Booking and cruise FAQ
Common questions about booking a Galápagos cruise on Book Cruise Now: how inquiries work, payment, what fares include, and planning your trip.
How do I book a cruise on Book Cruise Now?
Browse departures, open the cruise you want, and send an inquiry for the cabin and dates you’re after. The cruise operator confirms availability and the booking. Book Cruise Now connects you to the operator and tracks the booking, but it is not the merchant of record for the cruise.
Who do I pay, and how?
You pay the cruise operator (the company running the ship), not Book Cruise Now. Payments are handled over the operator’s rails (typically WeTravel, PayPal, or bank wire), and the terms are confirmed with the operator before you commit.
What does a cruise fare include?
A Galápagos cruise fare typically covers your cabin, all onboard meals, guided excursions, snorkeling gear, and licensed naturalist guides. It usually excludes flights to the islands, the national park entrance fee, the INGALA transit card, alcohol, and gratuities. Check each cruise’s details for specifics.
What extra fees should I budget for?
Beyond the fare, budget for round-trip flights from mainland Ecuador (Quito or Guayaquil) to the islands, the Galápagos National Park entrance fee (USD $200 for most foreign adults as of 2024), and the INGALA transit control card (about USD $20). Wetsuit hire, alcohol, and tips may also be extra.
How far in advance should I book?
Six to twelve months ahead is wise for a specific ship, cabin, or peak date, because the national park caps total berths and popular routes sell out. Flexible travelers can sometimes find shorter-notice space, but with less choice of ship and cabin.
Can solo travelers book a cabin?
Yes. Many ships offer cabins for single occupancy, sometimes with a single supplement, and some will pair same-sex solo travelers to share. Send an inquiry with your dates and we’ll confirm the solo options on a given departure.
What are the cancellation and change terms?
Cancellation and change terms are set by the cruise operator and confirmed before you pay. They vary by ship and how close to departure you cancel, so review the operator’s policy on your booking. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
When is the best time to visit the Galápagos?
The Galápagos is a year-round wildlife destination. The warm season (December–May) brings calmer seas and warmer water; the dry season (June–November) is cooler with choppier seas but peak marine activity. See the best-time-to-visit guide for a month-by-month breakdown.