GALáPAGOS ISLANDS

GALáPAGOS ISLANDS
Snorkel & Freedive Expedition

Are you ready for a wild, raw ocean adventure in the Galápagos Islands? Come and join us for nine incredible days exploring this bucket list, once in a lifetime destination. 

This trip is for all ocean, nature, animal lovers. Being a Liv For The Sea trip, it is marine focused without missing out on the gems of the land. You do not need to be a freediver, but a comfortable swimmer and snorkelling enjoyer! We will be exploring three Galápagos Islands by plane, boat and foot. From freediving with hammerheads, snorkelling through incredible lava tunnels, walking alongside Giant Tortoises, encountering eagle rays, sea lions turtles, reef sharks and not to mention the array of seabirds. This hotspot for life will leave you feeling totally in awe.

Liv will be partnering with local Galápagos Naturalist Guide and Divemaster Carolina and Marine Biologist and Divemaster Hannah to bring you the most unforgettable adventure. This trip is a little different from our signature trips in Australia. Although still being very much ocean based, we will ensure that you have every chance of witnessing the most amount of wildlife there is to offer. So rather than being freedive course focused, we want you to feast your eyes and soul on the richness of the Galápagos Islands.

Tick the World Heritage Listed Galápagos Islands off your bucket list and join us on this adventure of an absolute lifetime!

Why the Galápagos?

In our eyes they are the pinnacle of the Pacific. The jewel of islands for animal lovers. The land is rugged, the creatures are wild, you will feel like a true David Attenborough prodigy! The Galápagos Islands are located 1000 km off the coast of Ecuador, South America. Exposed to three convergent ocean currents, the archipelago is known as a melting pot of marine species.

Due to the extreme isolation, the islands boast an abundance of endemic species (species found nowhere else on earth). Approximately 97% of the reptiles and land mammals and 80% of land birds in Galápagos are endemic! For example the land iguanas, the giant tortoises and many types of finch have evolved – inspiring Charles Darwin and his theory of evolution by natural selection.

For us, there is no other place where we can come face to face with such an array of animals in their natural habitat. To witness the grand effects such marine reserves have on their environment and those living within is a privilege in this day and age. Not to mention the dense forests, volcanic lava tubes and picturesque beaches there is to enjoy.

The best way to explore a destination like this is with a local guide that has the knowledge and connections to maximise your time and amplify your experience. This is exactly what we are offering you!

Is this TRIP for me?

The focus of this expedition is marine! We will have the pleasure of meeting manta rays, hammerhead sharks, penguins, iguanas, turtles, sea lions, eagle rays, dolphins the list doesn’t end!! With plenty of opportunities to experience the island from above during our volcano hike, scenic flight and general day to day activities.

Water immersion days may be based from the shore where a short swim will greet us with sea lions, penguins, turtles, rays and more. Some days will involve boat charters to our dive sites where we have the freedom to snorkel above, freedive below or scuba dive if you are a certified.

We welcome all walks of life to join us on this unforgettable trip. We just ask that you ensure you are comfortable in the water snorkelling and swimming without assistance. No freediving certification is required to join, just prepare for water adventures galore!

What’s Included

• 8 nights of ocean view or quiet central accommodation

• Breakfast, lunch and snacks each day 

• All transport upon arrival in the Galápagos Islands - Inter Island scenic flights beetween Isabela to San Cristobal , ferries and taxis

• 4 x Private dive expeditions by boat to encounter hammerhead sharks, Galápagos sharks, black tip sharks, manta rays, eagle rays, turtles, sea lions, marine iguanas and more

• Ample snorkel opportunities at secret locations

• Land based adventures to active volcanoes, lava tunnels and tortoise breeding centre

• Lecture from local researcher to inspire our marine science senses!

• Freedive Instructor guiding you, introducing or refining your current skills to enhance marine interactions

• Private Galápagos Naturalist Guide, Marine Biologist and Divemasters

• Photographs & Video’s of your adventure

• All logistics, day to day planning, transit coordinating and all

  
  Not included:

• International flights to and from Galápagos

• Transit Control Card ($20 USD)

• Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee ($200USD per person payable at airport upon arrival)

• Travel insurance 

• Dinners (options ranging between ($6-$30 USD)

• Additional Scuba Dives (~ $100USD per double dive)

• Mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit

• Spending money for souvenirs etc

We have curated this schedule for our aquatic lovers, from snorkelers to freedivers and scuba divers, we can do it all! This itinerary includes two different islands, Isabela and San Cristobal. We have tried and tested other options and know from experience that these are THE BEST islands for an overall experience in the Galapagos.

If you are considering this trip and would like to see our day by day detailed itinerary, trip details and travel recommendations, please get in touch and we will email this through.

Carolina

Local Naturalist Guide for all our adventures above and below the surface

While growing up between two contrasting worlds, the wild Galápagos Islands and the civilised mainland, Carolina decided to follow her island family lineage, permanently moving to the Galápagos in 2010. Carolina went on to study Environmental Management (including a year studying abroad in Australia), became a divemaster and undertook the rigorous Galápagos National Park Guide Course. Since then, between her own sailing adventures with her partner, she has been working in the tourism industry, guiding on some of the most renowned expedition yachts in the Galápagos Archipelago. More recently, Carolina has been using her invaluable guiding skills and knowledge of the islands to create the ultimate Galápagos Experience for retreat hosts. She specialises in ocean based adventure tourism, where she is able to combine her passions surfing, swimming, sailing, diving, freediving and kayaking.

• Bachelor of Environmental Management

• Galápagos National Park Guide Course

• PADI Divemaster and Galápagos Dive Guide

• 10+ Years working in the tourism industry in Galápagos Islands

• Co-creator of Galápagos Nature Connection Retreats (collaboration with Bocas del Toro Surfing) 

Hannah

Your Host, Divemaster, Marine Biologist & Logistics Extraordinaire

In 2011, at the age of 20, Hannah first ventured off to the Galápagos Islands to complete her studies in Marine Biology and become a divemaster. 13 years later she still calls the Galápagos her second home, basing herself in the Galápagos for months at a time each year to work on research projects, sailing yachts or more recently to co facilitate retreats. In between you will find her doing yachting stints in the Pacific, Mediterranean or Caribbean, teaching high school students in Australia or on surf or dive adventures to some other remote islands.

• Bachelor of Science, Marine Biology Graduate

• Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching (Secondary School)

• PADI Divemaster

• 10+ years working on sailing vessels in the Caribbean, Pacific and Mediterranean

• Co-creator of Galápagos Nature Connection Retreats (collaboration with Bocas del Toro Surfing) 

Liv For The Sea Team Member

Your Host, Freedive Instructor & Water guide

You can expect to be supported and hosted by one of our incredible expedition leaders. Liv For The Sea hosts are caring, passionate, enthusiastic women who are by your side to make sure your experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Together alongside local hosts Hannah & Carolina you can be sure that you’re in for an incredible trip!

• Molchanovs Freedive Instructor

• Master Scuba Diver

• Guiding & Hosting Experience
  

1. Fly to mainland Ecuador (either Guayaquil GYE or Quito UIO). Arrive day before trip starts. You will spend one night there on the mainland.

2. Fly to Baltra (GPS) Galápagos the following morning. Airlines: Avianca or Latam.

3. We will meet you at Baltra airport and make our way as a group to Santa Cruz via short ferry ride.

   More info about the Galápagos Transit Control Card and Galápagos National Park Entry Fee in our brochure. Email if interested.

accommodation

We are lucky to enough to explore two different islands during this trip, Isabela and San Cristobal. We have a few nights at each location and have sourced the most comfortable and best situated accommodation to suit your needs. Hotels vary in comfort, where sometimes location overrides the luxurious aspect but the character makes you smile! All accommodation has breakfast and wifi included. Each room has their own ensuite. The following are the room options.

Quadruple Room
$4650 USD
If you’re a solo traveller this is a great option. You will be sharing the room with three others, each with your own single bed.

(If you are a solo male wanting to book, we advise that you choose the private room option, or get in contact with us to arrange a room with a fellow male)


Double Room
$4750 USD
This is for those travelling with a friend or partner. If you prefer to be in a space with less people, we advise choosing the private room option.


Private Rooms
$4950 USD
This is our most popular choice. If you are one that needs your own space at the end of the day, we understand and can offer a private room for the duration of the trip. These are all very comfortable rooms.

To secure your spot, we require an initial non-refundable $1000USD deposit at the time of booking online. One month following this we will send you an invoice for the 2nd deposit of 50% of your trip cost. The remaining is due six months out of trip departure. Please see our cancellation policy and payment plan suggestions via the ‘Book Here’ link below.

Galápagos Islands Ocean Expedition
March 30th - April 7th 2028

“As someone who usually enjoys to travel solo, rather than a group tour, i was nervous going into the trip. I can honestly say though, if you have any reservations, ignore them & book it. Caro, from Isla Expedition, makes things happen.  Her local knowledge, but more than that, connections and relationships with people at every location kept every day exciting.  Making it feel like a shifting itinerary when ever a new opportunity arose. Hannah, from Tidal Flow. The woman who never seemed to rest.  Meals, accommodation, transfers, activities, all seamless. Felt like every moment was cherished while she was behind the scenes taking care of the small things, letting the group enjoy the experience. And, somehow, I don't think I saw her once not wearing a smile. And of course,  Liv, from Liv For The Sea.  The woman who brought everyone together for an unforgettable trip.  Her enthusiasm and love for all things set the mood for the entire Galapagos expedition.  Positive energy, welcoming nature and encouraging attitude had everyone enjoying things they'd never seen or done before. If I could experience this for the first time again, I wouldn't hesitate.” - Dan

“This trip was more than I could dream off! It was my first group trip and I am so so so happy I got out of my comfort zone and joined them. I got to spend it with Liv whom I already knew and got to know more amazing people because of her. She attracts the same beautiful souls, I tell you. She was also the first person I trusted to try and freedive with back in Australia and helps me to feel more comfortable in the deep ocean. The whole trip was well-organised, nothing to worry about, you just need to tag along. Expertise brought in a relaxed, caring and fun way and this in the freakin Galapagos islands, need I say more? Follow your gut otherwise you get stuck in a rut! Book it and make memories for a lifetime.” - Valerie

“My recent Galapagos trip was insane and the diving was the stuff of dreams. This was my third trip with Liv (I hope there's many more) and the first time I've had the privilege of meeting Hannah & Carolina - what a tribe. 💙 Travelling to the other side of the world solo felt a little daunting but even before arrival, I felt safe and well supported. The adventures were next level. Off the beaten track but so smooth and easy thanks to the dedication and thoughtful curation of our hosts. They went out of their way to ensure everyone felt included and their local knowledge and expertise created an experience like no other. Their passion shines through in all that they do and I can't recommend them enough.” - Breanne

“Joining the Liv for the Sea expedition in the Galapagos was an absolute blast thanks to Liv (and Hannah and Caro)! She is incredibly knowledgeable, caring, and a passionate about the marine world. Liv supported everyone through every stage in their dive journey, acted as our photographer, and ultimately (naturally) became a friend. The activities and accommodations set up for us completely exceeded my expectations and I could not have asked for a better trip! This was such a special experience thanks to Liv and I'll forever cherish her guidance. I can't recommend a Liv for the Sea expedition enough, and I can't wait for my next one!” - Victoria

“Our Galápagos trip was nothing short of sensational — a little slice of magic tucked into the Pacific. The three women leading and hosting the experience made navigating the archipelago feel completely seamless. Liv has created something truly special — not just a trip, but a vibrant, like-minded community that feels both effortless and intentional.

Caro is a superwoman (most delightful family ) — an extraordinary mum, guide, and steady, inspiring presence throughout. Hannah was a dream when it came to logistics and cultural navigation, and an absolute joy to share the journey with. And the added magic of Meche behind the lens was such a gift — quietly capturing the wonder of it all so we can relive those moments again and again.

There’s something deeply luxurious (in the best, most grounding sense) about having every detail of the Galápagos itinerary thoughtfully curated within a group of like-minded travellers. Not only did it make the experience more economically accessible, it felt almost divine to simply sink into the moment — rather than spending energy figuring out where to go, how to get there, or hoping to land among respectful, experienced fellow tourists.

Traveling together made exploring the underwater world feel far more accessible, safe, and joyful. Whether you were seasoned or new, there was a shared sense of curiosity, care, and quiet awe.

The local crew in the Galápagos brought boundless knowledge and passion, generously shared at every turn. Their love for these islands was palpable and added such depth to the entire experience.

An unforgettable adventure — thoughtful, beautifully orchestrated, and brimming with wonder” - Katia

“Our Galapagos freediving trip with Liv for the Sea was truly memorable.Our hosts, Liv, Hannah, and Carolina, were very attentive, making sure everything ran smoothly. The wildlife encounters were a highlight—getting to see such unique animals up close was amazing. The group was friendly and brought great energy to the experience. Would definitely recommend taking an expedition with Liv For the Sea!” - Nate

“If you are reading this review, congratulations! Because you just found a beyond amazing guide to the Ocean! We joined the 9 days trip to the galapagos islands, and it was perfect. Everything was perfectly planned out, Liv is very attentive, the plan was nicely combined with incredible activities, rest time and free time. We loved it and can't wait to be part of the next expedition with Liv.” - Natalie