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Galapagos Cruising Entry Permits – Operational Information

Luxury yacht anchored on a calm ocean with a clear blue sky and distant island in the background.

1. Required Authorizations for Private Yachts

To visit the protected areas and remote islands of the Galapagos Archipelago aboard a private yacht, the following authorizations are mandatory:

Entry Authorization (“Autógrafo”)

Official entry permit issued by the Ecuadorian government.

Application timeline:
 Process must begin at least 60 days prior to planned arrival.

Required documentation:

  • Passport copies of all guests and crew
  • Certificate of Registry
  • Blackwater / sewage system certification
  • Protection & Indemnity Insurance (P&I)

Galápagos National Park Authorization

(Required only if the vessel intends to operate an itinerary between the islands / visit protected areas)

Issued by the Galápagos National Park Directorate (GNPD) confirming that:

  • The vessel will follow an approved itinerary
  • A certified naturalist guide will be onboard throughout the visit

 

2. Arrival & Inspections

Upon arrival, every vessel, regardless of permit type, will undergo a mandatory inspection.

The inspection includes both interior and exterior (hull) checks to determine whether the vessel is authorized to remain within the waters of the Galápagos Marine Reserve.

A large white yacht docked at a marina with a black bird sitting in a puddle nearby on the pavement.
Luxury yacht anchored on calm blue sea with distant islands under a partly cloudy sky.

3. Scientific Vessels

Vessels conducting scientific research in the Galápagos must obtain:

  • Authorization from the Galápagos National Park Directorate
  • Approval from a recognized Ecuadorian scientific or academic institution
  • A valid Autógrafo (entry permit)

 

As scientific operations involve additional regulatory requirements, please contact our team for detailed information and guidance specific to your case.

4. Emergency Arrivals or Arrival Without an Autógrafo

In exceptional or emergency situations, vessels arriving without an Autógrafo:

  • Will be authorized to remain in one port only
  • The length of stay will be determined by maritime authorities following inspection and risk assessment

 

Documents required upon arrival:

  • Passport copies of all guests and crew
  • Certificate of Registry
  • Clearance from last port (must state that the vessel was not originally bound for Galápagos)
  • Fumigation certificate from last port