Santa Cruz’s best fishing adventures happen right off the Galápagos Islands.
I love the full-day Pinzón Island excursion – it perfectly combines fishing with incredible snorkeling spots.
Santa Fe Island offers a more intimate experience, ideal for families who want both fishing and snorkeling in calmer waters.
Particularly impressive is the Palmitas Bay tour, where you’re practically guaranteed to spot fascinating marine life while trying your luck with the local fish.
These well-organized trips run like clockwork and the guides really know their stuff.
My favorite has to be the BM TOURS SA full-day wildlife expedition to Pinzón – they’ve got the perfect balance of fishing and nature watching.
Let’s explore the standout fishing tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- The Pinzón Island and La Fé/Palmitas Bay Tour offers a full-day excursion with snorkeling and fishing activities, but may have strong currents and sharp rocks.
- The Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach Tour by Guiding Galapagos Expeditions provides a 7-hour tour with snorkeling and limited fishing, but has reported safety concerns.
- The Pinzón Island La Fé/Las Palmas Tour is a full-day adventure with a maximum of 10 travelers, but has mixed reviews on fishing success and overall experience.
- The Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida Tour is a full-day tour with snorkeling and a grilled fish lunch, and is generally well-received by participants.
- The Full-Day Pinzón Island Tour by BM TOURS SA focuses on diverse wildlife and includes fishing for yellowfin tuna and snorkeling, but has concerns regarding communication and equipment quality.
Day Tour to Pinzón Island and La Fé/Palmitas Bay With Snorkeling and Fishing
This full-day excursion whisks travelers to the stunning Pinzón Island and the picturesque La Fé/Palmitas Bay, where they’ll have the chance to snorkel and fish among the region’s captivating marine life.
Recommended by 96% of past participants, this tour offers an unforgettable experience for up to 12 guests. The price, starting at $239 per person, includes the use of snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, a freshly prepared lunch, and all necessary fees and taxes.
During the snorkeling portion, travelers can expect to encounter sea turtles, sharks, sea lions, and a diverse array of marine life. Some have even reported swimming with baby sharks, rays, and giant manta rays.
While the snorkeling is highly praised, travelers should be aware of potential strong currents and sharp volcanic rocks, and water shoes are recommended. The tour guides are knowledgeable and ensure the safety of participants throughout the excursion.
Read our full review: Day Tour to Pinzón Island and La Fé/Palmitas Bay With Snorkeling and Fishing Review
Book now: Check availability
Day Tour to Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach With Snorkeling and Fishing
The day tour to Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach offers travelers an unforgettable opportunity to enjoy the stunning natural wonders of the Galapagos. Operated by Guiding Galapagos Expeditions, the tour provides a maximum group size of 10 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
During the 7-hour excursion, participants can expect to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, where they may encounter sea lions, sea turtles, eagle rays, sharks, and a vibrant array of tropical fish.
For those interested in fishing, the tour includes a limited 20-minute fishing activity during the return journey. Lunch, prepared on board, offers a choice of fish/seafood or chicken/ceviche, along with dessert options.
However, some guests have reported safety concerns regarding strong currents during the snorkeling activities, as well as mixed reviews regarding the responsiveness and personability of the guides.
Ultimately, the tour offers a chance to explore the Galapagos’ natural wonders, but travelers should consider the potential challenges and be prepared to advocate for their safety.
Read our full review: Day Tour to Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach With Snorkeling and Fishing Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Tour Pinzon Island La Fe/Las Palmas – Snorkeling & Fishing
Travelers seeking a full-day adventure in the Galapagos can embark on the Pinzon Island La Fe/Las Palmas tour, offering a captivating blend of snorkeling and fishing. Priced from $155 per person, this all-day activity takes place in Santa Cruz, Ecuador, with a maximum of 10 travelers.
The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, fishing rods, and all necessary gear, as well as a provided lunch, snacks, and bottled water.
While the wildlife sightings during the snorkeling portion vary, previous guests have reported seeing sharks, turtles, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies.
Fishing opportunities are also included, though with mixed reviews on the success rate. The tour operator, Galapagos Ninfa Tour, strives to provide an attentive experience catering to different skill levels.
However, guests should be aware of potential safety concerns and weather conditions that may affect the overall experience. Feedback is encouraged to help improve future tours.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour Pinzon Island La Fe/Las Palmas – Snorkeling & Fishing Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida Snorkeling and Fishing
For those seeking a captivating adventure in the Galapagos, the full-day Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida snorkeling and fishing tour promises an unparalleled experience.
Operated by Galápagos Ninfa Tour, this excursion takes travelers on a journey to explore the stunning natural landscapes and vibrant marine life of these islands. With a maximum of 12 participants, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, a delicious grilled fish and rice lunch, refreshments, and even a wetsuit. Travelers will be picked up from their hotel in Puerto Ayora and transported to the meeting point before setting off on their adventure.
The tour is suitable for those with a moderate level of physical fitness, and infants are welcome to join, sitting on laps.
According to reviews, the tour provides excellent snorkeling opportunities, allowing participants to witness the region’s diverse wildlife.
While some communication issues have been reported, the overall recommendations highlight the tour’s ability to deliver a family-friendly and enjoyable experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida Snorkeling and Fishing Review
Book now: Check availability
Full-Day Pinzon Island Snorkeling and Fishing
A full-day Pinzon Island snorkeling and fishing adventure awaits visitors to Santa Cruz, Ecuador. Offered by BM TOURS SA, the tour promises to explore the Galapagos’ diverse wildlife, including sea lions, giant sea turtles, dolphins, and iguanas.
Participants can look forward to snorkeling, fishing for yellowfin tuna, and observing wildlife in La Fe. The tour includes all taxes, fees, hotel pickup, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and lunch on board.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the experience starts at 8:00 am from the meeting point in Puerto Ayora. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
However, some past participants have reported issues, such as poor communication regarding pickup, extended wait times, and confusing instructions.
Plus, concerns have been raised about the quality of the snorkeling gear, with feedback highlighting the need for better equipment and safer routes.
Read our full review: Full-Day Pinzon Island Snorkeling and Fishing Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Santa Cruz offers a variety of fishing tours that allow visitors to explore the area’s stunning natural beauty. From day trips to Pinzón Island and La Fé/Palmitas Bay to full-day excursions to Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida, there’s something for every level of angler. These tours provide opportunities for snorkeling and fishing, making them a great way to experience the region’s marine life.