Adventure Cruise in Galápagos – Galapagos Sea Star

Galapagos Sea Star

Adventure Cruise · Galápagos

Intimate luxury cruising through the heart of the enchanted Galapagos Islands.

16
Galápagos
2011

About This Vessel

Galapagos Sea Star is a small adventure cruise ship exploring the Galápagos region. It hosts up to 16 guests on board.

Experience the enchanted Galapagos Islands aboard this intimate, 16-guest yacht, featuring private balconies, gourmet dining, and expert-led naturalist excursions.

Set against the backdrop of the legendary Galapagos archipelago, the Galapagos Sea Star offers an unparalleled gateway to one of the world's most pristine marine sanctuaries. Navigating these volcanic islands, the vessel serves as a so…

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Onboard Amenities

Free Internet
Jacuzzi / Hot Tub
En-Suite bathrooms
Family Cabins
Aircon Cabins
Non-Diver (Snorkeler) Friendly
Warm Water Showers
Air Conditioned saloon
Sun Deck
Rooms with Balcony

Dining & Beverages

Al Fresco Dining
Vegan Options
Vegetarian Options
Beer available
Fine Wines Selection
Welcome Cocktails
Snacks All Day
Buffet style
Local Food
Set Menu Dinner

Dining on board is a highlight, featuring a mix of local Ecuadorian flavors and international cuisine. Meals are prepared with fresh, organic ingredients and served in a variety of settings, including an elegant indoor dining room and an al fresco area for enjoying the ocean views. The crew is well-versed in catering to specific dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-conscious meals, ensuring that every guest is well-fed and satisfied throughout their journey.

Shore excursions & land activities

The Galapagos Sea Star focuses on immersive water activities, primarily snorkeling, which allows guests to interact closely with the archipelago's unique marine life. Guests can expect to swim alongside sea lions, sea turtles, and a variety of colorful reef fish in some of the most pristine waters in the world. Excursions are led by a certified naturalist guide who ensures safety and provides in-depth knowledge about the marine ecosystems visited. The vessel is highly snorkeler-friendly, providing all necessary equipment and utilizing zodiac tenders to reach secluded sites that larger ships cannot access.

Wildlife you may see on shore

Typical land and shore animals in Galapagos. Sightings depend on route and season and are never guaranteed.

Discover all wildlife of Galapagos

Browse the full animal guide on our Nature & Wildlife page.

All animals of Galapagos

Important Information

What's Included

VAT · Drinking Water

Not Included & Local Fees

Fuel surcharge, net per person by cruise duration: 4 days $48; 5 days $65; 6 days $108; 7 days $140; 8 days $200 (subject to change) · Tips

Airport Transfers

Airport and hotel transfers are not included in the base price and are listed as optional extras.

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

Balcony Suite

Balcony Suite

Convertible • Main Deck • 25 m²

4x
👥 2 Guests• AC• En-suite bathroom• Storage space
Galapagos Suite

Galapagos Suite

Convertible • Upper Deck • 25 m²

3x
👥 2 Guests• AC• En-suite bathroom• Storage space
Sea Star Travel Suite

Sea Star Travel Suite

Convertible • Upper Deck

1x
👥 2 Guests• AC• En-suite bathroom• Storage space

Booking & Travel FAQ

How does the booking process work?

Select a cabin and departure on Galapagos Sea Star, 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

Year built2011
Year renovated2025
Cruising speed9 knots
Top speed10 knots
Max guests16
Number of cabins8
Number of bathrooms8
Engines2 Yuchai 450 HP
Freshwater maker2000 gallons per day
Water capacity10000 gallons
Fuel capacity6000 gallons
Tenders2 Zodiac CARIBE C-16

Navigation & Safety Systems

Radar
Depth Sounder
GPS
Radio VHF/DSC/SSB
E.P.I.R.B. Distress System
Emergency Rafts
Life Vests
Fire Alarm & Fire Extinguishers
Oxygen
First Aid Kits
Bilge pump alarm
Search light
Engine room CCTV
Crew trained in first aid
Emergency flares
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