Planet Ocean Galapagos

Located in San Cristobal, Planet Ocean Galapagos serves as a gateway to one of the most biologically diverse marine reserves on the planet. The centre operates out of the heart of the archipelago, providing access to a variety of underwater environments, from shallow bays to dramatic volcanic channels.

Whether you are looking to begin your training or seeking more technical challenges like cave or night diving, the centre is positioned to handle the unique demands of the Galapagos waters. Their operations are centred around daily excursions that take you directly to the most significant sites in the region.

The centre is affiliated with PADI and is staffed by a team of highly qualified, bilingual instructors. They focus on providing personalised attention to every diver, ensuring that safety and local knowledge remain the priority during every excursion.

To maintain a controlled environment, the centre operates with a ratio of two divers per guide. This approach is particularly beneficial in the Galapagos, where understanding currents and managing buoyancy around marine life is essential for a successful dive.

Planet Ocean Galapagos offers a comprehensive curriculum of PADI courses. For those new to the water, they provide Discover Scuba Diving and the Open Water Diver course.

Experienced divers can progress through the Advanced Open Water Diver and Rescue Diver certifications. The centre also provides specialised training in areas such as Deep Diver, Night Diving, Drift Diving, and Underwater Navigation.

The centre operates a boat with a capacity for 12 divers. Trips typically run from 8am to 3pm, covering a variety of destinations around San Cristobal and the wider archipelago.

On board, you will find lunch provided for your excursions, with options including meat, fish, or vegetarian meals. The service also includes water, snacks, tea, coffee, and soft drinks to keep you hydrated between dives.

A full range of diving equipment is available for hire, allowing you to travel light if you prefer. This includes essential kit such as wetsuits, regulators, and fins.

For those interested in night diving, the centre provides the necessary lighting equipment to explore the reef after dark.

The marine life in this region is defined by large pelagics and high-energy encounters. You will regularly encounter hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, and whitetip sharks, often in large groups. Sea lions and sea turtles are common throughout the various sites, alongside various species of rays and stingrays.

In the shallower bays and reef flats, the biodiversity is immense, featuring a wide array of tropical fish, octopuses, and lobsters. You may also spot marine iguanas and various species of crabs near the shoreline.

The macro life and smaller inhabitants include colourful corals and anemones that provide habitat for many species. During night dives, the presence of bioluminescent plankton adds a unique layer to the underwater experience.

Birdlife is also a significant part of the ecosystem; you can see Blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and frigatebirds above the water. During the period from April to December, Albatrosses can also be observed in the area.

Conditions in the Galapagos vary significantly depending on the site and the season. Kicker Rock and Whale Rock are known for having moderate to strong currents, requiring a certain level of experience to navigate comfortably.

The Carawa shipwreck site is subject to swell, which can affect visibility and approach. Divers should always be prepared for the dynamic nature of the water, especially when visiting channel or rock formations.