We were anchored peacefully all evening between Baltra and North Seymour Islands. In the wee hours of the morning Captain Jaramillo had our boson haul up the anchor and we navigated on a calm ocean west to Bartolome. I gave an optional early wakeup call at 0600 just as the sun began to rise. While we were gathered in the lounge it slowly emerged in a fiery ball from behind Bartolome Island- spectacular! After our snack of fruit and apple bread plus a cup of coffee or tea, we disembarked on a cement dock and climbed along and up a boardwalk and stairway to the summit of this barren volcanic islet. Our naturalists pointed out the interesting geological features – spatter and cinder cones and lava tubes – and a few species of pioneering plants. The view was wonderful from the top and well worth every breath of the effort to make the climb.
Back on board we had a hearty and well deserved breakfast and following a short safety briefing we donned our snorkeling gear. The beginners among us headed to the beach to try snorkeling in the shallows. Those who were experienced snorkelers and good swimmers boarded the Zodiacs and snorkeled in deeper water among myriad colorful fish, a half dozen sting rays, and a couple of white tipped reef sharks, too. We swam a long way along the rocky shoreline in clear, warm water and thoroughly enjoyed the outing.
Back on board at noon we had a delicious Ecuadorian buffet lunch! Afterwards we enjoyed a short siesta while the ship navigated south and west to Rabida, the red island, and the site of our afternoon outings. A group of eager kayakers were followed by two Zodiacs of snorkelers and a small group of guests who went for a walk on the red sandy beach. The kayakers enjoyed paddling the bright yellow boats along the shore and they spotted sea birds, sea turtles, marine iguanas and pinnipeds (sea lions and fur seals). The snorkel conditions were fine: clear cool water and zillions of fish!
We returned to the ship and a group of our “do-it-all guests” switched out of wet clothes to disembark on the red beach for a sunset walk. The late afternoon light was lovely and we were delighted by two fearless, bright pink flamingos that were feeding in a shallow brackish lagoon.
In the evening we gathered in the lounge for cocktails and friendly discussions about our day. Naturalists Paul and Jason gave a talk and I provided information about Monday’s visit to Isabela and Fernandina Islands. These western islands are the youngest in the archipelago and are yet volcanically active! No doubt tomorrow will be another amazing day in las Islas Encantadas of Galapagos!
