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Galapagos Snorkeling Trips

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    • Galapagos
Sun Deck
from $123,790
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Private Charter - Islands Circumnavigation - West Aboard Ocean Spray

8 Day Itinerary aboard Ocean Spray
  • View a sea lion colony
  • Explore underground lava tubes
  • Snorkel with fish and sea lions
  • Visit the blowhole on Espanola
Starts / Ends
Baltra / San Cristobal Airport
Activity Level
Variable
Circumnavigate the Western Islands of the Galapagos on this 8-day private charter cruise aboard the Ocean Spray. Explore striking volcanic landscapes and spot incredible wildlife with your expert guides on this unforgettable voyage.
Cruise Details
0
Ocean Spray
from $93,290
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Private Charter - Luxurious Southern Galapagos Cruise Aboard Ocean Spray

6 Day Itinerary aboard Ocean Spray
  • Visit the Waved Albatross colony
  • Snorkel with sharks at Kicker Rock
  • Leave a letter at Post Office Bay
  • Hike the cliffs at Pitt Point
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Board the Ocean Spray, a 16-passenger luxury catamaran, on this 6-day private cruise aboard one of the best yachts in Galapagos. See giant Galapagos tortoises, playful sea lion colonies, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and if traveling the right time of year, waved albatrosses on Espanola Island.
Cruise Details
0
Balcony
from $96,890
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Private Charter - Western Islands Aboard Ocean Spray

6 Day Itinerary aboard Ocean Spray
  • Snorkel with turtles, rays and fish
  • Explore Urbina Bay
  • Hike along lava paths
  • Take a trail along Lake Darwin
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activities
Whale Watching
Activity Level
Variable
Experience Galapagos penguins, Elizabeth Bay, and more on a cruise through the Western Islands aboard Ocean Spray. Enjoy hiking, snorkeling and dinghy rides on this 6-day private Galapagos tour.
Cruise Details
0
Santa Cruz Highlands
from $4,768
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Hiking Galapagos

Hotel-Based Tour - 9 Day Itinerary
  • Hike Cerro de Las Tijeretas
  • Trek to a fresh water lake
  • Learn about local conservation
  • Explore Tortuga Bay
Activity Level
Moderate
Sea lions and tortoises and iguanas -- oh my! Explore some of the Islands' most remarkable regions, including snorkeling at Leon Dormido, Tortuga Bay, Frigate Hill and a hike to the rim of Sierra Negra volcano. Spend nights on the Islands in comfortable hotels on this 9-day trip with the best hiking in Galapagos.
Tour Details
0
Wildlife in the Galapagos
from $5,845
Savings
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North & Central Islands

5 Day Itinerary aboard Galapagos Horizon
  • Observe the Pinnacle Rock
  • Snorkel through clear blue waters
  • Visit James Bay
Activity Level
Variable
Enjoy an extensive adventure into the unique world of the Galapagos on this incredible 5-day journey. Admire the incredible natural beauty of this archipelago sailing pass Baltra, Rabida, Santiago, Genovesa, Santa Cruz and more!
Cruise Details
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Getting ready to land
from $51,120
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Private Charter - Western Islands II

Baltra roundtrip - 5 Day Itinerary aboard Archipel I
  • Snorkel with sea lions
  • Observe white tip sharks
  • Visit Fausto Llerena Center
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Join the Archipel I for a 5-day private cruise of the Western Galapagos Islands. The scenic Santa Cruz, wildlife-rich Isabela, cliff-lined Fernandina, and pristine white sands of Bachas Beach are among the highlights. Swim beside friendly sea lions or stroll through volcanic landscapes teeming with gigantic tortoises, flamingos, iguanas, and penguins.
Cruise Details
0
Visit Kicker Rock, popularly known as the Sleeping Lion (Leon Dormido)
from $3,996
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Galapagos Multisport

Hotel-Based Tour - 8 Day Itinerary
  • Kayak and snorkel among wildlife
  • Learn about Galapagos conservation
  • Cycle to Isabela's coastline
  • Snorkel in Concha Perla
  • Hike the rim of an active caldera
  • View giant Galapagos tortoises
Activities
Biking
Activity Level
Moderate
This 8-day multisport adventure to the Galapagos Islands is packed with thrilling and unique experiences. Begin your action-packed trip with a trek on San Cristobal Island, and then continue with kayaking, snorkeling, and biking around the Galapagos, where wildlife awaits at every turn, trailside, and shoreline!
Tour Details
0
Sail the Galapagos on the Origin ship!
from $10,250
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Beaches and Bays

Southern & Central Route - 8 Day Itinerary aboard M/V Origin, Theory & Evolve
  • Enjoy kid-friendly adventures
  • Leave a card in Post Office Bay
  • Encounter Galapagos giant tortoises
  • Enjoy pristine beaches and swimming
Activity Level
Variable
Spend 8 days cruising the Southern Islands of the Galapagos and visiting a variety of islands such as San Cristobal, Española, Floreana, and Santa Cruz. Explore the unique and endemic flora and fauna of each island and enjoy family adventure activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking.
Cruise Details
0
Overlook at Pitt Point
from $5,200
Savings
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Western Islands

6 Day Itinerary aboard Alya
  • Observe Galapagos giant tortoises
  • See the blue-footed boobies dance
  • Look for Galapagos penguins
  • Cruise along Moreno Point
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Bachas Beach
Activity Level
Variable
Embark the Alya on this 6-day catamaran cruise of the Western Galapagos Islands, visiting some of the most popular sites including the Tortoise Breeding Center on Santa Cruz, snorkeling in Elizabeth Bay on Isabela, kayaking around Urbina Bay at Fernandina, and hiking the Chinese Hat Islet near the southeast coast of Santiago, plus much more!
Cruise Details
0
Alya, Sun Deck
from $79,040
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Private Charter - Western Islands Aboard Alya

6 Day Itinerary aboard Alya
  • Observe Galapagos giant tortoises
  • See the blue-footed boobies dance
  • Look for Galapagos penguins
  • Cruise along Moreno Point
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Bachas Beach
Activity Level
Variable
Board the Alya on this 6-day private cruise of the Western Galapagos Islands, visiting some of the most popular sites including the Tortoise Breeding Center on Santa Cruz, snorkeling in Elizabeth Bay on Isabela, kayaking around Urbina Bay at Fernandina, and hiking the Chinese Hat Islet near the southeast coast of Santiago, plus much more.
Cruise Details
0
A male frigatebird rests in the trees of the Galapagos
from $126,450
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Private Charter - Island Circumnavigation Aboard Galapagos Horizon

8 Day Itinerary aboard Galapagos Horizon
  • Discover Sullivan Bay's beauty
  • Observe mola-mola sunfish
  • Swim & snorel across Isabela Island
  • Visit South Plaza Islands
Starts / Ends
Baltra / San Cristobal Airport
Activity Level
Variable
This 8-day private cruise offers incredible snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking adventures all around the Galapagos archipelago in style. Gourmet cuisine, the best guides, and spacious & stylish cabins guarantee a top-notch luxury cruising experience second to none.
Cruise Details
0
Cruise the Galapagos on the Galaxy II ship
from $71,440
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Private Charter - Eastern Islands Aboard EcoGalaxy

6 Day Itinerary aboard EcoGalaxy
  • Swim and snorkel in Bartolome
  • Spot flamingos
  • Hike around Post Office Bay
  • Observe sharks in Gardner Bay
Starts / Ends
Baltra / San Cristobal Airport
Activity Level
Variable
The Eastern Islands of the Galapagos are a great place to experience flamingos, whimbrels, tortoises and more. Board the EcoGalaxy for an incredible 6-day private tour of these islands.
Cruise Details
0
Bonita Galapagos Yatch
from $60,800
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Private Charter - Western Islands Aboard Bonita

7 Day Itinerary aboard Bonita
  • Discover Dragon Hill
  • Visit Espumilla Beach
  • See unique wildlife at Vicente Roce
  • Hike across Urbina Bay
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Los Gemelos (Twin Craters)
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a Galapagos cruise aboard the Bonita for a private expedition. This 7-day tour of the western islands takes you to white beaches, secluded lagoons, and pristine snorkeling locations for an unforgettable week-long tour of the Galapagos.
Cruise Details
0
Cruise the Galapagos on the Galaxy II ship
from $57,760
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Private Charter - Northeast Galapagos Catamaran Cruise Aboard EcoGalaxy

5 Day Itinerary aboard EcoGalaxy
  • Swim along coral beaches
  • Observe a variety of sea birds
  • Hike the shores of North Seymour
Starts / Ends
San Cristobal / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Spend 5 days cruising through the Galapagos on a tour of the Northeast Islands. Witness sea lions, iguanas and beautiful scenery on this private adventure aboard the EcoGalaxy.
Cruise Details
0
The iconic feet of a Blue-Footed Booby
from $41,040
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Private Charter - Central Islands + Genovesa Aboard Bonita

5 Day Itinerary aboard Bonita
  • Zodiac ride in Black Turtle Cove
  • Explore Darwin Bay´s coasts
  • Hike through South Plaza
Starts / Ends
South Plaza Island / North Seymour
Activity Level
Variable
Journey to the western islands of the Galapagos archipelago on this 5-day cruise designed for families with children, visiting Genovesa, Santa Cruz, and Bartolome! Encounter the archipelago's unique wildlife in their natural habitat and take the opportunity to snorkel in pristine waters, swim with sea lions, and see the famed Galapagos tortoises.
Cruise Details
0
Marine Iguana with ship
from $59,450
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Private Charter - Northern Islands Aboard Galapagos Angel

5 Day Itinerary aboard Galapagos Angel
  • Discover Chinese Islet lava tunnels
  • Witness Sullivan Bay's geology
  • Visit Darwin Bay for bird species
  • Explore Egas Port
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Explore North Seymour's wildlife, and discover Chinese Islet's geological wonders. Tour Sullivan Bay for captivating geology visit Darwin Bay, El Barranco, Egas Port, and Rabida Island on this 5-day private Northern Islands cruise aboard Galapagos Angel. Conclude with a visit to Fausto Llerena, observing giant tortoises in various stages of life.
Cruise Details
0
Frigate Bird
from $4,000
Savings
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Northeast Islands

Baltra - San Cristobal - 6 Day Itinerary aboard Galaxy
  • Discover North Seymour Island
  • Witness the courtship dance
  • Snorkel the vibrant underwater
  • Visit South Plazas Island
Starts / Ends
Baltra / San Cristobal Highlands
Activities
Wildlife Viewing, Snorkeling, Hiking, Kayaking, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Small Ship Sailing
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 6-day cruise in the Northeast Galapagos Islands aboard Galaxy. Witness diverse wildlife at North Seymours. Encounter penguins at Bartolome Island's Pinnacle Rock. Explore volcanic landscapes at Sullivan Bay, and snorkel in vibrant waters. Conclude with Santa Fe's land iguanas and explore San Cristobal's lush highlands.
Cruise Details
0
Galapagos seaside
from $10,920
EXPLORE

West Galapagos

Santa Cruz - Baltra - 8 Day Itinerary aboard Aqua Mare
  • Enjoy Isabela landscapes
  • Explore Darwin Lake
  • Visit Playa Espumilla
  • Discover Rábida Island
Starts / Ends
Puerto Ayora / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Witness the greatest spectacle of evolution and dynamic volcanic terrains on this 8-day West Galapagos expedition from Santa Cruz Island to Baltra Island aboard Aqua Mare. Tour Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre, Punta Cormorant, Punta Moreno, Punta Espinoza, Puerto Egas, Rábida, North Seymour, and Mosquera.
Cruise Details
0
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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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