Travel Tips Before
Taking the Ferry
Buy Tickets
Essential Advice for Your Journey
When arriving in Galapagos to travel between islands, please take note of the following recommendations
Important: Arrive at the pier 1 hour before scheduled departure. Luggage check-in takes place 30 minutes prior to boarding.
Seasickness Tip: Take motion sickness medication approximately 1 hour before departure. Ocean conditions can vary and may be choppy.
- Buy your ferry tickets at least 3 days in advance; boats have limited capacity and often sell out.
- Arrive 1 hour before departure. Luggage check-in closes 30 minutes prior to departure.
- Local Fees: Have $1 USD cash ready for the water taxi in Puerto Ayora and $10 USD for the tourist entrance fee upon entering Isabela Island ($6 for Ecuadorian citizens).
- From January to June, sea conditions are generally calmer than from July to December, when swells are higher.
- Booking in advance ensures a guaranteed seat, saving you time and hassle.
- Ferries only connect the inhabited islands: Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Isabela, and Floreana. To visit uninhabited islands, book a day tour.
- There are no direct ferries between San Cristóbal and Isabela; you must connect via Santa Cruz Island.
- Only Isabela Island charges an entrance fee upon arrival ($10 USD).
- Have breakfast or lunch well in advance of departure.
- Approximate travel time between islands is 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Small water taxis cost $1 to $1.50 USD each way; keep small cash bills handy.
- Each passenger is allowed 1 large suitcase of up to 20 kg (44 lbs) and 1 backpack/carry-on of up to 5 kg (11 lbs). Excess luggage will incur an extra charge of $10 to $15 USD at the pier.
- Take motion sickness tablets 1 hour before departure, as sea conditions can change quickly.
- Sit towards the back of the speedboat near the outboard motors to minimize the impact of waves.
- Protect your luggage with waterproof covers, as sea spray can occasionally enter the vessel.
- Keep your passport and valuables in a secure, waterproof pouch.
- Enjoy the scenic crossing — dolphins and manta rays are frequently spotted!
- We also recommend exploring day tour options on Day Trips Galapagos.
