Grand Daphne
Adventure Cruise · Galápagos
Intimate Galapagos adventures on a boutique 38-meter yacht.
About This Vessel
Grand Daphne is a small adventure cruise ship exploring the Galápagos region. It hosts up to 16 guests on board.
Experience the wonders of the Galapagos Archipelago aboard the 38-meter Grand Daphne, a boutique cruise ship offering intimate, naturalist-led adventures for just 16 guests.
The Galapagos Islands represent one of the world's most extraordinary natural laboratories, where unique wildlife and volcanic landscapes create an unparalleled travel destination. Navigating these pristine waters, the Grand …
Upcoming Departures
Onboard Amenities
Dining & Beverages
Dining on the Grand Daphne is a delightful experience, featuring a full-board meal plan that highlights both local Ecuadorian dishes and international cuisine. Meals are served in a comfortable, social dining room, with snacks available throughout the day. Special dietary needs, such as vegetarian or vegan options, are catered to with advance notice. The onboard bar offers a selection of beverages, including beer and wine, to complement your meals while you enjoy the stunning views.
Shore excursions & land activities
The Galapagos offers a world-class snorkeling experience where guests can encounter sea lions, marine iguanas, and a variety of colorful reef fish. The Grand Daphne provides high-quality snorkeling gear and wetsuits to ensure comfort in the water. Guided by expert naturalists, guests explore diverse marine environments, from shallow bays to rocky outcrops. The use of zodiacs allows for easy access to the best snorkeling spots, ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all skill levels.
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
Port Fees ($10 / trip) · Gratuities ($24 / day)
Airport Transfers
Transfers are not included in the base price. Please contact our travel consultants for assistance with arranging local flights and transfers to the embarkation point.
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
Main Deck Suite
King • Main Deck
The spacious Main Deck Suite features a luxurious king-size bed and premium amenities. It provides a comfortable retreat with excellent views and convenient access to the main deck.
Upper Deck Superior Cabins
Double • Upper Deck
These superior cabins are situated on the upper deck, offering easy access to social areas and beautiful ocean views. Each cabin includes a double bed and a private en-suite bathroom.
Lower Deck Standard Cabins
Twin • Lower Deck
Comfortable cabins located on the lower deck, featuring twin beds and private en-suite bathrooms. These rooms are equipped with air conditioning and large portholes for natural light.
Booking & Travel FAQ
How does the booking process work?
Select a cabin and departure on Grand Daphne, 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 Grand Daphne. 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