5 Insider Tips on How to Explore the Galapagos Islands This Summer

The Galapagos Islands offer unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for families. Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the islands are a unique labyrinth rich with flora and fauna waiting to be explored by travelers of all ages.

For families looking to tighten their bonds with nature, wildlife, and each other on an adventure across the archipelago, here are tips from Fernando Diez, one of the owners of Quasar Expeditions, on five reasons to book a Galapagos cruise this summer:

• Enjoy Curated On-Board Activities for All Ages: As a family-owned company, Quasar puts other families at the forefront. Offered throughout the summer months, their Family Cruises are carefully designed to offer activities that span multigenerational interests. With experiences such as stargazing, a young explorers club, movie and game nights, and kid-friendly cooking classes, travelers of all ages will be fully immersed in the Galapagos adventure.
• Get Up Close with Wildlife in the Water: Family members can get up close and personal with sea lions, penguins, reef fish, sea turtles, rays, and sharks while snorkeling and kayaking during their cruise. Some of the best snorkeling in the world happens in the Galapagos, where guests have daily opportunities to see exotic underwater life. In addition to guaranteeing a unique experience, guests learn how to keep conservation in mind while in the water, protecting and appreciating the beauty of the world around them.
•  Discover Small Group Travel Away from Crowds: The small ships that sail the Galapagos allow families to have an exclusive experience, providing a more private time on the islands. Quasar’s M/V Evolution (for 32 passengers) and M/Y Grace (for 16 passengers) incorporate remote sites and outer islands in their itineraries and excursions, giving access to hiking trails, hidden coves, and beautiful beaches away from the crowds. Fewer guests also make it easier to see, photograph, and interact with wildlife.
• Experience a Digital Detox from Devices: Being in the middle of the Pacific Ocean hundreds of miles from the mainland gives travelers the chance to disconnect from their devices and reconnect with the nature, wildlife, and people surrounding them. With constant hands-on opportunities available, children and adults alike will spend their trip being enriched by the Galapagos and sharing the experience with those around them in real-time.
• Take Advantage of Flexible Options: While on a cruise, it is important to leave space for downtime and relaxation. Whether guests want to get some sun on deck, go for a swim, or take to the ocean to kayak, they have freedom and flexibility during their time in Galapagos. The smaller size of the ships also makes it easier to change course at any time, including to jump in the water and swim with a pod of dolphins spotted from afar.

Quasar Expeditions offers two 8-day itineraries and one 15-day itinerary for families to experience the magic of the Galapagos on their yachts, inspired by Charles Darwin’s discoveries with an emphasis on protecting, respecting, and restoring the treasured archipelago.

More information on Quasar Expeditions and their adventures can be found here.