Galápagos liveaboards

Diving at Darwin and Wolf, the far-north islands of the Galápagos, is only possible from a liveaboard. Dive trips are typically 7 nights and leave from Baltra or San Cristóbal. Most combine a few days around the central and western islands with several days in the north for hammerhead schools and, in the cool season, whale sharks.

In 2026 listings, 7-night trips typically cost about $4,700 to $7,500 per person, or roughly $665 to $1,070 a night. On top of that come the $200 national park fee, the $20 transit card and, on some boats, a fuel surcharge. The diving is demanding, and most operators expect Advanced Open Water and a solid logbook.

Most Galápagos liveaboards are not suitable for Open Water divers. Master Liveaboards requires Advanced Open Water and at least 50 logged dives, and dive operators commonly suggest 50 to 100 dives. Galapagos Sky asks for nitrox certification or the cost of a private guide; one listing for Galapagos Aggressor III shows no minimum logged dives, so check each boat.

Advanced Open Water with solid experience in current and cold water. Many liveaboards ask for a minimum number of logged dives.

Published rates typically run US$665 to US$1,070 a night. Per person, 7-night trips, from 2026 listings: Aqua from $4,675 to $5,195 (Bluewater Dive Travel) up to Galapagos Sky at $7,495 (Diveplanit). Per-night figures are the trip price divided by 7. Excludes the $200 park fee, $20 transit card, fuel surcharges and tips.

• Galápagos National Park entry fee: $200 per foreign adult, in force since 1 August 2024 (raised from $100).
• Transit Control Card: $20 per person, bought before the flight to the islands (tour operator listings).
• Some boats add a fuel surcharge on top of the fare; Galapagos Sky lists fuel surcharge and park fee as not included.