North Seymour Island Cruise Port

North Seymour Island is a small, uninhabited island in the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador, close to Baltra Island. It is visited as a port of call, with cruise passengers usually arriving by dinghy or tender before setting out with a professional Galápagos National Park guide. There are no towns or conventional visitor facilities here, so the appeal is the chance to see the island's wildlife and landscape in a natural setting.

The island itself was formed when a submarine lava formation was pushed above the surface. Today, its landscape is covered with low, bushy vegetation, while a small stand of silver grey Palo Santo trees grows near the landing area. These trees often appear bare, even when they are alive. A marked visitor trail of around 2 kilometers crosses the island, taking guided groups through the interior and towards the rocky coast.

Wildlife is the main attraction. North Seymour is particularly known for its blue footed boobies and swallow tailed gulls, while pelicans and other seabirds can often be seen feeding offshore. Nazca boobies are also present at certain times. The island supports one of the world's largest populations of frigate birds, making it an especially rewarding place for anyone interested in seabirds.

Galápagos land iguanas are another important part of the island's story. Their population is slowly growing, and the animals have an unusual connection with nearby Baltra Island. In the 1930s, Captain G. Allan Hancock moved land iguanas from Baltra to North Seymour. Their descendants later became the source population for a captive breeding program, helping safeguard the species after Baltra became the site of an American airbase during the Second World War.

North Seymour Island is best suited to cruisers who enjoy wildlife, seabirds and reptiles and are comfortable with uneven ground, guided walks and small boat landings. Tours involve a longer walk across the rocky interior, while others use a zodiac to explore the coastline and view wildlife and geology without as much walking. Snorkeling may also be available offshore.