Yacht Charter Galápagos
Yacht charter Galápagos is the closest thing to time travel the ocean offers – a volcanic archipelago straddling the equator roughly 1,000 kilometres off Ecuador’s coast, where giant tortoises amble across black-lava trails, marine iguanas bask on sun-warmed rock, and Humboldt penguins dart through 22°C water alongside hammerhead sharks and manta rays. Around 15 charter yachts operate within the Galápagos Marine Reserve, ranging from 68′–98′ expedition motor yachts built with shallow drafts for island landings to 100′+ explorer superyachts carrying zodiacs, dive compressors, and onboard naturalists, plus 55′+ catamarans offering stable, open-plan platforms ideal for families and photography groups.
The prime charter window runs from June to November – the “garua” season, when cooler Humboldt currents draw nutrient-rich upwellings that attract whale sharks, humpback whales, and vast schools of pelagic fish. December to May is warmer and calmer, with water temperatures reaching 26°C and sea-lion pups playing in the shallows. Daily rates start from approximately $5,000/day for an expedition motor yacht, climbing to $15,000+/day on a fully crewed explorer superyacht, plus Galápagos National Park fees (currently $200 per adult), a 12% Ecuadorian VAT, and 30–35% APA for fuel, provisions, and guide services. No other charter destination places you quite so intimately among wildlife that shows zero fear of humans – a privilege that transforms every zodiac landing and every snorkel into something genuinely, life-changingly unforgettable.
Explore Galápagos
Discover permit requirements, seasonal wildlife calendars, and the best anchorages across the archipelago in our comprehensive Galápagos destination guide.
Browse day-by-day Galápagos charter itineraries linking Isabela’s volcanic craters, Fernandina’s marine-iguana colonies, and the snorkelling haven of Kicker Rock.
The grid above showcases around 15 yachts available for Galápagos charters – from 68′ expedition motor yachts to 100′+ explorer superyachts and 55′+ catamarans. Weekly rates start from approximately $35,000. Use the filters to narrow by yacht type, guest capacity, length, or rate, and once you’ve shortlisted your favourites, Boatcrowd’s charter specialists can coordinate national-park permits, naturalist guides, and bespoke itinerary planning on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book a Galápagos yacht charter?
Galápagos operates under strict national-park permit quotas, so booking nine to twelve months ahead is strongly recommended – especially for the peak wildlife season of June to November. Shoulder periods in May and December may offer slightly shorter lead times, though the most capable expedition yachts and catamarans with naturalist berths still fill well in advance of departure.
Do I need a special permit for a Galápagos charter?
Yes. All vessels operating within the Galápagos Marine Reserve must hold a valid national-park navigation permit, and every guest pays a park entrance fee (currently $200 per adult). Your Boatcrowd broker handles all permit logistics and ensures a certified Galápagos naturalist guide is on board for every landing and snorkel excursion.
What is included in the charter price?
The base rate covers the yacht, professional crew, insurance, and standard on-board equipment including zodiacs and snorkelling gear. Fuel, provisions, beverages, park fees, and naturalist-guide services are funded through the APA (30–35% of the charter fee). Ecuadorian VAT at 12% applies to the base rate, and any unspent APA is refunded after the voyage.
Is the Galápagos suitable for families with young children?
Absolutely – the islands are one of the world’s most rewarding family destinations, with calm snorkelling bays, gentle zodiac landings, and wildlife encounters that captivate children of every age. Most yachts carry child-friendly wetsuits, life jackets, and paddleboards, and certified naturalist guides are skilled at engaging younger guests with vivid, age-appropriate storytelling that brings Darwin’s extraordinary islands vividly to life.
