Raising young explorers is more than just taking kids on a vacation; it’s about opening their eyes to a world filled with wonder and curiosity. In today’s screen-dominated world, finding experiences that leave a lasting impact on our children can be challenging. But imagine a place where, instead of souvenirs, they come home with stories of adventure, new perspectives, and a deep sense of connection to the world.
At Quasar Expeditions, we create journeys that nurture this spirit of exploration. Our Galapagos family cruises immerse kids in environments where learning happens naturally—where snorkeling alongside sea turtles becomes a living lesson in biology, and hiking across ancient lava fields feels like traveling back through time. It’s about engaging all their senses, whether listening to local artisans share cultural stories or participating in hands-on science activities led by expert naturalists.
Children are shaped by the adventures we share with them. When young explorers are raised with a sense of wonder, they develop a love for the planet and a desire to make the world a better place.
"Over 30 years ago, my parents chose a life of travel for us because they had extraordinary adventures of their own that changed their lives. For most of us in travel, that is our story.
Who knows what the future will hold for us next, but as a family we'll continue living our own Great Adventures learning from our heroes and using the power of adventure travel for a greater good."
- Fernando Diez
Quasar Was Built on Family Adventure
Nearly 40 years ago, Quasar was founded with a vision of raising children who embraced adventure and held a deep respect for the planet. For the Diez brothers, growing up meant being immersed in experiences that offered new perspectives and revealed the wonders of nature. These formative adventures not only inspired a lifelong passion for exploration but also instilled values of caring for people, wildlife, and the environment. After graduating from college, the brothers naturally gravitated back to Quasar, eager to continue this family legacy and share the spirit of adventure with others.
Today, that same spirit is woven into every Quasar journey, inviting families to connect with nature, strengthen bonds, and create memories that will be cherished for generations.
The Galapagos: Nature’s Ultimate Classroom
When planning a family vacation, theme parks or beach resorts are often the go-to choice. Yet, while roller coasters and crowded attractions offer momentary thrills, they often lack the deeper experiences that truly inspire young minds. Nature immersion, on the other hand, provides children the chance to engage their senses, discover new interests, and form meaningful connections with the world around them.
The Galapagos Islands, renowned for their unparalleled biodiversity, offer an extraordinary setting for hands-on learning. Imagine your child snorkeling alongside sea turtles, spotting marine iguanas basking in the sun, or observing blue-footed boobies perform their charming courtship dances. These unscripted moments capture the magic of learning in ways no textbook can match.
Every wildlife encounter and expert-led excursion becomes an opportunity for children to understand the world through real-life experiences that spark lifelong curiosity and wonder.
Not-So-Typical Family Adventures
At Quasar, we believe family travel doesn’t need to follow a script. Our safari-style Galapagos cruises cater to families who seek the thrill of the unexpected and the beauty of untouched landscapes. These aren’t typical all-inclusive resorts; they’re immersive journeys where families bond over unique experiences.
- Wildlife Encounters: Imagine setting off on a guided nature walk and suddenly coming across a colony of sea lions, or hiking up to the edge of a volcanic crater as your Naturalist Guide brings the islands’ geological history to life. Our hand-picked Guides are experts in making each moment fun and engaging, transforming science into an adventure for young explorers. Kids don’t just read about nature—they experience it firsthand, sparking a lifelong curiosity.
- Cultural Connections: Travel isn’t only about landscapes; it’s also about the people who bring a place to life. When families visit local communities, children gain a deeper appreciation for different ways of living, fostering empathy and a global perspective. On Santa Cruz Island, go beyond the typical tourist spots and experience life as the locals do. Visiting one of the programs Quasar supports, such as the Specialized Education Unit of Galapagos, gives families a meaningful glimpse into community life.
- Hands-On Learning: Whether stargazing under the world’s clearest skies or snorkeling among vibrant marine life, our family cruises turn curiosity into hands-on understanding. Picture grandparents, parents, and kids exploring tide pools together, spotting sea stars on volcanic rocks, or identifying constellations in the night sky. The discoveries made here bring Darwin’s theories to life, captivating all generations and making every moment unforgettable.
The Benefits of Multi-Generational Travel
Multi-generational trips are gaining popularity, especially in destinations like the Galapagos, where every family member can share in the same sense of wonder. During her Galápagos journey with Quasar, Travel + Leisure's editor-in-chief, Jacqui Gifford, found that traveling with her son, mother, and husband fostered deep connections and meaningful moments that traditional vacations often miss. Watching her son's eyes widen as he encountered giant tortoises and marine iguanas was a shared moment that brought three generations closer together.
The Galapagos offers a unique backdrop for family milestones, whether it’s a vow renewal, a special reunion in a world-renowned natural setting, or a parent-child bonding trip. Here, these experiences don’t just get captured in photos—they turn into stories that families cherish for years to come.
The Science of Memory-Making: Why Ages 8-18 Are Ideal for Family Travel
The Galapagos is a special place for creating lasting memories, particularly for young explorers aged 8 and above. At this age, children’s brains are more developed in the hippocampus, the area responsible for memory formation. Immersive experiences that engage multiple senses—such as spotting wildlife up close, hearing waves lap against the shore, or feeling the warmth of the sun on volcanic rock—anchor these memories in the brain.
Novel experiences stimulate neuroplasticity, enhancing the brain’s ability to form new connections. For parents, a family trip to the Galapagos isn’t just a vacation—it’s an opportunity to enrich a child’s cognitive and emotional growth in ways that stay with them for a lifetime.
What You and Your Young Explorers Will Experience on a Galapagos Cruise
A Galapagos family cruise with Quasar is an adventure like no other. Each day unfolds with new opportunities to explore the islands’ unique ecosystems, connect with fascinating wildlife, and dive into the history and geology that make this place special.
- Daily Wildlife Encounters: Watch Galapagos penguins darting through crystal-clear waters, snorkel alongside Flightless Cormorants, and marvel at frigatebirds as they puff up their bright red throat pouches during courtship displays.
- Interactive Naturalist-Led Excursions: Our passionate Naturalist Guides bring the islands to life with captivating stories and insights, helping young explorers discover the unique creatures and landscapes that make the Galapagos extraordinary.
- Hands-On Learning Experiences: From onboard activities to shoreside explorations, your family will engage all their senses, diving into marine biology, geology, and conservation. Kids can earn a "Junior Explorer" certificate, making every lesson a rewarding adventure.
- Water Activities for All Ages: Dive into adventure with equipment for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Our Guides ensure that every experience is safe, exciting, and accessible for all.
- The Perfect Balance of Adventure and Relaxation: Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures or quiet moments on a secluded beach, our thoughtfully crafted itineraries cater to all interests, balancing exploration, “me-time,” and discovery.
What’s Life Like On-Board for Families?
Planning a family adventure can feel overwhelming, with countless details to coordinate and the ever-present worry about keeping everyone happy and entertained. That’s where Quasar comes in, making family travel stress-free and unforgettable.
If you’re wondering, are Galapagos cruises good for kids?, we’ve got you covered! Our Galapagos family cruises are thoughtfully designed so parents can relax and fully enjoy the experience, knowing everything is taken care of. Our expert Expedition Designers handle all scheduling and activities, ensuring a perfect balance of exploration and relaxation for every family member.
Parents won’t have to worry about keeping kids entertained, either—and you’ll be in on the fun. Our Naturalist Guides turn every wildlife encounter and excursion into a captivating adventure, and we offer plenty of onboard activities to engage young explorers.
Adults get their share of enriching experiences too, from guided nature hikes to peaceful moments on deck. With a menu that caters to all types of eaters, including those with food intolerances and picky preferences, and a focus on safety (including a doctor on board the Evolution), every need is thoughtfully covered.
Life on board is designed for your comfort and peace of mind, with twice-daily cabin cleanings and three freshly prepared meals each day. Our chefs craft a variety of delicious options to satisfy every palate, so your family is fueled and ready for each day’s adventure.
And when it’s time to unwind, why not enjoy a “Darwin’s Day Off” cocktail? After all, you deserve a day off too! Quasar’s commitment to seamless, enjoyable family travel means everyone gets the most out of their adventure—no stress, just unforgettable memories.
The Legacy of the Quasar Family
For nearly four decades, Quasar’s founders have built a family legacy in Ecuador rooted in adventure and sustainability. Their children continue that legacy today, leading efforts in conservation and inspiring families to travel in ways that shape young minds and strengthen family bonds. This commitment is woven into every Quasar journey, encouraging families to connect with nature, embrace learning, and create memories that extend far beyond the trip.
Ready to Raise Your Own Explorer?
There’s a reason Quasar was named one of USA Today’s 10 Best Family Cruises. Our thoughtful approach ensures that every family member finds something to inspire them. If you’re ready to nurture a new generation of explorers, join us on a safari-style family cruise in the Galapagos.
Parents won’t have to worry about keeping kids entertained, either—and you’ll be in on the fun. Our Naturalist Guides turn every wildlife encounter and excursion into a captivating adventure, and we offer plenty of onboard activities to engage young explorers.