San Cristóbal to San Cristóbal

You are about to visit a Natural Heritage Site, therefore you must follow the rules imposed by the controlling authorities such as the Galápagos

National Park. During your visits, the naturalist guides will emphasise these regulations:

• Do not remove animals, plants, rocks or their remains (including shells, bones, and pieces of wood) from the islands.
• Be careful not to transport any live animals to the islands, or from island to island.
• Do not take any food to the uninhabited islands.
• Do not touch or handle the animals.
• Do not feed the animals. It can be dangerous, and it can destroy the animals’ social structure and breeding habits.
• Do not disturb or chase any animal from its resting or nesting place.
• Stay within the designated visiting areas.
• Do not litter while on land or sea.
• Do not deface the rocks.
• Do not smoke on the islands. Do not buy souvenirs or objects made of plants or animals from the islands.
• Do not visit the islands unless accompanied by a licensed National Park Guide.
• Restrict your visits to officially permitted areas.

Conservation is everyone’s business. Please do not hesitate to show your conservationist attitude.

The Ecuadorian government declared the islands a National Park on 4 July 1959; at the same time, the Charles Darwin Foundation was created in Belgium. The Charles Darwin Station was created in Santa Cruz Island to aid scientific research. It was inaugurated on 20 January 1964. Then in 1968 the Galápagos National Park began offering its services. Nowadays groups of no more than 16 visitors are led by certified guides. This regulation helps reduce the impact on this fragile eco-system and gives the islands a sense of seclusion and privacy

Restricted Products by Galápagos

Local authorities manage the quarantine system in the Galápagos in order to avoid the introduction of foreign species to the islands. All the cargo and luggage that arrive at, depart from or are transferred from one island to another are inspected in Ecuador and in Galápagos. Below is a list of products that are not allowed in the islands: Prohibited products: To preserve human health and the native species of the Galápagos Islands, these products are not permitted in the Galápagos: fresh vegetables and fruits, animal products, animal by-products or dairy products. For further information click here.

Silver Origin carries a fleet of eight inflatable Zodiac® boats, allowing you to explore the remote and rugged islands of the Galápagos. These rigid boats are specifically designed for nature study, and are very rugged, as well as safe, sturdy and durable.

A Zodiac is an exceptionally buoyant rubber boat with an inflatable hull of multiple air-filled compartments, a feature that allows the Zodiac to float even should a compartment become deflated. A low center of gravity makes Zodiacs very stable.

Zodiacs are agile, allowing them to come alongside Silver Origin quickly and maneuver over reefs and between narrow passages.

All guests will participate in a complete Zodiac familiarisation session upon embarkation. Please review these instructions carefully before and throughout your Silversea Expedition.

• Your Expedition Leader will provide a full briefing on the use of and behavior onboard the Zodiac craft.
• Silversea’s Zodiac drivers have all had extensive training and experience. They are experts in this aspect of your expedition voyage. Follow their instructions at all times when onboard.
• “Dry Landing” means you will disembark the Zodiac on a landing platform or rocky surface.
• “Wet Landing” means you must step into the water and wade to shore – wear reef or water shoes.
• Guests will be advised of the local weather conditions and the kind of landing (dry or wet) to dress with the appropriate clothing and footwear.
• Wear waterproof outerwear — regardless of whether it is a wet or dry landing.
• Wear the safety vest provided.
• Wear sun protection, especially a high-factor sunscreen and dark, polarised sunglasses.
• Pack your non-waterproof items (camera/smartphone, binoculars, or other personal items) in splash- and waterproof cases, then place them in your backpack or complimentary Silversea Expedition backpack.
• Wear your backpack on your back. All other equipment should be handed to the staff/crew member in the Marina before boarding the boats. Your hands must be free to board the Zodiac safely. You will receive your equipment again once you are sitting on the craft, and you should place it on the floor in front of you so your hands are free to hold onto the ropes. This procedure will be reversed when exiting.
• When embarking and disembarking the Zodiac, firmly grasp the wrist (a Sailor’s grip) of the staff/crew member waiting to assist you before stepping onboard/ashore.
• Remain seated at all times while onboard until otherwise instructed.

Every Silversea Expedition features complimentary expedition activities led by the Expedition Team. Activities such as Zodiac cruises, kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking vary daily for each itinerary. They are dependent on weather and sea conditions and designed for most levels of interest and physical ability.

Age Requirements for Expedition Activities:

• Zodiac Cruises: Minimum age 5 years, accompanied by an adult.
• Snorkeling: Minimum age 12 years, accompanied by an adult.
• Kayaking: Minimum age 14 years when accompanied by an adult, or16 years to participate solo.

As Silversea does not provide childcare services, an adult family member must remain onboard with any child who does not meet the minimum age requirements.

ONBOARD DRESS CODE

To help you prepare for your voyage, we’ve gathered everything you need to know about what to pack and what to wear while onboard.

Find about more in regards to what to pack here.

ASHORE DRESS CODE

The right gear is essential for enjoying the whole experience of your Silversea Expedition without the limitations of weather and other conditions of each remote destination. Clothing that can be layered to accommodate different temperatures is most versatile and comfortable.

The key to dressing for a warm climate is to wear light-colored, loosefitting clothing made of natural fibers. Bright yellows, reds, and whites might attract wasps in some areas when you’re out in the sun. To protect yourself from the sun, make sure to pack a Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap and polarized sunglasses.

Additionally, bring sleeved quick-drying rashguards for water activities, along with your swimwear. Closed-toe water shoes are necessary for wet landings. If you have any sensitive electronic equipment, it’s recommended that you bring appropriate protective cases.

A detailed packing list is provided here.

While on the Voyage, you can access available snorkeling gear onboard.

We have a diverse range of complementary short-sleeved wetsuits for adults and children and masks, snorkels, and fins in various sizes. If you require a snorkeling flotation vest, ask one of our staff members, and they’ll gladly provide one for you. Please remember to bring any necessary prescriptions for your snorkeling masks, as we don’t offer them.

It’s important to note that Silversea snorkeling excursions don’t permit full-faced masks. If you have any questions regarding your equipment, don’t hesitate to ask your Expedition Leader before you use it.

We have a selection of complimentary short sleeve wetsuits for adults and children.

Silver Origin is equipped with a Medical Centre. A doctor and nurse are on 24-hour call when at sea. When docked, additional emergency care may also be obtained through local medical facilities. Guests may be charged for medical services and medications used for their medical treatment. The Medical Centre is not intended or designed to provide ongoing treatment for pre-existing conditions or extended critical care, and Silversea is not responsible for the diagnosis, treatment or services furnished by shipboard medical personnel. Guests requiring oxygen for medical reasons are welcome to bring an oxygen concentrator on board.

Guests wishing to bring their own portable oxygen tanks must obtain prior written authorization from Silversea, as restrictions may apply. (For additional details, see the Passage Contract/Holiday Contract.)

As embarkation to and from Silver Origin requires Zodiac operations, only children that have reached their 5th birthday on departure date can travel onboard Silver Origin.

At Silversea, the safety of all guests is paramount. To ensure a comfortable environment for all, smoking is prohibited in most public areas, guest suites, and suite balconies. However, cigarette, e-cigarette, cigar, pipe, and vaporizer smoking is permitted at the Fire Pit and Stargazing (Deck 8).

Silversea kindly requests that all guests respect the non-smoking areas.

Complete valet services, including laundry, pressing and wet cleaning, are available and may be arranged through your butler. Customary charges will apply.

Guests sailing in Owner’s, Grand, Royal, Silver, Medallion suite have complimentary laundry, pressing and wet cleaning

All guests will be granted complimentary, unlimited standard Wi-Fi for one device at a time. Guests sailing in an Owner’s, Grand, Royal,Medallion or Silver suite will receive complimentary unlimited premium Wi-Fi for one device at a time. Standard Wi-Fi is provided at regular satellite speed — ideal for emailing, web surfing, chat or similar. It is not suitable for video, audio calls, or streaming. Premium Wi-Fi access is suitable for all kinds of applications, including video and audio call and streaming.

Premium Wi-Fi is available at an additional charge and will provide access for up to four devices simultaneously. You may use your own laptop to conveniently access the wireless internet and personal email services from the privacy of your own suite, and throughout the ship

Silversea will make every attempt to accommodate guests with special dietary requirements. If you have any special needs, please note them on the Guest Information Form or have your travel agent fax Silversea

Special Services (+ 1 954-356-5881) or email: specialservices@silversea. com at least 120 days before sailing. Extra charges might apply.

Silversea visits ports around the world, including some of the most remote locations available for cruise ships, which significantly vary their ability to accommodate guests with disabilities including those in wheelchairs.

Silversea will attempt to arrange alternative transportation for guests with limited mobility to access port facilities, where available. In each case, the

Master of the vessel make a final determination for all concerned guests regarding the advisability of providing such assistance or disembarking guests or mobility equipment taking into account all appropriate factors, including the port’s conditions, weather conditions, security conditions, and the equipment to be disembarked.

Silversea is pleased to offer unmatched service at sea while offering reasonable assistance to guests who may require additional assistance during their voyage. Please note, however, that we are unable to provide staff fully dedicated to providing guests with wheelchair assistance.

Guests requiring full-time assistance will need to travel with a travel companion who will assist them. 

Itineraries on a Silversea expedition voyage offer many expedition activities that will require guests to have good mobility and be in good overall health.

Some expedition activities may require prolonged periods of physical activity, including standing, walking, hiking, climbing, swimming, diving, or negotiating uneven or slippery terrain. If at any point prior to booking or otherwise sailing on your voyage, you become concerned about your fitness to travel, please contact your local Silversea office, travel agent, or email us directly at specialservices@silversea.com to let us know.

The medical services and medication on board the Vessel is extremely limited and all guests are required to bring an adequate supply of any specific medication needed. All guests will be charged for use of the medical facilities. It is therefore recommended that guests have full travel insurance to cover any medical costs incurred onboard.

Special Assistance

Please note that you are required to complete the special assistance questionnaire found in My Silversea, Guest information Form, Special requests Tab at Silversea.com.

Health Questionnaire

During the boarding process, you will be asked to complete a health acknowledgment form.

Inoculations

Generally, inoculations are not required in most areas where Silversea travels. However, any requirements that may apply are subject to change so we recommend you verify current guidelines with your travel agent before departure. Please note that when travelling to countries which do require vaccinations, written verification will be needed. Before taking any trip overseas, it is wise to check with your doctor, especially if you are under a doctor’s care.

Prescription Medication

For your convenience and wellbeing, you must bring a sufficient supply of any prescription medicine you may need. Prescriptions cannot be refilled onboard, and usually cannot be refilled overseas. To prevent delays in clearing customs, it is also a good idea to travel with a doctor’s letter explaining your prescription medication is required for your continued health. It is also recommended that the medicine remains in its original container with the original pharmacy label intact.

Special Medical Conditions

At Silversea, your health and safety are our priority. If you have any medical conditions that may require our attention, or should you needoxygen for medical reasons while on board, we kindly ask you to provide a written notification at least 60 days before your voyage to the email address specialservices@silversea.com or Fax at 954-356-5881. If you prefer, you may mail Silversea Special Services, 1050 Caribbean Way, 5th floor, Miami FL 33131.

Please note that an oxygen concentrator is the only form of oxygen equipment that Silversea ships can accommodate. Guests wishing to bring their portable oxygen tanks must obtain prior written authorisation from Silversea, as restrictions may apply.

Every Silversea Expedition is transformed by our expertise in navigating the most remote and remarkable destinations across the globe. Enjoy our all-inclusive onboard experience and unparalleled service from The Galápagos. Expeditions Experts prepare you for every excursion with conversational lectures and daily briefings — before leading you to the forefront of discovery on guided Zodiac, kayak, and hike tours. The nimble design of our ships allows for seamless entry into hidden coves, and vibrant coral reefs far beyond the path of traditional cruise routes — promising rare encounters with nature in its purest form. Throughout your voyage, enjoy 24-hour butler service and world-class dining, ensuring that every moment on board is defined by comfort, elegance, and exceptional service.