Solo travelers receive a special discounted rate on select 2025 Galapagos cruises aboard Origin, Theory or Evolve. Contact us and speak to an Adventure Specialist for details.
Offer valid on new bookings only, for a limited time upon availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. See all Galapagos cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on this and other adventures.
Save 10% off the total cruise rate per person on select 2024 departures of the below-linked Origin, Theory & Evolve Galapagos cruise.
Offer valid on new bookings only, for a limited time upon availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. See all Galapagos cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.
Early birds! Save 10% off the total cruise rate per person on select 2025 departures of the below-linked Origin, Theory & Evolve Galapagos cruise.
Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. See all Galapagos cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.
Enjoy a life-enriching adventure that redefines luxury expedition cruising aboard one of the luxury sister ships, Origin, Theory or Evolve. Venture ashore in small groups of 10 to experience these islands up close and personal. Small groups led by expert naturalist guides allow travelers to have a more authentic and educational experience.
The Origin, Theory & Evolve operate two 8-day Galapagos cruise itineraries, which can be combined to create a comprehensive 15-day cruise, or shortened into 7-day routes.
Possible shore excursions aboard the Origin, Theory & Evolve yachts include hiking ancient lava fields where you may encounter prehistoric reptiles; witnessing the courtship dance of the blue-footed boobies; viewing Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants and massive waved albatross; and exploring beaches of black, red and green sand. Snorkel, kayak or stand-up paddleboard in a marine reserve teeming with ocean wildlife that includes sea lions, dolphins, whales and tame sharks.
Chic, stylish and luxuriously comfortable in equal measure, the prestigious Origin, Theory & Evolve are the only Relais & Chateaux-affiliated yachts sailing the Galapagos. Ecuadorian-owned and operated like floating five-star boutique hotels, they offer an intimate voyage, exquisite level of concierge service, locally sourced and refined gastronomy, and very best amenities the archipelago can offer.
These upscale sister ships are also leaders in Galapagos eco friendly, sustainable travel to the Galapagos Islands. The parent company was the first to earn and maintain the ecological certification SmartVoyager and is Ecuador’s first carbon-neutral cruise operator. Additionally, the Origin, Theory & Evolve all hold Rainforest Alliance verification, offering a gold standard for sustainable tourism.
Origin, Theory & Evolve Galapagos Cruises offer talented naturalist guides, easy nature hikes and snorkeling. Each naturalist takes a group of no more than 10 passengers on all shore excursions and shares extensive insights into the islands’ diverse wildlife and natural history. This uniquely small guest-to-guide ratio is why these ships make our list of Galapagos luxury cruises. Small pangas carry passengers to shore for island visits where you will observe and photograph tortoise, sea lions, blue-footed boobies, volcanic landscapes and vivid sunsets. Families will appreciate select Galapagos family cruises geared towards active travelers with children.
Highlights of the East Galapagos Islands itinerary include visiting the intriguing waved albatross (April-Dec) only found on Espanola and spotting swallow-tailed gulls, the only nocturnal gulls on earth. On Bartolome, feel like you are on a mountain on the moon by summiting a dormant volcano. Get a new perspective with Floreana’s rich human history as well as spend time with the Galapagos penguins, herons and blue-footed boobies. Snorkel the waters around Devil’s Crown, a sunken crater with fish, coral, sea turtles and eagle rays. And send a postcard from Post Office Bay while learning about the unusual postal service of the Galapagos.
Highlights of the West Galapagos Islands itinerary include a coffee tasting on a biodynamic farm; the bird haven of Genovesa with opportunities to search out short-eared owls and frigatebirds; the white sands populated with greater flamingos on Santa Cruz; snorkeling to find penguins and sea turtles and view graffiti left by pirates on Isabela; a visit to the young and pristine island, Fernandina, to observe the largest colony of marine iguanas; and a ramble on the red beaches of Rabida.
At only 20 guests each, with interconnecting and triple cabin options, the Origin, Theory and Evolve are AdventureSmith favorites for private Galapagos yacht charters.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about all of AdventureSmith’s Galapagos Islands cruise options and Galapagos trips.
The 20-guest MV Origin, MV Theory and MV Evolve identical sister yachts, are three of the newest Galapagos yachts to explore the Islands. The Origin began sailing in 2016, the Theory launched in 2019 and the Evolve made her debut in January 2023. The names Origin & Theory were chosen for their link to Darwin’s prolific work, while the name Evolve plays on this theme. The yachts all run two 8-day itineraries, a southern/central route and a western/northern route.
Choose to book the interchangeable Origin, Theory or Evolve for a classy, modern and intimate vessel that offers a luxurious Galapagos experience with highly trained staff and guides, artful cuisine and seamless operations. In 2019, Origin became the second ship in the world to join the prestigious Relais & Châteaux association, followed shortly by her sister ships, per their showcase of the unique history and rich cultural heritage of the Galapagos, as well as their commitment to preserving the environment. Also supporting this honor is superb cuisine, an expression of culinary arts that blends the culture and terroir of the Galapagos.
Our Galapagos luxury cruise clients love the VIP package upgrades available on this ship, plus the two-room Premium Suites that provide more than 300 square feet of space. Plus select interconnecting cabins and special family-themed departures make these sister ships ideal options for Galapagos family cruises.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard the Origin firsthand. Read our dedicated Origin, Theory & Evolve review for a detailed description of the small ships. Or consult this page further for a detailed description of Origin, Theory and Evolve, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images, photo gallery and a link to the trip they sail. We can help compare these small cruise ships with other Galapagos ships and upscale yachts offering Galapagos luxury cruises and private Galapagos yacht charters.
MV Origin, MV Theory and MV Evolve consume approximately 30% less fossil fuel compared to similar yachts in the archipelago. Their curved bows were designed to cut through the waves for smoother sailing, increased fuel efficiency and less drag. Water-saving measures include reusable bottles, a specially designed water treatment plan, ecological toilets, bio-degradable soaps and shampoo, and the invitation for guests to reuse linens.
Two expert naturalist guides; a concierge; a well-trained, experienced crew and a high-level captain cater to guests’ needs. Aboard the ships, find spacious social areas, including a dining room, bar, lounge area with comfortable seating and TV with pre-loaded movies, cozy library, boutique and a fitness center with cardio and weight equipment and yoga mats. An elegant dining room features marble table tops, with configurations from two to 10 guests for private or group dining.
Outside areas include a large sun deck with chaise lounges, day beds, tables, chairs and hammocks, outdoor shower, wet bar, BBQ and al fresco dining; two aft decks, the lower with a cushioned couch and eight-person Jacuzzi and the upper with tables and chairs; and a forward deck with cushioned bench seating directly in front of the Bridge. WiFi is available throughout the ships.
Guests enjoy a range of included activities aboard Origin, Theory and Evolve, including snorkeling, kayaking (one single and five double kayaks on board each vessel), hiking, stand-up paddleboarding (each yacht carries two boards) and viewing underwater life from the glass-bottom excursion boat. Daytime excursions are enhanced by nightly briefings and occasional lectures.
A luxury bonus for these ships is the ability to book a Private Moments VIP package, giving you a private naturalist guide for the duration of your cruise; private transfers to and from the airport to the dock; and a private sunset Zodiac ride or sundeck breakfast (depending on the weather). Contact us for rates on this upgrade package.
Gourmet-style menus including Ecuadorian and Peruvian specialties, sourced from local and sustainable producers, are creatively prepared by culinary-school trained chefs who will also give a cooking demonstration (ceviche). Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style while dinner is an elegant, four-course, plated affair (dinner menus circulated and orders taken during lunch) consisting of an appetizer, soup, main course and dessert. Specialty diets can be accommodated with advance notice, and menu modifications are accommodated on-the-fly as well.
Buffet breakfast and lunches always offer a hot and cold bar full of choices, with eggs cooked to order as an additional option at breakfast. A few lunches are served on a shaded sun deck. Snacks and hors d’oeuvres are served after every excursion, with a 24-hour snack, coffee and tea bar also available. House wines and beers are poured complimentary during dinner, and there is a generous open bar policy (red and white wines, local beers and a variety of spirits excluding super premium brands).
Origin, Theory and Evolve each feature 10 deluxe double staterooms approximately 145 square feet. All cabins are located on the Beagle Deck with large panoramic windows and private bathroom. Each stateroom has two twin beds that can be converted to one king bed. Cabin amenities include individual climate control; multiple hooks; full-length mirror; nightstand; ample sectional closet and drawers; sitting area; TV with pre-loaded movies; universal docking station; modern décor; fine linens and towels; memory foam and soft pillows; safe deposit box; lighted vanity mirror; pod-based espresso and coffee maker, and tea kettle en suite.
Private bathrooms include ocean view showers with modern rainfall and adjustable swing-arm shower heads, and clothes drying line; dual-flush toilet; hair dryer; plush towels; waffle bathrobes and slippers; bio-degradable soaps and shampoo. Cabins are cleaned twice daily and a light laundry service (added cost) is available. Cabins 1&3 and 2&4 have interconnecting doors and are great for families.
The two-room Premium Suites have upgrades that may include upgraded flight seating, premium beverages, free laundry service and a welcome gift of customized Panama hats or bathrobes. Ask us about current available upgrades upon booking.
Book your Galapagos Sky liveaboard dive cruise and save $200 if you are an active and current scuba instructor, active or retired military personnel, or will be at least 62 years of age at the start of the cruise.
Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. Not applicable to port charges, chamber fees, park fees, tourist card taxes, domestic airfares or group bookings. See all Galapagos cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on this and other adventures.
Galapagos Sky liveaboard dive cruises offer a total of approximately 17-19 dives split amongst 5.5 of 8 days, plus 3 land excursions. Diving in this world-renowned destination is done entirely from pangas and is considered advanced as it occurs in the presence of strong currents, cold water and at times limited visibility. Each departure includes 4 daily dives at the remote Wolf and Darwin islands—some of the crown jewels of world-class diving.
This dive-focused itinerary also spends time experiencing the diversity of underwater life around the Galapagos’ central islands. Here, take in resident mantas and sharks, plus seasonal whale sharks, and photograph little Galapagos invertebrates in vibrant color while watching for mola molas.
Walk in the steps of Charles Darwin, with 3 guided land excursions. Take in the beautiful panoramic views of Pinnacle Rock and distant lagoons following a climb to the top of Bartolome. Visit the Santa Cruz Highlands in search of Galapagos tortoises in their natural habitat. Enjoy an unguided visit to the Charles Darwin Research Center during free time in the port area of Puerto Ayora. And explore the Interpretation center in San Cristobal where much about Galapagos history and conservation efforts can be learned.
Galapagos Sky is a dedicated liveaboard dive boat, equipped with divers’ needs in mind. Her warm interiors, attentive and experienced crew, open bar and gourmet meals make for a dive trip experience that’s memorable both in and out of the water. This dive-ready yacht is prepared to introduce you to new dive friends, but is also available to be booked as one of our private Galapagos yacht charters for your own select group of 16 or fewer.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Galapagos cruises, Galapagos trips and other Galapagos diving options.
M/V Galapagos Sky is a liveaboard vessel offering a dedicated dive itinerary for up to 16 guests per departure. Her classic warm wood interiors, charming indoor and outdoor lounges, and spacious dive deck make for an upscale dive experience in the Galapagos’ world-renowned waters.
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Galapagos Sky review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class Galapagos cruise ship. Please read our Galapagos Sky dive boat review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the M/V Galapagos Sky with other small cruise ships and yachts offering Galapagos diving and private Galapagos yacht charters.
Choose the Galapagos Sky for a dive boat that doesn’t sacrifice the onboard experience. Her comfortable cabins, stylish common areas, thoughtful dive deck and conscientious crew combine for a memorable experience both in and out of the water.
The Galapagos Sky onboard experience rivals that of the underwater experience. Guests can appreciate comfortable spaces, classic decor and classy amenities, plus a logo’d boutique for memorabilia to bring home.
A booth-style, open seating arrangement with wall-to-wall picture windows complements the gourmet international and Ecuadorian meals on offer. Daily menus are prepared by culinary-school-trained chefs and feature locally sourced, organic ingredients from vetted sustainable providers. Depending on the schedule, breakfast may be served continental-style and then a full meal following the day’s first dive. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style while dinner is a sumptuous plated affair.
All house wine, beer, soft drinks, juices, coffee and tea are included—as are drinks from the fully stocked bar (premium liquors available for purchase). Snacks are provided throughout the day, with chips, crackers and cookies available at the bar. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, seafood-free, kosher, dairy-free and other dietary preferences can be accommodated with advance notice.
An enclosed lounge towards the bow of the ship features a plush wraparound couch ready to host the full passenger complement for educational talks and briefings, or to simply relax in a comfortable enclosed space. The interior lounge is equipped with two flat-screen TVs and a library of videos and books. The Sundeck at the aft of the ship offers even more lounge seating and a second bar—a fine space to compare notes from the day’s dives and catch the fast-moving equatorial sunset.
At the rear of the middle deck sits a covered, roomy space lined by metal benches and dive tanks—the Dive Deck. This outdoor space sees the most activity on the ship, with multiple dives planned each day. As such, the Dive Deck is designed with efficiency and thoughtful storage in mind. Some 220/AC electrical outlets are ready to charge equipment as needed, and a camera table offers an intuitive space for your digital accessories. Also on the Dive Deck are hot showers, a bathroom, separate rinse bins for wetsuits and separate rinse bins for cameras. Each dive station offers a storage bin under the seat. Heated Dive Deck towels are labeled with numbers to coordinate with the diver’s seat location.
This liveaboard ship in Galapagos is focused on up to 4 dives per day, but also incorporates stops at a few key visitor sites in the national park. Available onboard dive gear includes: Nitrox, weights, weight belts, standard aluminum tanks and select safety equipment. Available rental gear on board includes: BCD, regulator, 7mm wetsuit, mask, snorkel, fins, booties and a tank upgrade.
The experienced crew members aboard M/V Galapagos Sky are ready to help with getting gear on and off, rinsing masks, hanging wetsuits and more. Of the 11-member crew, two are expert naturalist guides and dive masters, to ensure a stellar ratio of 1 guide per 8 guests.
All of the 4 lower-deck Deluxe and 4 upper-deck Master cabins come equipped with linens, waffle robes, towels, storage closet and a safe. Each private en suite bathroom has a shower and is stocked with a hair dryer, and environmentally friendly soap, shampoo and conditioner. Electrical outlets are 110/AC 60-cycle Type B ports for two-pronged devices from North and Central America. Cabins are cleaned twice daily with available morning beverage room service, and evening turndown service is provided nightly.