The Galapagos ferry is the main way to travel between inhabited islands if you’re not booked on a cruise.
Fast, affordable, and convenient but it also requires careful planning to make your island hopping smooth. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: how to book tickets, ferry routes, schedules, travel tips, and alternatives.
Locally called “La Lancha,” the Galapagos ferry is essentially a high speed boat connecting the inhabited islands of the archipelago: Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Isabela, and Floreana.
Ferries are fast and widely used by both locals and tourists.
However, comfort isn’t their strong point: boats are often packed full, the ride can be very bumpy, and seasickness is common.
Tip: If you plan to take the ferry, seasickness pills are highly recommended.
Despite the rough rides, ferries remain the most budget friendly way to explore multiple islands during a land-based Galapagos trip.
There are three main ferry routes operating between islands:
Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz) serves as the central hub.
This means direct connections between other islands (for example, Isabela to San Cristóbal) are not available without passing through Santa Cruz.
If you want to visit remote islands beyond these routes, you’ll need to consider a cruise or organized day tours.
Several local websites allow you to reserve ferry tickets online. They usually show available schedules and prices, and let you book ahead—ideal if you prefer DIY travel. However, some travelers report issues when paying with foreign credit cards on these local platforms. Patience may be required if your payment doesn’t go through easily.
If you’re joining an organized Galapagos Land Tour, agencies (like Tortuga Bay Operator) take care of ferry bookings for you. This is the most convenient option, saving you the headache of online booking or worrying about last-minute availability.
We strongly recommend booking ferry tickets at least 1–2 weeks in advance—especially during high season (June–August, Easter, Christmas/New Year holidays).
Earlier is better if you want preferred departure times or if traveling during peak periods.
Last minute tickets are possible, but seats fill up fast, and you risk missing out.
Current one-way ferry prices (as of now) are approximately:
Extra costs to budget:
These extras are paid in cash directly at the port.
Santa Cruz – San Cristobal
Santa Cruz – Isabela
Santa Cruz – Floreana
Pro Tip: Stay flexible, stay patient—and keep those seasickness pills ready.
Route | Departure Times |
Santa Cruz → San Cristóbal | 07:00 and 15:00 |
San Cristóbal → Santa Cruz | 07:00 and 15:00 |
Santa Cruz → Isabela | 07:00 and 15:00 |
Isabela → Santa Cruz | 06:00 and 15:00 |
Santa Cruz → Floreana | 08:00 |
Floreana → Santa Cruz | 15:00 |
Travel Time:
Each ferry journey takes about 2 hours, depending on sea and weather conditions.
Honestly, there’s no major difference between ferry operators. Passenger swapping is frequent, and ferry quality varies day to day.
In general:
Reality check: Expect basic conditions and pack your patience. The ferry system isn’t luxurious, but it’s functional and gets you where you need to go.
Ferry travel is generally safe, although isolated incidents have occurred over the years. At Happy Gringo, we’ve never had any client issues in more than 20 years of organizing trips.
Safety Tip: Always wear your lifejacket from departure to arrival—even if the crew doesn’t insist.
Alternative to the Ferry: Galapagos Inter-Island Flights
If the idea of a rough ferry ride doesn’t appeal to you, there’s another option: Emetebe Airlines.
Flying is much faster and more comfortable, but not budget friendly for everyone.
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Final Thoughts: Ferry or Flight?
The Galapagos ferry may not be the most comfortable part of your trip, but it’s an affordable, practical, and reliable way to explore multiple islands.
With smart planning, flexibility, and a little patience, you’ll be island-hopping across the Galapagos like a pro. And remember no rough crossing can take away from the magic waiting for you on the next island!
Thomas de Berlanga sector s/n in front of Santa Cruz Garden, Puerto Ayora
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