Galapagos Sky Liveaboard Overview

Guests can count on up to 18 total dives on the typical 7-night itinerary, with one optional night dive. Notably, the Galapagos Sky spends three days at Wolf and Darwin Islands, which rank as some of the best dive sites in the world. Legendary for cold-current convergence and hammerhead shark activity, spending multiple days here is a luxury and time well spent. Cleaning and feeding stations also abound here, so there will be critters of every size.

The Galapagos Sky maintains an 8:1 guide to diver ratio in the water. No classes are offered onboard, and it’s important to note that the boat has strict nitrox safety requirements. Divers without nitrox certification are required to hire a private dive guide at an additional cost. For this reason, it’s recommended that divers obtain their nitrox certification before booking.

Divers with private guides still dive with the group for safety and logistical reasons. Guests with nitrox certification who want a more personal experience can also hire a private dive guide. This service must be arranged far in advance of the trip and is dependent on guide availability.

Galapagos water temperatures fluctuate seasonally. December through May, temperatures range from 70 to 86 F(21 to 30 C), and from June through November water temperatures hover between 60 and 75 F (12 to 24 C). Thermoclines are common, and temperature differs within the region. Northern islands tend to have warmer waters than those to the south. A 7mm wetsuit is common and many divers opt to wear a hood, with most dives occurring at depths of 60 to 100 feet (18 to 30 m).

Water visibility in the Galapagos varies, but averages 30 to 70 feet (10 to 21 m). The warm season has greater visibility than the cool season, though the colder water does bring in the big boys for “whale shark season,” making the chill worth the thrill. Warm season is considered “manta season,” which is a magnificent alternative. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is no wrong time to visit the Galapagos.

Rental gear is available for a fee but in limited sizes. Given the cool water temperatures and advanced diving conditions, guests are strongly encouraged to bring their own, familiar gear that fits them well. You must bring your own dive lights if you plan on participating in the night dive. Dive lights are required, and not available for rent or purchase onboard.

Highlights:

• Shark abundance, including whale sharks
• Private underwater guides available
• Marine iguanas and mola molas

The sumptuous gastronomic experience on the Galapagos Sky sets the bar high. Onboard chefs all have culinary school training, which they use to create delectable Ecuadorian and international dishes.

Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style, while dinner is plated. Dinner orders are taken in the morning, showcasing the care put into creating the meals. The Galapagos Sky prides itself in striving for sustainable food. Meals onboard are made up of 25% local food, and over half is organic.

Snacks are served throughout the day, and noshing items are always within reach at the bar. The ship is an open bar for select beer, liquor, and wine, while premium wine and liquor are also available for purchase. An impressive collection of teas and local coffee is stocked, and tea, coffee, water, juice, and soda are all complimentary.

Also priding itself on service, the Galapagos Sky caters to special diets. Specific milk alternatives should be requested in advance, along with any dietary restrictions. Kosher diet notification must be made no later than 60 days before departure.

Highlights:

• Gourmet meals, including plated dinners
• Most food is organic, local, and sustainably sourced
• Open bar for select beer, wine, and liquor