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Naturalist shore group atmosphere for Galapagos cruise guide ratio

PLAN YOUR CRUISE · GROUP SIZE

Small groups, by law.

Park rules cap guided groups. Here is what that means for your visits.

Galapagos group size limit — Reference image only.

01 / CALCULATOR

How many groups will your ship make?

02 / BY SIZE

Boat size and shore groups

Boat sizeGroupsWhat it feels like
Up to 161One group, flexible timing
17–202Two groups, two guides
Up to 483Staggered landings
Up to 100Up to 7More structure, more guides
Licensed naturalist guide leading a small group along a marked visitor trail, with black-and-white trail stakes and a small boat waiting in the bay
Galapagos group size limit — Reference image only.
04 / FAQ

Galapagos Group Size Limits on Shore: questions

What is the Galapagos group size limit?

16 visitors per naturalist guide on visitor sites.

Do big ships have more guides?

Yes; they carry several guides and split groups.

Is a 16-guest boat better?

It keeps one group; bigger ships offer stability and amenities.

Does the limit apply to snorkeling?

Guided activities follow park rules; boats manage groups.

Which size suits us?

Email hola@galapagosislands.cruises and we suggest options.

GROUP SIZE

Prefer small groups?

We shortlist boats by size and guide ratio.

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. Tell us how you like to travel and we will match you with the right boat.