GALAPAGOS ISLANDS – The definitive “Bucket List” charter destination

This area is a living laboratory that offers charter guests astounding diversity of nature and experiences. The ideal way to explore the Galapagos Islands is onboard one of the private luxury charter yachts based here.

Galapagos

All of the Luxury Charter Group team have been fortunate enough to visit the Galapagos Islands. Radek Gendek most recently experienced the magic and majesty of the area on a charter with MY STELLA MARIS. At 124ft (38m) STELLA MARIS accommodates up to 14 guests in comfort, with luxurious amenities, acclaimed onboard Chef and a Captain with 30 years’ experience cruising this fascinating region. 

Galapagos Great Frigate

Here, Radek shares some insight into and indelible impressions of this “living laboratory” and showcase of Evolution.

GALAPAGOS – “ENCHANTED ISLANDS”
Galapagos

Located around 600 miles (1,050kms) off the coast of Ecuador in South America, the Galapagos Islands are a pristine sanctuary for native and unique species.

Galapagos rays

Comprising a group of 19 islands, 13 large and six small, and dozens of islets and rocks that cover an area of over 17,000 square miles, the Galapagos Islands are truly the last frontier in terms of natural wonders, making your charter a journey of a lifetime.

Charles darwin

Biologist and naturalist, Sir Charles Darwin first introduced the world to the Galapagos Islands in 1859, through his book “The Origin of the Species”, and presentations of his theory of evolution which he gleaned from five weeks studying the flora and fauna on the Galapagos Islands.

galapagos cactus

Since that time, the Galapagos have intrigued scientists from many fields, as well as intrepid travellers and seafarers mesmerised by the myriad natural wonders found only there. 

Galapagos islet

Yacht charter is the ideal way to explore the Archipelago for the ability to immerse yourself in the astounding diversity of each island group, under the expert guidance of your charter yacht Captain and crew who have official National Park clearance to conduct charters to approved itineraries.

Galapagaos

There are two different cruising itineraries (A and B), designed to limit the number of people on a given island at the same time. This well-thought-out schedule also allows guests to enjoy private time savouring their own ‘piece of paradise’.

NATURAL WONDERS

Declared a National Park in 1959, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 and its waters declared the Galapagos Marine Reserve in 1994, the islands are visited by around 200,000 people each year.

Galapagos

Blessed with mild weather all year round, the natural splendours of the Galapagos can be enjoyed at any time of year, although January to June is known as the warm/wet season and July to December as the “garúa” or cool/dry season. During a normal year, temperatures range between 15°C (59F) and 29°C (84F).

Galapagos penguins

Sir David Attenborough, naturalist and the father of the nature documentary, which he has been perfecting since 1954, describes the Galapagos Islands as “a place populated by extraordinary and beautiful creatures, some of which are found nowhere else on the planet”.

Galapagos Giant Tortoise

“I have now returned three times to the Galápagos Islands since my first visit in 1978 and each time the excitement has been undiminished,” he says in the introduction to his latest documentary (“Galapagos, 3D, Origin”).

Galapagos Lizard

The allure of these volcanic and isolated islands is as strong today as it ever was, and luxury charter guests are enthralled by this pristine wonderland which offer nature lovers a unique dose of creatures only found in this ecosystem: marine iguanas and land iguanas, both of which are unique to the Galápagos; waved albatrosses, penguins, sea lions, giant cacti, finches, flightless cormorants, and the famed giant tortoise, whose average lifespan of 100 years makes it the longest living vertebrate on earth.

gALAPAGOS SEALS

For bird enthusiasts, surely the Galapagos is heaven on earth, for although there are just 29 resident species of land birds on the islands, 22 are endemic (found nowhere else). Surrounded by miles and miles of open ocean, the islands provide seabirds with an important place to roost. There are 19 resident species (five are endemic).

Galapagos flamingos

Thirty percent of the world’s blue-footed boobies are known to inhabit the Galapagos, plus it hosts the world’s largest red-footed booby colony, and perhaps the largest concentration of Nazca boobies in the world.

Galapagos Blue Footed Boobies

ACTIVITIES

There are many activities charter guests can enjoy on and around the islands, suited to all ages, levels of fitness and interests.

Galapagos trekking

Trekking offers charter guests the best opportunity to observe the native wildlife in its habitats. The Galapagos National Park provides local guides with the expertise to lead you on trails that span all kinds of flora and fauna that will bring out the naturalist in everybody!

Galapagos snorkelling

The best way to experience the aquatic life of the Galapagos is on or under the water. From your yacht’s tender, you will be able to observe oceans brimming with life, including inquisitive sea lions and seals, and penguins unafraid of their human visitors.

Galapagos whale shark

Galapagos is a world-class snorkelling and diving destination, with a variety of sites that vary from close to the beach to deep among the currents of the Devil's Crown – all teaming with species of reef fish like the King Angel Fish and Parrot Fish, as well as sea turtles, sharks, rays, moray eels, octopi and crustaceans. 

Galapagos sea turtle

In the lagoons and tranquil mangrove forests, kayaking is another great means of observing nesting birds and schools of baby rays and sharks.

Galapagos kayaking

CHARTER WITH A CONSCIENCE

Perennially popular, the Galapagos is often deemed in danger of being “loved to death” by visitors undertaking “island safaris”. But eco-tourism sustains the people who live there and the actual identity that makes this place so precious.

Galapagos anchorage

“Without tourism, there would be no more Galapagos,” states David Attenborough. “However, Galapagos also needs the right kind of tourism: visitors who are genuinely interested in the Islands, who are respectful of the Islands when they visit, and, ideally, who stay involved with the cause long after they have left.”

Galapagos

GETTING THERE
gALAPAGOS

There are numerous direct flights from the US to Ecuador, Quito and Guayaquil include Miami, Fort Lauderdale, New York, Atlanta and Houston while the easiest direct flights from Europe are out of Amsterdam and Madrid.

Most European flights land in Quito or Guayaquil in the late afternoon, while the flights for the Galapagos mostly leave in the morning so if you're not flying privately, a stopover when coming from Europe is required. The Wyndham airport hotel is a convenient accommodation option and will save you 2 to 3 hours in transit, compared to a hotel in the City. It's safe, clean, fairly new and adjacent to the airport. 

Galapagos seals ont he beach

Let the charter experts at Luxury Charter Group manage every aspect of your Galapagos Islands charter adventure, including travel arrangements, charter yacht, preferred itinerary and activities, onboard menus and any other special requests and requirements to make your charter unforgettable. Contact us today.

Galapagos Bartolome

Disclaimer: The information about luxury yachts displayed on this page is merely informational and these yachts are not necessarily available for yacht charter or for sale, nor are they represented or marketed in anyway by Luxury Charter Group. This web page and the superyacht information contained herein is not contractual. All yacht specifications and information is displayed in good faith but Luxury Charter Group does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the current accuracy, completeness, validity, or usefulness of any superyacht information and/or images displayed. All boat information is subject to change without prior notice and may not be current.

Related Blog Posts

Luxury Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean: A Foodie Adventure

Luxury Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean: A Foodie Adventure

A luxury yacht charter is not just a maritime adventure; it's an exploration of the region's rich and diverse culinary landscape. Each destination unfolds its unique gastronomic treasures, and your yacht becomes a floating gourmet haven. Indulge in the freshest local ingredients in fabulous restaurants ashore or expertly prepared by onboard chefs, as you cruise through a tapestry of tastes that reflect the essence of the Mediterranean. Learn more...

Ultimate Guide to Group Yacht Charters in Croatia

Ultimate Guide to Group Yacht Charters in Croatia

When it comes to vacationing with a group of people, whether it be family or friends, few experiences can match the luxury, exclusivity and ease of a crewed yacht charter in Croatia. With modern high volume motorsailers and motor yachts capable of accommodating up to 24 guests, crystal-clear waters and picturesque coastal towns and islands, Croatia is the perfect destination for a memorable getaway. Learn more...

Explore the Caribbean on the Luxury Motor Yacht ACE this Winter

Explore the Caribbean on the Luxury Motor Yacht ACE this Winter

The multi-award winning 44.27m M/Y ACE, built by the renowned Conrad Shipyard in 2023, combines cutting-edge technology with luxurious amenities. She is a true standout in the world of luxury yachts. This December M/Y ACE is heading to the Caribbean, offering you the chance to explore pristine waters and idyllic islands. Seize the opportunity to plan your escape from the coming winter's cold now. Talk to us today. Learn more...

Top 2025 Summer Med Luxury Charter Destinations

Top 2025 Summer Med Luxury Charter Destinations

Here's our list of the premier places for your 2025 summer luxury yacht charter in the Mediterranean. Whether you set your sights on the captivating islands of Greece, the enchanting shores of Croatia, the timeless charm of Italy, or the vibrant Balearic Islands, Luxury Charter Group is here to organise your perfect getaway. Our team of specialists will guide you in selecting the ideal luxury yacht that perfectly complements your desires, ensuring an extraordinary luxury yacht charter in the destination of your dreams. Learn more...


8 Good Reasons to Book with Luxury Charter Group

We are the luxury charter experts and have been excelling in this space for 30 years, or a combined total of 140 years! Our clients’ feedback assures us that our experience, expertise and dedication are the main reasons they rely on us, why they rebook time and again and refer their friends and contacts to us.


  1. Personalised service: we take care of the details
  2. We deliver exceptional charter experiences
  3. Up-to-date charter yacht knowledge
  4. Personal experience of the destinations
  5. Unbiased independent advice
  6. Global operations base
  7. Financial security
  8. Secure charter contracts

We ensure planning your charter is easy and enjoyable

Why you should choose us...