The Ultimate Snorkeling Circuit Around the Galapagos
If your goal in the Galapagos is simple —
more marine life, more snorkeling, more action —
This is the tour.
The 180° Tour is one of the most water-focused day trips from Santa Cruz, taking you on a semicircular route to the legendary waters of Pinzón Island and Daphne Major. Expect crystal-clear seas, abundant wildlife, and some of the richest snorkeling in the central archipelago.
This is the perfect choice for travelers who want to maximize underwater encounters in a single day.
Why This Tour Stands Out
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Two top snorkeling sites in one day:
Pinzón and Daphne are known for exceptional marine biodiversity. -
High wildlife density:
Frequent sightings of sharks, turtles, sea lions, and rays. -
Small-group yacht experience
Typically limited to about 12 passengers for a more personal outing. -
Photographer’s paradise:
Volcanic cliffs, turquoise bays, and seabird colonies. -
Designed for ocean lovers:
Approximately 90% snorkeling and 10% hiking.
What You’ll See
- Sea turtles
- Sea lions
- White-tip and blacktip sharks
- Rays and manta rays (seasonal)
- Marine iguanas
- Tropical fish
- Blue-footed boobies
- Frigatebirds
Included and Excluded
- Transfer from meeting point
- Certified bilingual naturalist guide
- Lunch and snacks
- Towel
- Snorkeling equipment
- Full wetsuit
- Alcoholic or soft drinks
- Tips and personal expenses
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Full day (7–8 hours)
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08:45 AM from Puerto Ayora
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2 hours each way
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12 passengers
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90% snorkeling / 10% beach walk
Your Experience Step by Step
Morning Departure from Puerto Ayora
Your adventure begins at the Puerto Ayora pier, where you board your yacht with a certified naturalist guide and set course across the Galapagos Marine Reserve.
As Santa Cruz fades behind you, keep watch — marine life sightings often begin before the first stop.
Moment to enjoy: The scenic open-water navigation.
Your first major stop is Pinzón Island, widely regarded as one of the best snorkeling areas in the central Galapagos thanks to its abundant marine life.
Here you may encounter:
- Sea turtles
- Sea lions
- White-tip reef sharks
- Blacktip sharks
- Rays
- Starfish
- Colorful tropical fish
The calm, clear waters make this a guest favorite.
Highlight: High-probability marine encounters.
After snorkeling, the yacht heads to Eden Beach or Borrero Bay, depending on the assigned route.
- Relax in calm waters
- Enjoy the coastal scenery
- Taking wildlife photos
- Recharge before the next adventure
Lunch is served onboard during the excursion.
Highlight: A peaceful break between snorkeling sessions.
Next, the navigation continues toward Daphne Major Island, a volcanic crater island famous for its seabird populations.
From the boat and surrounding waters, you may observe:
- Blue-footed boobies
- Magnificent frigatebirds
- Pelicans
- Swallow-tailed gulls
- Red-billed tropicbirds
The volcanic scenery here is spectacular.
Highlight: One of the most photogenic volcanic backdrops in the central islands.
The day concludes with another rewarding snorkeling opportunity in the Daphne area, where marine diversity remains high.
Possible sightings include:
- Sea lions
- Sea turtles
- White-tip reef sharks
- Stingrays and eagle rays (more common Aug–Nov)
- Tropical fish
No prior snorkeling experience is required — the crew assists throughout.
Highlight: A strong marine finale to the day.
After a full day of ocean exploration, the yacht returns to Santa Cruz, where land transport takes you back to Puerto Ayora.
You’ll return tired, salty… and very happy.
