Swim Galapagos – Water World Swim

GALAPAGOS

APRIL 2022 ( Registrations opening soon)

Join Water World Swim on our next Voyage to the Galapagos Islands! Seize this unique opportunity to explore this Pacific Archipelago, discovered by Charles Darwin in 1831. Swim, snorkel, kayak, and hike through some of the most spectacular vegetation and immaculate stretch of nature in the world.

Fine tune your swim technique and prepare for your next challenge during our swim clinics, hosted by international coach, Pedro Ordenes! Prefer a vacation pace? With water so warm and clear that you can see the bottom, you will have plenty of time to wonder at the sea life and experience the Galapagos’s famed marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins, the legendary giant tortoise and more! You will also enjoy local food and drink and relaxation.

THE EVENT

LOCATIONS

Swims will be at different locations on Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island.

2K OPEN WATER SWIM

One of our swims will start from one of the public docks, 2 km back and forth.

3.5K OPEN WATER SWIM CHALLENGE

For the Swim at Itabaca, Swimmers will be transferred to Baltra Island and will swim through the Itabaca Channel.

The package

Pricing

USD $1750.00 per person, Water World Swim Members pay $1550.00!

Package includes:

5 nights accommodation at Hotel Cucuve
Two dinners
Snacks and refreshments during tours
Sport Tech T-shirt

Package does not include:

Travel expenses to Galapagos or Airplane Reservation
Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Galapagos National Park entrance fee USD 100.00
Tourist card USD 10.00
Anything not specified
Credit Card usage fee

Trip summary

While swimming in the Galapagos, you will experience water so clear that you can see the marine life on the sea floor. In celebration of this isolated nature, we do everything in our power to ensure eco-friendly tourism.

Temperatures
Water temperatures are expected to be around 24ºC ( 75ºF) to 25ºC (78ºF). Leave the wetsuit at home!

Currency and Language
The currency in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands is the U.S. Dollar. The majority of people in tourist offices and hotels speak English.

Essential Equipment

In addition to normal daily clothes you will need to bring the following:

Swimsuit (2)
Walking shoes
Swimming goggles (2) *
Waterproof jacket
Towel
Sun Hat and Sunglasses
Waterproof sun block
Small backpack
Water bottle
Aqua shoes or sandals (mandatory to get from beach to boat and back)

Please note that Water World Swim will supply swim caps.

*Try to bring at least 1 clear lens and 1 tinted lens for different light conditions. We recommend one clear goggle, one smoke, and one blue or yellow. Goggles are light, and you can never bring too many back-ups of your favorite pair.

Optional Equipment
These items are optional. However, we do recommend that you bring them to give you more comfort options:

Wetsuit
Swim aids as zoomers or fins
Snorkel and mask
Rash vest to protect you from the sun.
Body Glide
Neoprene cap, if your head gets cold easily

Walking Conditions
Most walks will be on recognized paths and tracks. Some walks may be over trails, or uneven terrain.

Getting there

STEP ONE: Getting to Guayaquil in Ecuador

LATAM Airlines and Avianca offers flights to Galapagos during all seasons, mostly from US, Europe and South America.

There are direct non-stop flights from several US cities like Houston, New York and Miami, as well as from European cities like Madrid to Guayaquil.

We recommend purchasing travel insurance.

When you register, send us your arrival details to Guayaquil Airport, and whether you will be staying at a hotel.

STEP TWO: Customs and Check-In at Guayaquil Airport

Please Note: You must do customs and check-in at the airport, not online! You also must arrive at least 3 hours before boarding your flight to the Galapagos Islands. We recommend re-confirming your flight the day before.

The Galapagos Governor’s office will review your documentation and give you a permit to enter the National Park $10.00 USD (fee not included). The Galapagos is a fragile ecosystem. To minimize the introduction of threatening elements, your baggage will be checked. You are not allowed to bring in any seeds or fruit into the Galapagos Islands. After your baggage screen, you will proceed to the airlines Check In desk.

STEP THREE: From Guayaquil to Balta Airport in the Galapagos

It is your responsibility to reach Santa Cruz Island where your Water World Swim adventure begins! There are flights from the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador to Baltra Island Airport, which is on a smaller island just a short ferry ride from the northern tip of Santa Cruz. The airlines that provide daily Flights to Santa Cruz from Guayaquil or from Quito, Ecuador are LAN Airlines, Tame Airlines, and Aerogal Airlines.
The incoming flights to Guayaquil arrive late at night. If you arrive in Guayaquil the day before you fly to Galapagos, you may decide to stay overnight. There are many hotels in the city, all very near the Airport. We recommend The Holiday Inn, which is within walking distance of the airport. You may book on line and their rates very reasonable. Taxi fare costs roughly $5.00 for rides within the city of Guayaquil.
You may also fly to San Cristobal Island where you can take a boat that leaves twice a day to Santa Cruz Island. The ride to the Santa Cruz island pier takes 2 hours, at a fee of $30.00 USD.

STEP FOUR: Arrival at Baltra Airport, Galapagos Islands

Once you land at Baltra Airport, you will have to pay a Tourist tax $100.00 USD per person. You can take a bus to the ferry that will travel to Santa Cruz Island’s pier. As you disembark in Santa Cruz, there will be buses that will take you to Puerto Ayora. If you don’t wish to take the bus, taxis are available for a $20.00 fee. The bus or taxi ride is approximately 45 minutes.

BONUS: Transportation on the island
In the Galapagos, taxis cost $1.00 per ride. Nope, that's not a typo! Just a dollar a ride to anywhere. In Guayaquil, a taxi costs $5.00 for any distance or destination.

Disclaimer

Marine Life Disclaimer
Swimming in the Galapagos is a rare experience, but you need to be aware of potential challenges. You may see marine life – such as jellyfish, sea urchins, and coral. We will minimize potential challenges and will brief you on how to responsibly interact with marine life. Our escort boats are equipped to treat the most common minor issues. However, it is your responsibility to contact us prior to booking if you suffer from Anaphylaxis or other medical conditions and allergies. You should seek medical attention if you develop any infection following contact with the above. We recommend that you purchase Travel Insurance.

Disclaimer
The safety of our swimmers, and environmental responsibility are the two priorities for Water World Swim. For safety reasons we rely on decent weather conditions during all swim crossings. Open water swimming requires an inherent degree of flexibility. The planned itinerary may change. This adds to the uniqueness of each tour!

FAQ

I'm a swimmer, but my friend/spouse/partner is not. Can they still come?
Non-swimming attendees are more than welcome to join us! They have as good a time as swimmers do. They are encouraged to travel with you.

Can I bring swim aids or my own equipment?
If you have favorite flippers, snorkels, swim paddles, or other aids/tools, you are welcome to bring them. We will also have some on hand if you'd like to try.

What currency is used in the Galapagos?
US dollars! Cash or credit - no need to exchange to any other currency. If you’d like to have cash on hand, about $250-350 should be plenty.

Is Guayaquil safe to walk around at night?
Yes, both men and women will be fine to walk around Guayaquil if you have a stop there for a night (not everyone does).

What about WiFi and cell service?
All hotels have free wifi. There is also cell service on the islands.

What about water conditions? Any dangerous animals?
The water is in the 70s, and not very rough at all. You’ll be seeing all kinds of marine life - marine iguanas are very shy, sea lions are very friendly. There are some small sharks but they have never expressed an interest in swimmers or people in general, so they are completely non-threatening. Our swimmers have been thrilled to swim with sharks! We are prepared to handle the rare event of jellyfish stings - but in our experience in the islands, we've never seen one. So in summary - there are no real fears to be had about the wildlife especially as there is no record of any marine life attack on a person, but we are prepared for worst case scenario nonetheless. Safety is our priority but there is nothing alarming out there.

I’m traveling elsewhere afterwards/bought some big souvenirs and want to ship some stuff home. Is that possible?
Yes, we can help you ship anything home. However, it will require DHL, which is a little expensive but most reliable.

Do we need insect repellent?
There are not that many mosquitos, but if you are often regarded as a tasty morsel by no-see-ums, then make comfort your priority. Right by the sea at sunset can be a hot time for mosquitos.

What do we wear in the water?
In addition to your swimsuit, you might want to consider a wetsuit if you like having the option or you’re more comfortable in one. However, the water is very warm in the 70s, so it is not entirely necessary. We do recommend a rash guard - it is basically a long-sleeve top often worn by surfers and other boarders to prevent chafing as they lay on boards. However, it is also excellent as sun protection, and will serve you well as you will be right on the equator.

Ecological consciousness

Water World Swim respects the natural environment of the Galapagos Islands. We are committed to social and environmental responsibility and practices that minimize our presence and impact to sea life and the natural habitat. We have partnered with marine biologists, naturalists, and environmental activists at Sail’n Galapagos and Tri Galapagos who devote their efforts to responsible tourism in a fragile ecosystem.

GALÁPAGOS TEAM

Coach Pedro Ordenes

Well known worldwide for his record-breaking swims, Pedro has completed the San Francisco Bay Alcatraz swim hundreds of times, using his experience to teach, coach and inspire thousands of swimmers from all over the world.

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Ricardo Arenas

Ricardo lives in the Galapagos since 1985. For 4 years worked in an institution promoting the regional development. In 1998 he founded Sail’n Galapagos and has assisted in 80% of the international traffic with his quality service.

Daniela Aguirre Schiess

Daniela, second generation Galapagueños, born and raised in the Galapagos Islands. Fluent inEnglish, Spanish and German. Her passion for the islands and the ocean has taken her to specialize in ecotourism, swimming, and freediving.

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Yvonne Mórtola

Yvonne a Professional Naturalist Guide (highest level) since 1984 She works in tourism vessels of the Galapagos. Fluent in German, English and Spanish.With her husband Ricardo created "Sail’n Galapagos" guiding private yachts visiting the islands.

Fall, 2021 · ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS TRAVEL · TRANSFER TO EVENTS FROM PUERTO AYORA · EVENTS REGISTRATIONS · SEA LIONS, IGUANAS, AND MORE!

Getting to Guayaquil in Ecuador: LATAM Airlines and Avianca offers flights to Galapagos during all seasons, mostly from US, Europe and South America. There are direct non-stop flights from several US cities like Houston, New York and Miami, as well as from European cities like Madrid to Guayaquil. We recommend purchasing travel insurance.

We believe in conservation through sustainable management. Water World Swim respects the natural environment of the Galapagos Islands. We are committed to social and environmental responsibility and practices that minimize our presence and impact to sea life and the natural habitat.

Nearly 2 years into the pandemic, this is an review of the information below:

Ecuador and the Galapagos are fully open and there has never been a better time to visit without crowds! Travel is easy, with neither visa requirements nor mandatory quarantine requirements (with the noted entry requirements met). GALAPAGOS TRAVEL resumed operating our Galapagos itineraries in April 2021 to great reviews. Ecuador’s vaccination rates are among the highest in Latin America and an emphasis is placed on safety throughout the country.

Ecuador Entry Requirements

For ages 16 and over:

• proof of full vaccination, completed at least 2 weeks prior to arrival, plus…
• negative RT-PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding your flight to Ecuador, plus…
• proof of medical & evacuation insurance, including Covid coverage, plus…
• a completed health attestation: https://declaracionsalud-viajero.msp.gob.ec

Galapagos Entry Requirements

For ages 16 and over:

• negative RT-PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding your flight to Galapagos.
• INGALA tourist migration card (which we arrange for our participants)
• Galapagos national park entry fee paid ($100, cash only)

Thermal imaging camera are in use the the airports.

Galapagos Travel will assist our travelers with any needed same-day RT-PCR tests needed in Quito, to fulfill the Galapagos entry requirements. Tests cost $70 (cash or credit card) and results returned in 4 hours.

Testing Requirements to fly to the U.S. from Ecuador

• a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours of boarding your flight.

Galapagos Travel will assist our travelers with the needed rapid antigen tests needed in Quito. Tests cost $40 (cash or credit card) and results returned in roughly 2 hours.

For anyone not traveling with Galapagos Travel we suggest you talk to your local agent or yacht office. There are today many testing facilities in Quito and Guayaquil, including at both airports.

In the event of a positive test result for anyone once in Ecuador

Anyone with a positive PCR or Antigen test result while in Ecuador is required to quarantine at your local hotel. Hotels have quarantine protocols and packages to protect travelers and staff alike. For example the Hotel Mercure Alameda where we stay in Quito…

• private accommodations with no staff entering the room
• 3 meals per day, via room service, at set times (trays are left outside room doors),
• clean linens delivered every 3 days,
• daily trash collection is specialized bags outside doors.

Quarantine rates are $70, plus taxes, including meals. Other hotels have similar programs in place.

New biosecurity and safety protocols are in place throughout Ecuador and Galapagos

This includes:

Our airport transfers now utilize larger SUV’s, vans and busses affording everyone more space. Vehicles are subject to a special sanitation regime between uses. The drivers and guides used are fully vaccinated.

The hotel we use in Quito – the Mercure Alameda Quito – has all new procedures in place, from an expanded registration area to allow for social distancing when checking in/out, temperature checks, contactless payments, deep cleaning and disinfection of all accommodations before and after each occupation, to personal hygiene kits and more. The breakfast buffet has been replaced with an (included) American breakfast, and capacity of the dining room is capped based on social distancing guidelines (with tables and chairs disinfected before and after each use). Room service (not included) is available 24 hours a day. Staff will enter guest rooms less frequently (although rooms will be stocked with extra towels and bed linens should you desire). Porters currently will not be handling luggage.

In Galapagos all arrivals walk across a sanitizing foot bath and all luggage, including hand-luggage, will be sprayed with a disinfectant. There will be a health screening where your COVID-19 test results are checked, plus a temperature check, and verification of health insurance.

The Tip Top IV yacht has experienced zero incidence of Covid, and they aim to maintain that perfect record. The crew are all triple vaccinated at this time, and subject to health checks and regular covid antigen testing. Numerous protocols, both obvious and behind the scenes, are in place to keep everyone in good health.
• more meals are served plated, and any buffets are served by the cooks,
• social distancing at meals,
• new cleaning procedures, timelines and satiation products in use, including updated air filtration systems and employing an ozone generator air purifier.

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