INTRODUCING

The Galápagos Islands

A volcanic archipelago, the Galápagos Islands is 600 miles from mainland Ecuador and sits on the Equator. Dubbed The Enchanted Isles by the Bishop of Panama in 1535, it became known as the Galápagos after the shells of the giant tortoises reminded the visitors of horse saddles (Galápagos comes from the Spanish word for saddle).

Known the world over thanks to Charles Darwin’s famous visit on the Beagle in 1835 which fed directly into his Theory of Evolution, the landscape is rugged and beautiful, with high volcanic mountains and periodically active volcanoes. A unique ‘living museum and showcase of evolution’, the islands and surrounding marine reserve inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. You will see today how animals have evolved to adapt to their environment. From giant tortoises to sea lions and penguins, marine iguanas and thousands of birds, each is a perfect example of Darwin’s theory at work. This environment is carefully protected and National Park-certified naturalist tour guides are on hand to show you the sights.

Next destination

Highlights

  • See the thousands of sea lions at San Cristóbal
  • Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station for background on the Islands’ history, a tortoise hatchery and iguana and giant tortoise enclosures.
  • Day trips to Kicker Rock give you a sea view from the boat of the dramatic rocks and the multitude of sea birds and sea lions.
  • Garrapatero Beach offers a serene getaway, the perfect place to contemplate Mother Nature’s bounty.
  • Head up to the Highlands to Tortoise Ranch to see Giant Tortoises in their natural habitat.
  • Make sure to visit the island of Isabela, it’s so laid back, even the main street is made of sand.

Galápagos tour

Join Oyster 745 Mexican Wave as they tour the Galápagos with a naturalist guide on board, getting up close to sea lions, hammerhead sharks, infinite amounts of marine life and unique species

Galapagos Mexican Wave

GALLERY

A flavour of Galápagos

RELATED NEWS

Rally Stories

Infinity Monuriki Island
Oyster Life
The ultimate adventure machine
Just three years ago, sailing round the world was a distant dream. Fast forward to today, and Ross Golding has realised a life-changing world voyage.
read more
Oyster 66 Archaeopteryx Sailing Bluewater
Skippers' Tips
Team work and spreading the load
Skipper Catherine Verdon tells us about her rally adventure on board Oyster 66 Archaeopteryx.
read more
San Blas v2
Oyster Life
A very big adventure
25 Oyster owners share the memories they have made as they reach the halfway point of the Oyster World Rally 2022/23. Share in the thrills and stories of adventure on this once-in-a-life voyage.
read more
sail around the word with Oyster
Oyster Life
How do you prepare to sail around the world?
A sailing circumnavigation is a huge enterprise, but with the right planning, training and preparation it is more than achievable.
read more