What is the difference between a Galapagos cruise, catamaran, sailboat or yacht?
Bigger ships bring the advantage of bigger cabins, more services and the possibility of triple accommodation. On the other hand smaller ships bring a more familiar environment and a bit more cozyness.
Cruises: Cruises usually range from 80 to 100+ passengers. They usually provide bigger cabin size and more cabin options (balcony, master deluxe, exterior, interior) than smaller yachts. They also provide the big advantage of having triple cabins which smaller ships don't. Despite the fact that they hold 100 passengers, these are divided into smaller groups for the different activities of the day (each group with a different schedule so everyone gets to do everything) so you will not feel overcrowded. They also provide more services on board (gym, jacuzzi, etc). The biggest disadvantage is of course, that the amount of people on board may give you a less familiar setting than smaller ships. On board a cruise, motion sickness happens from a sturdy rocking motion, however they might be more stable on rough seas than smaller ships.
Yachts: Yachts usually range from 16 to 40 passengers. Their main advantage is to provide a more familiar environment during your Galapagos experience. Be careful when selecting an economic or standard yacht as they usually do not offer double bed but rather narrow cabins with bunk beds, other classes do not have this problem so make sure to select your yacht accordingly.
Catamarans: Catamarans have a maximum capacity of 16 passengers. Their main advantage is balance. They also offer a less vertical distribution than yachts and therefore most offer only one cabin type (some do offer suite and normal cabins).
Sailboats: For those with sailing blood in their veins, the sailboats allow you to be part of the sailing experience while on board. They are usually also motor generated, but are by far the greener option :).
