Bona, Otoque and Iguana Islands, Panama
Last night, the trade winds blew behind our backs as we sailed out of the Canal. These are the same winds that accompanied us this morning as we entered the Bay of Panama, where the warm waters of the surface are pushed south allowing nutrient-rich-waters from the depths to emerge and sustain enormous fish populations. The abundance of fish in the ocean, make it possible for sea bird colonies to find their place in the numerous islands of the area. Brown pelicans, frigate birds, brown and blue footed boobies among others are some of the residents of Bona and Otoque Islands. Watching this birds glide and dive and fly is a wonderful spectacle in itself. But aside from watching these formidable birds do what they do best, which is to survive, we had the fortune of encountering at least a score of dolphins that followed us as we followed them in the Zodiacs for over half an hour. Back on the ship, we attended a lecture about Panama by Christian followed by a snorkeling recap and distribution of snorkeling gear.
After sailing part of the afternoon, we arrived in Iguana Island where we were able to swim for a while and practice some snorkeling. We also had the opportunity to go on some short walks through the island trails and see from close the mating rituals of frigate birds.
Last night, the trade winds blew behind our backs as we sailed out of the Canal. These are the same winds that accompanied us this morning as we entered the Bay of Panama, where the warm waters of the surface are pushed south allowing nutrient-rich-waters from the depths to emerge and sustain enormous fish populations. The abundance of fish in the ocean, make it possible for sea bird colonies to find their place in the numerous islands of the area. Brown pelicans, frigate birds, brown and blue footed boobies among others are some of the residents of Bona and Otoque Islands. Watching this birds glide and dive and fly is a wonderful spectacle in itself. But aside from watching these formidable birds do what they do best, which is to survive, we had the fortune of encountering at least a score of dolphins that followed us as we followed them in the Zodiacs for over half an hour. Back on the ship, we attended a lecture about Panama by Christian followed by a snorkeling recap and distribution of snorkeling gear.
After sailing part of the afternoon, we arrived in Iguana Island where we were able to swim for a while and practice some snorkeling. We also had the opportunity to go on some short walks through the island trails and see from close the mating rituals of frigate birds.
