Plunge into the crystalline waters ringing Daphne Major's volcanic walls for an expert-led snorkel with sea lions, turtles, and rays in one of the Galápagos' most exclusive marine corridors — virtually untouched and strictly permit-controlled.
What to expect
Your zodiac skirts the dramatic tuff cone cliffs before your guide eases you into gin-clear water alive with playful sea lions and green sea turtles. Rays glide beneath you while schools of surgeonfish part like a curtain. Topside, blue-footed boobies and Nazca boobies wheel overhead, dive-bombing for fish just metres from your mask. The entire experience is governed by Galápagos National Park protocols, keeping wildlife interaction ethical and intimate.
Good to know
Pre-booking is essential — daily visitor permits to Daphne Major are strictly capped by the Galápagos National Park. The zodiac transfer from Santa Cruz (Itabaca Channel) takes approximately 40 minutes. Confirm all-aboard time with your ship and allow a 30-minute buffer; most full-day tours return by 17:00. Wetsuits, masks, fins, and snorkels provided.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Daphne Island (galapagos) — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Daphne Island (galapagos)
- Daphne Major Zodiac Expedition: Seabird Colony Spectacle
- Borrero Bay: Reef Snorkel & Pelican Bay Swim at Daphne
- Complete Galápagos Small-Ship Expedition: 10-Day Grand Daphne
- Galápagos Islands Private Land & Sea Day with Expert Naturalist
- Adventure Life Daphne Island: Expert-Curated Small-Group Cruise