500+ 5-star Google reviews
We know because we go || Trusted by 10,000+ divers
Search
Find your next adventure

Need expert assistance
planning your next trip?

Subscribe to our newsletter for
the latest offers and news

Our sister companies

Explore more with our sister companies

Find top underwater gear and expert advice at Bluewater Photo & Scuba, and discover tips, tutorials, and guides on the Underwater Photography Guide.

Find top underwater gear and expert advice at Bluewater Photo & Scuba, and discover tips, tutorials, and guides on the Underwater Photography Guide.

Scuba logoUnderwater Photography Guide logo

Explore

  • Destinations
  • Liveaboards
  • Resorts
  • Guided group trips
  • Special offers
  • Ideas
  • Meet the team
  • About us
  • Contact us
  • Terms & Conditions
© 2026 BluewaterTravel. All rights reserved.

Galapagos Spectacular Hammerhead; Manta; Mola And Marine Iguana Trip 2028

Join us on a thrilling adventure to the Galapagos, with the best possible itinerary and the best time!

Book this Trip
Book this Trip

Shark Encounters

Pelagic Encounters

Why Join This Trip

  • Incredible itinerary delivers non-stop schooling hammerheads, giant manta rays, mola molas, and feeding marine iguanas - plus eagle rays, Galapagos sharks, penguins, and giant tortoises

  • Special plans are made to maximize time with the iguanas and mola mola

  • This is a must-do best of the best trip, at the perfect time of the year

  • Our best and most popular custom Galapagos marine life itinerary

  • Includes free photo support from your trip leader

  1. Guided group trips-
  2. Galapagos Spectacular Hammerhead; Manta; Mola And Marine Iguana Trip 2028
Galapagos Spectacular Hammerhead; Manta; Mola And Marine Iguana Trip 2028 - image
Manta rays
Oct 28, 2028 - Nov 4, 2028

Off the Beaten Track

Photo Group Trip

  • Unique itinerary also maximizes time at the world’s the best shark sites

  • 25% discount on rental photo gear from Bluewater Photo

  • Fully refundable deposit until 18 months from departure

  • Trip overview

    Trip Overview

    "I have put together an epic trip to the Galapagos, where we will help people get incredible photos of hammerhead sharks, mantas, penguins and more. I have picked a boat with the best possible itinerary for this purpose at the best time of year - this will truly be a trip of a lifetime."- Scott Gietler

    The unique and isolated islands of the Galapagos are home to truly extraordinary creatures: Schooling hammerheads and a large variety of other sharks, mantas, sea turtles, and sea lions, as well as endemic species such as penguins, flightless cormorants, and extensive schools of fish.

    Scott has done extensive research to choose the best possible time of year and route for this trip. He will be making sure photographers and non-photographers alike have an incredible trip.

    Read reviews on diving Galapagos here.

    Marine Life To Photograph

    Thanks to their extreme isolation, the Galapagos Islands have some of the most unique marine life on the planet. Here are just a few examples of marine life you're likely to see: dolphins, sea lions, penguins, turtles, marlin and large schools of fish, silky sharks, Galapagos sharks, whale sharks, reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, eels, and manta rays. This is a wide-angle photographer's paradise, but don't leave the macro lens at home: frogfish, octopus, seahorses, nudibranchs and other small subjects are found at various dive sites.

    Trip Schedule

    The itinerary can be variable and will be planned according to the direction of the trip leader and cruise director on board. They will have a good idea at that time of the conditions at the various locations.


    Diving Conditions

    The trip takes place during the warm season in the Galapagos, with the highest water and air temperatures. We may experience afternoon rain showers, but the sun shines again after the rain.

    Water temperature is 21-30C (70-86F) with some cooler thermoclines at depth. The northern islands are generally warmer. Visibility stays at an excellent 12 to 33 meters (40-100 feet).

    Diving in the Galapagos can involve strong currents and surge, therefore divers should hold a minimum certification of Advanced Open Water with 50 logged dives.

    Trip Inclusions

    • 7 nights/8 days aboard the vessel

    • Up to 4 dives daily (weather permitting)

    • 3 meals daily, except last evening's meal

    • Between-dive snacks

    • Towels, linens, etc.

    • Use of tanks, weights and weight belts

    • All air fills

    • Transfers within Galapagos Islands for same day arrivals & departures

    • Local alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages

    Trip Exclusions

    • Galapagos National Park fee, $200 pp

    • Chamber support fee $35 pp

    • Tourist card; $20 PP

    • Travel and dive insurance

    • Fuel surcharge $150 pp

    • Rental gear

    • Nitrox $150 pp

    • Airfare to Galapagos Islands and land options before/after cruise

    Book this Trip

    Accommodation

    About The Tiburon Explorer

    The M/V Tiburon Explorer is a spacious and luxurious liveaboard yacht in the Galapagos offering 7-night itineraries to exploring the top diving spots in the area, including Wolf and Darwin islands.

    Large and spacious, the elegant M/V Tiburon Explorer features 9 air-conditioned staterooms (maximum passenger occupancy of 16) located on the main and lower decks; all with private bathrooms and ocean views. All nine cabins are outfitted with twin beds that can convert to queen beds, allowing for singles or couples in each cabin.

     

    Main Deck Cabins

     

    Upper Deck Cabins

    Trip Price

    Trip starts from $7,495 per person.

    Payment Schedule

    • Deposit: $800 to book your spot
    • Payment 2: $2,400 due 15 February 2027
    • Payment 3: $4,000 due 15 August 2027
    • Balance: due 15 November 2027

    Book this Trip

    Extend your trip

    Want to extend your trip? We can help with that! See more of the South America before or after your trip with Bluewater. Flying all that way merits a multi-destination vacation! Here are some examples of packages we can add on to your workshop reservation:

    Book before the end of this year to secure 2027 rates!!

    Read More

    Trip Leader

    Tiburon Stateroom - image

    Tiburon Stateroom

    Air Conditioning (AC)

    En Suite Bathroom

    Ocean view

    Daily housekeeping

    Double-occupancy

    $7,495

    per person

    Dan BishopDan Bishop
    Read more about Dan Bishop

    Dan Bishop

    Dan is an accomplished underwater photographer based in northern Virginia. He did his first dive at age 14 and has been an avid photographer for more than 28 years. Initially a skydiving photographer and videographer, Dan transitioned his focus to the underwater world, driven by a desire to capture the ocean's stunning beauty. Dan is skilled in both wide-angle and macro photography and has a passion for sharing his knowledge with others, particularly in a structured workshop environment.

    View more of Dan's work here: DanBishopPhotography.com 

    Read more about Dan Bishop

    Inquire about this trip

    Check availability
    and start planning your perfect trip

    Check Availability

    Booking with us is free

    Trusted by 10,000+ Divers worldwide

    Discover similar group trips

    View all group trips

    Related articles and trip reports

    View all articles
    10 Best Snorkeling Destinations in the World
    10 Best Snorkeling Destinations in the World

    Article

    Chris H

    10 Best Snorkeling Destinations in the World

    Philippines

    Exploring the underwater world doesn't always require scuba certification or bulky gear as snorkeling provides a simple and equally stunning way to experience marine life in its natural environment. Snorkeling travel is booming in 2025, with high demand for liveaboard snorkel options in the Maldives and Raja Ampat. We've added more itinerary flexibility to help travellers access remote reefs with shallow, clear-water drop-offs.

    Read more
    Galapagos Spectacular Hammerhead; Manta; Mola And Marine Iguana Trip 2026
    Galapagos Spectacular Hammerhead; Manta; Mola And Marine Iguana Trip 2026

    Manta rays

    Galapagos Spectacular Hammerhead; Manta; Mola And Marine Iguana Trip 2026

    Galapagos

    Travel: May 7, 2026 - May 17, 2026

    Led by: Nirupam Nigam

    from$10,400

    Learn more
    Best Places to Swim or Dive with Whale Sharks: Our Top 6
    Best Places to Swim or Dive with Whale Sharks: Our Top 6

    Article

    Adam Lucia

    Best Places to Swim or Dive with Whale Sharks: Our Top 6

    Socorro Islands


    Swimming with whale sharks is one of the ocean’s most remarkable experiences. These gentle giants—reaching up to 12 m in length—are filter feeders and pose no threat to snorkellers. Whether you’re seeking a classic liveaboard expedition or a day-trip snorkel, this guide helps you choose the right destination, season, and operator for a safe and awe-inspiring encounter.
    Read more
    Best Liveaboard Destinations in the World
    Best Liveaboard Destinations in the World

    Article

    bettyr

    Best Liveaboard Destinations in the World

    Fiji

    We've traveled around the world and picked the best places for scuba diving via liveaboard. Learn what to see, where to stay, and much more!

    Read more
    Top 20 Dive Sites in the World
    Top 20 Dive Sites in the World

    Article

    Agnes

    Top 20 Dive Sites in the World

    Malaysia

    Discover the Bluewater team's favorite dive sites around the world. From remote corners of Asia and Micronesia to our own doorstep, we've chosen our top 20 dive sites that keep us coming back again and again .

    Read more
    Top 4 Places to Dive with Hammerhead Sharks
    Top 4 Places to Dive with Hammerhead Sharks

    Article

    JennyH

    Top 4 Places to Dive with Hammerhead Sharks

    Galapagos

    Discover where you can experience the magic of diving with schools of hammerhead sharks. These remarkable sharks are known to congregate in certain areas year-round or seasonally, offering you the best chance to dive with not just one or two, but unfathomable numbers.

    Read more
    Scuba Diving Bucket List: Top 5 Experiences
    Scuba Diving Bucket List: Top 5 Experiences

    Article

    Gibby

    Scuba Diving Bucket List: Top 5 Experiences

    French Polynesia

    Bluewater's Bucket List line of trips and destinations. Special once-in-a-lifetime experiences that every world traveler should do at least once.

    Read more
    Best Scuba Diving in the World in 2025/26
    Best Scuba Diving in the World in 2025/26

    Article

    JennyH

    Best Scuba Diving in the World in 2025/26

    Fiji

    Our travel advisors and trip leaders are always on the move, exploring the underwater world! Using their firsthand experience and feedback from our valued guests, we've curated a list that showcases the best diving in the world in 2025. Learn when to go, where to stay, top dive sites, and more. 

    Read more
    Liveaboard Dive Packing List (2025 Edition)
    Liveaboard Dive Packing List (2025 Edition)

    Trip Report

    ChrisH

    Liveaboard Dive Packing List (2025 Edition)

    Indonesia

    Planning a liveaboard dive trip? This ultimate 2025 packing list covers everything you’ll need – from must-have dive gear and personal items to handy extras that make life onboard smoother. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned diver, this checklist helps you dive in fully prepared.

    Read more
    Best Manta Ray Diving in the World
    Best Manta Ray Diving in the World

    Article

    Betty R

    Best Manta Ray Diving in the World

    Socorro Islands

    We've traveled the world and picked our top 7 locations with the best manta ray diving.

    2025 report round-ups confirm classics like Komodo, Kona, and Maldives’ Hanifaru Bay still reign supreme for mesmerising manta encounters. Dive operators now weave in citizen-science photo-ID programs and updated season calendars , so you can chase gentle giants responsibly and add to vital conservation efforts

    Read more
    Best Shark Diving in the World - Top 5
    Best Shark Diving in the World - Top 5

    Article

    Betty R

    Best Shark Diving in the World - Top 5

    French Polynesia

    Our travel experts' top 5 picks for the best shark diving destinations in the world. Learn what to see, the best time to dive, and more! We’ve added new liveaboard shark‑diving departures to Cocos Island and expanded our Tiger Beach, Bahamas scuba options, allowing more diving time with tiger sharks and reef species. Explore 2025 itineraries and expert-led departures on our Cocos liveaboards and Tiger Beach shark diving.

    Read more
    Galapagos Trip Report 2024
    Galapagos Trip Report 2024

    Trip Report

    bettyr

    Galapagos Trip Report 2024

    Galapagos

    Bluewater Dive Travels annual Galapagos Islands trip was a remarkable 10-day adventure aboard the Galapagos Master. With ideal conditions following the end of El Nio, divers experienced vibrant marine life including schooling hammerhead sharks and mola mola. Highlights included close encounters with orcas, feeding marine iguanas, and rare sightings of red-lipped batfish. The trip featured engaging workshops and culminated in a photo contest, making it an unforgettable experience.

    Read more
    Scuba Diving in May - Top 3 Destinations
    Scuba Diving in May - Top 3 Destinations

    Article

    JennyH

    Scuba Diving in May - Top 3 Destinations

    Galapagos

    Discover our top recommended destinations for scuba diving in May. Explore the mindblowing species in the Galapagos, dive Cozumel's renowned reefs, and experience thrilling currents in Komodo. Whatever your preferences, we'll build your dream dive trip in May!

    Read more
    2024 Bluewater Trips You Don't Want To Miss
    2024 Bluewater Trips You Don't Want To Miss

    Article

    JennyH

    2024 Bluewater Trips You Don't Want To Miss

    Galapagos

    Bluewater Travel's world-class guided trips and photography workshops are a favorite among customers and staff alike. Fantastic destinations, action-packed diving, expert guidance and tuition, and friendly, like-minded guests make eachscuba diving tripunique and memorable for those lucky enough to attend.

    Read more
    Best Diving Nearby for Americans
    Best Diving Nearby for Americans

    Article

    JennyH

    Best Diving Nearby for Americans

    Fiji

    Explore the best dive sites close to home! Whether you have limited vacation time or want to save money on flights so you can spend more time underwater, Bluewater Travel has got you covered. With our headquarters in Southern Californias Culver City, we have explored plenty of local dive sites and destinations that are within easy reach of the region, and here are our top dives this side of the world:

    Read more
    Galapagos 2023 Trip Recap
    Galapagos 2023 Trip Recap

    Trip Report

    Nirupam Nigam

    Galapagos 2023 Trip Recap

    Galapagos

    In May 2023, our Bluewater Travel workshop ventured to the Galapagos Islands, encountering iconic species like giant tortoises and marine iguanas. Despite logistical challenges, including weather delays, we explored from San Cristobal to Darwin Island, diving up to four times daily with diverse marine life. Highlights included mola mola sightings at Punta Vincente Roca and intimate encounters with Galapagos wildlife both above and below the waves.

    Read more
    Galapagos Aboard The Calipso
    Galapagos Aboard The Calipso

    Trip Report

    Jacqui

    Galapagos Aboard The Calipso

    Galapagos

    Galapagos has been number one on my bucket list since I learned about Darwin and his finches at school. Even before I became a diver I was fascinated by the topside nature of these mysterious volcanic islands, and my interest only intensified once I had a ticket to explore the underwater world. And so I leaped at the opportunity to check out one of Bluewater Travels Galapagos operators,Calipso, and to discover Galapagos from the comfort of the largest liveaboard in the area.

    Read more
    Galapagos Trip Recap April 2022
    Galapagos Trip Recap April 2022

    Trip Report

    Jacqui

    Galapagos Trip Recap April 2022

    Galapagos

    In 2022, a Galapagos trip led by Mark Strickland explored the archipelago's rich biodiversity. Highlights included encounters with endemic species like giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and unique shark sightings at Darwin and Wolf Islands. Memorable dives at Cabo Douglas and Cousins Rock were complemented by a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Center on Santa Cruz Island.

    Read more
    Galapagos Trip Report August 2021
    Galapagos Trip Report August 2021

    Trip Report

    AgnesA

    Galapagos Trip Report August 2021

    Galapagos

    Camera gear:Nikon D850in a Subal housing with dualINON Z240 strobes, 8-15mmNikon fisheye lensand the 16-35 Nikon rectilinear wide angle, both behind aZen 230mm dome port.

    Read more
    Galapagos Trip Report December 2020
    Galapagos Trip Report December 2020

    Trip Report

    AgnesA

    Galapagos Trip Report December 2020

    Galapagos

    WORDS BY MAYA HANNA AND PICTURES BY TIBURON EXPLORER

    Read more
    Socorro, Cocos, or Galapagos? - Top 3 Big Animal Diving
    Socorro, Cocos, or Galapagos? - Top 3 Big Animal Diving

    Article

    timyeo

    Socorro, Cocos, or Galapagos? - Top 3 Big Animal Diving

    Socorro Islands

    Understand the differences as we compare three of the East Pacific's best locations for big animal diving: Socorro, Cocos, and Galapagos. What to expect, what to see, and dive information.

    Read more
    Tiburon Stateroom - image

    Tiburon Stateroom

    Air Conditioning (AC)

    En Suite Bathroom

    Ocean view

    Daily housekeeping

    Double-occupancy

    $7,495

    per person