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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. 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

4. 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.