Galapagos Master

Tiburon Explorer

Tiburon Explorer is a strong fit for experienced divers who want the Galapagos liveaboard rhythm with more space and comfort than the simplest dive boats. We like that the ship’s advantages are directly connected to the diving day: a large, well-equipped dive deck, room for gear routines and a guest count that stays personal enough for serious briefings and repeated water entries. The vessel carries up to 16 guests and is built around dive logistics, not casual cruising. That means days are shaped by early starts, skiff transfers, currents, equipment, rest periods and marine-life discussion. Suites are available, which can make a demanding itinerary more comfortable, but the reason to choose Tiburon Explorer remains the dive program itself. Choose Tiburon Explorer if you want a dedicated Galapagos diving cruise with practical deck space and a comfortable liveaboard base. She is not ideal for non-divers, mixed-interest couples where one person will not dive, or travelers who prefer island walks and snorkeling as the main event. For divers, the ship’s layout and focus make immediate sense.

Galaxy

Galaxy is a good fit for travellers who like the feel of a classic Galapagos motor yacht, but still want first-class comfort and a small group on board. She carries 16 guests in nine cabins, with a bright lounge, dining room, bar, solarium and generous outside decks for watching the islands appear between excursions. What we appreciate here is the balance between traditional yacht atmosphere and practical comfort. Upper-deck cabins have larger windows, while the shared spaces are light and sociable without feeling formal. Kayaks and paddleboards add quieter water time between guided landings and snorkeling, which is especially valuable on routes that include places such as Genovesa or the western islands. Choose Galaxy if you want a relaxed, personal yacht rather than a resort-style ship. The onboard experience is friendly and straightforward, with enough space to retreat after active days but no need to dress up for dinner. It is not the right choice if you want private balconies, ultra-modern catamaran styling or the facilities of a much larger expedition vessel.

Cachalote Explorer

Cachalote Explorer has one of the better backstories in the Galapagos fleet: a sturdy Canadian fishing vessel, built for rough West Coast waters, converted in 2017 into a small expedition yacht for just 16 guests. That heritage still matters. She feels solid, stable and purposeful, with the kind of character you do not get from a purely hotel-style yacht. What we appreciate most is that the conversion did not erase her expedition soul. Inside, the refit is much more comfortable than the working-boat origin suggests. There are eight air-conditioned cabins, all with private bathrooms and hot and cold showers, in a mix of queen, double, twin and bunk layouts. Several cabins can take three or four passengers, which makes Cachalote Explorer especially interesting for families who want a small ship without needing two separate cabins. The social spaces are one of her real strengths: a broad salon and dining area, shaded and open deck areas, and enough outdoor corners to read, watch the islands approach or look for dolphins and whales from the bow. Routes run 6 or 8 days, and the two longer itineraries can combine into a 15-day Galapagos journey with serious depth. Choose Cachalote Explorer if you like character, space and a capable expedition feel. She is not the sleekest yacht in the islands, but she feels honest, roomy and ready for real Galapagos days.

Eco Galaxy II

Eco Galaxy II is one of our favourite choices for travellers who want the intimacy of a 16-guest yacht but prefer bright, contemporary catamaran comfort. Eight cabins, broad windows and generous open decks make the ship feel airy without losing its small-group atmosphere. We especially like that sustainability is not treated as a decorative label: the environmental thinking is visible in material choices, efficient systems and daily habits on board. The real decision, however, is the route. Choose the southern itinerary for Española, Floreana, Santa Fe and South Plaza; the western route for Isabela and Fernandina's young volcanic landscapes; or the northern route for Genovesa, Bartolomé and Santiago. Days are active, with guided walks, snorkelling, panga rides, kayaking and paddleboarding where the itinerary and conditions allow. With nine crew, a cruise director and a bilingual naturalist guide for 16 guests, the rhythm stays personal and well supported. Cabins suit travellers who value clean modern lines, en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning and natural light. Upper-deck cabins may interconnect, while triples are limited to the main deck. Eco Galaxy II is a strong fit if you want a polished small catamaran with meaningful route choice and practical eco design. Consider another ship if old-world yacht character, a private-balcony suite or several restaurant venues is essential.