The two tiny and remote islands of Darwin and Wolf in the Galapagos are both real hotspots for advanced divers, and are only accessible with a local diving company that has been authorised by the Galapagos National Park Directorate, but this incredible destination is well worth the effort. The extraordinary array of wildlife is just one of many reasons why the Galapagos are a must-do on your bucket list — sea lions, dolphins, sea snakes and turtles all live in these waters, and there are 28 species of sharks that also call the Galapagos waters their home. Darwin and Wolf Islands are particularly famous for having an abundance of hammerhead sharks, as well as eagle rays, barracuda, groupers, snappers and yellowfin tuna. Very lucky divers might spot a red-lipped batfish (a species that can only be seen in the Galapagos), the Pacific seahorse, the bloody frogfish or the Galapagos clingfish.
These are challenging waters only suitable for experienced divers, as the currents can require some divers to hold onto rocks to avoid being swept away. The Galapagos are well worth a visit and are one of the best remote destinations to visit by superyacht.
Best time to dive: Through the months of June to September, the air is slightly cooler but drier than January through to May. June sees the migration of hundreds of scalloped hammerhead sharks past Darwin and Wolf Islands, but the currents are strongest from June to November.
Water temperature: From January to May divers can expect water temperatures of around 24-28°C. From June through to December water temperatures will normally drop to around 17-20°C.
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