¿ARE YOU READY TO EXPLORE THE INCREDIBLE UNDERWATER WORLD OF GALAPAGOS?
DIVE SITE DESCRIPTIONS FOR GALAPAGOS
DARWIN ISLAND
Undoubtedly some of the most spectacular pelagic diving on the planet, the Galapagos Islands are one of those rare places where you can dive through hundreds of hammerhead sharks to find a whale shark cruising along. Add silky sharks, sea turtles, giant morays and schooling fish in their thousands into the mix… and that’s just the first dive at Darwin!
DIVING FACTS & QUESTIONS
WHAT IS DIVING LIKE IN GALAPAGOS?
In a word, amazing! However, diving around the Galapagos Islands is a little more difficult due to the presence of some strong currents, slightly cooler water temperatures, and rugged underwater terrain.
All diving in the Galapagos is done from diving platforms or a boat (known locally as a "panga"). Diving from a panga can be physically challenging for some, although it allows access to some of the best diving spots in the world.
Due to these circumstances, diving in the Galapagos is not suitable for beginners or those who may have problems with the conditions: most cruises require an Advanced Open Water qualification and at least 30 logged dives. However, for those who do meet the requirements, it is a diving trip not to be missed, especially thanks to the large number of sharks and large pelagic fish you will encounter.
HOW DOES DIVING WORK IN GALAPAGOS?
Being a National Park, Galapagos has strict regulations for its visitors and its tour operators; In this way, not only is the environment conserved and the species that live freely on the islands are protected, but the safety of visitors to the archipelago is ensured.
YOU WILL BE DIVING IN A NATIONAL PARK?
All expedition itineraries in the Galapagos Islands must be previously approved by the Galapagos National Park. All visiting sites, trails, permitted activities, etc. They have been carefully selected to produce the least possible impact while offering visitors stunning views and interaction with wildlife. The same goes for diving spots!
WHAT EXPERIENCE IS NEEDED FOR DIVING IN THE GALAPAGOS?
Due to its currents Only experienced divers should be going on a liveaboard. (Minimum Advanced Open Water, 50 logged dives, and experience in cold water and currents.)
HOW DIFFICULT IS DIVING IN GALAPAGOS?
It all depends
on the type of diver you are and the experience you want to have! Being located
in the Pacific Ocean, literally in the middle of the world, the Galapagos
Islands are the convergence point of several important marine currents such as:
The cold
Humboldt current
Cromwell's Cold
Current
The warm current
of Panama
These currents
are loaded with nutrients that, in turn, attract marine life. This can be
extremely striking to some divers; However, the interaction of these currents
with the geography of the islands makes certain dive sites a little more
complex than others. Sometimes these fluctuating currents carry divers along.
Additionally, depending on the depth of the dive, some sites also have limited
visibility, ranging from approximately 10 to 21 meters (32 to 68 feet) or less,
and low temperatures.
For this reason,
it is extremely important to choose a dive site according to our capabilities
where we know how to react to any event that may arise.
DRIFT DIVING: In this type of dive, the diver is transported by the movement of the water current. Many people consider this type of diving an underwater “flight.” While it is true that you have less chance of interacting with wildlife due to the speed at which you are moving, you will be able to cover more ground.
DEEP DIVE: This type of diving is done below 18 meters (59 feet). The recommended limit for PADI-licensed divers is up to 40 meters (131 feet) deep due to the complications that could occur if you go deeper. In this type of diving you can experience low temperatures and difficulty in visibility; However, the species that can be seen are truly fascinating!
REEF DIVING: As its name indicates, this type of diving will take us to explore the richness of the underwater geography of the Galapagos Islands. The reefs are loaded with interesting marine life that has amazed more than one diver with its charm.
CAN BEGINNERS DIVE IN THE GALAPAGOS?
Galapagos Islands is a truly unique experience. So yes, you should definitely take that PADI scuba diving Galapagos beginner course before opting for a liveaboard.
WHEN TO DIVE IN GALAPAGOS?
In the Galapagos you can dive well all year round, but the best time is usually from June to December. The water temperature is coldest between September and November with the thermoclines, although this also tends to coincide with the arrival of some of the larger species.
HOW IS DIVING VISIBILITY IN GALAPAGOS?
Although there can be 30 meter (100 feet) visibility in the Galapagos Islands, the more common visibility conditions are between 10 – 20 meters (30 – 70 feet).
Visibility is very dependent on the amount of plankton in the water. For this reason, the colder months of the year have poorer visibility than the warmer months. In exchange, more plankton in the water means more activity.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT AND DIVE THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS?
Our most popular question! Truly, Galapagos offers phenomenal year-round diving. offers liveaboard cruising all twelve months of the year and visits the unbelievable islands of Wolf and Darwin on every trip. There are two “seasons” for Galapagos diving:
WHALE SHARK SEASON (from June to November)
The water is cooler, 60-75°F, 15-24°C.
MANTA SEASON (December through May)
The water is warmer, clearer 68-82°F, 18-28°C
WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DIVE IN THE GALAPAGOS?
Surfing in the Galapagos is an exciting experience, but requires proper planning and preparation due to the uniqueness of this region and the need to preserve its fragile ecosystem. Here is a list of what you need to dive in the Galapagos:
Diving certification: To dive in the Galapagos, you must be a certified diver. Be sure to bring your certification card (e.g. PADI, NAUI, SSI) with you as proof of your experience and skills. You can also do it supported by an expert
Diving equipment: If you have your own diving equipment, it is advisable to bring it with you. However, many diving operators in Galapagos offer equipment rental if you need it. Be sure to bring or rent a wetsuit, life jacket, regulator, mask, snorkel, and fins.
Appropriate clothing: In addition to the wetsuit, it is important to wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the climate. Sun protection, a hat and sunglasses are essential due to the strong equatorial sun.
Medical certificate: Some operators may require a medical certificate attesting to your ability to dive. Be sure to review the health requirements ahead of time.
Diving insurance: Consider purchasing diving insurance to cover any medical emergency or evacuation in the event of an accident.
Diving Reservations: Since demand for diving in the Galapagos is high, especially at the most popular sites, it is advisable to make reservations in advance, preferably before your trip.
Comply with local regulations: Respect all Galapagos diving regulations, such as not touching marine life or collecting specimens. These rules are intended to protect the region's fragile ecosystem.
Environmental awareness: Before diving in the Galapagos, learn about the guidelines for responsible and sustainable behavior while underwater and on land. Respect for wildlife and the natural environment is essential.
Dive Guide: It is recommended to dive with local certified guides who are well versed in the dive sites and marine life of the region. They can improve your experience and ensure your safety.
Diving in the Galapagos can be the best experience but you must be accompanied by experts or a liveaboard cruise so that your experience is pleasant and safe.
WHAT IS THE RATIO OF DIVERS TO DIVE GUIDES?
1 dive guide for 8 divers.
THE PROPER RULES TO FOLLOW FOR DIVING?
Never dive without a buddy.
Never dive if you have a cold or have stuffy ears or nose.
Always plan your dive, and always dive within the planned path.
Check your diving equipment to make sure it works. Use suitable equipment that can carry out your intended dive.
Do not drink alcohol or drugs before diving.
Ask your doctor what medications you can use when diving.
Ask your doctor how diving may affect your health. Diving can be dangerous if you have certain health problems.
Familiarize yourself with the underwater area and its dangers. Learn which fish, coral, and other hazards to avoid to prevent injury. Be aware of local tides and currents.
Obey all diving teaching. As you descend, be sure to even out your ears and your mask. At deep, stay within the parameters of the dive tables and equipment. This information helps you avoid decompression sickness.
Never hold your breath during the ascent. Your ascent should be slow and your breathing should be normal.
Never panic underwater. If you feel confused or afraid during a dive, stop, try to relax, and analyze the problem. Ask your dive buddy or dive instructor for help.
Cave diving is very dangerous. Only divers with proper training and equipment should attempt it.
If you do not feel well or if you are sore after diving, go to the nearest emergency room.
Do not fly for 12 hours after a no-decompression dive, even in a pressurized aircraft. If the dive requires decompression stops, do not return for at least 24 hours.
If you or a dive buddy have an accident while diving, call 911 and then Divers Alert Network (DAN) at 919-684-9111 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Doctors, nurses and emergency technicians are available 24 hours a day. They will answer your questions and provide help. If necessary, you will be directed to the nearest hyperbaric chamber or appropriate medical facility.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO DIVE HERE?
We highly recommend a liveaboard experience because the most interesting dive sites are remote and are around islands whose shores tourists aren’t permitted to visit on foot.
SUNSCREEN - REEF SAFE SUNSCREENS ONLY ?
The use of sunscreen containing the chemicals oxybenzone, octinoxate, and others harmful to marine ecosystems is regulated and restricted to sustain and protect the coral reefs.
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM AGE FOR DIVERS?
Children 15 years and up who are certified and have the prerequisite number of logged dives may dive when accompanied by an experienced diving parent.
WHERE DO OUR GALAPAGOS DIVING TRIPS STARTS?
Baltra and San Cristobal Airport is used for embarking and disembarking.
WHAT ABOUT FLYING AFTER DIVING ?
Current studies show that you should wait at least 24 hours after multiple days with repetitive diving before flying. Please keep this in mind before you book your onward international or domestic flights.
IS THERE NIGHT DIVING?
Yes, bring your torch! There are 2 sites where night dives are permitted. One is at Wolf July – December and the other is at Cabo Marshall January – June. We also have a small swim through at Wolf which is so much more beautiful with a torch.
IS THERE A DINGHY DIVING?
Yes, all dives are dinghy diving.
WHAT GEAR DO DIVING LIVEABOARDS USUALLY HAVE?
Most diving cruises have the following gear available for rent: BCD, Reg-set, wetsuit, mask, snorkel, fins, computer, and gloves.
DOES GALAPAGOS HAVE A RECOMPRESSION CHAMBER?
Yes it does. There is an SSS chamber in Puerto Ayora which is open 24/7 . So if you are in need of emergency treatment it can be done in the islands without having to return to mainland Ecuador.
DO THE LIVEABOARDS RENT EQUIPMENT, OR SHOULD I TAKE MY OWN?
Yes they do rent equipment, refer to our rental pricing.
DO I NEED INSURANCE?
Dive insurance is mandatory. We recommend Divers Alert Network for the US or Europe. If you live in another country, please check with your provider to make sure your policy has both recompression chamber and evacuation coverage.
Though the government has delayed enforcing the policy, it will become mandatory to have health insurance for the time you are in Ecuador. If your existing coverage does not provide international coverage, often a simple travel policy purchased when you buy your international flights will provide health coverage sufficient for the requirement.
Though travel insurance is not required, it is recommended in the event you have to cancel your departure due to illness, loss of employment or in the event you miss your connecting flight which causes you to miss your departure. Please read the fine print. What you assume is covered may not be.
WETSUIT NEEDED FOR MY TRIP?
Typically a 7mm thickness is recommended.hat is th
WHATS THE DIVE INSURANCE NEEDED?
Do not confuse regular travel medical and/or travel insurance with diving-specific insurance such as DAN (Divers Alert Network) or Dive Assure. This type of insurance will cover all of your scuba diving and snorkeling activities, including the costs for recompression chamber treatment and emergency air evacuation. These are not covered by the average travel insurance.
We usually recommend contacting DAN or Dive Assure who can set you up with a travel insurance plan which includes general travel insurance, including trip cancellation …. plus full dive coverage.
WHAT ARE THE CYLINDER SIZES?
The standard cylinders with us 11 Litres (80 cuft) aluminium, which are included in the liveaboard price.
We have a limited number of 10 Litre steel, 13 Litre aluminium (100 cuft) and 15 Litre steel cylinders available for an additional charge, which must be pre-ordered.
All cylinders have convertible valves which can fit either Yoke (INT) or DIN regulators.
CAN I DIVE ON MY OWN?
No, all dives are guided by an instructor
and under the Galapagos national park regulations.
REBREATHER DIVERS?
This is consider technical diving and this is not allowed by the National Park.
DECOMPRESSION DIVES OR TECHNICAL DIVING?
Due to the remoteness of the Galapagos Islands, the local diving regulations and insurance requirements do not allow decompression or technical dives.
CAN I TAKE PEOPLE WHO DON'T DIVE ON MY BOAT AS COMPANIONS?
No, we prefer not to take people who are not going to dive. If the companion decides to snorkel while the other passengers are diving, she will do this activity on her own (without a guide), in deep waters and may get dizzy while she waits on the boat for the other passengers.
CAN NON DIVERS ACCOMPANY ME ON A DIVE TRIP?
No, we prefer not to take non divers on the dive boat for snorkeling. Most of the time they would be the only one snorkeling, most people don’t like snorkeling in deep water, and many times non divers get quite seasick waiting for the divers to surface.
WHAT IS THE RATIO OF DIVERS FOR DIVE GUIDES?
1 Dive guide for 8 divers.
WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE TO DIVE IN THE GALAPAGOS?
The Devil's Crown is the favorite place for professional divers and enthusiastic visitors looking for a snorkeling tour in the Galapagos Islands to dive alongside penguins, sea turtles and of course whitetip sharks and hammerhead sharks that navigate in the center of the great crow.
WHERE DO YOU SWIM WITH SHARKS IN THE GALAPAGOS?
Galapagos Sharks: A Guide for Divers and Snorkellers
Some of the best Galapagos diving sites for shark spotting include: Los Tuneles (Isabela Island), Darwin Bay (Genovesa Island), and North Seymour.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO GO ON A LIVEABOARDUP NORTH (DARWIN AND WOLF)?
1) from January to May which is the hot/rainy season. This season is influenced by the warm currents of Panama and El Niño and the environment is tropical. These warm currents typically bring with them calmer waters and fairly favorable conditions both underwater and on the surface. This time is appropriate for beginner divers, technical diving expeditions and the opportunity to observe manta rays. The productivity of marine ecosystems is normally low at this time of year (lower plankton production and upwellings). This lower productivity makes it more difficult to find large animals like the whale shark. Additionally, gentler currents make it less likely to see large schools of sharks (they are seen, but in smaller numbers). However, the diving is still excellent during this time. During this season, water temperatures average 25-28°C (77-80°F) but significant thermoclines can occur. Normally the depth of the thermocline will determine at what depth marine life is found. The ambient temperature reaches an average of 25-28°C, presenting cloudy skies, showers and strong sunshine.
2) from June to November is the cold season or garúa season. This time is influenced by the cold Humboldt Current that comes from Antarctica and carries nutrients and plankton that create important upwellings, which is why it is more common to observe megafauna such as whale sharks and large schools of hammerhead sharks. During this time, the water temperature reaches an average of 19-23°C (66-73°F) with less presence of thermoclines. The ambient temperature ranges between 21-24°C, presenting overcast skies and clouds. There are also clear skies in certain areas of the archipelago.
WHAT FISH CAN I SEE DIVING IN THE GALAPAGOS?
Diving in the Galapagos gives you the opportunity to encounter an amazing variety of fish and marine life. Some of the most notable species you can see include:
Hammerhead sharks: Hammerhead sharks are one of the most exciting attractions in the Galapagos. You can see them at dive sites like Darwin and Wolf, where they swim in impressive groups.
Galapagos Whitetip Sharks: These sharks are common in Galapagos waters and are easy to spot while diving.
Whale sharks: These huge sharks, despite their size, are gentle and harmless creatures. They are an impressive sight for lucky divers.
Manta rays: Giant manta rays are majestic and elegant. You can find them at dive sites like Gordon Rocks.
Galapagos Snapper Fish: These brightly colored fish are common in Galapagos waters and add a touch of color to your dives.
Sea turtles: The waters of the Galapagos are home to several species of sea turtles, such as green turtles and giant tortoises.
Marine Iguanas: The Galapagos is the only place on Earth where you can find marine iguanas swimming and feeding underwater.
Dolphins: Dolphins, such as spotted dolphins, are common in the region and often join boats and divers.
Parrot Fish: Colorful parrot fish are a common sight on the Galapagos coral reefs.
Clownfish: Also known as anemone fish, they are known for their symbiotic relationship with anemones and are seen at various dive sites.
WHAT ARE THE CURRENTS LIKE IN THE GALAPAGOS?
Currents are probably the most challenging condition for diving in the Galapagos. On many occasions, they can reach 4 knots, making it impossible to swim against them. The intensity and direction of currents can change with depth and without prior notice (normally the same dive site has different conditions from one dive to another). Eddies and currents that go from top to bottom are frequent in some places in the archipelago. These types of conditions can be difficult for novice divers to handle. However, most dive sites offer suitable areas where our experienced guides can take these types of divers.
DIVING EQUIPMENT
WHAT APPROPRIATE COTHING SHOULD I WEAR FOR MY SEARCHING ACTIVITIES?
Clothes
shirts
Shorts
Tshirts
Dresses
Pants
Shoes / Sandals
Socks
Swimsuit
Underwear
Sweater/Outerwear
Cut wind
Hat / Visor
Belt
THE BEST PACKING LIST FOR YOUR DIVING?
Use this extensive checklist to ensure you have everything you need for your next diving activities:
Certification card
diving bag
Mask and snorkel
Defroster for masks
Fins and boots
compensating vest
Regulator and pressure gauge
wet or dry suit
Gloves
Boots
hood
Underwear for the dry suit.
Diving knife (do not carry it in your carry-on)
Clock
Dive computer
compass
diving kit
diving lights
Extra batteries
Tank marker light
record book
additional mask
Extra fin straps
slate submarine
magnifying glass
Surface/Mirror Sign Kit
whistle
Canvas (if you dive from the shore).
CAN I RENT EQUIPMENT AND DIVE ON MY OWN IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS?
No. Diving on the islands is strictly regulated by the Galapagos National Park and is an activity permitted only in specific areas of the Galapagos Marine Reserve. As part of these regulations, divers must be accompanied by a certified guide from the Galapagos Marine Reserve who has (at least) the title of Dive Master. All diving is carried out in places far from the coast and aboard a boat that has the licenses established by the authorities.
DIVING EQUIPMENT
GENERAL QUESTIONS
DO I NEED A VISA TO ENTER ECUADOR?
You are allowed to stay up to 90 days in any 12 month period.
Your passport must have 6 months prior to expiration at the time you enter Ecuador. You must have a round trip (return) or onward ticket. You must have proof of health insurance coverage for the time of your stay in Ecuador.
RULES OF THE GALAPAGOS NATIONAL PARK ?
1 Visitors to any protected areas within the Galapagos National Park must be accompanied by a naturalist guide authorized by the GNPD.
2 Travel only with tour operators and/or boats authorized to work in the protected areas of Galapagos.
3 Remain on marked trails at visitor sites and respect signs at all times for the protection of wildlife, and for your safety.
4 Maintain a distance of at least six feet (two meters) from wildlife to avoid disturbing them, even if they approach you.
5 Never feed wildlife, as this can cause health problems.
6 Flash photography is not permitted when taking photos of wildlife. Professional photography and videos recorded for commercial purposes must be authorized by the GNPD.
7 Camping is only allowed in a few authorized areas in the Islands. Request authorization to camp at the Galapagos National Park’s offices at least 48 hours in advance.
8 It is your responsibility not to introduce food, animals, or plants into the Archipelago. Cooperate fully with all environmental inspection and quarantine officials during your visit.
9 Do not take or buy any products or souvenirs made from banned substances, including black coral, shells, lava rock, animal parts, or any native wood or vegetation prior to leaving Galapagos. This is illegal and must be reported.
10 Practice “leave-no-trace” principals in order to maintain the beauty of the environment.
11 Pack out all trash and dispose of or recycle it in the populated areas or on your tour boat.
12 Smoking and/or campfires are strictly prohibited within the Galapagos National Park, as fires poses a serious risk to the flora and fauna of Galapagos.
13 Fishing is only permitted on recreational tour boats authorized by the GNPD.
14 Motorized aquatic sports, mini-subs, and aerial tourism activities are not permitted in the Galapagos National Park or Marine Reserve.
15 Visiting hours to areas of the Galapagos National Park are as established in the Management Plan, from 6:00 to 18:00, with diving activities ending at 17:00, excluding permitted night diving.
16 The use of sound players such as radios, cellphones, speakers is only allowed through headphones.
17 The use of sunscreen containing the chemicals oxybenzone, octinoxate, and others harmful to marine ecosystems is regulated and restricted to sustain and protect the coral reefs.
AS A SINGLE TRAVELER, MUST I PAY A SINGLE SUPPLEMENT?
If you are a single traveler joining a liveaboard at the Galapagos Islands, you can normally expect to share a cabin with another guest and pay the standard price. However, if you do not wish to share but want to ensure a private cabin for you alone, you can pay a single supplement on top of the published price.
WEATHER IN GALAPAGOS?
Dec-May is our warm season with more sunshine and higher temps.
Feb and March are the hottest months.
June – Nov is the cooler season. Garua, a light mist, is often present, creating overcast days. Winds can create choppier seas.
WATER TEMPERATURE CONSIDERATIONS ?
Water temperatures fluctuate through the year.
Water temperatures are typically warmer in the northern islands at Wolf and Darwin and cooler in the western, southern and central islands of Galápagos.
Thermoclines are common. Divers should be prepared for the water temps listed for all water temps: Western, Southern & Central AND Wolf & Darwin.
DRONE USE PROHIBITIED?
The use of drones is strictly prohibited in the Galapagos Islands without a permit from the Galapagos National Park.
WHAT ABOUT FLYING AFTER DIVING ?
Current studies show that you should wait at least 24 hours after multiple days with repetitive diving before flying. Please keep this in mind before you book your onward international or domestic flights.
WHAT ARE THE SAFETY STANDARDS?
All liveaboards use top of the line navigational equipment, safety aides, and safety equipment, including: VHF and HI-SUB radios, GMDSS, Furuno GPS, Depthsounder with alarm, EPIRB, defibrillator, Oxygen system and first aid kit. All of the required safety equipment and drills are carried out.
IS NITROX AVAILABLE?
Nitrox is free of charge as long as the diver is Nitrox Certified. Please contact yout travel agent for more information regarding this certification.
NITROX / ANRICHED AIR VS AIR ?
Nitrox/Enriched Air Certification by a recognized certification/training agency is required to dive with Nitrox on board Galápagos Sky. Without proof of Nitrox certification, divers will be provided with air fills. Without Nitrox certification, all dives cannot be completed on Days 3, 4 & 5 at Wolf & Darwin due to recreational Non-Decompression Limits. Nitrox classes are not offered on board. Our membrane system generally produces 32%. Certified Nitrox divers must analyze and log Nitrox mixes and MODs prior to each dive. Nitrox Analyzers are provided on board.
✅ Nitrox Certification Cards must be presented to Dive Guides at check-in on board.
✅ Divers without Nitrox Certification will be required to hire a Private Dive Guide.
WATER,TEMPERATURE CONSIDERATIONS ?