Join Scuba Shack for a great trip to the Galapagos Islands in Nov. 2013. When you hear someone say “trip of a lifetime”, sometimes it can be an exaggeration. But not in this case!
Spend nine full days in the Galapagos, including a full week (seven nights) aboard a luxury yacht with three meals per day and between-dive snacks. You’ll have the opportunity to complete two to three dives per day in the company of whale sharks, hammerheads, seals and thousands of other fish and marine creatures, all while enjoying 100-foot visibility. Galapagos divers get the chance to explore sites few will ever see, and retrace Darwin’s steps in this magical part of the world.
Our liveaboard – the 106-foot Humboldt Explorer – accommodates 16 passengers in eight comfortable double cabins with full-size twin beds that can be converted to queen beds. All cabins have an ocean view, air-conditioning, hot water, and flat screen televisions . A partially covered sundeck with Jacuzzi and ample seating areas, a salon including a lounge area, and a spacious dive deck with a large camera table are just some of the features.
The Live-aboard Dive Packages Include:
- 7 nights aboard the vessel
- 3 meals daily, plus between-dive snacks
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (not premium liquor)
- 2-3 dives a day (days vary)
- Use of tanks, weights and belts
A sample dive itinerary includes an orientation dive on Monday, with dives at Punta Carrion, Wolf Island, Darwin Island and Cousins Rocks during the week through Sunday morning. On Sunday afternoon, you have an opportunity to visit Santa Cruz Highlands and Darwin Station, with an optional Interpretation Center visit on Monday prior to departure from the boat.
Darwin and Wolf Islands are considered the best dive areas in the Galapagos, with the best chance to see whale sharks and schools of hammerhead sharks. Our trip is planned for early November, which features cooler water temperatures – a 7mm wetsuit, hood and gloves will be necessary – but you’ll have a much better chance of seeing the big stuff underwater.
For flights, Delta Airlines can get you to to Quito, Ecuador and their are several daily flights to San Cristobal Island (Galapagos) from Ecuador.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience is required?
Galapagos dive sites can be mildly challenging, but is appropriate for most certified divers.
What are the diving conditions like?
Just like every other destination, Galapagos diving conditions can vary depending on weather. Visibility can be up to 100 feet in November. During the dives within this marine reserve, divers follow the divemaster during the dives, and dive as a group.
What are the Safety Standards?
All live aboards 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.
What Should I Bring?
Besides an underwater camera or video camera to capture the underwater and above-the-surface magic, we recommend bringing necessary items for the land visits, such as a good sun hat, sunscreen and eye protection. Bring your certification card and insurance information.
What Equipment Should I Pack?
Divers are encouraged to bring their own equipment to the Galapagos. As on all dive trips, a dive computer is mandatory. Some equipment can be rented if reservations are made in advance. You will not need to bring tanks, weights or weight belts.
Do I Need Insurance?
Yes. Diving insurance – such as that provided through the Divers Alert Network (DAN) is mandatory for the Galapagos. There is a hyperbaric chamber in Puerto Ayora.
Is there a Minimum or Maximum Age Restriction?
Under certain circumstances, depending on your dive application, health certifications may be required. Children 10 and older are allowed only if they are certified divers. If non divers, children must be 16 years of age or older.
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