Darwin Bay Small Ship Cruises

Top things to do and see at Darwin Bay

Adventure cruises to Darwin Bay will include the chance to spot sea lions swimming playfully in tidal pools. Snorkeling at Darwin Bay will provide swimmers with sightings of sea lions; a short trip by zodiac will allow you to get in the water and see many species in their natural environment. If you’re lucky, you may even glimpse a hammerhead shark! The waters can be choppy and cool, so you might want to consider hiring a wetsuit.

Hiking explores the island and the nearby Prince Philip steps, allowing you to see wildlife up close. Follow Darwin’s trail on Genovesa Island to find a variety of local residents. Your naturalist guide can help you identify the wildlife and explain more about the indigenous species.

Try Kayaking or Paddleboarding in Darwin Bay. It's a great way to explore the area and have fun while enjoying the Galapagos waters.

Top Tips for visiting Darwin Bay

• Be sure to bring your camera on your Darwin Bay cruise so you don't miss the chance to take some great pictures. Even better, if you have a waterproof camera for snorkeling, you can snap some great subjects.
• The area features excellent hiking, so bring a good pair of walking shoes.
• If you hope to swim or snorkel at Darwin Bay, pack your bathing suit, towel, and snorkeling gear.
• Ensure you apply plenty of sunblock; it’s easy to forget how strong the sun can be when enjoying the water. A hat is also recommended.

Best time to cruise to Darwin Bay

Though certain Darwin Bay wildlife encounters can be enjoyed throughout the year, visitors to Genovesa Island may want to plan ahead. Red-footed boobies and masked boobies nest year-round near Darwin Bay, but some times of the year are better for seeing other wildlife and enjoying adventure activities.

For example, Darwin Bay (Genovesa Island) from January to March offers the best underwater visibility and highest water temperatures, making it the ideal time to snorkel and possibly scuba dive.

Darwin Bay from March to May is frigatebird mating season, the best time to see the huge birds’ thrilling mating rituals.

From July to November, Darwin Bay brings more nutrient-rich waters and, in turn, more active and abundant marine life, making it the perfect time to see wildlife by snorkeling or scuba diving.

Where do Darwin Bay cruises depart from?

Small ship cruises to Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island typically depart from Baltra, Puerto Ayora, or San Cristobal Island.

If your Galapagos cruise departs from San Cristobal Island, your flight will likely arrive at San Cristobal airport, not far from the port town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Adventure cruises to Darwin Bay leaving from Baltra or Puerto Ayora are serviced by the Baltra Airport on Isla Baltra (nr Santa Cruz). The airport is just an hour from Puerto Ayora using public transit or transfer.

Both airports are reached via flights from mainland Ecuador, specifically from Quito or Guayaquil.

Book your next adventure cruise to Darwin Bay, Galapagos Islands today.