PRIVATE CHARTERS · BEFORE YOU BOOK
What to confirm before you book a Galapagos charter.
A 12-point checklist built from more than 40 trips: the details that separate a smooth private charter from expensive surprises.
Galapagos charter checklist — Reference image only.
01 / CHECKLIST
Galapagos charter checklist: 12 points to confirm
Tick each point as it is confirmed in writing. Print it or copy it into your group chat.
0 of 12 confirmed
02 / BOOKING STEPS
How booking a private charter works with us
Six steps from first email to boarding. More detail on how charters work.
Send your brief
Dates, headcount, ages, interests and budget logic to hola@galapagosislands.cruises.
Get a vetted shortlist
Boats that truly fit, with the strengths and weaknesses we know first-hand.
Hold the boat
A short option while your group decides; holds depend on the operator.
Contract and deposit
Inclusions, exclusions and terms in writing before you pay.
Park fee, TCT and flights
We line up the paperwork and book the group onto the same flights.
Pre-departure briefing
Packing, wetsuits, landings and what to expect each day.
03 / QUESTIONS TO ASK
Five questions every charter quote should answer
- Does the guide use a guest berth? It changes real capacity. Guide cabin explained
- Which route does the boat hold for our dates? Routes are permit-based. Eastern vs western route
- Are there connecting cabins? Vital for families. Connecting cabins
- What are the deposit and cancellation rules? Compare terms
- How far ahead must we confirm? Booking lead times
04 / TRAVEL PREP
Paperwork and packing for US travelers
Galapagos charter cost · Charter vs shared cruise · Group charters
05 / FAQ
Before-you-book questions
What should I confirm before booking a Galapagos charter?
Real guest capacity, the exact itinerary, inclusions and exclusions, deposit dates and cancellation terms, all in writing before you pay.
How far ahead should we book a private charter?
Whole-boat availability is the limit, so earlier is better for peak weeks and larger groups. How far ahead to book.
Can we change the itinerary after booking?
Routes follow park permits held by each boat, so changes are limited. Daily pace and activities can be adjusted with your naturalist.
Do we need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend it for every guest, covering deposits, medical care and evacuation.
Which airport should we fly into?
It depends on where your boat starts. Baltra or San Cristóbal.
How do we start?
Email hola@galapagosislands.cruises with your dates, headcount and ages. We check every point on this list for you before you pay anything.
CHECK & BOOK
Let us check the fine print for you.
Email hola@galapagosislands.cruises with your dates and group. We confirm every point on this checklist with the operator before you commit.
Galapagos is unlike anywhere else on Earth: wildlife that does not run from you, islands still shaped by volcanoes, and a park that limits every visit. A private boat lets your group meet it on your own terms.