
When
choosing a Galapagos trip, price is probably, the most important
decision maker. For this reason, we want to be give some
important tips to help you choosing your boat.
A higher priced
boat normally gives you more space and amenities, better
crew service, more educated multilingual guides, and hence,
a better once-in-a-lifetime
experience. By choosing a Galapagos tour in this category, you are assuring yourself
that your visit to the Islands will be all that you expect it to be.
Nevertheless,
there are good economic boats, with less space and amenities, but with friendly
crew members, more home-style food, and guides with a reasonable
level of English and good knowledge about the islands and its natural history,
but of course, the service and quality of your trip may vary.
There are 4 different
categories of boats in Galapagos, and in general terms, here some tips to determine
categories:
Luxury boats usually have two lower berths
and are en-suite. They offer larger cabins and public areas, experienced multilingual
naturalist guides, international-gourmet
food and higher security standards. Prices range from $1500 - $2000 for a 5 day
and 4 night tour and from $2000 - $4000 for a 8 day and 7 night tour.
First
class
boats may have upper and lower berths and the quality is in general of a good
standard. They also have private showers and toilets as well as air
condition and experienced multilingual guides. Prices range from $1000-1500 for
a 5 day and 4 night tour and from $1.500 - $3000 for a 8 day and 7 night tour.
Tourist
class boats, generally have two berths, upper and lower and private facilities,
but space is more limited. $700 - $1000 for a 5 day and 4 night tour and from
$1200 - $2000 for a 8 days and 7 night tour.
Economy
boats are normally converted fishing boats, so space and facilities are
very limited. Toilets and showers are usually shared, and food that even being
good is quite simple. Range from $350 - $700 for a 5 day and 4 night tour and
from $550 - $1200 for a 8 day and 7 night tour.
All Tours include: Accommodations
based in double cabins ( single cabins under request) transfers in Galapagos,
all meals through the cruise, daily guided excursions.
All
Tours do not include: Airfare to and from Galapagos, Galapagos national Park
tax / ($ 100 per person), soft and alcoholic beverages, tips, laundry and personal
expenses.