LOCATION: Galapagos
My advice - just do it. No doubt there are thousands of places in Australia that offer similar experiences but when you have the opportunity to get into a pristine environment and get close to the living things in it - as i said ....just do it.
Not sure i can keep up with the commentary - the days are so full. Had four activities today - two walks and two snorkelling excursions interspersed with meals.
You are front and centre starting at 7 am - and the day doesn't stop. You are kitting up for walks, stripping down for swims and alternating between showers and hanging out wet gear. It is hot, sticky and salty. And absolutely exhilarating. There is no need to search for wildlife here - it is just prolific.
Had @Justin, one of the crew allocated as my personal carer on the walk over the uneven surfaces on our volcanic lava expedition in the morning. Hugely appreciated - meant @Mac could do his sprint across the rocks. @Jaime on hand with all the commentary and detail of the geology amd biology of the area.
Adventure one into snorkelling was tentative - but instructions and gear so good, really just a matter of gaining confidence. Vibrant colours, clear water teaming with fish, @Mac incredulous that little penguins got up close and personal with him in the chest and face mask - what a start!
We don't have underwater camera to capture the adventure but again, it is like being in your own documentary.
Adventure two in the afternoon crazy spectacular. Swimming this time with a little raft of penguins, chasing the sea Lions (no chance, but we gave it a go, they are so fast), floating above sharks and rays and in an absolute state of euphoria as the currents trail you along the rocky shore.
Spotted our first blue footed booby and had to adjust our landing plans back to the boat because a sea lion had propped itself up on the boat.
Rounded out the day with a long walk high above the pinnacle of Bartholomew Island and home just in time for the striking red sunset that put on a perfect show from the upper deck of The Treasure.
Meals have been amazing- conversation now flowing in the group as shared experiences bind us together. A great group - lots of stories andx veryone is keeping an eye out for each other amd making sure we all see what is on offer.
Confessing that I am struggling to keep awake for the 8.30 briefing. Four excursions, all involving effort and energy ensure the battery is running on low come the end of the day.
From the itinerary ...
DAY 2 SULIVAN BAY AND BARTOLOME
After breakfast you will enjoy a tour of Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island, which is also known as James Island. Located in thewestern-central part of the Galapagos, this is the fourth largest island in the archipelago (following Isabela, Fernandina andSanta Cruz). Santiago is volcanically active, with many young flows and cones to be seen, particularly along the southern, western, and eastern coasts. A number of large eruptions have been reported here over the last 2 centuries.
This afternoon you will be taken on a tour of Bartolome Island, which is situated across Sullivan Bay. The island has an altitude of 114 metres and offers one of the most incredible vistas in the Galapagos Islands including volcanic cones, lunarlike craters, lava fields and the famous Toba formed pinnacle eroded by the sea.
PS @Deb unwell today and confined to cabin. Crew looking after her and extremely attentive. Fingers crossed it is just a dehydration issue. After rough night and day - has tried some chicken broth today
PPS @Mac suffering part 2 today - other cheek swollen - looking a little scary to start the day
Can you believe this?
Key Features of Lava in Santiago Island:
Sullivan Bay Activity: Features vast, flat pahoehoe lava, formed in the late 19th century (approx. 1897), which presents a smooth, ropy texture.
Volcanic Structures: The site is characterized by "hornitos" (small, rootless cones formed by gas bubbles) and, occasionally, the molds of trees that were covered by the molten flow, explains Galapagos Cruises Travel.
Formations: The cooling lava created varied shapes, including braids, curtains, and swirls, making it a popular spot for photography, according to Happy Gringo Travel and galapagoscruceros.ec.
Life on the Lava: Despite the barren, harsh conditions, lava cactus (Brachycereus nesioticus) and Mollugo plants have begun to colonize the fissures
Survival Barometer
Steps 9573
Weather 34 and humid - salt water sticky
Health - @Mac day 2 of swollen cheek - @Deb had a day in cabin with slight improvement in the evening
For Jesse ... blazing sunset had us running up the stairs to get card .. it happens so fast
"I could do those steps!"
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