Join Dirty Dozen Expeditions on our open circuit-only expedition onboard the Calipso to discover the world-famous wildlife of the unique Galapagos Islands with special guest, Jill Heinerth.

Decompression diving is not permitted in the Galapagos and so certification prerequisites are Advanced Open Water with a minimum of 50 dives.

Check out our YouTube video for an idea of what to expect diving the Galapagos.

Straddling the equator and spread out over 45,000 sq km (17,000 sq miles) the Galapagos Archipelago is home to some of the planet’s most remote dive sites and best big animal diving.

When we think of the Galapagos, the first things to come to mind are iguanas, sharks, and Charles Darwin. But the islands have a rich history and there are plenty of interesting tales originating from our earth’s closest approximation to Jurassic Park.

Diving

All dives in the Galapagos must be guided by law. However, the dive guides are just that, guides and not instructors or technical diving gurus. You are responsible for your own safety and dive planning at all times. 

Solo diving is not permitted at any time.

Environment

Diving in the Galapagos is rewarding but occasionally demanding, even for very experienced divers. To make sure you enjoy your trip, divers must be a minimum of Advanced Open Water with 50 dives. It is preferable if you have experience with strong currents and low visibility.

At many Galapagos dive sites, the currents run on the strong side. Because of these currents and the huge amount of nutrients in the water, the visibility may be low at times.

Divers are often surprised that the water temperature in the Galapagos is cooler than they expect. Despite the archipelago’s location at the equator, cool currents keep temperatures closer to moderate than warm. Divers can expect water temperatures ranging from 12°C to 26°C (53-78°F). 

Thermoclines are common. To combat the sharp changes in temperature, divers in the Galapagos should bring exposure protection that is suitable for the cooler depths. We recommend a drysuit with light and thick undergarments so you can adjust your thermal protection to the swinging temperatures during the trip. You should also pack your gloves as these are useful for support when a strong current is running. 

If you feel the cold, it’s best to pack an extra vest, hood, or shortie for use with your normal suit. Aboard our vessel we have 5 and 7 mm full wetsuits available for rent, which you can use in conjunction with your own gear. Boots and open heel fins are recommended.

There are no dive shops in Galapagos for the purchase of diving equipment. Calipso will have some basic diving equipment on board for hire, but with different configurations on board it’s crucial that you bring as many spares as possible so you do not miss any dives. If you service your equipment before coming to Galapagos, please use it a couple times before traveling to ensure there are no problems. 

Cylinders

The Calipso provides 11L (80cuft) cylinders as standard.

Diving Emergencies

The Galapagos Islands are an extremely remote diving destination and some dive sites are a full day's sail from the nearest hyperbaric treatment facility in Puerto Ayora on the island of Santa Cruz. They operate a 24 hour emergency service with physicians, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), chamber operators, and patient attendants on staff. All are trained by accredited international associations in hyperbaric medicine. The clinic has the latest technology and operates under rigorous international regulations and safety standards.

It is mandatory that our guests purchase dive and liveaboard-specific insurance according to their level of certification. This insurance needs to cover air evacuation and the appropriate depths you plan to dive to. We strongly urge that all guests dive well within recognized limits and follow our advice.

Click the following link for more information about our preferred insurance partner:

DiveAssure Insurance

Our expedition vessels are equipped with fully stocked medical first aid kits for treating minor injuries and ailments as well as for assisting trained medical professionals in remote locations. Each yacht has a full complement of medical-grade oxygen which can be administered to divers through DAN kits or unit-specific attachments. You will also find an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on board. AEDs have been proven to greatly increase survival rates in the eventuality of cardiac fibrillation. Our dive teams are all qualified emergency responders. Should you feel unwell at any point during your cruise, please seek the advice of your cruise director who will be able to assist you.

Medical Treatment

There are limited medical facilities in the Galapagos Islands. Make sure your insurance includes evacuation by air ambulance. If you travel to the Galapagos Islands by boat, you may be asked to supply information such as your blood group and emergency contacts when you board. 

San Cristóbal Island has a well-equipped public hospital. Santa Cruz Island has a basic hospital. Isabela Island has a very small and extremely basic health centre. Normal precautions should be taken with food and it is advisable to drink bottled water only.

Vaccinations

No vaccinations are required before entering Ecuador, however, we recommend consulting with your doctor for updated information prior to departure. 

If you are traveling from a Yellow Fever area, proof of immunization might be required. It’s recommended that tetanus immunizations are also up to date before traveling to Galapagos.

Galapagos is a malaria-free zone and mosquitoes are not a problem on the boat. But they can be annoying on shore, so consider bringing insect repellent.

Flights

We suggest you book your international flight to arrive into and out of Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE) in Ecuador. It is recommended that you arrive in Ecuador a minimum of 1-2 days before the expedition departure so you are well rested before the start of the trip. 

You will then book a domestic flight to San Cristobal on or before the day of embarkation. The domestic flight between Quito/Guayaquil and San Cristobal (SCY) runs once a day, departing in the morning, and you can book through LATAM or Avianca airlines.

If you are not staying in the Galapagos or Ecuador for any additional nights before or after the trip, please book your international flights to allow plenty of time for the domestic arrival and international check-in.

Before checking in for the domestic flight you should purchase an Ingala Transit Card from the kiosk at the airport. This costs $25USD and you will need to provide your passport and flight information. On arrival into San Cristobal you will need to pay a $200USD National Park Fee in cash. 

Visa

The Galapagos Islands are a province of Ecuador. Passport holders of most Western and Asian countries will be issued with a visa on arrival into Ecuador that allows for stays of up to 90 days, however, we always advise our guests to check for updates and changes at www.ecuador.org. 

Visitors from countries other than the US should check the Visa requirements for the passport they hold.

Please make sure that your passport has at least 6 months validity beyond the period you intend to stay in Ecuador. If you are travelling with medication, ensure you bring your physician’s prescription with you.

Food

The Calipso offers a choice of international and local cuisine, served buffet style in the indoor, air-conditioned dining area. We cater to special dietary requirements. Please inform our reservations team prior to your trip to ensure we have plenty of dishes to suit your needs. A range of carbonated soft drinks, fruit juices, black, green, and herbal teas are available, as well as instant and freshly brewed coffee. A selection of fresh fruit is always on hand, as well as some tasty treats in case you feel peckish in between meal times. You may also select beer, wine, or spirits from the cocktail bar for an additional fee.

Clothing

It is recommended that our guests bring casual and comfortable clothes. Think swimwear, shorts, and t-shirts. A sweater is advised for cooler nights, particularly after multiple dives. We request that guests respect others by wearing clothing at all meal times. Most guests prefer to walk barefoot on board our vessel, however, island visits may require sturdy sandals or cross-trainers.

Electricity

Local electricity is 110-volt supplied through American two-pin sockets. Onboard Calipso most outlets are 110-volt with a few 220-volt outlets. There are a number of sockets at the camera charging area. Calipso can provide a limited number of UK, European, and US plug adapters but recommends guests bring their own.

Gratuities

Tipping is a matter of personal choice. Should you feel that your crew has made your expedition extra special, then they will certainly appreciate a tip. Please be advised that the boat can only accept cash tips. An envelope will be provided for your convenience by the cruise director and gratuities are divided equally between all the crew, including the captain and the dive guides. If you would like to tip we recommend approx. 5-10% of the trip price.

Smoking on board is permitted in designated outdoor areas.

Calipso was completely rebuilt from the keel up. The motors, generators, compressors, cabins, salon, dining area, dive deck, sundeck…everything is brand new, fresh, and modern. Everything was designed efficiently with the comfort of divers in mind.

Accommodation

The Calipso has 6 double cabins on the upper deck and 2 double cabins on the main deck. All double cabins are convertible as either twin singles or one double bed. Double cabins have panoramic windows for views. Cabins range from 11 m2/ 120 sq. ft. to 13 m2 / 140 sq. ft. 

An incredibly spacious lounge and dining area is located on the main deck of the boat providing plenty of air-conditioned space to unwind and enjoy the phenomenal onboard cuisine after an exciting day of diving. 

Calipso has a spacious dive deck. Each stainless steel diver station has storage underneath. We have a deep stainless camera rinse tank and a dry charging area with shelves to accommodate your batteries. The dive deck also has a bathroom, a towel warming station, and 4 hot showers.

Guest Facilities

-8 twin-bed/double/single-bed A/C and en suite cabins for 16 guests
- Apple TV, hair dryers, safety deposit box and USB plugs

- Spacious indoor dining area with a camera station, complete with numerous charging points and storage facilities
- The dive deck provides individual set up stations, under-bench storage, and a camera table
- Large entry platform to the rear and staff deckhands to assist with entry and exit
- Indoor lounge and bar with a plasma screen for planning expedition dives
- Plenty of space to set up rebreathers and fill scrubbers
- Big rinsing tubs
- Sundeck with hot tub
- Two dive tenders
- Brand new, customized expedition tec diving facilities
- Starlink internet

Check out what previous guests had to say about their experiences in Galapagos.

Dallas S. Simpson - Dirty Dozen repeat customer

'This was my second Dirty Dozen Expedition. Two and a half years prior to embarking on this trip while on another DD expedition Aron casually mentioned he was going to run an all CCR trip to the Galapagos and without a second thought I immediately said, "sign me up!”. The Galapagos Islands had been on my list for some time; not only for their unparalleled pelagic life, but the uniqueness of these remote islands with their endemic species found many of which are not found anywhere else.

Leading up to this inaugural trip there was great communications and even a pre-trip zoom session with our knowledgeable local guides to prepare us for the diving conditions we should expect. But nothing could prepare me for what I experienced. Underwater there was a seemingly endless parade of hammer heads with far too many to count, playful sea lions, the absolutely bizarre mola mola, massive oceanic mantas, and more spotted eagle rays than I have ever seen in one location. 

While on the surface we were surrounded by epic views at almost every mooring, like the recently “evolved” Pilars of Evolution and the sheer cliffs of Wolf Island. We even got a unique opportunity to observe from our skiff a mother orca and her calf on a hunt for sea turtles (she got one!).

I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention the people that made this trip what it was. From the crew of the Galapagos Master who kept us safe, fed and were always ready to assist on the dive deck, the local guides who could answer any question about local the flora and fauna and seemingly always knew the best spots for an ocean-life encounter, and Aron organizing all of this and making sure we were supported the whole way. 

But what sets this apart from so many others is the other guests that DD seems to attract. Sharks and Mantas are always cool but being able to share it all with great company was truly amazing. It’s always a special thing when a group of relative strangers with a shared passion come together and instantly vibe.

Can’t wait for the next one with these folks.'

Elmar Dette - Dirty Dozen repeat customer

'While a trip to the Galapagos ranks very high on any diver's wishlist, going to Galapagos on CCR is yet another story. Dirty Dozen Expeditions trip organization beforehand by catering for anything a CCR diver could wish for - plenty of sorb, O2, tanks in all sizes - not only allowed for very smooth operations on the dive deck but also initiated well-being feeling for any guest on board. This accompanied by the great briefing and guiding by Galapagos Rebreathers turned this into a trip of a lifetime.

When it comes to diving in the Galapagos, diving bubble-free allows much more intimate encounters with marine life and what encounters did we have! Whatever marine creature you can think of - it was there, most impressive the schools of Hammerheads which became more and more curious about those strange colorful creatures being us and thus circling closer and closer around and above us, what an incredible experience!

If I were to name the best dives ever surely those at Wolf and Darwin would stand out, you truly felt like participating in one of those famed BBC documentaries. But there is a lot more to see, from hunting dolphins to hunting (!) Orcas to the iconic marina Iguanas - the latter makes you feel like visiting Jurassic Park - to the giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island, this trip did not miss out on any animal you could wish for in the Galapagos Islands.

An exceptional experience with great buddies from all over the world, thanks Aron, will be back for more!'

Payment Schedule

Booking deposit (non-refundable)                            25% 

Payment 2 - 12 months prior to departure               25% 

Balance payment - 6 months prior to departure   50%

Terms & Conditions

All bookings are subject to the provisions in our "Terms and Conditions" and "Payment and Cancellation Terms" found on our website:
Terms & Conditions
Payment & Cancellation Terms

Booking a Dirty Dozen Expedition offers you a unique and unparalleled experience, distinct from conventional travel offerings. This exclusive expedition is meticulously crafted to cater to technical divers and dive teams, providing an extraordinary journey evolved from thousands of hours of wreck exploration.

At Dirty Dozen Expeditions we understand and respect the effort you will put into your trip of a lifetime, be it the funds and time spent on equipment and training or time away from family and work - we know how much it means to get your trip just right. We pride ourselves in providing first-hand knowledge and experience of technical diving in every destination we book, and so can offer you the very best advice and guidance on all aspects of your journey.

We believe it’s the little things that make the biggest difference, from direct access to company founder, Aron Arngrimsson, to making life-long friends as part of #teamdd. This is what you can expect from your Dirty Dozen Expedition:

• We are available by email or phone whenever you need to ask questions about your trip, from the moment you sign up until well after you return home;
• Our team have visited and dived all the destinations we book, so you are guaranteed the most accurate and experienced guidance;
• Solo travelers are welcomed and supported within our dive team culture, while established groups are given the freedom to dive and explore as they prefer;
• A Dirty Dozen Expeditions Leader onboard every trip will support and assist guests with daily expedition life;
• Safety is at the forefront of every expedition and we pride ourselves on being industry leaders in the use of ’splash checklists’, gas management procedures, and other onboard safety protocols;
• We offer our customers a FREE Human Factors in Diving (Fundamentals) training course with every booking;
• The option to pre-pay for onboard consumables to avoid hefty bills at the end of your trip;
• Access to preferential Trip Insurance rates with our preferred partner, DiveAssure;
• Expedition members are invited to 2 team Zoom meetings before every expedition, one to
  assist with long-term planning and one to answer final queries shortly before departure;
• A team WhatsApp group is set up 12 months before each trip to support planning, answer
  questions, and develop teamwork and camaraderie in the run-up to the expedition;
• Many of our trips feature special guests, certification agencies, or manufacturers, giving you
  the opportunity to meet and dive with some industry greats!
• Every team member receives a complimentary expedition t-shirt and water bottle, as well as
  novelty stickers and postcards as a souvenir of your time with #teamdd;
• Many trips feature a photographer/videographer who will document your time onboard and underwater to provide long-lasting memories.

And this is all on top of the standard trip inclusions listed further down the page!

We believe in transparent pricing with as many inclusions as possible to avoid unexpected charges at the end of your trip. While our trip price may appear higher than some other operators, this should help you plan for the realistic costs of this type of dive expedition and avoid nasty surprises down the road.

We hope you agree that booking with Dirty Dozen Expeditions will provide you with an experience quite unlike any other, and that we are the premier choice when it comes to technical diving expeditions.