Genovesa Island

Genovesa Island, also known as Tower Island, is a remote shield volcano situated in the northern sector of the Galápagos archipelago in the eastern Pacific Ocean. Occupying approximately 14 square kilometers with a maximum elevation of 64 meters, the island features a distinctive horseshoe shape formed by a collapsed volcanic caldera that created the expansive waters of Great Darwin Bay. Operating as an exclusive expedition cruise destination, ships anchor directly within the calm, sheltered caldera waters while tender boats transport passengers ashore.

Originally named Genoa after Christopher Columbus's birthplace in 1892 to commemorate the quadricentennial of his first voyage, the island is universally celebrated among naturalists as "Bird Island." Due to its isolated position away from western island predators, Genovesa supports some of the densest and most vibrant seabird colonies in the entire archipelago. The volcanic terrain is framed by rugged coastal cliffs, sparse palo santo forests, and weathered lava fields that create an untouched wilderness sanctuary for endemic wildlife.

Shore excursions focus entirely on guided naturalist hikes, coastal panga boat tours, and exceptional deep-water snorkeling sessions. Visitors land at El Barranco to climb Prince Philip's Steps, a steep rocky trail leading through massive nesting colonies of red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and great frigatebirds. Hikers also spot rare daytime-active storm petrels, short-eared owls hunting in the brush, and the archipelago's smallest subspecies of marine iguanas scurrying along the volcanic shoreline.

Expedition vessels serve fresh seafood ceviche, grilled plantains, local beef stews, sweet corn tamales, and tropical fruit juices.

Birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and expedition cruisers will find this northern volcanic island unforgettable for its towering seabird colonies and pristine caldera bay. Explored Genovesa Island or have a future cruise booked to this port? Log this cruise on The Cruise Globe to view your ship's exact path or see the predicted route!