San Cristobal is a port island with a small airport and a population centre, being a popular starting point for plenty of Galapagos cruises for its accessibility and diverse wildlife.
Galapagos cruises need to start somewhere, and if not Baltra Island or Puerto Ayora, it’s going to be San Cristobal. This little port island is known as not just a jumping-off point for cruises, but also an impressive place to visit in its own right. It’s very close to Kicker Rock, offering plenty of snorkelling and diving opportunities, while it’s also home to diverse aerial and marine wildlife, from blue-footed boobies to sea lions. There are many reasons to visit San Cristobal, but it’s the gateway element that truly makes it a fantastic part of the Galapagos. Look below to see cruise itineraries that include it as a core part of the journey.