Known locally as Deep Blue, Galápagos Master is a 32 metre liveaboard. Constructed from steel, the vessel is steadier than most due to being designed to be lower to aid stability and speed. Mostly recently refurbished in early 2023, Galápagos Master offers 7 and 10 night dive trips covering some of the top dive sites in the Galápagos such as Darwin and Wolf Islands.
The M/V Galápagos Master has eight well-appointed modern cabins, a spacious interior and generous outside space for relaxation and dive gear preparation. Each twin cabin is fully air-conditioned with an additional wall fan and a private en-suite bathroom with hot water. An entertainment system, safe and hairdryer, as well as towels and bathrobes, are provided for guests’ comfort. Six of the twin cabins can be adapted to double bed use if required.
Specification
Length: 32 metres
Width: 7.5 metres
Engine: 2x MTU 6062 475 HP
Speed: 12.5 knots
Generators: 2x John Deere 65kw, 1x john deere 45kw, 1x john deere 15kw
Compressors: 3 x Coltri-Sub M16, up to 32% nitrox and 2 x rigid hull inflatable tenders
Dive equipment rental: Full equipment rental available, including computer and UW torch. For further information, please enquire
Navigation & Safety
Safety: 2 x life rafts, life rings, life jackets, emergency position locator, radios, flares, oxygen, fire-fighting and first aid equipment
Facilities
A spacious indoor lounge, on the middle level, offers cushioned bench seating and plasma screen for film and photo viewing. Adjacent to the lounge, there is an indoor dining area complete with cocktail bar. An indoor camera set-up station, with numerous charging points (US round pin plug) and storage drawers, is situated to the rear. Further camera preparation areas can be found on the rear deck next to the dive deck.
The upper level has shaded outdoor bench seating with cushioned loungers from where guests can enjoy the fresh air and views of The Galápagos. For those who enjoy relaxing in the sun, there is the top level sun-deck or upper level bow area with additional cushioned loungers. The dive equipment set up is found on the aft deck of the lower level. There are individual set up areas with under bench storage for personal items, rinse tanks and two shower heads for a quick post-dive rinse down. A further two deck heads are situated on the starboard side of the boat, just in front of the entrance to the lounge.
Boat Features
- Nitrox Available
- Photographer Friendly
- WiFi
Recommended for
- Singles
- Dive Clubs & Groups
- Experienced Divers
M/V Galapagos Master
From £4,762 inc. accommodation, meals, diving.
View Departures Send Enquiry Speak to an expert. Call 01353 659999
At a Glance
- When to Go Jan-Dec
- Rental Equipment Yes (£)
- Guests 16
- Nitrox Paid
- Internet Yes
- Group Discount 8 Guests
Highlights
- Phinisi style
- Luxury liveaboard
- 7-12 night departures
- Camera facilities
- Internet available
- Komodo & Raja Ampat
What's included?
Price per person typically includes:
- Transfers
- Full-board accommodation in a lower deck twin share cabin
- Tea, coffee, fruit juice & soft drinks
- 7 nights
- Up to 30 dives (weather permitting), depending on itinerary
- Minimum 2 land visits
- 12 litre aluminium tank & weights
Extras
- Please contact us for a flight-inclusive package
- Nitrox
- 12 litre & 15 litre tank
- National park fee
- Hyperbaric chamber fee
- Tourist transit card
- Middle deck cabin: please enquire
- Upper deck cabin: please enquire
Our Price Match Promise
At Regaldive we are committed to offering you the best possible value for money on all our diving holidays. That's why we offer you a price match promise. Learn more about our promise to you.
Gallery
Upcoming departures
Upcoming departures for M/V Galapagos Master are listed below or view all departures on our Holiday Search where you can also sort/filter.
- Departure Date: 27 Apr 26
- Country / Itinerary: Galapagos, Ecuador, Master the Galapagos
- Nights: 10
- Embark Disembark: San Cristóbal San Cristóbal
- Spaces Available: 6
Offer
£4,762
7938.00
Additional information
- Dive areas visited: Ecuador: Central Islands, Ecuador: Fernandina & Isabela (Marine Iguanas), Ecuador: Wolf & Darwin
- Typical number of dives on trip: 27 dives
- Minimum dive experience: 50 dives
- Required certification: AOWD or equivalent + Nitrox
- Additional costs to be aware of:
– Ingala Transit Control Card (at the airport, per trip):
$20
– Galapagos National Park Fees (at the airport, per trip): $200
– Fuel Surcharge - EC (in advance, per night): $16
Cabins
Classic Twin
- Bed Type: Twin (2 singles)
- Location: Lower deck
- Avble. Spaces: 2
- Air Con: Yes, individually controlled
- Ensuite: Yes
Classic Twin/Double
- Bed Type: Twin / Double (2 singles can convert to double)
- Location: Lower deck
- Avble. Spaces: 3
- Air Con: Yes, individually controlled
- Ensuite: Yes
Premium Twin/Double
- Bed Type: Twin / Double (2 singles can convert to double)
- Location: Upper deck
- Avble. Spaces: 1
- Last Shared Space: Female
- Air Con: Yes, individually controlled
- Ensuite: Yes
- Departure Date: 01 Jun 26
- Country / Itinerary: Galapagos, Ecuador, Master the Galapagos
- Nights: 7
- Embark Disembark: San Cristóbal San Cristóbal
- Spaces Available: 3
£5,449
Additional information
- Dive areas visited: Ecuador: Central Islands, Ecuador: Fernandina & Isabela (Marine Iguanas), Ecuador: Wolf & Darwin
- Typical number of dives on trip: 18 dives
- Minimum dive experience: 50 dives
- Required certification: AOWD or equivalent + Nitrox
- Additional costs to be aware of:
– Ingala Transit Control Card (at the airport, per trip):
$20
– Galapagos National Park Fees (at the airport, per trip): $200
Cabins
Classic Twin
- Bed Type: Twin (2 singles)
- Location: Lower deck
- Avble. Spaces: 3
- Air Con: Yes, individually controlled
- Ensuite: Yes
- Departure Date: 22 Jun 26
- Country / Itinerary: Galapagos, Ecuador, Master the Galapagos
- Nights: 7
- Embark Disembark: San Cristóbal San Cristóbal
- Spaces Available: 2
£5,449
Additional information
- Dive areas visited: Ecuador: Central Islands, Ecuador: Fernandina & Isabela (Marine Iguanas), Ecuador: Wolf & Darwin
- Typical number of dives on trip: 18 dives
- Minimum dive experience: 50 dives
- Required certification: AOWD or equivalent + Nitrox
- Additional costs to be aware of:
– Ingala Transit Control Card (at the airport, per trip):
$20
– Galapagos National Park Fees (at the airport, per trip): $200
Cabins
Classic Twin
- Bed Type: Twin (2 singles)
- Location: Lower deck
- Avble. Spaces: 2
- Air Con: Yes, individually controlled
- Ensuite: Yes
- Departure Date: 27 Jul 26
- Country / Itinerary: Galapagos, Ecuador, Master the Galapagos
- Nights: 7
- Embark Disembark: San Cristóbal San Cristóbal
- Spaces Available: 4
£5,449
Additional information
- Dive areas visited: Ecuador: Central Islands, Ecuador: Fernandina & Isabela (Marine Iguanas), Ecuador: Wolf & Darwin
- Typical number of dives on trip: 18 dives
- Minimum dive experience: 50 dives
- Required certification: AOWD or equivalent + Nitrox
- Additional costs to be aware of:
– Ingala Transit Control Card (at the airport, per trip):
$20
– Galapagos National Park Fees (at the airport, per trip): $200
Cabins
Classic Twin/Double
- Bed Type: Twin / Double (2 singles can convert to double)
- Location: Lower deck
- Avble. Spaces: 2
- Air Con: Yes, individually controlled
- Ensuite: Yes
Premium Twin/Double
- Bed Type: Twin / Double (2 singles can convert to double)
- Location: Upper deck
- Avble. Spaces: 2
- Air Con: Yes, individually controlled
- Ensuite: Yes
- Departure Date: 23 Nov 26
- Country / Itinerary: Galapagos, Ecuador, Master the Galapagos
- Nights: 7
- Embark Disembark: San Cristóbal San Cristóbal
- Spaces Available: 9
£5,449
Additional information
- Dive areas visited: Ecuador: Central Islands, Ecuador: Fernandina & Isabela (Marine Iguanas), Ecuador: Wolf & Darwin
- Typical number of dives on trip: 18 dives
- Minimum dive experience: 50 dives
- Required certification: AOWD or equivalent + Nitrox
- Additional costs to be aware of:
– Ingala Transit Control Card (at the airport, per trip):
$20
– Galapagos National Park Fees (at the airport, per trip): $200
Cabins
Classic Twin
- Bed Type: Twin (2 singles)
- Location: Lower deck
- Avble. Spaces: 4
- Air Con: Yes, individually controlled
- Ensuite: Yes
Classic Twin/Double
- Bed Type: Twin / Double (2 singles can convert to double)
- Location: Lower deck
- Avble. Spaces: 4
- Air Con: Yes, individually controlled
- Ensuite: Yes
Premium Twin/Double
- Bed Type: Twin / Double (2 singles can convert to double)
- Location: Upper deck
- Avble. Spaces: 1
- Last Shared Space: Female
- Air Con: Yes, individually controlled
- Ensuite: Yes
Liveaboard Information
Nitrox
Please note that Nitrox is highly recommended due to the depths and lengths of dives at Wolf and Darwin. A diver on Air will not be able to complete all 4 dives at Wolf & Darwin. Nitrox certification cards must be presented to our Dive Guides on board to be able to dive Nitrox.
Flights and Overnights in Ecuador
We can arrange flights with a number of airlines including KLM, Iberia and American Airlines. Regional departures may also be available. The Galápagos Master embarks and disembarks at San Cristobal Airport and you take your international flight into and out of Guayaquil International Airport in Ecuador, from where there are daily domestic flights to San Cristobal. We encourage divers to arrive and stay on the Ecuador mainland two nights before travelling onto the Galápagos. You are travelling a long way on the trip of a lifetime, and we want you to join your liveaboard rested and hydrated. In addition, in case your luggage is delayed for any reason, we also recommend two nights.
One city overnight is always required on the return due to international flight times, in case of internal flight delay.
Extend your stay - With so much to discover in the Galápagos, we recommend an extension to San Cristobal.
Itineraries
A 7-night itinerary provides for between 18–20 dives, whilst during our 10 night itineraries, up to 30 dives will be possible. A minimum of three days are normally spent diving the Darwin and Wolf Islands.
Please note that liveaboard itineraries can change without notice. The itinerary will depend on several factors including, but not limited to, weather, diving ability of guests & the number of other boats already present at the various dive sites. All dive sites visited are subject to weather conditions and are at the discretion of your dive guides and vessel captain.
Diving in the Galápagos - Liveaboards
The diving in Galápagos is not for novice divers. Before attempting to dive in Galápagos, you should be completely comfortable in the water and comfortable with all aspects of your equipment. Having experience of diving in cold water with a thicker wetsuit and hood, as well as experience of diving in strong currents, up currents and down currents is highly recommended. Experience in mixed surface conditions, mixed currents and varying water temperatures, proficient use of a DSMB and the ability to cope in buddy pairs or on your own should you become temporarily separated, is imperative.
Regaldive advise that guests booking on to a Galápagos liveaboard should be minimum PADI Advanced or equivalent and have an absolute minimum of 50 logged dives.
Water Temperatures
The water in the Galápagos is relatively cold, ranging from 60–80°F (15 - 26ºC) between May and November and 70–82°F (20–26ºC) between December and June. Divers are highly recommended to wear a minimum full 7 mm wetsuit or semi-dry with a hood and vest, or 5mm layers.
Visibility
The visibility in the Galápagos is often limited, due to the high nutrient content of the water. Visibility can be as low as 4m and as high as 30m, but the average is 15m. Visibility varies between dive sites and with the time of day and can even change during a dive. The visibility at Darwin & Wolf tends to be higher than in the Southern islands.
Diving from Pangas
Diving in the Galápagos is conducted from small boats / RIBs called pangas. The currents in Galápagos are strong, and so it is important the divers enter the water together as a group. The majority of dive sites are small islands that break the surface of the water and then taper down. Because of this, it is impossible to bring the dive yacht directly over the dive site. Divers suit-up on the main yacht before stepping over to the panga. The panga then approaches the dive site and the divers back-roll into the water.
Diving Requirements
A mandatory check dive will be required of every diver on the first day of the charter, regardless of diving certification or experience. Every dive in the Galápagos will be guided – this is a requirement of the Galápagos National Park. Please note that, due to frequently strong currents, it is mandatory for each diver to carry a DSMB and small light on all dives. A method for attracting attention through noise and reflective light, plus a system such as EPIRB or Nautilus Lifeline is highly recommended, the latter will be available on M/V Galápagos Master should you wish to hire one.
Dive Information
The Galápagos Islands lie on the equator 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. Evolved over millennia and isolated from any continental landmass, the Galápagos enjoys a completely unique biodiversity that is simply spectacular. These actively volcanic islands host a distinct and unique flora and fauna, including prehistoric creatures found nowhere else on earth.
Thirteen primary islands, five smaller islands and numerous islets and rock formations make up part of the Ecuadorian National Park System and are a World Heritage site in their own right. This includes the world-famous diving mecca of Darwin & Wolf.
Diving
Several oceanic currents meet in the island group. This has led to an abundance of marine life that has few equals anywhere in the world. The mixed temperature range underwater delivers a fascinating and rarely seen mix of tropical and temperate fish species.
Many divers are drawn to the Galápagos by the presence of large schools of rays and sharks, which are encountered year round. Various species of turtle breed in the islands, whilst endemic marine iguanas have adapted to local conditions, feeding off the sea algae that thrives in the waters that surround the islands. Inquisitive fur seals and penguins provide divers with unforgettably thrilling shows as they perform their aquatic acrobatic displays. Occasionally divers are afforded an encounter with some of the islands rare species like Mola Mola, flightless Cormorants and the Galápagos Bullhead shark.
Whale Sharks & More Whales
From May to November cooler currents rich in nutrients attract many of the great pelagic plankton feeders. During these months, The Galápagos Islands are recognised as one of the world’s best locations to encounter Whale Sharks in large numbers. Numerous species of whales are also regularly seen in the Galápagos over these months. The most common encounters are with Melon Headed, Pilot and Humpback whales that migrate to the coast of Ecuador in August and September. Water temperature can vary from 17–24ºC.
Manta Rays & More Rays
In December to April, the waters rise slightly in temperature with shifting Oceanic currents, and in come the rays. Water temperature is a slightly warmer 21–26ºC. Large Mantas, schools of Mobula rays, Cow-Nosed rays, Spotted Eagle rays and Marble rays are frequent visitors.
Darwin & Wolf
These two islands are located 14 hours sailing north of the main island group. The seas surrounding Wolf and Darwin support large concentration of the marine life that makes the Galápagos the dive destination that it is. Certainly no dive itinerary to the Galápagos is complete without a visit to Darwin and Wolf. Schools of hammerheads, dolphins and rays make these islands a highlight for many divers visiting the Galápagos. The whale shark aggregation occurs in the warmer water surrounding these islands.
Hammerhead sharks and other shark species make regular appearances in numbers year round.
Above Water
Because of their isolation, most species have evolved in different ways to their mainland relatives and even within the archipelago species have developed differently. Of the extraordinary animals to be found many are reptiles, such as the great tortoise, large land iguanas, numerous lizards and three species of non-poisonous snakes.
Up to three quarters of a million seabirds flock to the islands, including a third of the world's blue footed boobies, frigate birds, pelicans, cormorants, albatross and petrels. Aside from the extraordinary marine and land borne wildlife, the islands themselves are a fascinating place to walk around, with dramatic volcanic cones and solidified lava flows.
For a map of the Galápagos Islands please click here
Land-based Extensions
Regaldive holidays to the Galápagos Islands are completely tailormade to your personal requirements, giving the option to extend your liveaboard holiday with a land-based stay for as many nights as you choose. With so much to discover in the Galápagos, we recommend an extension on one of the central islands. Please contact the Regaldive Team for help planning your Galápagos Islands holiday.
Planning your Holiday
Flight Information
It's possible to reach Ecuador from the UK via Europe, or via the USA. Common routings include travelling via either Amsterdam or Madrid. The Galápagos Islands are then reached via a 90-minute flight from Quito or Guayaquil, normally flying into San Cristobal.
Extra nights: A minimum of one night on the outbound and one night on the inbound is required in Quito or Guayaquil, due to international flight schedules and internal flights.
We encourage divers to stay on the Ecuador mainland two nights before travelling onto the Galápagos. You are travelling a long way on the trip of a lifetime and we want you to join your liveaboard rested and hydrated. This also helps in case your luggage is delayed.
Visas
Entry requirements vary from country to country, and it’s important to check the latest visa information well before you travel. Some destinations may allow visa-free entry for a limited period, while others require an eVisa or a visa obtained in advance. To ensure you have the correct documentation for your trip, we recommend checking the official advice from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or contacting the relevant country’s embassy or consulate. Other nationalities should check with their own consulate/embassy.
Passports
Before you travel, make sure your passport is valid for the full duration of your trip and meets the entry requirements of your destination. Many countries require at least six months’ validity beyond your planned return date, while others may have different rules. For the most reliable and up-to-date information, visit the UK Government’s passport guidance or the official travel advice pages for your destination. Other nationalities should check with their own consulate/embassy.
If you’re planning to travel to or via an EU country (with certain exceptions) your UK passport must meet two key requirements, it must be less than 10 years old on the day you enter the country and it must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure date.
Vaccinations & Health Advice
Health and vaccination requirements differ depending on where you're travelling. Some destinations may require proof of specific vaccinations or recommend certain precautions to protect your wellbeing.
We’re not qualified to provide you with specific advice on vaccinations and strongly recommend that you contact your healthcare professional before you travel to discuss the inoculations you may need to consider.
For trusted guidance on health and vaccination advice, refer to the NHS Travel Vaccination Advice, Masta Travel Health or Travel Health Pro websites.
Enquire about M/V Galapagos Master
Speak to an expert. Call 01353 659999 Send Enquiry