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Diving on the Galaxy Diver liveaboard
Galapagos diving includes currents, surge, depth, and the aforementioned thermoclines. Due to these factors and the remoteness, divers should be experienced with either an advanced certification or 50+ logged dives. The only course offered onboard the Galaxy Diver is nitrox certification.
Darwin’s Towers, aka Darwin’s Arch, are known for the iconic rock arch that rose out of the water until 2021, when the top portion collapsed due to erosion. Currently, as the new name suggests, towers are the new topside backdrop for photos.
The site is also called the Pillars of Evolution. Underneath, divers will find a riot of life, including large schools of fish, iconic schooling hammerheads, and mantas or whale sharks, depending on the season and luck.
Expect lots of sharks at nearby Wolf Island, where the dive sites offer a chance to spot silky sharks, hammerheads, whale sharks, Galapagos sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays.
Elsewhere, and depending on what site you’re diving, turtles, dolphins, Galapagos penguins, sea lions, mola mola, endemic marine iguanas, and curious-looking red-lipped batfish may appear.
Onboard the Galaxy Diver nitrox is free for certified individuals, and rental gear is available for a charge. If you travel light, pack your own dive gloves, as those are only available for purchase. Two tenders are used for all 19 dives, so be prepared for (mostly negative) back-roll entries. Guest to crew ratio is 6:1.
Note that regional water temperatures vary significantly between seasons. December through May ranges from 70 to 86 F (21 to 30 C), and June through November sees 60 to 75 F (12 to 24 C). Thermoclines are also common, and temperature differs within the region. Because of this, a 7 mm wetsuit and a hood make for a good combination.
Average water visibility is 30 to 70 feet (10 to 21 m). The warm season yields greater visibility than the cooler season. Air temperatures range from 60 to 87 F (18 to 30 C).
Highlights:
- Megafauna potential
- Shark diversity and abundance
- Remote dive sites
- 6:1 guide to guest ratio
Onboard the Galaxy Diver
Rebuilt and launched in 2022, the Galaxy Diver measures 95 feet (29 m). As part of the Galagents Company, the vessel has operated for over 30 years in the region.
Eight cabins hold up to 14 guests depending on bed configuration. Three cabins on the upper deck feature a double bed, and the main deck offers one cabin with two twins or a queen. On the lower deck, four cabins feature either two twins or a queen.
Each cabin has air conditioning and private ensuite bathrooms. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided, and you will never want for a towel.
The internet is included for the entire voyage. However, the connection may be slow due to remoteness. E-mail works fine, but consider taking a break from streaming services while onboard.
With two lounges, you won’t feel crowded. Relax in the open air under a roof, or inside with air conditioning as you sink into comfy furniture to watch a movie on the media player. The inside lounge space abuts the bar and dining area, making it a prime spot to grab a drink or be first in line for dinner. Couches outside are not as plush but offer the perfect space to soak in the views.
The spacious, shaded dive deck features individual storage space, a freshwater rinse, and table. Photographers will appreciate the camera-only rinse and charging station. Two sets of stairs lead down to the platform where you board tenders. The only communal bathroom is on the dive deck.
Highlights:
- Private ensuite bathrooms in all cabins
- Some toiletries and hairdryers provided
- Two lounges
Dining on the Galaxy Diver
The Galapagos may not conjure notions of gastronomic bliss, but it will after eating onboard the Galaxy Diver. Meals are served buffet-style with beautiful presentation, making them more akin to plated meals versus a cafeteria.
The chef blends local Ecuadorian and international flavors beautifully and deliciously. Fresh produce and locally sourced seafood are highlights. Special diets are catered for but should be communicated in advance.
All meals and snacks are included onboard, as is your welcome cocktail. Additional alcoholic beverages will incur a charge, as will soda. The bar is well-stocked with international and local options. Coffee, tea and purified water are also complimentary.
Highlights:
- Culinary fusion and presentation
- Caters to dietary restrictions
- Well-stocked bar
Things we like:
- Welcome cocktails
- Marine life biodiversity
- Complimentary internet
- Land tour to see giant tortoises
- Large geographic area covered in itinerary
Things we don't like:
- Only one complimentary alcoholic beverage
- Water temperature variation site to site
- Park and other fees not included
- Additional charge for sodas
Key Facts
| Year Built | 2022 |
| Max Divers | 12 |
| Price Range | Budget |
| Trip Length | 5-7 Nights |
| Internet | Yes (free) |
| Nitrox | Yes (free) |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | 50+ |
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