Cachalote Explorer
Adventure Cruise · Ecuador
An intimate and authentic small-ship cruise through the Galapagos Islands.
About This Vessel
Cachalote Explorer is a small adventure cruise ship exploring the Galápagos region. It hosts up to 16 guests on board.
Discover the Galapagos Islands aboard the Cachalote Explorer, a stable and charming yacht offering intimate, naturalist-led cruises through this iconic volcanic archipelago.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Galapagos Islands, a living laboratory of evolution where unique wildlife thrives in a pristine volcanic landscape. The Cachalote Explorer serves as your comfortable base for exp…
Upcoming Departures
Onboard Amenities
Dining & Beverages
Dining on board is a highlight, featuring freshly prepared local cuisine served in a communal setting. The menu is designed to cater to diverse palates, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request to ensure all guests are well-nourished for their daily adventures.
Shore excursions & land activities
The Galapagos offers world-class snorkeling opportunities, allowing guests to swim alongside marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins, and various species of rays. The Cachalote Explorer provides all necessary snorkeling gear and is accompanied by a professional guide who ensures safety and helps guests spot the most elusive marine life. Visibility and water conditions vary by season, but the abundance of marine life remains a constant highlight. The itineraries are specifically designed to visit prime snorkeling sites, ensuring that every guest has the opportunity to experience the unique underwater world of the Galapagos.
Wildlife you may see on shore
Typical land and shore animals in Galapagos. Sightings depend on route and season and are never guaranteed.
Galápagos Tortoise
Reptiles
Marine Iguana
Reptiles
Galápagos Land Iguana
Reptiles
Galápagos Penguin
Birds
Blue-footed Booby
Birds
Nazca Booby
Birds
Red-footed Booby
Birds
Waved Albatross
Birds
Flightless Cormorant
Birds
Galápagos Hawk
Birds
Galápagos Sea Lion
Mammals
Galápagos Fur Seal
Mammals
Discover all wildlife of Galapagos
Browse the full animal guide on our Nature & Wildlife page.
Important Information
What's Included
VAT · Drinking Water
Not Included & Local Fees
National Park Fees ($220 / trip) · Fuel Surcharge ($75–$100 / trip)
Airport Transfers
Airport and hotel transfers are available as optional extras. Please contact us to arrange your specific requirements.
Travel Insurance
We recommend comprehensive travel insurance for every cruise, covering trip cancellation and interruption, medical treatment and emergency evacuation abroad, and baggage loss or delay. · Remote destinations such as the Galápagos, Antarctica or the Arctic make evacuation cover especially important.
How to Get There
Fly into mainland Ecuador first: Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE). · Continue on a domestic flight (approx. 2–3 h) to Baltra (GPS) or San Cristóbal (SCY), depending on where your ship embarks.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Your cruise visits Ecuador (including the Galápagos Islands). Visa requirements, electronic travel authorisations and passport-validity rules depend on your nationality and travel documents. Check the current official guidance linked below, including transit-country rules, before travelling. · Ecuador’s official entry guidance lists six months of passport validity for visitors travelling on a passport. Some South American nationals may use an eligible national identity document instead. Certain nationalities require a visa before arrival; check the official nationality list rather than assuming visa-free entry. Source checked on 15 October 2026.
Accommodation
-1-1791979706516.jpg?w=480&q=70&f=webp)
Lower Deck Cabin (Twin)
Twin • Lower
A cozy twin-bed cabin located on the lower deck, perfect for friends or solo travelers sharing.
Upper Deck Cabin
Queen + Single Bunk • Upper
Located on the upper deck, these cabins offer beautiful ocean views and are configured with one queen bed and one single bunk bed.
Lower Deck Cabin
Queen • Lower
Comfortable cabins situated on the lower deck, each featuring a queen bed and private en-suite facilities.
Booking & Travel FAQ
How does the booking process work?
Select a cabin and departure on Cachalote Explorer, and we send a real-time inquiry to the operator. After availability is confirmed, you receive a booking confirmation by email and secure your spot with a deposit.
When do I need to pay?
A deposit (usually 25-35%) is due upon confirmation. The remaining balance is typically due 4-8 weeks before departure, depending on the operator.
What documents will I receive?
After your final payment, you'll receive a travel voucher with meeting point, embarkation time, airport transfer details, packing tips, and your full itinerary.
How do I get to the cruise ship?
Adventure cruise ships embark at a designated port or meeting point, depending on the itinerary. Some operators arrange airport pickup, group flights or transfers; check your booking confirmation and travel voucher for what is included. We recommend arriving in the gateway city at least one day before departure, unless your operator provides different instructions.
What clothing and footwear should I bring?
Bring sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes with good grip for shore visits, and comfortable clothing suited to your destination's weather. Pack breathable layers, a sun hat and sun protection for warm regions; for colder or wetter conditions, add warm layers and a waterproof, windproof jacket. Check the operator's packing list for landing footwear, any supplied equipment and specific requirements.
Can I cancel or change my booking?
Cancellation terms vary by operator and are in your confirmation. Generally, the earlier you cancel the higher the refund. Changes depend on availability, contact us as soon as possible.
Vessel Technical Overview
Vessel Specifications
Navigation & Safety Systems
Ready for your next adventure cruise?
Discover your next adventure aboard Cachalote Explorer. Compare cruise ships, island routes and departure dates to find the journey that suits you.
- Compare ships and cabins
- Find your travel dates
- Personal support