Tips before traveling
by Ferry
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Tips for your ferry trip
When you arrive in Galapagos and travel between islands, take into account the following tips that will make your ferry trip more pleasant and safe
Important: Arrive 1 hour before departure time. Luggage check is carried out 30 minutes
before departure.
Anti-seasickness tip: Take a motion sickness pill an hour before departure. The sea
weather is unpredictable — it can be rough or very calm.
- Buy the ferry tickets at least 3 days in advance, sometimes the boats are full.
- Arrive 1 hour before departure time. Luggage check is carried out 30 minutes before the ferry departure.
- Taxes: Have on hand $1 for the payment of the dock tax in Puerto Ayora and $10 for entry to Isabela Island.
- In the first half of the year, from January to June, sea conditions are more stable than in the second half, from July to December, when the surf is stronger.
- Booking in advance will guarantee a safe, comfortable and hassle-free trip.
- The ferries only travel to the populated islands of Cristobal, Isabela, Santa Cruz and Floreana, to visit other islands you need to hire a daily tour.
- the boats do not travel directly from San Cristobal Island to Isabela, they make a stop at Santa Cruz Island.
- The only Island that charges an entry tax is Isabela Island.
- Have breakfast or lunch well in advance of departure.
- The approximate travel time between islands is 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Be aware of extra costs such as the water taxi (usually $1 to $2 per person); keep cash handy.
- Each passenger can bring up to 23 kg (50 lbs) of luggage. An extra fee of $10 applies for overweight bags.
- Take a motion sickness pill one hour before departure, as sea conditions are unpredictable (ranging from very rough to completely calm).
- Sit as close to the back (stern) as possible, near the outboard motors; this area experiences much less bouncing from the waves compared to the front of the boat.
- Protect your luggage well (e.g. using rain covers or plastic bags), as seawater can sometimes spray inside the boat.
- Keep your passport and travel documents in a secure, waterproof bag.
- Enjoy the journey! You might spot dolphins, manta rays, or seabirds along the way.
- We recommend checking out Day Tours Galapagos, where you can find daily excursion options across the islands.
