The Galapagos Marine Reserve is one of the world’s largest protected areas. Designed to protect the waters around the islands, the reserve is a vast ecosystem rich with marine life.
Created in 1998 to conserve the islands’ vast natural resources, Galapagos Marine Reserve, along with Galapagos National Park, shelters sea lions, fur seals, penguins, sea turtles and marine iguanas, among other species. Galapagos Islands scuba diving tours provide a rare opportunity to see some of the more than 3,000 plants and animals found in the 40-mile reserve, including Whale Sharks, Galapagos Sharks, Hammerheads and Manta Rays.
Despite conservation efforts, many species remain threatened by illegal commercial fishing and over-fishing by locals. Sea cucumbers and lobsters have been harvested to dangerous levels, while sharks are harvested solely for their fins. Success is often hindered by the challenges of enforcing the protection of such a vast area. And ships from other countries often enter the reserve illegally.
Planning to visit the Galapagos?
Galapagos Islands scuba diving tours to Galapagos National Park and Galapagos Marine Reserve are available as part of many Galapagos cruises. Natural Habitat Adventures offers guided tours to the Galapagos Islands and can book scuba diving trips for interested travelers.
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