The best way of seeing and visiting the Galapagos is by taking a cruise. But those cruises have one departure moment you do not want to miss. So please make sure you spend a least one or two nights in Quito before you fly over to the islands. The very best way of not missing your boat is by booking the flight over together with the cruise. Only then the ship knows where you and all cruise passengers are. That insures that the boat can plan on waiting for you!