Best Time For A Galapagos Cruise: Peak Season

Cruise To Galapagos Islands

Preferred Summer Destination For Marine Adventure

While there is never a bad time to take a Galapagos Cruise, the area’s peak season running from mid-June to early September is an ideal time to see the exotic wildlife on land and sea.  It is particularly beneficial for divers and bird lovers as waters are optimal and fish populations are more plentiful during this time of year.  What’s more, when you cruise to the Galapagos during peak season, travelers have excellent access to Galapagos National Park sites as authorities coordinate and limit excursions with ships that cruise Galapagos waters.  Consequently, it won’t feel crowded during your visit and wildlife populations will not be unduly disturbed during their mating season.  

Preferred Summer Destination

North America’s summer is the Southern Hemisphere’s winter.  As such, taking a Galapagos cruise during peak season remains ideal for certain wildlife species.  Even though the Humboldt Current brings cooler waters and weather, the season is still temperate and enjoyable, with temps averaging in the low 70’s F.  In like fashion, this cooler weather fosters increased nutrients and plankton growth which, in turn, attracts more marine life and birds.  Experienced divers love to cruise the Galapagos during these months as more penguins and colorful fish are in abundance.

Further, since marine life is richer, bird populations increase, being drawn to an abundance of their food source.  A case in point: the magnificent Albatrosses arrive on Espanola in large numbers from June to December and owls are mating from June well into July.  In addition, the famous Blue-footed boobies are also mating during this time, with their exotic mating ritual on full display for bird-lovers to enjoy.

Other ‘Summer’ Advantages

While the weather is temperate and can be overcast during this time, it rarely rains.  Further, you will not experience any overcrowding during Peak season since conservation policies cap visitor numbers to the islands in general.  Additionally, Galapagos Explorer offers discounted rates, from a 4 to 6-night cruise on the all-suite Explorer II.  Currently, we are featuring the Floreana Special running from late May through the end of 2012.  Just click on ‘Info and Rates’ and select Available Promotions for additional details and plan your Galapagos cruise today.