Galaxy Orion Cruise Ship, Galapagos

Name: Itinerary A: Naturalist Cruise (San Cristobal - Santa Cruz)
Start: 2026-09-30
End: 2026-10-03
Location: Galapagos

9.2 Superb

Free Internet
Naturalist Guide
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers

from $ 382 / day Check dates

“We loved our five days on board. The amount of activities was just perfect and always getting greeted with drinks and snacks when …”
Corinna F, Germany

Highlights

Renewed in 2022
Naturalist itineraries

The Galaxy Orion is a 29-meter/96-ft small-ship cruise offering naturalist itineraries in the Galapagos. Fully renewed in 2022, it can accommodate up to 12 guests in 8 comfortable cabins, all with air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms. The Galaxy Orion offers naturalist itineraries. On the upper deck, guests can enjoy the ocean views from their large windows; on the lower deck, there are porthole views.

The Galapagos are famous for their biodiversity and are one of the best places in the world for seeing unique ecosystems and endemic species such as giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies. Cruising in the Galapagos is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Water temperatures fluctuate through the year, usually warmer on the north island and cooler in the western, southern, and central Galapagos islands. This type of cruise in the Galapagos emphasizes conservation and responsible tourism, ensuring that the islands' natural wonders are preserved for generations to come.

Book your next small ship cruise to the Galapagos aboard the Galaxy Orion today.

Choose your departure date

Date

Itinerary

Price

Select

29 Aug

5 Days / 4 Nights

Plus Free Air Ticket of $500! Offers valid for a limited time only. T&Cs apply.

~~$ 2,650~~ $ 2,120 Save 20% -20%

FULL

29 Aug

8 Days / 7 Nights

$ 4,200

FULL

02 Sep

4 Days / 3 Nights

Plus 1 FREE night in Galapagos! Offers valid for a limited time only. T&Cs apply.

~~$ 1,800~~ $ 1,620 Save 10% -10%

Select Cabin only 3 spaces left

05 Sep

8 Days / 7 Nights

Valid for a limited time only. T&C apply.

~~$ 4,200~~ $ 3,780 Save 10% -10%

Select Cabin only 1 space left

12 Sep

5 Days / 4 Nights

Valid for a limited time only. T&C apply.

~~$ 2,650~~ $ 2,385 Save 10% -10%

Select Cabin only 3 spaces left

12 Sep

8 Days / 7 Nights

$ 4,200

FULL

16 Sep

4 Days / 3 Nights

Plus 1 FREE night in Galapagos! Offers valid for a limited time only. T&Cs apply.

~~$ 1,800~~ $ 1,530 Save 15% -15%

Select Cabin available

19 Sep

8 Days / 7 Nights

Valid for a limited time only. T&C apply.

~~$ 4,200~~ $ 3,780 Save 10% -10%

Select Cabin only 1 space left

26 Sep

5 Days / 4 Nights

$ 2,650

FULL

30 Sep

4 Days / 3 Nights

Get 1 FREE night in Galapagos! Valid for a limited time only. T&C apply.

$ 1,800 Deal %

Select Cabin only 1 space left

03 Oct

8 Days / 7 Nights

$ 4,200

Select Cabin only 1 space left

10 Oct

5 Days / 4 Nights

Valid for a limited time only. T&C apply.

~~$ 2,650~~ $ 2,385 Save 10% -10%

Select Cabin available

Included: VAT, Fuel Surcharge, Port Fees, Airport Transfer, Drinking Water, Tea & Coffee, Welcome Cocktails, Full-Board Meal Plan (All meals), Snacks, Kayaks, Land Excursions, Naturalist Guide, Snorkel Gear, Beach Towels, Cabin Towels, Complimentary Toiletries, Deck Towels, WiFi internet.

Required Extras: Domestic Flight Non-Issuance Fee ($60 / trip), National Park Fees ($200 / trip), Visas and Fees ($20 / trip).

Optional Extras: Gratuities, Local Flights, Alcoholic Beverages, Soft drinks.

Book now, pay later: You can easily place your booking online. We will then hold the spaces for you and you can confirm with a payment later.

* Extra fees are shown per person.

Pay by bank transfer or online with

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Boat features

Free Internet
Naturalist Guide
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Non-Diver (Snorkeler) Friendly
Warm Water Showers
Air Conditioned saloon
Nearly 1:1 Crew-to-Guest Ratio
Kayaks On-Board
Seaview Cabins
Naturalist Itineraries
Non-Smoking Rooms
Custom built for diving
Charging stations
Indoor Saloon
Audio & video entertainment
Observation Deck
Hair Dryer in Cabin
Available for Charter
Local & International Crew
Separate Rinse for u/w Camera
Daily housekeeping
Bar
Naturalist Guide

Food & Drinks

Vegan Options
Vegetarian Options
Beer available
Wine Available
Fine Wines Selection
Welcome Cocktails
Buffet style
Local Food
Set Menu Dinner

If you have any specific dietary requirements whilst on-board your cruise, you can add this to your special requests on step 2 of the booking form. We advise limiting these requests to religious beliefs or food allergies.

Languages Spoken

The crew speaks English and Spanish.

Drawings & Vessel Layouts

Cabin Types

Boat Specifications

Year renovated: 2022

Length: 29 meters

Beam: 6.6 meters

Top speed: 10 knots

Cruising speed: 8 knots

Max guests: 14

Number of cabins: 8

Number of bathrooms: 9

Boat navigation and safety

Radar
GPS
Radio VHF/DSC/SSB
Emergency Rafts
Life Vests
Fire Alarm & Fire Extinguishers
First Aid Kits
Satellite & mobile phones
Search light
Crew trained in first aid
Emergency flares

Galaxy Orion Reviews

9.2 Superb

Vessel

8.9
Crew

9.2
Food

9.7
Activities

9.3
Value

8.9

10 Exceptional
Marina N
United States

Amazing diving and overall experience
Amazing diving with tons to see! I was impressed by the biodiversity in this region and really want to go back. The crew was great and food was delish. Great trip overall!
Recommended for
Diving. Crew. Food.
16 Feb, 2026

9.6 Exceptional
Michael E
Australia

Beautiful boat, crew, activities especially the snorkeling plus beautiful weather
The professional of the crew, safety first, nothing a trouble, always happy and very helpful
Recommended for
The great organisation of the guide and crew. The water activities. Food.
26 Apr, 2026

9.6 Exceptional
Elena P
Italy

The Galapagos dream!
We had a fantastic week onboard the Galaxy Orion. Everything was smoothly organized, and each day was filled with so many activities to fully experience the Galápagos. The crew was wonderful—so friendly, always smiling, and constantly making sure everyone was having a great time. The naturalist guide is such an essential part of the trip. Ours was kind and funny, but above all incredibly knowledgeable about the archipelago—its history, geology, and biology.
Recommended for
The excursions on the islands. The people and crew. the comfort of the boat.
28 Mar, 2026

10 Exceptional
Corinna F
Germany

The perfect five days
We loved our five days on board. The amount of activities was just perfect and always getting greeted with drinks and snacks when coming back to the boat was something that probably spoiled us forever. The crew was outstanding and we would go back in a heartbeat.
Recommended for
The attentiveness of the crew. The amount of activities. The warm drinks after snorkeling.
18 Nov, 2025

8.0 Very good
Kira S
United States

Once in a lifetime experience!
Highlights were the snorkeling and island hopping but the food was fantastic not a bad meal!
Recommended for
The tours. The food. The staff.
14 Jun, 2026

10 Exceptional
David C
United States

Extraordinary! Wonderful experience and is a great way to explore with family, friends or a solo traveler.
Not only go to these remote islands, but spending time there snorkeling and short land hikes. Learning while doing as the guide explains the nature and history while exploring the unique archipelago of the Galapagos.
Recommended for
Naturalist guide (Fabian) who you spend a lot of time with was kind, passionate, and knowledgeable. Crew was approachable and friendly. Attention to detail. After each excursion you are greeted with delicious drinks and snacks. Rooms were cleaned multiple times daily. All B, D, L was presented very well and also.
01 Jul, 2026

10 Exceptional
An J
China

The equipment is perfect, the service is first-class, and the diving guide is excellent.
Excellent service!
Recommended for
1. All aspects of the service in the ship are dedicated and detail-oriented. 2. When on the boat, the navigator will pay attention to the sea surface and guide everyone to watch in time. 3. Our English is not very good, and the dive guide will explain patiently.
30 Jul, 2024

Translated from Chinese

10 Exceptional
Xiyu Z
China

The best week of my life!
We saw EVERYTHING! sea lions, white tip sharks, hammerhead sharks, galapagos sharks, whale sharks, eagle rays, HUMPBACK WHALES, ORCAS..... it's been a dream! The boat ride is challenging, I'm almost constantly sea sick but the crew did their best to take care of my needs, and they are amazing!! They took care of diving equipments after every dive so we get to enjoy the most out of it. Also love how chill and happy they are:) The food is amazing too, i did not expect to have good food on the boat but I was impressed! Would absolutely recommend this liveaboard to everyone!
Recommended for
The dive sites, the services, the crew!
24 Sep, 2023

10 Exceptional
Erik P
United States

Incredible experience!
Amazing adventure, wonderful crew and incredible constant wildlife encounters!
Recommended for
Hiking and snorkeling every day. Friendly crew. Great boat.
08 Feb, 2026

10 Exceptional
Jacqueline P
Argentina

Excellent, would do it again
I was able to go to Galapagos free and on the cruise and I was able to compare. Without hesitation I recommend doing it with the cruise
Recommended for
Undoubtedly, the warmth of the crew. The scheduled activities. Punctuality.
16 Jan, 2025

Translated from Spanish

121 reviews

9.2 Superb
121 Verified Reviews

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9.2 Superb
Greg P
United Kingdom

Amazing sightings with amazing crew and guests
The marine life was incredible while the boat experience itself was excellent - professional but fun
Recommended for
Wildlife, guides, food
16 May, 2024

9.2 Superb
Harriet H
United Kingdom

Fantastic itinerary, guiding and service
The amazing variety of things we saw particularly while snorkelling. I really enjoyed snorkelling with a manta ray, a sealion and so many turtles
Recommended for
The itinerary, the food and the enthusiasm of the staff
03 Feb, 2023

9.2 Superb
Amir B
Israel

Intresting and enjoyable
Very good expereince
Recommended for
Shore excersions. service on boat. Schnorkeling.
12 Aug, 2024

10 Exceptional
Gianmarco F
Italy

Amazing Galaxy Orion Galapagos
The experience was perfect. Galaxy Orion is a small ship and you can enjoy Galápagos being few people. The Crew and the Guide were amazing! Strongly suggested! Perfect value for money
Recommended for
Galapagos. Crew. Size of the boat.
26 Aug, 2024

9.6 Exceptional
Alvin B
Indonesia

Exceptional experience! The ship, the crew and the naturalist guide were awesome.
I recently joined the Galaxy Orion cruise for a 4-day, 3-night cruise in the Galápagos, and it exceeded all expectations. The crew of the ship was incredibly friendly and helpful, always ensuring our comfort and making us feel at home. I had a lot of interactions with our captain, Carlos, and our food/drink server, Jonny. Our naturalist guide, Fernanda, was outstanding—knowledgeable, passionate, and engaging, bringing the islands' unique wildlife and history to life. The itinerary offered a perfect mix of activities, from snorkeling, swimming, and hiking to wildlife spotting and relaxing onboard, making every day feel fresh and exciting. The vessel was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, while the food was delicious and plentiful, adding to the overall experience. I highly recommend Galaxy Orion for anyone seeking a 4-day unforgettable Galápagos adventure—it’s the perfect blend of exploration, learning, and relaxation, all thanks to an exceptional team.
Recommended for
The friendliness and helpfulness of the crew and the guide.. The mix of adventurous and educational activities exploring Galapagos Islands.. The great condition of the vessel..
05 Dec, 2024

9.2 Superb
Sep V
Netherlands

We got a fantastic experience from the crew and felt very welcome!
From start to finish a very hospitable and motivated team (which really came across as a team) that gave you a very welcome feeling, a small drink and/or snack after every activity. A full program with many activities. We had a 4 night cruise so it is very nice to experience a lot. Guide was very good and enthusiastic. Food and drink was excellent. My wife is vegetarian and there was certainly enough attention for that, although the vegetarian dishes could sometimes be a little more original (although we understand that on a ship with small occupancy the possibilities are limited). What also surprised us was that our fellow passengers were usually on the same page: mainly going for the nature experience and little fuss. All very nice, down-to-earth people!
Recommended for
Full program with many (diverse) activities. Very welcoming crew, really made you feel very welcome. Excellent guide who spoke enthusiastically about the nature in the galapagos.
15 Jan, 2026

Translated from Dutch

9.6 Exceptional
Allyson W
Ireland

Fantastic experience-
Once in a lifetime trip made all the more special by crew and diving that exceeded expectations.
Recommended for
Staff and guides were excellent, fabulous diving, safety
22 Feb, 2024

9.6 Exceptional
Craig G
Australia

An amazing experience
This was one of the best tours I have done in my life. The whole package was complete and the highlight was swimming and snorkelling with the turtles, although all the animals were fabulous.
Recommended for
The crew were so helpful and Maria was an amazing guide. The food was delicious. The activities were varied and interesting.
27 Oct, 2025

9.2 Superb
Patricia W
United States

We loved this trip!
A trip that we’ve dreamt of for many years! Our experience was excellent. For a small boat, the Orion was quite comfortable and our crew was great. We had a very knowledgeable and entertaining naturalist, Fabricio. All were patient and helpful with us. We could visit many different locations for snorkeling and / or hiking, letting us see a wide range of flora and fauna. Each day was packed with information and activity. We loved it! Thanks Orion and crew!
Recommended for
Kindness and helpfulness of our naturalist and crew. Wonderful excursions. Great food.
21 Mar, 2025

10 Exceptional
Laurence K
France

Wonderful cruise with top staff
The crew have done their utmost to make us feel at home on board. We saw a lot of pelagics during the cruise, a warm towel and delicious snacks, sometimes hot chocolate, were waiting for us after each dive. The staff even rinsed and shampooed all our gear at the end of our stay. A real treat!
Recommended for
gastronomy. great sense of hospitality of the crew members. hot towels after each dive.
07 Sep, 2024

8.0 Very good
beth K
Canada

The cruise was wonderful!
They packed so many outings and activities during our 4 day cruise!was a
Recommended for
Amazing, caring and attentive staff. Amazing adventures and activities. Ggood mix of busy and down time.
31 Jan, 2026

9.6 Exceptional
vahe K
Canada

An amazing and unique experience
(1) Discovery of a completely new World that one would have only experience through movies and documentaries (2) Amazing crew, empathic, detail-oriented (3) Great Chef and cuisine
Recommended for
The place, The crew, The chef
17 Mar, 2023

8.8 Fabulous
Tanja W
Germany

Incredible trip
Naturalist-Itinery: The boat is not the newest but in great condition. The crew took great care of it and provided great service at all times and was super friendly. Small surprises such as cooking demonstrations or a sunset drink were also part of it. Everything was always on-time, super organized and with appropriate safety precautions. The cabins were spacious and the bed comfortable. The shore excursions and also the experiences in the water are among the most impressive animal and landscape experiences I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. Our guide was able to show us a lot, never rushed the group, and still packed a lot of program into the 8 days, so that we have the feeling that we have really experienced everything and the best. The food on board was also plentiful. The only limitation perhaps for me as a vegetarian is that I would have liked to just get vegetables instead of meat substitutes (vegetarian sausages for example). Especially the fish dishes were particularly praised by the fellow travelers.I would definitely do the trip again and can fully recommend the boat and crew. Dear future travelers: Remember the usual tip. By European standards, it is not little! (Approx. 40$ per day/person). Of course, it is not a must, but an opportunity to honor these extraordinary experiences and the special service under non-European conditions. The crew is working really hard around the clock. The guide also does an excellent job. So plan this with your booking if necessary so that it doesn't surprise you later:) This boat is definitely worth it!
Recommended for
Wildlife observations under and above water, nature, crew
18 Jan, 2024

Translated from German

9.6 Exceptional
Wai Ting C
Hong Kong

Highly recommend!
Excellent crew and good, cabin is clean.
Recommended for
Crew. Food. Cabin.
18 Aug, 2025

10 Exceptional
Guan Chua S
Singapore

Awesome diving!
One of the best place on earth to dive with an awesome crew ensuring such a comfortable and awesome experience!
Recommended for
Fantastic diving, awesome crew, most delicious food!
26 Mar, 2023

9.2 Superb
Dee H
New Zealand

The best way to see these islands - with a great guide, a well equipped boat, unbelievable wildlife and wild islands.
Jorge was so knowledgeable and experienced. It was wonderful to have him as a guide. The rest of the crew worked so hard to make sure we were looked after. The meals were first class and reflective of local dishes. Each island was unique with its own environment and wildlife. The daily visits were full-on but worth it not to waste a moment. The trip was full of magic moments, like going back to a time before man overpopulated our planet. What a privilege to go there!
Recommended for
The variety of islands and animals we saw. Great guide (Jorge) and crew. Magic place that the Galapagos is.
27 Jun, 2025

9.2 Superb
Timothy G
New Zealand

Top notch
Excellent trip. Highlights were the wildlife viewing and the company of fellow passengers and crew
Recommended for
Small group of 11. Closeness of crew and passengers. Tailored programme to individuals.
16 Dec, 2024

9.6 Exceptional
Christopher P
United States

Fabuloso; best diving of my life with a crew who loved being there too.
The marine life without a doubt and the shear beauty all around in a very place on this earth, the dive masters and panga drivers who took great care of us. As well as the rest of the crew; hot towels after dives, rooms, food, party at the equator and a great crew who were all loved their jobs and were like family. I just got back a week ago ( cold season ) already thinking about returning in the warm season. Thank you Galaxy Dive Crew for an amazing life time memory I'm still smiling about.
Recommended for
Whale sharks, hammer heads and sea lions
30 Sep, 2023

9.6 Exceptional
Annika S
Germany

I booked a dream trip and that's exactly what I received!
In addition to unique diving experiences, I was very positively impressed by the excellent, creative, healthy and balanced food that was offered to us at every meal. The crew and dive guides were also constantly striving to make happy memories for all guests beyond the actual service.
Recommended for
Dives were all filled with incredible experiences. Diving with a pot of dephins, achules of hammerhead sharks and with tiger sharks was unique.
22 Oct, 2023

10 Exceptional
Sascha H
Germany

Great organized cruise on the boat and in the water
the vast amount of sharks and other marine life we experienced. The crew made us feel very comfortable and organized the dives to the T.
Recommended for
the dive sites, the guides, the crew
22 Sep, 2023