FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
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This Ship Makes for a Family-Friendly Galápagos Trip

by Jamie Davis Smith

Apr 29, 2026

© Donyanedomam | Dreamstime.com

Cruises

A trip to the Galápagos Islands is a bucket-list vacation for many families. It’s a place like no other, filled with beautiful landscapes, animals not found anywhere else on earth and adventures for kids of all ages.

 

I traveled to the Galápagos before I had children and couldn’t wait to return with my kids. I chose HX because I knew the experience and ship would be a perfect fit for my family.

 

HX’s Galápagos vessel, MS Santa Cruz II, offers more interconnecting cabins than any other ship in the region. This setup was perfect for my family because the adults and kids each had their own space, but we could easily access each other’s rooms. Additionally, because the ship can only hold 90 passengers, we had a small-boat experience while still having plenty of outdoor space to relax and watch for sharks. We also appreciated the ship’s well-stocked Discovery Room, full of games, and the on-board Science Corner with microscopes and books about the Galápagos. The chef was always willing to make my kids buttered pasta or pizza to ensure they ate well.

 

Beyond the ship, our expedition team was great at working with my children and the others on board. Many of the naturalist guides on our trip were specially trained to work with kids. They were great at answering all my children’s questions, explaining things in a way they could understand, and keeping them safe and entertained during our many hikes and snorkeling excursions. The crew even arranged kid-friendly activities during our downtime, including a pastry-making class and painting lesson.

 

My entire family had a great time, and we can’t wait for our next HX family adventure!

#WhereverFamily

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