Day 8 January 12

waiting for our boat

M/V Galapagos Explorer II; home for a few days

January 12

Manta, Guayaquil and the Galapagos, Ecuador.

Distance traveled so far: 1,231 nautical miles

We were awakened at 0400 with breakfast delivered to our stateroom and by 5 were ready to disembark. As we left the ship the Captain and Hotel Manager were quayside to see us off, which was very much appreciated by our group. We bussed just short of 2 hours to the airport in Guayaquil which gave us a great opportunity to see the countryside and villages. Next came a 1 ½ hour flight to San Cristobol island in the Galapagos. After in-processing for this National Park we bussed to waterfront and boarded Zodiacs for a hop to the MV Galapagos Explorer II. Following an orientation and boat drill we rented snorkeling equipment ($10 for 3 days) and at 5 went ashore near Wizard Hill on San Cristobol to meet sea lions and do some snorkeling. Back to the ship for a welcome cocktail party to meet the crew, a fine dinner then a briefing on the activities for the next day. Bed at 10:30.

The boat (ship?) boasts wood paneled cabins, balconies, piano bar, library, sun deck, lounge, massage parlor, shop and a great culinary staff. 6 decks high and comfortable.

There are strict rules to follow in these islands as the flora and fauna are unique and must be protected. We were advised to come no closer than 6' to the animals and certainly not to touch them. Visitors had to remain on marked trails and had to be accompanied by a Naturalist. Our Naturalists were local to the Galapagos. True to expectations the animal life was not afraid of us and either behaved with mild curiosity or ignored us completely.

We discovered we would be making two types of landings from the inflatables (Zodiacs); wet, which means at a landing you swing your legs off the boat and step into the water and walk ashore, and the dry landing in which you step off the Zodiac onto a rock, the ship gangway or something firm and dry.

Anyone planning to visit the islands is welcome to contact me for advice on what to take along. Advice is free. 

NOTE: The internet service is too weak to post any photos right now but check back. I'll try each day.