Archipel I Galapagos Cruise

A sociable 16-guest catamaran for active island days

A Galápagos Cruise on board the Archipel I

23 Reviews

Classic

What we love about the Archipel I

Eight main-deck ocean-view cabins

Family-style service for only 16 guests

Active routes from Fernandina to Genovesa

Archipel I catamaran fully visible off a volcanic Galapagos island

+31

Archipel I is one of the Galapagos catamarans we recommend when travelers want the islands to remain the main event. With only 16 guests, the atmosphere is naturally sociable: after an early wildlife landing or a snorkeling session, the group comes back together over a meal and swaps stories from the day. Our clients repeatedly highlight the naturalist guides, the food and the warmth of the crew. For us, that combination is more important than flashy interiors on an active Galapagos voyage.

Choose the route as carefully as the ship. Depending on the departure, Archipel I can explore the volcanic west around Isabela and Fernandina, reach the remarkable birdlife of Genovesa, or follow a southeastern program. No itinerary covers everything, so tell our Galapagos specialists which wildlife and landscapes matter most to you. We can help match those priorities to the right sailing.

Back on board, the stable twin-hull design and eight sea-facing cabins on the Main Deck create a comfortable base between excursions. The shared lounge and dining table make conversation easy, while shaded and open deck areas give you space to read, watch the horizon or simply slow down. The style is bright and practical rather than luxurious, which suits the ship's active rhythm.

Book Archipel I if you are a curious, active traveler who enjoys a small expedition group and personal service. We love her for the balance: ambitious island days, a friendly onboard atmosphere and enough comfort to recharge for the next landing.

Dates & Prices on board the Archipel I

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Amenities on board the Archipel I

English guides

Internet/Wifi

All meals

Transfers to and from ship

Snorkel gear (free of charge)

Travel for good: Each booking supports Ventura's Conservation Project.

Kayaks on board

Air conditioning & private bathroom

Single travellers can share cabin

Water, Coffee, Tea & fresh juices

-20% for children ≤ 6

Food & Drinks on board the Archipel I

Food is one of Archipel I's most consistent strengths in guest feedback. Meals are served in a relaxed, communal setting, and travelers repeatedly praise both the cooking and the thoughtful refreshments after active excursions. Expect approachable local and international dishes rather than formal fine dining.

Dietary needs can be considered when arranged in advance. Food preferences and allergy information should be provided at least 30 days before departure, so tell us early and we will help confirm what the onboard team can prepare. We deliberately avoid tying the experience to one named chef or dish because crews and menus can change.

Sustainable Tourism

Archipel I has a more concrete sustainability story than a generic promise to follow Galapagos National Park rules. In 2021, the vessel was used as the pilot for a fleet energy transition, with about US$30,000 invested in solar-powered navigation equipment, automated systems intended to reduce wasted electricity, and a biodegradable, non-toxic hull coating designed to lower fuel use.

We value that this was a ship-specific investment, but we keep the claim dated. It should not be read as a new independent certification of the equipment's current condition. The small 16-guest format and guided visitor rules add context, while the 2021 project is the clearest vessel-level evidence available.

Cabins categories on board the Archipel I

Standard cabin

Max. occupancy:

More about this cabin

Technical details of Archipel I

Classic

Type

Motor Catamaran

Main Engines

2x Cummins (250 HP)

Length

26.8 m

Gross tonnage

260 t

Electricity

110 / 220 AC

Cruising speed

10 knots

Beam

10.8 m

Capacity

16 Draft

1.62m

Reviews of Archipel I

Heidi B

Archipel I

Classic

We had an amazing time on the Arcghipel I. Our Galapagos Naturalist Guide Luis was AMAZING. While hiking and snorkeling he was sure to point out things of interest. The boat was great, very comfortable.

Kristi Bradford

Archipel I

Classic

The itinerary was amazing and we snorkeled almost every single day. Highlights we're the wildlife and scenery but also the crew. This boat is manned by all Ecuadorians and even a lot who grew up in Galapagos. That was so special to ensure we had an intimate group of passengers and supported local economy. We were spoiled and kept safe during every adventure and we made lifelong friends with our fellow passengers across so many countries and age ranges. Swimming and playing with baby sea lions and a school of hammerheads were my top highlights. Just incredible and the naturalist gave me way more information and knowledge than any documentary ever has. I will be back for more itineraries!!

Kasia Z.

Archipel I

Classic

Thank you very much for organising my cruise so quickly. I wanted to share the feedback after my experience on the Archipel. I had the most wonderful holiday- everything was just perfect! I will start with the Archipel's crew, as thanks to them, the cruise was so exceptional. They all were just excellent at providing outstanding costumer service, showing what hospitality stands for. Whole crew was very friendly, helpful, and looked after us so well. Our guide Carlos, was a star from the very beginning. He collected us all at the airport and announced that during our stay, we will be part of Galapagos, not tourists. Calling us 'family', he really made us feel as we were welcome there. On top of being highly knowledgeable, he speaks fluently English, and has some good sense of humour as well. Carlos was very professional, and communicated frequently and honestly with us. We always knew what to bring and what to wear for activities. He takes pride in his work, and surly will be inspiration for many visitors. The atmosphere was so friendly and relaxing, no rushing, no waiting, everyone equally amazed by the beauty of the enchanted islands, and happy that we had such a cool team. The chef made us fabulous meals, and he skillfully managed to deal with special dietary requirements (there was quite a lot of it). Everything was fresh, tasty and I'm currently working out, how to come to terms with not having delicious snack, and fresh juice or hot chocolate, after every activity! Our cabins were cleaned daily, turned down in the evenings, the lounge and common area immaculate at all times. Coffee, tea, biscuits available anytime, as well as cold beer and drinks from the bar. The panga drivers, captain and every single member of the Archipel's crew was amazing. Always with a smile. Archipel had all the facilities I needed. Fortunately we didn't spend much time on the ship, as we were constantly busy with activities. The weather was great as well, which helped. Snorkeling equipment provided was of good quality, and I quickly switched my new, annoyingly foggy mask, for the one provided. Luckily Carlos sorted my mask problem out with the flame trick. I spotted a shark immediately when I put head under the water! Having the kayaks to use was also great! The itinerary for 4 days was packed with highlights of the islands. I can't believe, how many species we saw in only four days! I loved that cruise and I return to Galapagos next year for longer.

S. Bartell

Archipel I

Classic

Wir kommen auf euch zurück für die nächste Reise! Danke Benno! Ich werde dich und das Galapatours Team weiterempfehlen. Ich will euch danken für diesen wunderbaren Urlaub und für die Hilfe bei unserem Gepäckverlust (die Airline hat unser Gepäck falsch verschickt). Es kam aber in unserem Hotel auf Santa Cruz einen Tag vor unserer Heimreise an. Meine Frau hat sich unglaublich gefreut über das Wiedererlangen der eigenen, geliebten Klamotten. Die Kreuzfahrt war ein Traum. Das Schiff war nicht ganz ausgebucht (5 Erwachsene und 2 Kinder) und wir hatten immens viel Platz für uns. Unser Guide Victor Rizzo warfabelhaft. Die Verpflegung war exzellent und die Besatzung hat hervorragende Arbeit geleistet. Abends spürt man das Schiff etwas wackeln, daran mussten wir uns gewöhnen. Wenn wir soweit sind auch die westlichen Inseln zu erkunden, werde ich mit Sicherheit auf euch zurückkommen!

Stefan Widermann

Archipel I

Classic

The best holiday so far, without a doubt (Review from TripAdvisor) Ecuador Galapagos was without any doubt the single most impressive holiday I have taken so far. At first, I was hesitant because especially Galapagos (the main land not so much) is quite an expensive destination but friends convinced us and Benno of Galapatours found a great last minute price for us on board one of the Archipels. I can say we don't regret it a bit. The crew, the food, the cabins - all was first class! Esteban, our guide, was very helpful and even considering my sea sickness during the first night I consider this the single best holiday so far. Thanks, Galapatours!

Ann Page

Archipel I

Classic

A great crew, guide, experience Everyone was so helpful, friendly and courteous. We all enjoyed the cruise. The crew, captain and guide were so nice, kind and helpful. Our guide, Alex, was extremely knowledgeable on many topics and explained about plants, animals and geology. I would highly recommend this tour and this ship to others considering a trip to the Galapagos.

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