Snorkel and Fish Pinzón Island: Day Trip to La Fé & Palmitas Bay (Galápagos)
Head offshore from Puerto Ayora to snorkel in the vivid waters around Pinzón Island and explore La Fé/Palmitas Bay by boat. Expect close encounters with sea turtles, rays, sea lions and a chance to fish for yellowfin before a fresh, on-board lunch.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential and required by local rules—use reef‑safe SPF and reapply before and after snorkels.
Wear secure footwear
Slip‑resistant water shoes make boarding and rocky shore exits safer during mangrove walks or short landings.
Prepare for motion
If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventive medication before departure—the ride can be choppy at times.
Follow the guide’s briefing
Keep a respectful distance from wildlife and avoid touching marine animals or stepping on coral; guides enforce park rules.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The calm natural swimming pool at Pinzón—a shallow site ideal for spotting juveniles and reef patches
- •A short mangrove walk at La Fé where Darwin’s finches, lava herons and seldom‑seen crabs gather during low tide
Wildlife
- •Galápagos sea lion
- •Marine iguana
Conservation Note
Tours operate inside the Galápagos Marine Reserve with strict rules—no feeding or touching wildlife, proper waste management, and regulated fishing to reduce impact.
Pinzón (Duncan) Island and nearby islets figure in early naturalist studies; the central islands were key in observations that influenced Darwin’s work on species variation.
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the marine environment during multiple snorkel sessions.
Water shoesEssential
Helps when boarding, disembarking and walking rocky shorelines or mangrove edges.
Light wetsuit or rashguard
Provided on tour, but bringing a personal layer improves comfort in cooler water or wind.
Waterproof camera or dry bag
Secures phones and captures underwater moments without risking gear loss.
Common Questions
Do I need to know how to snorkel?
Basic swimming and comfort with a mask and snorkel are recommended; guides assist beginners and equipment is provided.
Is fishing included and can I keep the catch?
Fishing from the boat is part of the tour; local regulations and tour policy determine retention—often caught yellowfin is served on board.
How far is the boat ride from Puerto Ayora?
Typical crossings to Pinzón and nearby bays take around 45–90 minutes depending on conditions and exact itinerary.
Are wetsuits and snorkel gear provided?
Yes—operators provide Cressi/Scubapro masks and O’Neill or supplied wetsuits; bring personal items like rashguards if you prefer.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 hours
Location
Puerto Ayora, Galápagos
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to swim, enter/exit boats and do short walks (45–60 minutes)
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