Macarron Scuba Diver

Macarron Scuba Diver has been a fixture of the Galápagos diving scene for more than 23 years. Based in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, the centre is uniquely positioned to coordinate complex diving itineraries across the archipelago.

They operate as both a dive school and a travel agency, which means they specialise in the logistical side of Galápagos diving. From coordinating inter-island ferry transfers to arranging transport from Baltra airport, they manage the movement required to reach the islands' most remote dive sites.

The centre is run by local, bilingual guides who speak both Spanish and English. This local expertise is central to their operation, providing a direct connection to the specific nuances of the Galápagos waters.

Their service includes 24/7 support via WhatsApp, ensuring that divers have a direct line of communication throughout their trip. They offer a range of certified training programmes and guided expeditions, managing everything from simple day trips to more complex 'Dive Hopping' adventures.

The school offers a full range of certifications through various programmes. You can begin with Discover Scuba Diving or work through the Open Water Diver and Advanced Open Water Diver levels.

For those looking to advance their technical skills or professional career, they provide Nitrox, Rescue Diver, and Divemaster courses. They also offer EFR (Emergency First Response) training.

The centre provides Nitrox for divers looking to extend their bottom time. They also offer a variety of dive training and expedition services based out of their Puerto Ayora location.

The waters here are home to a vast array of pelagics. You can expect to see Hammerhead sharks (Sphyrnidae), Galapagos sharks, and Whitetip sharks. Large rays are also common, including Eagle ray (Aetobatus), Mobula ray (Mobula), Manta ray (Mobula alfredi), and various stingrays, golden rays, and marble rays.

In the mid-water and around the reefs, you will encounter Tuna (Thunnus), Wahoo (Acanthocybium solandri), Barracuda (Sphyraena), and Jack (Carangidae). Snappers (Lutjanidae) and Galapagos grunts are frequently seen near the structures.

The reef itself is populated by a variety of colourful fish, including Parrotfish (Calotomus), Surgeonfish (Acanthuridae), Triggerfish (Balistidae), and various butterflyfish and bannerfish. You may also spot pufferfish (Arothron hispidus) and moray eels (Muraenidae) amongst the crevices.

Green turtles and various species of rays add to the diversity of the larger marine life encountered during these expeditions.

Diving in the Galápagos requires an understanding of the local currents and site-specific schedules. The centre operates according to specific weekly rotations for sites like Gordon Rocks and North Seymour Canal.