All You Need to Know About Snorkelling in the Galapagos

Renowned for being a wildlife haven of epic proportions, the Galapagos Islands are among the most coveted snorkelling destinations on earth. If snorkelling these enriched waters during your visit is paramount, don't forget to specifically look for the activity in your chosen ship's itinerary, to fit in as many incredible snorkelling opportunities as possible.

Before we detail our favourite snorkelling spots (and other insider tips), take a look at this map of the Galapagos archipelago to get a good overview of each island's location.

Galapagos Islands Map

 

Cruise itineraries are typically grouped into three routes, each delivering a distinct set of islands and wildlife encounters. The Western Route takes in Fernandina and Isabela, the youngest and most volcanically active islands in the archipelago, where you're most likely to encounter Galapagos penguins and flightless cormorants in raw, dramatic landscapes. The Eastern and Southern Route covers older, greener islands like Española and Floreana, with exceptional snorkelling and some of the largest wildlife colonies in the islands. The Northern Route ventures out to Genovesa, the furthest flung of the three, and is a particular favourite for birdwatchers.

There are many more lesser-known islands to explore and cruises typically visit roughly one island per day, with itineraries running anywhere from 4 to 8 days. Ships generally alternate between itineraries on a weekly basis, so the same vessel might sail the Western route one week and the Eastern or Northern the next. Your choice of route and duration mostly comes down to time and budget, and if you can stretch to a longer trip of 10 to 12 days, combining two routes into a longer cruise is well worth it.

Looking for SCUBA diving cruises to the Galapagos? Check out our 8-day adventure aboard Aqua.

Insider tip – it’s a good idea to let your travel agent book your flight to the Galapagos together with your chosen cruise. Boat operators are allocated seats to coincide with their cruises to guarantee everyone arrives on time and no lone passenger is left stranded somewhere. It’s an extra security step for you so take advantage of this service.

What’s it like to snorkel in the Galapagos?

The fact that the equator traverses the archipelago makes many people automatically believe that the Galapagos are the quintessential tropical islands: year-round high temps, warm seas and idyllic snorkelling conditions. The reality, however, might surprise you.

The Galapagos may straddle the Equator line, but they are floating about 1,000km off its closest mainland (Ecuador). This isolation, coupled with the fact that the archipelago is also traversed by cool currents (most notably the Humbolt and Cromwell currents), creates quite stark conditions for several months of the year. The sea is cooler than you might imagine and boasts strong currents in parts. Snorkellers often need to wear wetsuits here, and inexperienced snorkellers need to carefully select where to plunge into the deep blue sea.

However, snorkel in the best spots in the Galapagos, and your rewards will be plentiful, just like the marine life.

The Galapagos are famous for offering perhaps the best-quality snorkelling in the world. Only here can you see everything the SCUBA divers see – yes, including hammerhead sharks – and enjoy spectacular visibility and a host of different undersea landscapes. The islands are volcanic in origin and incredibly enriched. The marine world of the Galapagos is simply mind-blowing.

Take a look at a video we made on a Viva Expeditions charter cruise last August.

So, enough fluffing about: what are the best snorkelling spots in the Galapagos?

Here goes!

Best Snorkelling Spots in Galapagos

A colony of sea lions at Gardner Bay on Española, one of the archipelago’s most photogenic beaches.

 

 

1. Kicker Rock (AKA the sleeping lion - leon dormindo), San Cristóbal Island

Kicker Rock is an incredible volcanic formation that's replete with marine life. It's just off San Cristóbal Island, and the channel separating the two is a hotspot for sharks, rays, and various colourful reef fish. Visibility here is typically outstanding, but currents can be a little choppy​.

2. Punta Espinosa, Fernandina Island

Fernandina Island is home to Punta Espinosa, where you can snorkel alongside marine iguanas, sea turtles, and spirited sea lions. This area is less frequented by cruise ships, affording a more intimate experience. Super lucky guests have spotted dolphins and humpback whales on their snorkel adventure here. Various whale and dolphin species can be spotted on the edges of the Galapagos all year long. However, visiting them during the peak migration period (June and November) heightens the chances of seeing them.

3. Devil's Crown, Floreana Island

Devil’s Crown is an eroded volcanic crater near Floreana Island, famous for its incredible biodiversity. Expect to see schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, moray eels, rays, and hammerhead sharks. The clear waters provide excellent visibility, although strong currents can make it difficult. An unmissable highlight for strong swimmers and experienced snorkellers – this is by far one of the best snorkel spots in the entire archipelago.

4. Pinnacle Rock, Bartolome Island

Pinnacle Rock on Bartolome Island offers a stunning landscape above and below water. If you’ve ever wanted to snorkel with penguins, here is your chance. You might also encounter sea lions, white-tipped reef sharks, and tropical fish. Pinnacle Rock and the next hotspot, Gardner Bay, offer calm currents and perfect snorkelling conditions for beginner and not-too-confident snorkellers.

5. Gardner Bay, Española Island

Gardner Bay is noted for its beautiful white sand beaches and calm, inviting waters. Here, you can swim with sea lions, sea turtles, rays, and reef fish. This specific spot is an absolute dream, serene and idyllic​ – perfect if you’re visiting the Galapagos with kids.

Insider tips if travelling with kids in the Galapagos

The Galapagos are an extraordinary family holiday destination, and if you have intrepid sea babies, trust that they will have the absolute time of their lives on a Galapagos cruise.

If your kids aren’t familiar with snorkel gear, make sure they have time to practice and be comfortable with the mask and snorkel before you travel. Practice at home at your local pool. The more confident kids are in the water, the better time they will have.

Also, don't be shy and ask for a flotation device before boarding – even the boat's standard life vest will help make snorkelling easier and keep them warmer in the water. And that goes for adults, too. Always ensure your child is wearing a wetsuit as kid's body temperatures drop much faster than us adults in cooler water.

Galapagos Marine Life – what you’re likely to see underwater

The Galapagos Islands are a haven for marine life, and given the wildlife here is unafraid of humans, close-up encounters are virtually guaranteed. Watch out for those sea lions who love to nibble on your flippers!

Here are just a few of the fantastic sea creatures you can snorkel with on the Galapagos:

Sea Lions

By far the snorkeller’s favourite Galapagos resident. These playful and curious creatures are known for interacting with you in the water, making for a memorable experience.

A curious sea lion peeks out from the waves, joining the snorkeling adventure

Ø  Sea Turtles—Not to be confused with the iconic Giant Tortoises of the Galapagos (which live on land), sea turtles are often seen grazing on seaweed. The islands are home to several species, with the most seen being the green and hawksbill sea turtles.

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Ø  Marine Iguanas – Unique to the Galapagos, these peculiar mini-dinosaurs are the only lizards that swim and feed in the ocean. Imagine: the snorkelling is SO good in the Galapagos that even lizards wanted to have a go!

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Ø  Sharks – The mere mention is enough to send shivers down every snorkeller's spine. But don't worry; the white-tip reef sharks and hammerheads are docile species. We admit that the Galapagos shark looks a little more frightening, but they tend to keep to themselves.

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• Galapagos Penguins – The agile Galapagos penguins are an absolute treat to spot on a snorkelling excursion. They are the only penguins found north of the equator!

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• Colourful Reef Fish – Despite the cooler sea temperatures at times, an array of colourful tropical fish can be spotted while snorkelling the Galapagos. Almost 500 distinct species thrive here! Look out for parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and many others​.

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Snorkelling Tips for the Galapagos

• Best Time to Snorkel: The warm season from December to April offers the most comfortable water and air temperatures and the calmest seas, ideal for clear visibility and a pleasant snorkelling experience​. However (big caveat!) cooler sea temps mean heightened marine life activity. If you're an avid snorkeller and strong swimmer, brave the cooler temps and visit between May and November.

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• Equipment: Cruise ships that offer daily snorkelling outings usually provide all the gear you'll need. If you prefer to bring your own mask and snorkel to ensure a perfect fit, go right ahead.

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• Ø  Safety: Galapagos cruise crews are experienced in judging the viability of a snorkelling spot and the suitability of beginner snorkellers. Always snorkel with a buddy when in the water, and pay close attention to directions. Be mindful of the currents! It's easy to get carried away when snorkelling in the Galapagos (pun intended), so pop your head out of the water often to ensure you don't stray far from your boat and group.

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• Ø  Respect the Wildlife: While Galapagos marine life is famously curious and somewhat sociable, always keep a respectful distance. Never touch the wildlife, even if they get super close to you.

Guide to the Galapagos – how to get the most out of your visit

Discover the best of the Galapagos with Viva Expeditions

From luxury cruises to more budget-friendly options, Viva Expeditions has something for everyone looking to explore and snorkel in the Galapagos Islands​. Peruse our Galapagos Islands Cruises, and don't forget to Contact Our Specialists, who'll be more than happy to help you select the right ship and itinerary to suit your needs and likes.