Today was the last day of our cruise. And what a spectacular day we have had! Before breakfast we climbed to the summit of Bartolome and there, breathless from both the climb and the view, admired the barren black lava flows of the southeastern corner of Santiago Island. These are lava fields that cover several square miles and date from a significant eruption in 1897.
Following breakfast, we either snorkeled or viewed the marine world from the comfort of the glass bottom boat. Imagine snorkeling with penguins! Just imagine even finding penguins on the equator…
The afternoon's walk, at Puerto Egas on the northwestern shore of Santiago, was our last visit in Galapagos. We had our final look at the "impish" marine iguanas, the brilliant red Sally lightfoot crabs, the herons and finches and the sea lions. It is amazing how many photos one unwittingly takes of sea lions during a one-week expedition through this magical archipelago. Each pup is more charming than the last, every pose and position more delightful. This female was using her two-month-old pup as a pillow. These and other images will remain with us long after we have left these enchanted islands, and they will from now on, enrich the lives we lead back home.
