Hello my fellow adventurer! If you’re as passionate about the underwater world as I am, you’ve probably been dreaming of diving in the Galapagos, right?

Those remote, wild islands teeming with marine life that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. That’s the stuff bucket lists are made of, my friend! And, let me tell you, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in this diver’s paradise than on the Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard.

Buckle up as we dive deep into what makes this liveaboard your ticket to an unforgettable underwater adventure.

Check out my other Galapagos liveaboard articles:
Galaxy Diver II Liveaboard
Galapagos Master Liveaboard

Overview of the Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard

Embarking on a liveaboard diving trip to the Galapagos is a special experience, something every diver dreams of. And when it comes to choosing the perfect liveaboard, the Humboldt Explorer stands out in the crowd.

Built to provide divers with an unparalleled experience in one of the world’s most exciting diving locations, the Galapagos, the Humboldt Explorer ensures an unforgettable marine adventure.

1. Cabins on the Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard

The Humboldt Explorer features eight comfortable cabins, designed to accommodate up to 16 guests. Each cabin has:

• A double or twin bed option for flexibility
• Private bathroom with hot water showers
• Air conditioning
• Dresser and window for personal convenience and natural light

The cabins have been constructed with a diver’s comfort in mind, promising a peaceful rest after an adventurous day of diving.

2. Communal Rooms

Socializing is a significant part of liveaboard experiences. The Humboldt Explorer offers spacious communal rooms, which include:

• A lounge and bar: where divers can relax, enjoy a drink, or share their day’s stories.
• A dining area: serving a mix of local and international cuisines to satisfy the taste buds.
• Sun deck: for those looking to soak in the sun and enjoy a panoramic view of the Galapagos.

Every corner of the Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard has been designed to make your trip not just a diving experience, but a luxurious vacation.

3. Dive Deck

The heart of any liveaboard is its dive deck, and the Humboldt Explorer boasts one of the most impressive. It offers:

• Spacious gear-up area
• Camera table with charging points
• Freshwater rinse tanks
• Personal gear lockers
• Nitrox for qualified divers

The dive deck also provides easy access to the two dive tenders, facilitating smooth, hassle-free dives.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Unique Diving Experiences: The Humboldt Explorer provides an opportunity to dive in some of the most biodiverse waters in the world, with sightings of hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and unique species like marine iguanas.	Limited Availability: Because of the high demand, slots for the Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard can get booked up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Fully Equipped Facilities: The liveaboard boasts modern facilities, including spacious cabins, a large lounge area, a well-equipped dive deck, and a dining room, ensuring comfort throughout your trip.	Cost: While the services and experiences offered are top-notch, the pricing might be on the higher side compared to other liveaboards. However, most divers find the experience well worth the investment.
Professional Crew and Dive Guides: The crew and guides are experienced and dedicated, providing detailed briefings and ensuring the safety and comfort of all guests.	Advanced Diving Conditions: Some dive sites in the Galapagos can be challenging due to currents and depths. It’s recommended for intermediate to advanced divers.
All-Inclusive Packages: Prices include all meals, beverages, and accommodation onboard the Humboldt Explorer. All dives, tanks, weights, and weight belts are also included.	Extra Fees: Some fees, such as the Galapagos National Park fee, the Chamber Support fee, and the fuel surcharge, are not included in the package price and must be paid separately.

Marine Life in the Galapagos

The Galapagos archipelago, renowned for its rich biodiversity, has been referred to as a “living museum and showcase of evolution.” The islands have served as an inspiration for scientists and nature enthusiasts alike for centuries.

Imagine swimming alongside playful sea lions, watching a graceful manta ray glide by, or observing the surreal movement of the marine iguanas. Your Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard experience will give you front row seats to this phenomenal show of nature.

Below is a peek at the exotic marine life that you’ll encounter while diving in the Galapagos:

Species	Description
Hammerhead Sharks	Famous for their unique head shape, these gentle giants form schools of hundreds in the Galapagos.
Whale Sharks	Mostly spotted between June and November, these are the largest fish in the ocean. A truly magnificent sight!
Galapagos Sharks	These powerful predators are a thrill to see in their natural environment.
Manta Rays	Graceful and elegant, they often gather in large numbers around cleaning stations.
Marine Iguanas	The only sea-going lizards in the world. It’s a surreal experience to see them grazing underwater.
Sea Lions	Playful and friendly, they might even come up to give you a closer look.
Sea Turtles	These ancient creatures glide through the water with an elegant calm, a lovely sight for any diver.

The Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard offers you exclusive access to dive sites, where the astonishing encounters are nothing short of a diver’s dream come true. The Galapagos Islands are teeming with unique species found nowhere else on Earth, offering an extraordinary window into our world’s marine biodiversity.

Specifications

Choosing the right liveaboard for your diving adventure is all about the details. And the Humboldt Explorer, designed with precision and attention to the divers’ needs, offers everything you could wish for in a liveaboard.

This boat combines excellent functionality with comfort, creating the perfect base for your underwater explorations. From its engine power to the space it offers for relaxation and socializing, every specification of the Humboldt Explorer has been crafted to provide a superior liveaboard experience.

To give you a clearer picture of what the Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard offers, let’s dive into the specifics:

Specification	Detail
Length	106 feet
Beam	21.3 feet
Speed	10 knots
Cabins	8 double cabins with private facilities
Passengers	Maximum of 16
Crew	7, plus 1 naturalist guide
Engine	Twin diesel engines
Water Capacity	2,000 gallons
Fuel Capacity	6,000 gallons
Voltage	110-208 Volts
Safety	All safety equipment meets or exceeds the international SOLAS standard
Navigation and Communication	VHF DSC, GPS, Radar, and AIS

Safety Measures

The thrill and adventure of a diving expedition should always be accompanied by stringent safety protocols. On the Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard, safety isn’t an afterthought; it’s an integral part of the experience.

Below are the key safety measures adopted by the Humboldt Explorer:

• Full safety equipment: All safety gear and systems on the Humboldt Explorer meet or exceed the international Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) standard.
• Emergency drills: Regular drills ensure that both crew and passengers are familiar with emergency procedures.
• Professional crew: Their team consists of certified professionals trained in first aid and emergency response.
• Dive guides: The Humboldt’s dive guides are experienced and knowledgeable about the Galapagos dive sites, ensuring safe and rewarding dives.
• Emergency equipment: The Humboldt Explorer is equipped with a defibrillator, oxygen, and first aid kits, ensuring a quick response in case of any emergency.

When to Go

The Galapagos Islands, with their diverse marine life and dramatic landscapes, are a year-round destination. However, depending on your interests, some periods may offer more exciting experiences than others.

Whether you’re eager to dive with sharks or keen on spotting unique bird species, here’s a quick guide to help you plan your trip.

• December to May: This is the warm season in the Galapagos, with calmer seas and visibility up to 30 meters. It’s the best time for diving with hammerhead sharks and manta rays.
• June to November: The cooler water during this time attracts whale sharks, especially around Darwin and Wolf Islands. While the seas can be rougher, the underwater encounters are well worth it.
• Year-round: Marine iguanas, sea lions, and various fish species can be seen throughout the year, ensuring exciting dives whenever you choose to visit.

Reviews

Hearing about the Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard experience from the divers who have lived it offers invaluable insights.

The following reviews are from actual divers who have embarked on this unforgettable journey, providing you with a glimpse of the thrilling adventure that awaits you in the Galapagos.

Review 1: The Avid Photographer

“As a keen underwater photographer, the Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard surpassed all my expectations. The spacious dive deck with camera table and charging points was a blessing. I was thrilled to capture stunning images of hammerhead sharks, marine iguanas, and playful sea lions in the crystal-clear waters. The knowledgeable guides were always ready to help identify the different species and their behavior. Can’t wait to return!“

Review 2: The Experienced Diver

“Having been on numerous liveaboards, the Humboldt Explorer stands out for its attention to detail. The spacious cabins, excellent food, and professional crew created a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. But the real highlight was the diving. From the dramatic underwater landscapes to the unique encounters with marine life, each dive was a new adventure. If you’re a serious diver, the Humboldt Explorer is a must!“

Review 3: The Nature Enthusiast

“As a wildlife enthusiast, the Galapagos has always been on my bucket list. The Humboldt Explorer made my dreams come true. The boat is comfortable and well-equipped, but it’s the naturalist guide’s knowledge and passion that made the trip unforgettable. We saw everything from whale sharks to marine iguanas, and even had sea lions playfully approaching us. It was like stepping into a nature documentary. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!“

Booking and Pricing

Planning your diving adventure with the Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard involves a simple booking process designed with your convenience in mind. It’s important to plan ahead, as spaces fill up quickly, especially during the peak seasons.

Here’s a straightforward guide on how you can secure your spot on this unforgettable journey:

• Choose Your Dates: Decide on the time of the year that suits your diving preferences best. Remember, different marine species are more prominent at different times of the year.
• Check Availability: Visit the official website or contact the booking team to verify the availability on your preferred dates.
• Make a Reservation: Once your dates are confirmed, make your reservation. You will need to pay a deposit to secure your spot.
• Final Payment: The final payment is typically due 90 days before the departure date.
• Prepare for Your Journey: Once your booking is confirmed, all you need to do is prepare for the adventure that awaits!

Understanding the cost involved in your Galapagos adventure is crucial in planning your trip. Prices can vary based on the time of the year, the type of cabin you choose, and other factors.

Let’s take a look at the typical pricing and what’s included in your Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard experience:

Item	Price
Standard Cabin (per person)	$5,095
Master Cabin (per person)	$5,395
Park Fee	$100
Chamber Support Fee	$35
Tourist Card	$20
Fuel Surcharge	$150

Please note that the prices include all meals, beverages, and accommodation onboard the Humboldt Explorer. It also covers all dives, tanks, weights, and weight belts. Additional charges include travel insurance, dive insurance, rental gear, Nitrox, and crew gratuities.

Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard FAQs

I’ve never been on a liveaboard before. What can I expect on the Humboldt Explorer?

As a first-time liveaboard diver, you’ll find the Humboldt Explorer to be a perfect blend of comfort and adventure. You’ll be living aboard a boat designed specifically for diving, equipped with modern amenities like cozy cabins, a lounge area, and a dining area. Diving activities are planned throughout the day, and all meals and snacks are provided. Our friendly crew is always on hand to assist you and ensure you have an unforgettable experience.

I am an experienced diver who’s been on several liveaboards. Why should I choose the Humboldt Explorer?

The Humboldt Explorer stands out for its exceptional diving experience in the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos. Our knowledgeable guides provide in-depth briefings and lead you to the best diving spots where you can encounter a wide range of marine life, including hammerhead sharks, marine iguanas, and manta rays. The boat offers spacious cabins, a fully equipped dive deck, and personalized service that cater to both the practical and comfort needs of seasoned divers.

Can you tell me more about the facilities onboard the Humboldt Explorer?

The Humboldt Explorer is a 106-feet liveaboard equipped to ensure a comfortable and exciting diving adventure. The boat features eight double cabins with private facilities, a large lounge area with a dining room, bar, and entertainment center. The spacious dive deck includes camera tables and charging points for underwater photography enthusiasts. We offer full-board meal service, with a variety of local and international cuisines.

What kind of marine life can I expect to see while diving in the Galapagos?

The Galapagos Islands are renowned for their incredible biodiversity. Depending on the time of your visit, you can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, manta rays, marine iguanas, sea lions, and a wide range of tropical fish. The underwater landscapes are also a sight to behold, with volcanic formations, coral reefs, and underwater cliffs. It’s truly a diver’s paradise!

Final Take

Embarking on the Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard promises an adventure unlike any other, delivering unparalleled diving experiences amidst the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. With its cozy accommodations, knowledgeable guides, and strict adherence to safety protocols, you’re set for a memorable journey.

Whether you’re an amateur diver or a seasoned veteran, this liveaboard offers everything you need for a thrilling dive experience, where the enchanting marine life of the Galapagos is just a plunge away. So, why wait? Your underwater adventure awaits!

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