Everything You Need to Know: San Cristobal to Santa Cruz Ferry
Planning your move from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristobal) to Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz)? This inter-island transfer is the most common way to travel between the two main hubs of the archipelago. As a local agency, we want to make sure your trip is as smooth as possible.
Trip Logistics & What to Expect
- Duration: Usually between 2 and 2.5 hours. The ocean can be unpredictable, so times may vary slightly.
- Departure Times: Most boats depart at 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM. We recommend arriving at the pier 30 minutes early.
- The Vessel: These are specialized speedboats (lanchas rápidas). They are sturdy and safe, but they are not large cruise ships.
Pro Tips for a Comfortable Ride
If you are prone to motion sickness, the route from San Cristobal to Santa Cruz can sometimes be choppy, especially between June and December. Our insider tip: try to get a seat towards the back of the boat; it’s much more stable than the front.
Important Boarding Steps:
- The Taxibote: To get from the main pier to the speedboat, you’ll need to use a small water taxi. This costs $1.00 USD per person in cash (not included in your ticket).
- Biosecurity Check: Before boarding, the ABG (Galapagos Biosecurity Agency) will inspect your luggage. Make sure you aren’t carrying any organic materials, seeds, or fruits between islands.
- Pier Fee: There is a small pier use fee in San Cristobal (usually $1 USD) that is paid locally at the entrance.
Why Book Your Tickets in Advance?
The boats are small and seats are strictly limited to about 20-30 passengers. During high season, tickets sell out days in advance. Securing your spot early ensures you don’t get stranded and can stick to your travel itinerary without stress.
Need help or have questions about the boarding process? Feel free to reach out—we are here to help you navigate the islands!
Looking for a more remote experience? From Santa Cruz, you can take the morning Ferry from Santa Cruz to Floreana to visit the most storied and peaceful island in the archipelago
