This morning we visited an island called Isla Espiritu Santo, or Holy Spirit Island. Our morning consisted of two activities: walks along a flat dusty plain with desert plants, and an opportunity to explore the shoreline with kayaks. The bay at Dispensa offered a chance to see plants that rely on salt water and those that totally rely on the much rarer fresh water. The change over from the mangrove- or saltwater-loving plants and the desert plants was striking. Others enjoyed the chance to ply the shallow waters of the bay with kayaks and a few tried stand-up paddleboarding, however the windy conditions made that a bit challenging. By midday the wind had increased so the decision was made to head north to a more protected bay called Ensenada Grande.
After lunch snorkeling was offered for those who wanted to explore the marine life along the picturesque rock walls at Ensenada Grande. The volcanic rocks create homes for many interesting fish and invertebrates. Once the snorkeling was concluded and everyone was cleaned up, there was a great opportunity for dinner ashore! The hotel staff did a great job and expended a lot of effort setting up a wonderful dinner on shore for everyone to enjoy. There was a fire set up and after the main course, guests could make s’mores as the almost full moon rose over the small secluded beach we were enjoying. Just as guests were getting ready to leave a few ring-tailed cats, related to raccoons, showed up to see if any scraps were left behind.
National Geographic Sea Bird spent the night at anchor so we could enjoy another day on Isla Espiritu Santo.
