Diving on the Galapagos Master liveaboard
Marine life encounters are undoubtedly the stars of Galapagos diving. Where else in the world can you encounter species recorded by none other than Charles Darwin? This isolated location is unique in its flora and fauna. No other location delivers quite the same.
There is no better place to dive with great hammerheads and scalloped hammerheads, and divers often see schools featuring hundreds of these incredible predators. There are also indigenous Galapagos sharks and other shark species. Plus, divers frequently see eagle rays, manta rays, whale sharks, sea lions, dolphins, and mola-mola—the list goes on.
Diving with marine iguanas and getting close to Galapagos penguins are two more trip highlights. And if you thought there was only “big stuff” to see, think again. This incredible marine environment features black corals that are home to hawkfish, frogfish, seahorses, nudibranchs, and other diver favorites. And don’t miss the chance to check out the endemic and comical red-lipped batfish.
Aside from marine life, what should you expect from diving in the Galapagos? These islands are not only known for their marine life but also for the—at times—strong currents. The liveaboard carries comprehensive safety equipment as is appropriate for the area.
Prepare for your dives on the vessel’s spacious dive deck before boarding one of the two tenders that will drop you right where the action is. The Galapagos Master offers nitrox at a surcharge, and divers can also opt for 15-liter tanks.
Underwater photographers will love the indoor camera station, which provides enough room to prepare and maintain equipment as well as charge cameras, lights, and other gear. There is enough space here to accommodate even photography-focused charters without running out of space.
Highlights:
- Perhaps the best pelagic species diving in the world
- Separate rinse tanks for underwater cameras
- Large indoor camera station to prepare photography equipment
Onboard the Galapagos Master
This 105-foot (32 m) vessel may have been built in 2001, but it’s certainly not showing its age. Following a complete interior refit in 2015, the Galapagos Master was most recently refurbished in early 2025. It continues to be one of the fastest and most stable boats in the area.
Nine cabins await 16 divers for the trip of a lifetime. Onboard and in the water, 12 crew members will do everything they can to ensure divers enjoy every minute they spend on the boat and underwater.
Divers can see the difference following this latest refurbishment in the nine comfortable cabins. The lower deck houses four classic cabins. Two of those can be converted from twin to double cabins, while the remaining two have twin beds.
On the main deck guests will find one premium double cabin, with four more premium cabins on the upper deck. All upper deck cabins can be converted from twin to double. All cabins have ensuite bathrooms with hot water and A/C.
There are plenty of relaxation areas as well. If you prefer to stay out of the sun, head to the indoor saloon. For those looking to take in the scenery around these spectacular volcanic islands, the open-air saloon and the sundeck offer excellent vantage points. For panoramic views, head directly to the bridge.
When you’re not diving, the crew offers land excursions to see giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and more endemic topside wildlife. Considering the remoteness of these islands, these trips are not to be missed.
Highlights:
- Panoramic views from the bridge
- Land excursions to complement marine life sightings
- One of the most stable boats in the area
Dining on the Galapagos Master
The Galapagos are about as far away from civilization as most liveaboards will ever travel, so it’s even more remarkable that the kitchen team turns out a tasty combination of Western favorites and local foods.
The team is happy to cater to vegetarians, but because of the remote nature of the area, it’s important to let the operator know about dietary requirements early on. The Galapagos Master’s team serves all meals buffet-style, allowing divers to help themselves to breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Should you feel hungry in between meals, check out the all-day supply of snacks on the boat.
While meals are generally served in the indoor saloon, divers can opt for alfresco dining, too. Why not enjoy a stunning sunset as you’re tucking into your dinner? Soft drinks are included in your liveaboard package. If you’d prefer to toast your diving day with something stronger, take a look at the liveaboard’s wine list or the cocktail menu. The Galapagos Master’s crew also offers spirits and beer. All alcoholic drinks incur an additional charge.
Highlights:
- Alfresco dining option as well as indoor dining
- Selection of fine wines and cocktails available at an extra charge
Things we like:
- Once-in-a-lifetime experience diving Darwin and Wolf Islands
- Unparalleled marine life sightings (almost) guaranteed
- Recently refurbished liveaboard (early 2025)
- Can accept both cash and card payments onboard
Things we don't like:
- Relatively high ratio of dive guides to divers (sometimes 8:1)
Key Facts
| Year Built | 2001 |
| Max Divers | 18 |
| Price Range | Luxury |
| Trip Length | 8+ Nights |
| Internet | No |
| Nitrox | Yes ($) |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | No minimum |
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