According to forum posts, the Galapagos Islands offer a range of cruise experiences tailored to different preferences and budgets. Travelers have mentioned specific cruises like the Nine of the Best Isles on Hurtigruten Santa Cruz II, which is operated by a well-established tourism company and provides a comfortable experience on a larger ship.

For family-oriented trips, some travelers recommended Ecoventura, which organizes cruises with separate activities and guides for kids and adults. This ensures engaging experiences for all age groups. Another cruise, the M/C Galapagos Seaman Journey, was praised for its intimate setting on a smaller yacht, accommodating only 16 guests, which allows for a more personalized and close-up encounter with the islands' unique wildlife.

In selecting a cruise, forum users suggest considering the size of the ship, with smaller vessels providing a more intimate experience with nature and easier logistics for landings. The choice of islands included in the itinerary is also crucial, with some recommending ships that visit remote locations like Fernandina and Isabela for a richer wildlife experience.

For travelers heading to the Galapagos via Guayaquil, the procedure requires collecting your luggage upon arrival, going through Ecuadorian customs, and then moving to the domestic terminal. Here, you need to obtain a Transit Control Card and undergo a special Galapagos luggage inspection for both carry-on and checked bags before re-checking them for your flight to the Galapagos.

Before boarding your flight in Quito or Guayaquil, you must acquire a Transit Control Card, which costs USD 20, payable in cash at the airport. Additionally, upon arriving in the Galapagos, a fee of USD 100 is required, also payable in cash at the airport. All necessary travel documents will be distributed on the plane before landing.

Some users have reported the option to complete the Transit Control Card online, though technical issues may occur. If difficulties arise, it is still possible to fill out the card at the airport prior to departure.

Solo travelers to the Galapagos Islands have various accommodation options, ranging from single cabins on cruises to land-based hotels. According to forum posts, some cruises accommodate solo travelers without a single supplement fee, while others might charge extra. For those preferring land-based stays, options like Royal Palm and Finch Bay are mentioned, though travelers should be prepared for the lack of luxury amenities typical of more developed locations.

Many solo travelers have successfully booked last-minute cruises, which can be a cost-saving strategy. Websites like GalapagosCruiseLinks.com offer insights into available boats and itineraries. However, it’s advisable to book the Galapagos portion of the trip first due to the need for coordinating flights and other logistics.

Solo travelers looking for social interaction might prefer cruises since they often include group activities and opportunities to meet other travelers. For those interested in nature and wildlife, both cruise and land-based options offer ample opportunities, but the experience can vary significantly in terms of group size and the intimacy of wildlife encounters. Some travelers recommend smaller group tours for a more personal and less crowded experience.

According to forum posts, travelers to the Galapagos Islands must present a complete vaccination card with at least 14 days' validity after completing the vaccination schedule. Additionally, a negative result from a qualitative real-time RT-PCR test taken up to 72 hours prior to departure to the islands is required. This applies to visitors 16 years and older, while children from 2 to 15 years must only present the negative test result.

Some travelers mentioned the necessity of a transit control card, which can be obtained at mainland departing airports for $20. This card is essential alongside the negative PCR test and vaccination proof for entry into the islands.

For entry into the Galapagos, passengers must also provide proof of contracted tourist services. This can typically be demonstrated with a voucher or invoice from a hotel or registered tour agency. A document called Salvoconducto, issued by hotels, can suffice for this requirement.

According to forum posts, selecting a reputable tour operator for the Galapagos involves checking if they specialize in the region, as specialists possess critical local knowledge that can enhance the travel experience. Travelers have called out the importance of choosing operators who offer access to a wide range of ships, including local options that might provide more reasonable prices.

Some travelers said checking reviews and forum discussions helps in identifying reputable operators. Negative reviews, particularly regarding serious issues, are red flags. Positive experiences shared by past travelers can guide new tourists in making informed decisions.

For many users, direct booking with ship owners is a viable option, especially when a specific cruise or ship is preferred. However, this approach may limit the comparison options as ship owners typically promote only their vessels. Using a knowledgeable agent can provide broader options and better deals.

Some travelers recommended North Seymour, Bartolomé, and Española Island as potential day trips from Santa Cruz. North Seymour is noted for its frigate birds, while Bartolomé offers stunning landscapes and potential penguin sightings, although it may be less impressive in terms of biodiversity.

According to forum posts, it's advisable to book day trips in advance, especially during peak travel periods like Easter, to ensure availability. Travelers have suggested using local tour agencies found in Puerto Ayora or checking detailed trip reports online to help decide on the best tours.

For families, destinations like Bartolomé might be less suitable due to long boat rides, which could be challenging for younger children. Instead, places with shorter travel times and more engaging wildlife opportunities might be more appropriate.

Travelers have also discussed staying on Santa Cruz and exploring nearby attractions such as Cerro Dragon and Black Turtle Cove, which can be suitable for those preferring less travel.

According to forum posts, multiple ferry services operate between the main inhabited islands of the Galapagos, such as Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristobal. These ferries usually offer one morning and one afternoon trip each day.

Travelers have called out the importance of pre-booking ferry tickets, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability. Prices for standard ferries are around $30-$35, but superior ferries, which offer more comfort, typically charge about $5 more.

Some travelers shared concerns about the size and comfort of the ferries, noting that smaller boats can be cramped. Superior ferries are recommended for those seeking more space and comfort, as they avoid bench seating and often provide bus-like seats.

For many users, using local websites like book-ec.com and ferrygalapagos.com has been helpful for checking schedules and booking tickets. Despite the challenges in finding detailed information online, these resources are frequently recommended for planning inter-island travel in the Galapagos.

The Galapagos Transit Control Card (TCT) is a mandatory requirement for all travelers visiting the Galapagos Islands. It involves a registration and payment process that can be completed at the airport before departure.

Travelers can either pre-register online or fill out the form directly at the airport. Some travelers have reported that the online process can be frustrating and does not significantly reduce waiting time at the airport. At the airport, the TCT booth is easily visible, and the process includes paying a $20 fee and providing passport details.

According to forum posts, the time taken to complete the TCT process at the airport can vary. Some travelers suggested arriving at least two hours before the flight to comfortably complete the TCT process and check-in procedures. The actual time at the counter is usually brief, but waiting times can fluctuate depending on passenger volume.

Travelers have advised that even if the online form is filled, one must still visit the TCT booth at the airport to finalize the process. It's recommended to have cash ready for the fee and to arrive early to avoid any rush, especially when traveling in larger groups or during peak times.