5.4 hours ashore on average
Ships typically dock in Santa Cruz Island for around 5.4 hours. That's enough time for a full island tour, a beach day, or a combination of shorter experiences.

Tours & Experiences in Santa Cruz Island

22 experiences available — book through our trusted partners

Darwin's Coffee Quest Experience
Darwin's Coffee Quest Experience
★★★★★ 5.0 (7 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Embark on a captivating Galapagos Coffee experience, delving deep into local agriculture where locals demonstrate the delicate process of selecting and gathering coffee beans. Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes, the stunning surroundings of the farm feature lush vegetation and innovative hydroponic setups. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you interact with friendly residents, gaining insights into their way of life and the rich traditions that shape their community. This unique journey not only offers a taste of exceptional coffee but also a profound connection to the heart and soul of Galapagos' agricultural heritage, making it an unforgettable adventure.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Day Tour to Bartolomé Island and Sullivan Bay
Day Tour to Bartolomé Island and Sullivan Bay
★★★★★ 5.0 (5 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
This Bartolome Island tour includes a long navigation time as the island is far away, but it is definitely woth it as this tour offers so much more than just a visit and you will be stunned by the breathtaking view, the iconic postcard picture of Galapagos. You will travel aboard aspacious, well-appointed yacht featuring two decks perfect for relaxing or spotting wildlife on the way. Onboard, enjoy delicious, freshly prepared meals (we can accommodate any dietary restrictions too if you let us know in advance). The crew and naturalist guide(s) are not only highly knowledgeable but also passionate about the Galápagos, providing fascinating insights throughout your journey. As part of our commitment to your comfort and experience, we will give you a detailed briefing the evening before in the office, and we provide high-quality snorkeling gear including long wetsuits for extra warmth and comfort, ensuring you're fully prepared and able to enjoy the water to the fullest.
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3 Islands in 4 Days: Galapagos Highlights - Wildlife & Snorkeling
3 Islands in 4 Days: Galapagos Highlights - Wildlife & Snorkeling
★★★★★ 5.0 (5 reviews) ⏱️ 96.0h
Discover the Galápagos Your Way – with the Experts Embark on an unforgettable 4-day journey across three iconic Galápagos Islands with one of the most trusted local operators, offering over 12 years of experience and top-rated service. Visit the highlands of Santa Cruz to see Giant Tortoises in their natural habitat and walk through ancient lava tunnels. Snorkel in Pinzón or Floreana, surrounded by sea lions, turtles, and reef sharks, using our high-quality gear and full-length wetsuits, cleaned and dried daily for your comfort. On Isabela Island, encounter penguins, flamingos, and marine iguanas, and explore the wetlands and Tortoise Breeding Center. We offer maximum flexibility: add airport transfers, customize accommodation of any category, choose inter-island flights over speedboats, extend your stay with extra nights, tours, or rest days. Whether you’re looking for adventure, wildlife, or a tailored itinerary, we provide a personalized, seamless experience from start to finish.
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The Galapagos Giant Tortoise Experience + Los Gemelos | Private
The Galapagos Giant Tortoise Experience + Los Gemelos | Private
★★★★★ 5.0 (5 reviews) ⏱️ 2.0h
In Santa Cruz Highlands visit Los Gemelos - amazing volcanic sink holes for an ecosystem introduction.   Then stop at our private Giant Tortoise Reserve for un unique close wildlife encounter.   Finish with an underground walk through a Lava Tube and explore Galapagos from the inside ! A 3 - hour tour starting in Puerto Ayora - Santa Cruz Is where you visit the most interesting attractions leaded by a certified Galapagos Naturalist Guide   • Spectacular views of Los Gemelos - Sink Holes and Lava Tubes • Giant Tortoise Wildlife Reserve - Natural encounters guaranteed ! • Learn about History, Geology and Ecology of the Galapagos Archipelago • Enjoy engaging and informative narration by our guides • Small-group tour limited to 15 people ensures a more personalized experience
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North Seymour and Bachas or Mosquera Beach Yacht Day Tour
North Seymour and Bachas or Mosquera Beach Yacht Day Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (3 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
Explore one of the most wildlife-rich islands in the Galapagos aboard a comfortable and well-equipped yacht designed to offer a smooth and relaxing sailing. Enjoy delicious meals on board, the attention of a friendly and experienced crew, and the guidance of a certified naturalist who will bring the landscape and its fascinating creatures to life. Before the tour, you will be given a detailed briefing so that you are fully prepared for the day. During the excursion, you can discover the fascinating underwater world of the archipelago by practicing snorkeling, using an exclusive high-end equipment of renowned brands such as Cressi and Scubapro. This tour combines unforgettable wildlife encounters – such as blue-footed boobies, frigates, yellow terrestrial iguanas, sea lions and marine species – with comfort, security and expert guidance, making it the ideal choice for those who want to experience the best of the Galapagos.
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Santa Cruz Highlands Tour with Tortoise and Lava Tunnels
Santa Cruz Highlands Tour with Tortoise and Lava Tunnels
★★★★★ 5.0 (2 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Explore the stunning Santa Cruz Highlands on a private half-day tour from Puerto Ayora. Witness the iconic Galapagos tortoises at either El Chato reserve or Rancho Primicias. Marvel at the historic lava tunnels. This tour offers the convenience of a private driver, ensuring a comfortable journey with personalized attention throughout your adventure. - Private hotel pick-up and drop-off in Puerto Ayora - Visit the legendary Galapagos tortoises at El Chato or Rancho Primicias with your on-site guide - Explore Santa Cruz from underground in your historic on-site lava tunnels - Enjoy a flexible schedule in a private vehicle with your personal driver
Free cancellation VIATOR
Snorkeling tour at tortuga island from Isabela
Snorkeling tour at tortuga island from Isabela
★★★★★ 5.0 (1 reviews) ⏱️ 5.0h
DESCRPTION LIVING FISHING This tour has a duration of 4 to 5 hours, your departure is Prior Coordination with Reception. It consists of pick up at the hotel where you are and then head to the office to try the snorkeling equipment, then go to the port to take the boat and sail for 20 minutes to the turtle islet where you will appreciate the flora and fauna of the islet since it has a formation volcanic type that will allow us to observe animals such as: frigates with the red chest, nazca boobies, blue footed boobies, seagulls, etc. After this visit we carry out the Experiential fishing with trawling fishing rod where we can catch weights: albacore, guaju, sierra, cod. After all this fishing activity we snorkel for a period of one hour and a half with two dives with a totally crystalline water that will help us to preserve marine species such as: shark shark, hammerhead shark, colored weights, sea turtles, lightning, corals and starfish etc.
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Santa Fe Island Snorkeling & Hidden Beach Day Tour
Santa Fe Island Snorkeling & Hidden Beach Day Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (1 reviews)
Santa Fe Island is popular among wildlife enthusiasts. Home to rare iguanas, a giant cactus forest, and great snorkeling opportunities. Your guide will share lots of insights about the local ecosystem. The island has a lot to offer, and this trip lets you effortlessly explore its highlights.
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Giant Tortoises Tour, Lava Tunnels & Stop at Los Gemelos Craters”
Giant Tortoises Tour, Lava Tunnels & Stop at Los Gemelos Craters”
★★★★★ 4.7 (60 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
On this exciting tour, tourists will have the opportunity to explore two amazing places in the Galapagos. At our first stop, the frontier Galapagos Reserve, where you can marvel at the majestic giant turtles, explore fascinating lava tunnels and admire the diverse bird species and endemic forest in the transition zone. You can also walk on trails surrounded by more than 20 different species of fruit trees. An expert guide will be at your side to give you detailed information about the unique ecology of the Galapagos. Next, The Taxi will take you to the (Twins) which are impressive volcanic craters that formed due to past volcanic activity. The view from this point is breathtaking, where you can admire the large dimension of these craters and also observe endemic birds flying freely and the forest vegetation and can take photos. The visit to the craters does not include a guide only taxi service.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Tour to Pinzón + Las palmas
Tour to Pinzón + Las palmas
★★★★★ 4.7 (12 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
Swim with sea lions, blue sharks, rays and sometimes with penguins. named as one of the best snorkeling activities from the sannta cruz island, it will undoubtedly give you an experience of never forgetting
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Isabela Island Full-Day Tour from Santa Cruz with Tintoreras
Isabela Island Full-Day Tour from Santa Cruz with Tintoreras
★★★★★ 4.7 (3 reviews) ⏱️ 10.0h
Explore Isabela island on a thrilling day tour and discover its diverse natural wonders. Discover the Tintorera Islet, home to various marine life, including marine iguanas, sea turtles, sharks, and penguins. You’ll also visit the island’s wetlands, a habitat for flamingos, and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre Arnaldo Tupiza.
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Skip the Line:El Chato 2 Reserve Admission Ticket in Santa Cruz Island,Galapagos
Skip the Line:El Chato 2 Reserve Admission Ticket in Santa Cruz Island,Galapagos
★★★★★ 4.5 (23 reviews) ⏱️ 2.0h
Get your entry Tickets to El Chato 2 Tortoise Reserve in Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora to observe giant tortoises in their natural state. You will also be able to observe many of the Galapagos Bird Species. Take a self-guide walk inside the famous lava Tunnels. Note: No guide is required, but it is recommended to visit this spot with a guide, as it is easy to get lost in the area.
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Tour to Bartolome Island + Bahia Sulivan
Tour to Bartolome Island + Bahia Sulivan
★★★★★ 4.5 (17 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
The pick-up will be at 6.15am and we will take you to the Itabaca Canal to board the yacht. The trip to Bartolomé will last approximately 2.5 hours. Bartolomé has the most beautiful and photographed landscapes of the archipelago. The path is made of wood and you will have to climb to the top of this inactive volcano. From there, you will be surprised with this spectacular landscape and, after reaching the top of the wooden stairs, you will feel that it has been worthwhile. The main attraction of the island is the Pinnacle Rock. It is a great lava formation that time has been eroding. Bartolomé has two beautiful half-moon beaches with golden sands that invite you to sunbathe or snorkel around the lava formations. Do not be surprised if you discover Galapagos penguins or sea turtles swimming in the shallows.
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Floreana Island Full Day Tour Including Hiking and Snorkeling
Floreana Island Full Day Tour Including Hiking and Snorkeling
★★★★ 3.7 (3 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
Explore the island of Floreana, which is one of the most remote parts of the Galapagos Islands. This tour provides various opportunities for wildlife-spotting—see sea lions, frigate birds, Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, petrels, pelicans, flamingos, and more. You will also enjoy snorkeling in marine wildlife-filled waters, as you get the chance to explore unique landscapes.
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Full Day Santa Fe Playa escondida snorkeling tour
Full Day Santa Fe Playa escondida snorkeling tour
★★★★ 3.6 (14 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
Join this full-day tour experiential fishing around of Santa Fe, learn about its wildlife and enjoy the nature. In this excursion you also will get the chance to stop at two snorkel spots in order to practice this activity.
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Seymour North Island & Las Bachas Full-Day Tour
Seymour North Island & Las Bachas Full-Day Tour
★★★ 3.4 (10 reviews) ⏱️ 9.0h
This full-day tour to Seymour North Island is perfect if you want to see wildlife and enjoy the nature. Fauna Highlights: Land & marine iguanas, frigatebirds, blue-footed boobies, sea lions; snorkeling: rays, reef sharks, fish, garden eels
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Full-Day Tour to Floreana Island & Cave of Pirates
Full-Day Tour to Floreana Island & Cave of Pirates
★★★ 3.2 (6 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
The tour starts from Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, we will visit the most important point of Floreana island, this point has a lot history and it was discovered at 1535, the presence of whalers, pirates, the arrival of the baroness among other stories that make this island a worthy place to visit and explore. In this destination we can observe blue footed boobies, sea turtles and white-finned sharks
Free cancellation VIATOR
Full Day Santa Cruz Rancho and Lava Tunnels Tour of Bahia
Full Day Santa Cruz Rancho and Lava Tunnels Tour of Bahia
⏱️ 8.0h
Visit the most iconic places of Santa Cruz in one day. Enjoy the wonderful nature of the highlands, combined with an incredible afternoon sailing around Puerto Ayora Bay. Throughout the day, you will see giant turtles, aquatic animals, boobies, pelicans, birds and much endemic vegetation.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Full Day Isla Isabela Tintoreras more Town
Full Day Isla Isabela Tintoreras more Town
⏱️ 8.0h
Full day Isabela Island We will visit the famous lagoon of the flamingos, the Arnaldo Tupiza interpretation center, where 8 species of turtles endemic to Isabela are found, we will take a walk through mangroves and manzanillo forests, where we will observe small nesting birds, and then head to the beach. Tintoreras islet is surrounded by volcanic formations and has a canyon-shaped channel where reef sharks sleep. There we will observe blue-footed boobies and penguins for 45 minutes, and then practice snorkeling surrounded by fish, penguins, sea turtles and sea lions. After lunch, we continue to the snorkeling paradise in Las Tintoreras. In addition to sharks and blue-footed boobies, penguins and sea lions can be observed during the hike. When snorkeling, you dive into fresh water where you will find colorful fish, turtles, sea lions, sharks and famous penguins.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private Snorkeling on Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach with Lunch
Private Snorkeling on Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach with Lunch
⏱️ 6.5h
Explore unique volcanic landscapes, white sand beaches and the island’s main attractions, accompanied by experienced local guides who will share with you the natural wealth and history of this exceptional destination. This tinerary combines adventure, nature and time to relax, offering personalized service and small groups to enjoy every moment.
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South Plazas and Punta Carrion Day Tour:Land Iguanas & Snorkeling
South Plazas and Punta Carrion Day Tour:Land Iguanas & Snorkeling
⏱️ 8.0h
This tour offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring the stunning South Plazas Island and encountering unique wildlife such as land iguanas and sea lions to snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Punta Carrion and discovering a rich underwater world filled with sharks, sea turtles, and colorful fish. Our experienced guides are knowledgeable about the flora and fauna of the islands and will provide interesting insights and information about the different species you encounter, ensuring an educational and enjoyable experience. Overall, this tour provides an opportunity to explore two of the most beautiful islands in the Galapagos archipelago, encounter unique wildlife, and experience the thrill of snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
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Pinzón Island Day Tour: Santa Fe & Las Palmas Snorkeling
Pinzón Island Day Tour: Santa Fe & Las Palmas Snorkeling
⏱️ 8.0h
Our unique tour promises an unforgettable experience! With a 45-minute boat ride to two incredible destinations, you'll witness the incredible beauty of marine life including whitetip sharks, sea lions, and playful wolves at Penguin Bay. You can even swim among the vibrant colors of various fish and turtles in crystal-clear waters. Next up, enjoy the thrill of sport fishing for 45 minutes at the "stone with no name," spotting blue-footed boobies, frigates, and sea lions. Finally, discover the unique flora and fauna of Las Palmitas beach, observing iguanas, frigate birds, sea lions, and fascinating plant life. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, and our experienced guides will ensure your safety throughout the journey. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience!
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When to Visit Santa Cruz Island

Cruise season patterns based on scheduled ship visits and passenger volumes

Winter Season
Dec – Feb
15,445 estimated passengers across 189 ship visits. Peak cruise season — book early.
Spring Season
Mar – May
10,301 estimated passengers across 126 ship visits. Peak cruise season — book early.
Summer Season
Jun – Aug
10,147 estimated passengers across 123 ship visits. Peak cruise season — book early.
Autumn Season
Sep – Nov
14,121 estimated passengers across 171 ship visits. Peak cruise season — book early.

Cruise Lines Visiting Santa Cruz Island

4 cruise lines. View full breakdown →

Lindblad Expeditions Cruises (1723) HX Expeditions Cruises (908) Small Cruise Lines Cruises (22) Celebrity Cruises Cruises (17)

Ships Arriving Soon

Next scheduled visits to Santa Cruz Island

Mon 14 Sep
MV Santa Cruz II Galapagos
HX Expeditions Cruises
Tue 15 Sep
National Geographic Islander 2
Lindblad Expeditions Cruises
Thu 17 Sep
National Geographic Gemini
Lindblad Expeditions Cruises
Thu 17 Sep
MV Santa Cruz II Galapagos
HX Expeditions Cruises
Thu 17 Sep
National Geographic Delfina
Lindblad Expeditions Cruises
Thu 17 Sep
National Geographic Islander 2
Lindblad Expeditions Cruises
Sat 19 Sep
MV Santa Cruz II Galapagos
HX Expeditions Cruises
Mon 21 Sep
MV Santa Cruz II Galapagos
HX Expeditions Cruises
Thu 24 Sep
National Geographic Gemini
Lindblad Expeditions Cruises
Thu 24 Sep
National Geographic Delfina
Lindblad Expeditions Cruises

View all scheduled visits →

Why Book with Blue Seas Tours?

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