FAQs about Galapagos: What length of cruise is best?

In Ecuador Mainland and the Galapagos Archipelago, U.S. Dollar has been established and used as main and only currency since the year 2000. When making payments for your trip, you may do so in your local currency at up-to-date conversion.

Cruises have strict policy on smoking on board: is prohibited in almost all social areas, dining rooms and cabins in cruises, but most of them do allow to smoke on designated areas in the sundeck prior request from passengers to the guide or cruise director. Smoking is strictly prohibited on inhabited islands and visitor sites during a cruise.

All visitors entering Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are prompted to present original Passport when entering, with at least 6 months of validity; citizens from most Countries do not require a Visa to enter Ecuador and the Galapagos, but do confirm this with your local International Affairs Office to confirm if you require to get a Visa to travel to Ecuador.

On some luxury class cruises you can buy wonderful souvenirs and pay with your preferred Credit Card as major ones are accepted: MasterCard, Visa, Amex, among others; also you can pay for souvenirs at local shops in Puerto Ayora or San Cristobal with your Credit Card, but some of them will only accept cash payments. On board other category of cruises, payments must be done in cash (U.S. Dollars) for souvenirs and consumption.

During your cruise, you will have magnificent opportunities to enjoy snorkeling in the most fantastic underwater scenarios within the Galapagos National Park and Marine Reserve as well as other wonderful activities to complement your experience in the Archipelago.

On Luxury and First class cruises snorkeling equipment (snorkel, mask & fins) are included and on Midrange and Economy class cruises they are available for rent. Some Luxury class cruises also include Wet suits while on First, Midrange and Economy class, Wert suits are available for rent.

There are a couple of ATM’s in Puerto Ayora and San Cristobal, but sometimes they ran out of cash to withdraw, therefore is recommended to bring enough cash (U.S. Dollars) from the Mainland for peace of mind and be able to pay for additional matters during your trip. You will find ATM’s at Quito and Guayaquil’s Airports and on main tourism districts on both cities.