The Galapagos Islands are home to one of the world’s most extraordinary marine and terrestrial ecosystems—a place where wildlife has evolved in remarkable isolation and where every visit inspires a deeper appreciation for nature. As the first destination ever recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the archipelago represents a global treasure worthy of the highest level of protection.
At Galapagos Sky, we are privileged to explore these waters every week alongside our guests. With that privilege comes a responsibility to minimize our environmental footprint, support local conservation initiatives, and help protect the unique marine life and fragile ecosystems that make the Galapagos unlike anywhere else on Earth.
First carbon neutral operation in Galapagos
Since 2006, Ecoventura has been carbon neutral, becoming the first tourism company in the Galapagos Islands—and Ecuador—to achieve this milestone. Today, this long-standing commitment extends across Ecoventura and Galapagos Sky, helping reduce the environmental impact of our operations while supporting global climate action.
We work to measure, reduce, and offset carbon emissions generated by our yachts, offices, and business travel through verified carbon offset projects that support renewable energy and other climate initiatives. Rather than relying on guests to participate, we absorb the full cost of our carbon offsets, ensuring every voyage operates under our carbon neutrality commitment while encouraging travelers to further reduce the footprint of their journey.
Charles Darwin Foundation - Galapagos Biodiversity & Education for Sustainability Fund
We are deeply committed to supporting the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF), a non-profit organization that has led scientific research and conservation in the Galapagos since 1959.
Together with the CDF and the Galapagos National Park Directorate, our parent company, Ecoventura, established the Galapagos Biodiversity & Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF) in July 2017 to protect the archipelago’s unique wildlife, preserve its fragile ecosystems, and inspire future generations through environmental education.
Since launching the GBESF, more than $800,000 has been contributed to support conservation across the Galapagos. Funds are allocated to environmental education (35%), scientific research and monitoring (35%), conservation enforcement, invasive species management, and prevention of illegal wildlife trade (20%), and program management and administration (10%).
We also support organizations such as the Galapagos Conservation Trust, helping fund whale shark research and migration tracking to better understand the marine “swimway” connecting the Galapagos and Cocos Island, contributing to the protection of one of the world’s most important marine conservation corridors.
Supporting CDF’S Shark Ecology and Conservation Program
Understanding how sharks move within and beyond the Galapagos Marine Reserve is essential to protecting these highly migratory species from threats such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. This research provides critical data to help scientists and policymakers develop more effective conservation strategies across the Eastern Pacific.
Through the Charles Darwin Foundation’s Shark Ecology and Conservation Program, supported by the Galapagos Biodiversity & Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF), researchers have tracked the movements of critically endangered scalloped hammerhead sharks to identify key migratory routes and habitats requiring greater protection.
This research has contributed to important conservation initiatives, including the creation of the Hermandad Marine Reserve, while advancing our understanding of the marine corridor connecting the Galapagos with other protected areas in the Eastern Pacific. It also highlights the importance of international collaboration to reduce shark mortality and safeguard one of the world’s most iconic marine species.
Reducing plastic waste and pollution
Reducing single-use plastics has been a priority for our operations for many years. Since 2017, our parent company, Ecoventura, has replaced single-use plastic bottles with refillable water bottles and offers paper straws upon request. On board, filtered water refill stations eliminate the need for disposable bottled water, while bathrooms are stocked with refillable dispensers for shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and hand soap instead of single-use amenities.
Long before these practices became mandatory, we recognized the environmental impact of plastic waste and chose to act. By reducing unnecessary plastics across our operations, we continue to help protect the fragile ecosystems of the Galapagos while encouraging more sustainable travel practices.
Sourcing ingredients locally from responsible providers
Our chefs are committed to creating a sustainable dining experience that celebrates the flavors of Ecuador while considering the environmental and social impact of every menu.
We source the majority of our ingredients locally from producers across the Galapagos Islands, supporting small businesses and strengthening the local economy. Fresh fruits and vegetables are sourced from San Cristóbal, while meats and dairy products come from Santa Cruz, with many dairy products being organically produced. We also purchase eggs, bread, and other essential ingredients directly from local producers whenever possible.
To further support Ecuadorian businesses, we proudly serve Dos Hemisferios wines as our house label, showcasing locally produced wines that complement our cuisine while reducing the environmental impact associated with imported products.
Recycling facility to reduce landfill in the Galapagos
As part of our ongoing commitment to reducing waste and protecting the Galapagos, our parent company, Ecoventura, introduced an innovative recycling initiative in partnership with Avianca. By processing recyclable materials for transport to recycling facilities on mainland Ecuador, the program helps prevent thousands of kilograms of waste from ending up in island landfills each year.
Today, none of the recyclable waste generated on board our yachts is sent to Galapagos landfills. Instead, materials are transported on existing scheduled Avianca flights, avoiding the need for additional flights and minimizing the environmental impact of the program.
We are continually exploring new ways to reduce our environmental footprint through responsible operations, innovative partnerships, and ongoing improvements that help protect the unique ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands for generations to come.