Why the Aqua is the Game-Changer for Adventure Seekers
Dual Adventure Options on the Aqua Galapagos Cruise
The only vessel in Galápagos that lets you dive AND explore wildlife. While every other boat forces you to choose between seeing hammerhead sharks underwater or blue-footed boobies on land, the Aqua breaks the rules. She’s the sole authorized vessel offering both naturalist tours and world-class diving expeditions – some guests even stay aboard to experience both worlds in one epic journey. As part of the Tourist Budget Class category, she offers unmatched adventure flexibility at accessible prices.
Wolf and Darwin Dive Access on the Aqua Galapagos Cruise
Access to legendary Wolf and Darwin dive sites. These remote northern islands are the holy grail of diving – where massive schools of hammerheads patrol volcanic walls and whale sharks glide through crystal-clear waters. Most budget vessels can’t reach these legendary spots, but the Aqua makes it her specialty, delivering 19 dives over 7 nights to these underwater cathedrals.
Three-Deck Layout on the Aqua Galapagos Cruise
Spacious three-deck design that doesn’t feel cramped. Unlike typical budget boats that squeeze everything onto two levels, the Aqua spreads her 16 guests across three full decks. Whether you’re gearing up for diving, lounging in the library, or watching sunset from the upper deck, you’ll always find breathing room and the perfect spot for your mood.
Flexible Itinerary Options on the Aqua Galapagos Cruise
Want a quick 4-day naturalist sampler? Done. Prefer an 8-day diving intensive? Perfect. Feeling greedy for both experiences? Combine them into an epic 15-day Galápagos immersion that covers every corner of the archipelago. The price ranges $562 – 625 a day but for most accurate information send us an inquiry for the latest price as well as we provide with free consultation os selection your perfect Galapagos cruise.
Itinerary A (8 Days) – Diving Expedition to Wolf and Darwin: This advanced diving itinerary focuses on the legendary northern dive sites of Wolf and Darwin islands, considered among the world’s best for pelagic encounters. You’ll spend multiple days diving these remote volcanic seamounts where massive schools of hammerheads congregate, whale sharks patrol the depths, and marine biodiversity reaches extraordinary levels. The route includes check-out dives at Baltra and exciting sites like Cape Marshall and Vicente Roca Point, concluding with a surface visit to the Santa Cruz highlands to see giant tortoises.
Itinerary B (8 Days) – Naturalist Wildlife Discovery: This comprehensive naturalist route explores the central and southern islands, showcasing the Galápagos’ most iconic wildlife and landscapes. You’ll encounter land iguanas on South Plaza, sea lions at Santa Fe, flamingos at Cormorant Point, and visit the historic Post Office Bay on Floreana. The itinerary includes the Charles Darwin Research Station, the dramatic red cliffs of Rábida Island, and the volcanic formations of Bartolomé with its famous Pinnacle Rock.
Diving Specifications on the Aqua Galapagos Cruise
The MY Galapagos Aqua is a custom-built 83-foot steel motor vessel designed specifically for serious diving operations. This mono-hulled liveaboard operates year-round diving charters, typically running 7-night expeditions departing every Tuesday to access the legendary Wolf and Darwin dive sites. Remodeled in 2019 with divers in mind, she accommodates up to 16 guests in 8 twin-share en-suite cabins.
All dives are conducted from tenders after gearing up on the dedicated dive deck, which features nitrox fills, camera rinse tanks, and convenient facilities. Safety equipment is mandatory: every diver receives a personal GPS device, storm whistle, safety sausage, and diving beacon. The vessel includes a shaded diving area, DIN adaptors, multiple rinse hoses, and sidemount diving support. With a local crew of 9 providing bilingual support, the Aqua delivers professional diving operations at budget-friendly prices.
Cabins on the Aqua Galapagos Cruise
Don’t expect luxury suites, but do expect thoughtful design. The nine cabins range from cozy lower-deck quarters with traditional portholes to upper-deck rooms with proper ocean-view windows you can actually open for fresh sea breezes. All feature comfortable twin or double beds, private bathrooms with hot showers, and blessed air conditioning. The natural wood details and bright décor keep things feeling fresh rather than cramped – exactly what you need when you’re spending your days exploring underwater caves or trekking volcanic landscapes.
Dining on the Aqua Galapagos Cruise
Here’s the Aqua’s best-kept secret: their chef is absolutely phenomenal. Guest after guest raves about the exceptional international and Ecuadorian cuisine served in the air-conditioned dining room. We’re talking fresh-caught fish prepared with local flair, hearty meals that satisfy post-dive appetites, and creative dishes that turn mealtime into cultural exploration. The well-stocked bar and upper sundeck dining option add variety to your culinary adventures.
Inclusions on the Aqua Galapagos Cruise
All meals, snorkeling and basic diving gear, English-speaking guides, airport transfers, and that crucial flexibility to switch between naturalist and diving modes. Divers get personal safety equipment including GPS devices and emergency beacons – serious gear for serious adventures. You’ll pay extra for: alcoholic beverages, nitrox fills, gear rentals, and park fees. But with a 9-person crew serving just 16 guests, the service-to-price ratio is outstanding.
Guest Experiences on the Aqua Galapagos Cruise
I’ve chatted with numerous Aqua guests, and they consistently highlight two things: the incredible flexibility and that legendary chef. One diving instructor from Australia told me, “I came for the hammerheads at Darwin, but the surface intervals became mini wildlife documentaries. Where else can you spot whale sharks in the morning and land iguanas in the afternoon?” The crew’s bilingual expertise means smooth transitions between underwater and topside adventures.
Ideal Travelers for the Aqua Galapagos Cruise
Serious divers who want more than just underwater experiences, nature lovers curious about diving, and adventurous travelers who refuse to choose between land and sea exploration.
Booking the Aqua Galapagos Cruise
Ready to Experience Galápagos Above and Below? The Aqua’s unique dual-purpose design and access to exclusive dive sites make her incredibly popular among adventure enthusiasts, but this flexibility comes with trade-offs – diving departures require 50+ logged dives and book up months in advance during peak seasons. Don’t let this rare opportunity to combine world-class diving with wildlife encounters slip away.
Claim your adventure slot with a complimentary consultation. Connect me and my trusted local Ecuadorian partners to explore which combination of naturalist and diving experiences matches your skills and interests. Fill out this form. No commitment required, just expert guidance from people who understand these waters intimately. Get free Galapagos Cruise consultation from local people.