Diving Holidays in the Galapagos

Introduction

The unique archipelago of the Galapagos comprises nineteen main islands and several small islands. Extreme depths, down to 3,000 metres off the western islands, and a complex system of currents combine to nourish a stunning abundance of marine species.

The radiant fish and bizarre animals populating the islands make it one of the great dive destinations; swept by the cold waters of Antarctica and the warm currents from the tropical Pacific, the Galapagos colourful marine-life embodies an unusual mixture of species. Here, penguins swim with tropical fish and iguanas feed underwater. The marine animals exhibit the same bold curiosity and lack of fear that characterises the terrestrial wildlife.  There is no better way to explore the Galapagos Islands than on board a boat and for a diver no better way than a liveaboard

The following illustration of diving holiday experiences are simply examples of the many exciting and diverse diving holidays we are able to arrange for you.  It is not intended to provide the details for a specific booking, since our aim is to create a holiday tailored to your particular wishes.

Please contact Medway Travel without hesitation with your wishes for your diving holiday, and we will be delighted to research your options and suggest the ideal holiday for you. 

Images 10, 11 and 12 courtesy of Anthony Dixon 

Overview

Liveaboards

Here, penguins swim with tropical fish and iguanas feed underwater. The marine animals exhibit the same bold curiosity and lack of fear that characterises the terrestrial wildlife.

There is no better way to explore the Galapagos Islands than on board a boat and for a diver no better way than a liveaboard. Medway Travel can offer a selection of boats with a variety of specifications.

Throughout the voyage, you'll encounter a spectacular array of animal and plant species, many found nowhere else in the world. Penguins, Marine Iguanas, Sea-lions, Golden Rays, Mantas and turtles are just a few of the marine creatures you'll see at dive sites off Seymour, Santiago, Santa Cruz, Darwin and Wolf Islands. Galapagos is best known for its pelagics such as dolphins, Pilot Whales and sharks. The sharks are attracted like a magnet to the rocky islands - Silky, Galapagos, White-tip, and scalloped Hammerhead Sharks by the hundreds. From May to November many species of whales are regularly seen in the islands especially the Melon Headed, Short-finned Pilot and Humpback Whales heading to the coast of Ecuador.

Darwin and Wolf are two islands located 14 hours north of the main group of islands and a magnet for many divers. Sightings of the Whale Shark are common here from May to November and at the Northern Arch at Darwin, Hammerhead Sharks are not uncommon, nor are Bottlenose dolphins. The reef also contains many warm water varieties of fish found nowhere else in the Islands.

Due to the ruggedness, currents and slightly cooler temperatures around the Galapagos Islands, diving here is only recommended for experienced divers.

Resort Diving

For those for whom a liveaboard lacks appeal or those wishing to spend some extra time in the Galápagos Islands after their liveaboard expedition, then an ideal choice is a resort stay and Medway Travel has a number of hotels for you to choose from.

The diving is carried out by Galápagos Sub-Aqua, the oldest dive centre in the Galápagos Islands. Owner Fernando Zambrano, is a professional instructor, an oceanographer, certified commercial diver and naturalist park guide. Sub-Aqua consists of an international team of professional divemasters and instructors who follow very high safety standards.

Dive sites vary from easy with little current in Academy Bay, to world-class areas such as Gordon Rocks, North Seymour, Cousins Rock and Floreana. The list of what can be seen is endless: thousands of tropical fish, barracudas, Black-tip, White-tip, Hammerhead and Galápagos sharks, Moray Eels, Manta and Spotted Eagle Rays. You will have an excellent opportunity for dolphin-watching during the boat-trip to and from Floreana. You will also enjoy some sightseeing by boat of the local marine and birdlife, such as sealions, Fur Seals, Blue Footed Boobies, Frigate Birds, penguins, Marine Iguanas. There is a breathtaking vertical wall with a profusion of black corals and other invertebrates. During the surface interval between Cousins and Bartolome snorkel to look for penguins.

We are pleased to offer tailormade diving holidays to the Galapagos, using scheduled airlines with daily departures. The Galapagos islands are accessed by a 90-minute flight from Quito in Ecuador. We recommend spending a couple of nights in Quito here upon arrival to allow yourself time to recover after the long flight, and will be pleased to advise on your options here.

Destination Information

Weather

Galapagos is a place that can be visited at any time.  There are two season and the warmest is between December to May and it is the time when the sky is always clear and the sun shines strongly. If you love to dive in amazing places, the best time to visit Galapagos is from June to November. During this season the weather is a little cold but it gives you the chance to enjoy the best from Galapago's famous marine reserve.

The time period between December and May is considered the "warm season." During this warmer season, the Galapagos' climate is more tropical with daily rain and cloudier skies. Also, the ocean temperature is warmer for swimming and snorkelling.

Passports and Visas

Since June 2008, all foreign nationals have been allowed to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos without a visa. On arrival in the country, the immigration police will normally allow holders of British passports to remain in Ecuador for up to 90 days.

You must ensure that your passport is valid for at least of six months from the date of your arrival or until the date of your departure from Ecuador, whichever is the longest.

Health

You should seek medical advice from your GP before travelling to the Galapagos and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date.

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance before travelling.  You should check any exclusions from the policy, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake whilst on holiday. Medway Travel can provide you with a quote for this - please contact a member of the Leisure team for further details.