Getting There & Away in Galápagos

Good to Know

• Ecuador uses the US Dollar (USD) as official currency; prices are listed and charged in USD.
• Ferry fares vary slightly by source ($30–$40) and route; $35 USD is standard for Santa Cruz–San Cristóbal/Isabela routes, $40 for Floreana. Book online in advance to secure seats during high season.
• Arrive at pier 45 minutes to 1 hour before departure for luggage bio-security inspection and boarding.
• Sea conditions are rougher July–November; consider inter-island flights or motion-sickness medication. Morning ferries (7:00 AM) tend to have calmer waters than afternoon departures (3:00 PM).
• From Baltra Airport (GPS) to Santa Cruz pier takes ~1 hour (includes channel transfer and taxi). From San Cristóbal Airport (SCY) to pier is ~10 minutes by taxi.
• No ATMs on Isabela Island; bring sufficient cash if staying there.
• Isabela Island charges a $10 entry tax upon arrival by ferry.
• Inter-island ferry capacity is 20–40 passengers; boats are small speedboats with basic amenities. Seat quality and comfort vary by boat. Lifejackets are provided; their use is recommended.
• Foreign credit cards sometimes have payment issues on ferry booking websites; cash purchase at local travel agencies is a backup option.
• Maximum luggage per person: 23 kg checked, plus one carry-on backpack. Extra luggage charged at $10. Avoid packing fragile items in checked baggage.
• Floreana ferry runs 3 days per week only (Mon/Wed/Fri at 8:00 AM from Floreana; 3:00 PM departure from Santa Cruz on those days).