GALAPAGOS AGGRESSOR III
Baltra, Ecuador
Explore Baltra
Baltra Island, also known as South Seymour, is often the first stop for visitors flying into the Galapagos from the Ecuadorian mainland. The small, flat island has a rich history, acting as a US Air Force Base and protecting the Panama Canal during WWII. It is now the home of the archipelago’s main airport, though people do not stay on the desolate island.
With no dive centres or other tourist destinations, visitors are ferried to the docks, where they will visit the inhabited islands or continue on their Galapagos cruises. Liveaboards are the most popular, and best, way of seeing the dive sites surrounding Baltra, which include North Seymour and Daphne Minor islands.
The best Months to Dive in Baltra
Diving in Baltra and the rest of the Galapagos is possible year round and there are two distinct seasons. December to June is the warm season, when balmy southerly winds bring warmer waters (26°C) and calmer ocean conditions. Though there are more showers, this season brings the manta rays and larger volumes of hammerheads.
The cool Humboldt current flows through the islands from June to November, bringing colder water (22°C) and more tempestuous seas. This is also the best season to see whale sharks.
Dive Centers
Top Baltra Dive Sites
1. North Seymour
Located just north of Baltra, North Seymour is ideal for beginner to intermediate scuba divers. The rocky slope reaches depths of around 18 meters and is teeming with eagle rays, Galápagos sharks, hammerheads, and large fish schools. Boobies can also be seen diving from above, creating a thrilling atmosphere.
2. Daphne Minor
West of Baltra, this advanced dive site features a dramatic wall dive with small caves, descending between 25 to 60 meters. Calm currents and excellent visibility make it perfect for spotting manta rays and occasional hammerhead sharks. It's a scenic dive suitable for experienced scuba divers.
3. Mosquera Islet
Positioned between Baltra and Seymour, this sandy islet is known for its playful sea lion colony. With a depth range of 15–21 meters and mild currents, it’s great for both beginners and intermediate scuba divers. Encounters with eagle rays, hammerheads, and marine iguanas are possible.
4. Itabaca Channel
This channel near Baltra is popular for check-out and training dives due to its shallow depth and calm waters. Suitable for beginners and freedivers, it offers sightings of sea stars, parrotfish, and the occasional sea turtle. Its sheltered nature makes it a year-round diving spot.
5. Baltra North Wall
This site features a steep wall dive that descends beyond 30 meters, appealing to advanced scuba divers. Stronger currents attract pelagics such as barracudas, reef sharks, and jacks. The wall is covered in sponges and corals, adding to the site's dramatic visual appeal.