Transfer From Santa Cruz Island to Isabela Island

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Isabela Islands can be a convenient yet nuanced experience. The one-way maritime transfer offers hotel pickup and drop-off, accommodating up to 20 passengers with their luggage. While refreshments aren’t provided, travelers should be aware of additional fees and potential motion sickness challenges. Customer opinions on the service vary, with some highlighting positive staff interactions yet others noting booking difficulties. Understanding the specifics of this transfer can help ensure a smoother journey, leaving you well-prepared for the adventure that awaits on Isabela Island.

About Your Stay

• One-way maritime transfer service from Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz) to Isabela Island is available, with a maximum capacity of 20 travelers per tour.
• The service includes hotel pickup within the urban area of Puerto Ayora and allows for 2 bags and 1 handbag per traveler.
• Customer reviews about the service are mixed, with some praising the staff assistance while others express concerns about the booking process and communication.
• The service is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions due to the potential for dizziness and motion sickness.
• Booking directly with local operators may provide better value and transparency compared to the transfer service, according to customer feedback.

Overview of Transfer Service

The transfer service from Santa Cruz Island to Isabela Island provides comfortable transportation for travelers.

With an overall rating of 3.0 out of 5 from 4 reviews, the service includes maritime transfer and hotel pickup within Puerto Ayora’s urban area.

The maximum capacity is 20 travelers per tour.

While food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included, the service provides a 1 USD water tax fee per person.

Passengers can be picked up directly from the dock or at a designated meeting point along the Malecon in Puerto Ayora.

The transfer duration varies based on traffic and sea conditions.

What’s Included in the Service

The transfer service includes one-way maritime transfer from Puerto Ayora to Isabela Island. Travelers will receive pickup from their hotel lobby within the urban area of Puerto Ayora and be allowed 2 bags and 1 handbag. However, food, drinks, and gratuities are not included. Plus, a 1 USD water tax fee per person must be paid.

Included	Not Included
One-way maritime transfer	Food
Pickup from Puerto Ayora hotel lobby	Drinks
2 bags and 1 handbag	Gratuities
	1 USD water tax fee per person

Meeting and Pickup Information

Passengers can choose to be picked up either from their hotel lobby within the urban area of Puerto Ayora or from a designated meeting point at the Malecon.

Direct pickup at the dock is also available. Confirmation of the pickup details is provided at the time of booking. Plus, an emergency contact number is included in the voucher, should travelers need assistance during their journey.

The transfer duration may vary depending on traffic conditions and sea state.

Passengers are advised to have a valid passport on the travel day. Those with serious medical conditions, such as back problems or heart issues, may want to reconsider this transfer option.

Additional Considerations

Strong tides may cause dizziness during the maritime transfer, so travelers prone to motion sickness should consider taking medication beforehand.

This transfer service isn’t wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility issues should plan accordingly.

Passengers must have a valid passport on the day of travel, as it’s required for the journey.

Plus, the service isn’t recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions like heart problems or back issues, as the trip may exacerbate their symptoms.

While the transfer duration varies based on traffic and sea conditions, it’s essential to factor in potential delays when planning your itinerary.

Customer Experiences and Feedback

Reviews for the transfer service from Santa Cruz Island to Isabela Island are mixed, with customers providing both positive and negative feedback. While some praised the assistance of staff, particularly Jefferson, others complained about the booking process, communication, and lack of information regarding boat details. There were also suggestions to book directly with local operators instead of third-party services like Viator.

Positive Feedback	Negative Feedback	Recommendations
Helpful staff	Poor booking process	Book directly with local operators
Assisted by Jefferson	Lack of communication	Avoid third-party services
	Pricing issues
	Lack of boat details

Booking and Pricing Insights

The booking process and pricing for the transfer service from Santa Cruz Island to Isabela Island have drawn some concerns from customers.

According to reviews, issues have been reported with the booking experience and lack of communication:

1. Customers suggest booking directly with local operators instead of using third-party services like Viator, as this may provide more transparency and control.

2. There are complaints about the pricing, with some travelers feeling the service is overpriced compared to alternatives.

3. Travelers express a desire for more detailed information about the boat and transfer specifics prior to booking.

4. Better communication from the service provider regarding logistics and any changes would help improve the customer experience.

Choosing the Right Transfer Option

When deciding on the right transfer option from Santa Cruz Island to Isabela Island, travelers must weigh factors like cost, convenience, and customer feedback.

The transfer service reviewed offers a one-way maritime transfer with pickup from hotels in Puerto Ayora. While the price is reasonable, reviews indicate mixed experiences regarding the booking process and communication.

Travelers may find better value by booking directly with local operators instead of third-party services.

It’s also important to consider any personal limitations, as the transfer isn’t wheelchair accessible and can be challenging for those with medical conditions.

Questions About Your Stay

How Long Does the Maritime Transfer Typically Take?

The maritime transfer duration typically varies based on traffic and sea conditions, but generally takes around 2-3 hours to complete the journey. Factors like weather and vessel speed can impact the exact travel time.

What Is the Size and Capacity of the Transfer Boat?

The service allows a maximum of 20 travelers per tour. The boat size is not specified, but it’s likely a medium-sized vessel capable of transporting a group comfortably across the waters between the islands.

Are There Any Age or Weight Restrictions for Passengers?

The service doesn’t have any age or weight restrictions. It accommodates up to 20 passengers, with a maximum of 2 bags and 1 handbag allowed per traveler. Those with serious medical conditions should consider the potential risks posed by strong tides.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Transfer?

Passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the transfer. The service doesn’t include any meals or beverages, but there’s a 1 USD water tax fee per person that must be paid.

Is There an Option to Book a Round-Trip Transfer Service?

No, the transfer service only offers a one-way service from Puerto Ayora to Isabela Island. There’s no option to book a round-trip transfer. Travelers would need to make separate arrangements for the return journey.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The transfer from Santa Cruz to Isabela Island offers a convenient one-way maritime journey, though customers should be aware of potential challenges like strong tides and booking issues. With a maximum capacity of 20 travelers, the service provides hotel pickup and allows two bags per person, though food and drinks aren’t included. Overall, customer feedback is mixed, so travelers should consider all factors when selecting this transfer option.