some of the world’s most unique marine ecosystems. Whether you're an active solo traveler or part of a Galapagos cruise, these top Galapagos Islands snorkeling spots are not to be missed:

 

1. Devil’s Crown (Isla Española)

This submerged volcanic crater offers some of the best snorkeling in Galapagos. Known for its strong currents and exceptional biodiversity, it's a must on any Galapagos cruise itinerary. Spot reef sharks, rays, and sea turtles.

2. Kicker Rock (Isla San Cristobal)

Towering rock walls rise from the ocean, creating a dramatic backdrop and a haven for marine life. Clear waters make this a top pick for Galapagos snorkeling with sharks, rays, and turtles.

3. Gardner Bay (Isla Española)

Calm, turquoise waters make this bay ideal for beginners. Swim alongside curious sea lions and tropical fish just off the soft white-sand beach.

4. North Seymour Island

Accessible via Galapagos cruise or day trip, North Seymour offers incredible wildlife both above and below water. Expect reef sharks, rays, and dense fish schools.

5. Floreana Island (Devil’s Crown & Champion Islet)

Champion Islet and Devil’s Crown near Floreana are famous for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant reef life. These sites are often featured on naturalist-led Galapagos snorkeling tours.

6. Isabela Island (Los Tuneles)

Snorkeling in the Galapagos here means swimming through ancient lava tunnels and arches where penguins, seahorses, and sea turtles thrive. A favorite on many Galapagos land tours.

7. Bartolomé Island

Renowned for its stunning views and rich marine life, this site offers excellent visibility and the chance to snorkel with Galápagos penguins.

8. Santa Fe Island

Peaceful and less crowded, Santa Fe is great for travelers seeking a relaxed, uncrowded Galapagos snorkeling experience. Swim with sea lions, rays, and colorful reef fish.

What to Expect from Your Galapagos Snorkeling Adventure

Whether you're on a Galapagos cruise or a land-based tour, Galapagos Islands snorkeling offers unmatched access to wildlife and pristine ecosystems:

  • Marine Life Encounters: Spot playful sea lions, sea turtles, eagle rays, colorful fish and even reef sharks or penguins.
  • Snorkeling Gear Provided: Wetsuits, fins, and masks are included on most Galapagos cruises and guided tours for maximum comfort.
  • Safety First: Trained naturalist guides provide a safe and educational experience, pointing out wildlife and assessing water conditions.
  • Itinerary Overview: Tours begin with transportation from your lodge or vessel to key Galapagos snorkeling sites. Enjoy guided time in the water and scenic return trips—seamlessly organized.

Why Book a Galapagos Snorkeling Tour with Adventure Life?

When you book Galapagos snorkeling tours with Adventure Life, you’re not just snorkeling, you’re joining a curated experience designed for comfort, education, and sustainability.

  • Expert Knowledge: Our local naturalist guides enrich your experience with insights into marine biology and conservation.
  • Tailored Experiences: Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or seasoned diver, we match you with the right tour or Galapagos cruise.
  • Eco-Conscious Travel: We follow strict sustainability practices to protect marine habitats and support local conservation efforts.
  • Unmatched Access: Explore remote Galapagos snorkeling spots that are off-limits to independent travelers, available only through licensed operators.

FAQs: Galapagos Islands snorkeling

Does the Galapagos have good snorkeling?

Yes! The Galapagos Islands are one of the world’s top snorkeling destinations. Clear waters, volcanic coastlines, and protected marine reserves make it easy to swim alongside sea turtles, rays, reef sharks, penguins, sea lions, and fishes. Whether you're on a Galapagos cruise or a land-based tour, snorkeling in the Galapagos is a highlight of any adventure.

What are the best months to snorkel in the Galapagos?

Galapagos Islands snorkeling is great year-round, but the best months depend on your preferences:

  • Warm season (Dec–May): Calmer seas, warmer water, and excellent visibility, ideal for snorkeling.
  • Cool season (June–Nov): Waters are cooler, but marine life activity increases. Wetsuits are recommended during this time.
Which Galapagos Island has the best snorkeling?

Several islands offer world-class snorkeling, and the best often depends on the wildlife you want to see:

  • Devil’s Crown (Española): Top site for marine diversity.
  • Kicker Rock (San Cristóbal): Swim with sharks and rays in deep water.
  • Los Tuneles (Isabela): Shallow lava tunnels with turtles, seahorses, and penguins. Adventure Life’s itineraries include access to these top spots as part of both land and Galapagos snorkeling cruises.
Do I need a wetsuit to snorkel in the Galapagos?

It depends on the season and your comfort level:

  • Dec–May: Water temperatures are warmer (~75–82°F), and a wetsuit is optional.
  • June–Nov: Cooler waters (~65–75°F); a wetsuit is strongly recommended.

Most Galapagos snorkeling tours with Adventure Life include wetsuits and all necessary gear.

Is it safe to snorkel with sharks in the Galapagos?

Yes. Snorkeling in the Galapagos with reef sharks, including white-tipped and Galapagos sharks, is a common and safe experience. These species are non-aggressive and typically uninterested in humans. All Galapagos Islands snorkeling excursions are led by licensed naturalist guides who ensure your safety and comfort in the water.

Are Galapagos snorkeling tours with Adventure Life suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. Adventure Life offers Galapagos tours and cruises that cater to all experience levels. Beginners are welcomed with guided instruction, calm-water locations, and gear provided. Itineraries are designed to build confidence while offering close encounters with marine wildlife in safe, controlled settings.

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