9 reasons a Galapagos cruise should be on every travel bucket list

The Galapagos is often described as the most unspoiled destination on Earth (Picture: Getty Images)

Nestled in the eastern Pacific Ocean some 1,000km off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are as otherworldly and remote as you can get. Indeed, the isolated location is the main reason behind its unique flora and fauna, much of it found nowhere else on Earth.

Famed for playing a pivotal role in inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, this ethereal destination plays home to giant tortoises and land iguanas, as well as an underwater population of hammerhead and Galapagos sharks, playful dolphins, rays, sea lions, penguins and sea turtles. 

Little wonder that this archipelago of 19 islands is repeatedly hailed as one of the most magical and unspoiled travel destinations on the planet. But how to get there?

For thrill-seekers and wannabe David Attenborough types who want to experience this iconic place firsthand, Lindblad Expeditions are on hand to help.

Linblad Expeditions’ National Geographic Islander ll (Picture: Paul Ewart)

Pioneers in Galapagos cruising, they brought the first group of citizen explorers to these far-flung islands more than 50 years ago and have honed their knowledge of the region over the intervening decades, most recently with the launch of their new ship, the National Geographic Islander ll.

Christened in 2022, the expedition vessel feels more like a private yacht than a cruise ship. Featuring an impressive 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio, 26 staterooms and suites can accommodate just 48 guests.

The ship is equipped with a raft of special features, including a climate-controlled marina, dedicated science hub, indoor-outdoor dining options, spa and alfresco pool and sauna, meaning that, when it comes to pairing an immersive, adventurous Galapagos experience with serious creature comforts, this is the cruise.

So, say ‘ahoy’ to a truly one-of-a-kind adventure and learn why this epic expedition needs to be on your travel bucket list for 2026.

1. You’ll get close to wildlife you won’t see anywhere else

From lumbering giant tortoises and Galapagos sea lions to blue-foot boobies and marine iguanas, the endemic wildlife in the Galapagos is both abundant and fascinating.

Found nowhere else in the world, you can get close to these critters without threatening their territories. And — very often — they’ll be relaxed and unbothered by your presence, which makes for a winning happy snap (more of that below).

The Galapagos is a protected world heritage site (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Each day brings new Attenborough-esque encounters of the ‘trip of a lifetime’ variety.

And, with Lindblad expert guides leading both land and sea-based animal spotting trips, you’ll have the best possible chance of a close encounter.

2. There is otherworldly snorkelling

A place of natural wonders, below sea level the Galapagos has even more to shout about. Happily, the National Geographic Islander ll offers daily snorkelling experiences that cater to every ability, from total novice to aquatic pro.

Dive into crystal-clear waters and a kaleidoscope of marine life awaits, with tropical fish, turtles, hammerhead sharks, and super-friendly sea lions, all eager to join your underwater adventure.

A kaleidoscope of marine life awaits (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

You may pinch yourself when you find yourself surrounded by curious and playful puppy-like sea lions, or when you swim alongside a speedy Galapagos penguin, or pod of bottlenose dolphins. 

The pristine blue waters are also home to corals and vibrantly coloured fish – all part of an extraordinary ecosystem best observed up close.

Take the plunge and prepare to be dazzled.

3. You can see the planet at its most protected

There are very few spots left untouched by human development and preserved in their natural form — the Galapagos are one of these rare gems.

Since being designated by UNESCO as the first World Heritage site in 1978, the number of annual visitors allowed into the Galapagos National Park has been restricted to protect the unique flora and fauna within the park.

The Islands moved to crack down on overtourism last year by doubling their entry fee. From August 2024, visitors from most countries have been required to pay $200 (£157), up from the previous $100 (£78).

Lindblad Expeditions is committed to responsible travel, a commitment that sees means its ships are designed to minimise environmental impact, and their itineraries put conservation and sustainable tourism practices first.

By traveling with Lindblad, you’ll not only witness the Galapagos but contribute to its preservation meaning that you can cruise with a clean conscience.

4. You’ll learn from the best in the biz

Lindblad Expeditions is renowned for some of the most comprehensive education and science components, which means that guests benefit from some of the most knowledgeable teams in the Galapagos.

Specialising in everything from biology and geology, to history and ornithology, experts are recruited from across the world and are all eager to share their passion, knowledge and years of experience.

On deck are experts ready to tell you everything you’d want to know about the land iguanas you encounter (Picture: Paul Ewart)

Additionally, expect to share deck space with working scientists and conservationists who often take up residence onboard its ships to conduct their research across the oceans, sharing their work with guests through lectures and demonstrations.

These expert naturalists lead hikes, kayaking trips and nature walks and run daily informative presentations and lectures to regale you with tales of the islands’ history, geology, and the fascinating adaptations of its inhabitants.

Who knew learning could be this much fun?

5. Your holiday snaps will induce Instagram envy

You’ll want to show everyone just how blue the Blue-footed Booby’s feet really are (Picture: Paul Ewart)

With landscapes that range from volcanic vistas to pristine beaches and a population of endemic critters above and below, the Galapagos Islands really are a photographer’s dream. Grab your camera and get ready to snap jaw-dropping shots at every turn.

For those less confident behind the lens, resident National Geographic Islander ll experts will impart tricks of the trade during photography tutorials to ensure that your holiday snaps will generate serious engagement back home.

6. You can be a beach bum

These napping sea lions know how to make the most of their surroundings (Credits: Getty Images)

With unspoiled turquoise water and whiter-than-white lunar sand, the Galapagos lays claim to some of the best beaches in the world.

Beaches that come with none of the usual negatives that a ‘best beach’ tag would typically bring. No crowds, no sea of umbrellas, no rubbish and no wailing children.

Instead, for a few blissful hours on a Lindblad Galapagos expedition, you can make like Robinson Crusoe and bathe in warm, tropical water and share a serene stretch of sand with only a sea lion for company.

And, if the appeal of a beautiful beach is lost on you, the National Geographic Islander ll offers motorised zodiacs and a collection of kayaks to facilitate exploring the collection of magnificent coastlines en route.

7. You can live the suite life

Though you’d expect that this kind of off-the-tourist-trail adventuring would necessitate roughing it, on the National Geographic Islander ll there’s no need to compromise on creature comforts.

In fact, this is Lindblad Expeditions’ first ‘all-suite’ ship, so every guest is guaranteed a bit of the suite life.

Even if you just want to snooze in a hammock (Picture: Paul Ewart)

This means expansive marble bathrooms with dual vanities and rainfall showers, organic amenities crafted exclusively for Lindblad Expeditions, inclusive minibars stocked with a variety of beers and soft drinks, in-room WiFi and flat screen TVs with a collection of pre-programmed movies and TV shows.

And, when it’s time to sleep, spacious beds and 600-thread count sheets ensure a restful slumber.

All this adventure is bound to work up an appetite. For most cruise hounds, the food and drink is a highlight, and the National Geographic Islander ll certainly doesn’t disappoint.

Meals are influenced by Ecuadorian and Galapagos and utilise locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.

By day, expect breakfasts and lunch in the airy Patio Cafe — with its enormous outdoor seating area to allow diners to soak in the idyllic views and spot dolphins and sharks. By night, expect multi-course dinners in the elegant Yacht Club Restaurant.

There’s also a full bar onboard, with expert bar staff creating specialty cocktails to order daily, or expertly matching wines to go with your meals.

8. There’s a wealth for wellness warriors

Given the obvious ramifications for foodie excess, it’s a good job that the small, yet perfectly formed, ship also comes with a decent wellness offering onboard.

A petit, amply equipped gym is on hand to help counter the calories, while instructor-led morning stretching sessions ensure all guests are kept limber for excursions and zodiac embarking and disembarking.

If you aren’t radiating wellness from the surroundings alone, there’s plenty aboard to improve your wellbeing (Picture: Paul Ewart)

Wellness warriors can also take advantage of the small plunge pool and adjoining sauna while a small spa offers some pampering and TLC.

9. All tastes are accommodated

This isn’t your typical ‘one-size-fits-all’ cruise. 

With multiple ways to explore on land and at sea — including hikes, photo walks, kayaking, snorkelling, lectures, presentation, wine tasting classes and more — no two days are alike.

Plus, everything is optional, so you can tailor your experience to your specific interests and energy levels.

Itineraries offer a mix of wildlife, landscapes, educational experiences, culinary delights, and then there’s the option to simply snooze in a deck hammock, or to play a game of cards with some newfound friends.

The choice really is yours.