tip top iv

Step aboard Tip Top IV, a small Galapagos yacht designed for travelers who want time to notice the details, ocean-view cabins, easy deck flow, naturalist-led excursions, and wildlife-focused itineraries that balance adventure with genuine downtime.

$2,750

USD

starting at

I

4 - 5 - 8 - 15

DAYS

Highlights:

• Personalized service

• Outdoor deck

• Great guiding staff

Class: First Class

Type: Motor Yacht

Capacity (guests): 36

Tip Top IV feels purpose-built for the Galapagos watcher, the traveler who lingers a second longer, who follows a frigatebird’s shadow across the sea. The yacht’s guest-friendly layout makes moving from cabin to gear station  and Zodiac intuitive and quick, while open viewing areas keep wildlife at eye level. Ashore, small groups create space for real observation and unhurried photography. Back on board, the rhythm is easy: rinse off the salt, compare sightings, and watch the horizon glow. If you appreciate polished operations, naturalist-led discovery, and quiet comforts, Tip Top IV fits like a favorite field journal.

overview

10 cabins distributed between the lower and upper deck with private bathrooms and air conditioning.

• Ocean-View Cabins available: Bright, outside-facing staterooms, bedding can be arranged for couples or friends.

• Gather & Unwind: A comfortable lounge for briefings and nightcaps; shaded deck seating for reading and sea-breeze conversations; open foredecks for long, uninterrupted views.

• Effortless Flow: Short steps from cabin to staging area to Zodiac ladder, more exploring, less waiting.

suites & layout

Upper Deck Twin Cabin

Upper Deck Double Cabin

Lower Deck Twin Cabin

life on board

Life aboard Tip Top IV blends small-ship comfort with the feel of a floating field station: sunrise coffee and a crisp naturalist plan, snorkeling, kayaking, or Zodiac cruising through turquoise bays, then unhurried moments on open sun decks or in the ocean-view lounge. Evenings bring chef-inspired meals with Ecuadorian touches, easy conversation, and star-punctured skies, an inviting home base for Galapagos discovery.

itineraries & dates

Galapagos programs go from 4 - 5 - 8 and 15 days routes, built around two excursions per day.

JAN    FEB    MAR    APR    MAY    JUN

JUL    AUG    SEP     OCT    NOV    DEC

Sun Deck

Lounge

Micro-habitat Walks: Short, guide-led detours that focus on tiny worlds, lichen on lava, nesting pockets in saltbush, great for curious minds and macro lenses.

Blue-Notes Debrief: After water sessions, a quick huddle to identify fish, rays, and behaviors you just saw—turning encounters into memory anchors.

Slow-Look Deck Time: Structured quiet periods on the foredeck with binoculars provided—learn to spot movement lines, feeding frenzies, and raptor “kites” above cliffs.

Taste of the Islands Sampler: Small plate showcases, citrus-bright ceviche, Andean coffee tastings, tropical fruit pairings, light, local, and story-driven.

services & experiences

Lens Care on Deck: Bring a small rocket blower and microfiber cloth; salt mist settles fast during Zodiac runs and sunset shoots.

Zip-Pouch System: Pack clear pouches for “landing kit,” “snorkel kit,” and “camera bits”; you will change activities quickly on a small ship.

Thermal Swing Awareness: Even with equatorial sun, sea breezes cool quickly, add a thin wind layer for Zodiac rides after snorkels.

Hydration Rhythm: Two big landings = two bottle refills; set a simple rule so you naturally hit your water goals.

Language Ease:  Guides are fluent in English (and often Spanish); do not hesitate to ask for slower explanations during geology segments.

Souvenir Practicality: Shop pre- or post-cruise in town; onboard storage favors soft items, think textiles or small art prints over heavy ceramics. 

good to know

faqs

Can I visit the Tip Top IV bridge?
When operations and safety allow, a brief bridge visit may be offered so guests can see navigation charts and ask route questions.

What if I am not a strong swimmer?
Guides choose protected entries whenever possible and offer flotation aids; you can also opt for a Zodiac coastal ride while others snorkel.

Do I need special shoes for landings?
Pack closed-toe trail shoes for rough lava and strap-on water shoes for wet beach entries; guides will brief you each morning on which pair to wear.

Is tipping by card possible?
Plan on cash (USD) for gratuities; small bills make splitting tips and small purchases easier before/after the cruise.

• International flights to/from Ecuador

• Alcoholic  & Soft drinks

• Wetsuits for rent

• US$200 Galapagos National Park fee

• US$20 Transit Control Card

• Travel / medical insurance

• Personal Expenses

• Tips

• Airfare to / from Galapagos

• Accommodation on board

• All meals during the cruise

• Permanent hot drinks station (coffee, tea, aromatic tea, water)

• Use of kayaks and stand-up paddle boards

• Use of snorkeling equipment: mask, snorkel, and fins

• Daily excursions according to the itinerary

• Naturalist Bilingual Guide

inclusions

not included

Plan with Galapagos Inspīrāre, specialists in tailor-made Galapagos journeys with local insight and curated luxury partners.