Galapagos, Day 2

Monday, May 17, 2010
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Kicker Rock, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal and Punta Suarez, Espanola

Got up at 6 AM to prepare for the sunrise viewing of Kicker Rock from the zodiac . Unlike the sunrise that never happened at Ayers Rock, this one was spectacular. We circumnavigated the rock that looks like a boot from one side and a sealion from the other. Every zodiac has a different Naturalist on board (you may get a different one each day) and we get a history, geology, botany, and fauna lesson every day. All the naturalists are college educated, certified by the National Park Service and are very knowledgeable. After the 45 minute ride, we went back to the ship for breakfast. At 9 AM we took a zodiac to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal, one of the few inhabited islands, for a dry landing and a visit to the Interpretation Center followed by a walk along the town's main street. Saw lot of little tourist shops but not much else except sea loins. Reminded us of a very sleepy Caribbean village. Back on board the ship for lunch at noon. After lunch we picked up our snorkeling equipment then had a briefing regarding the use and care of the gear. Our first snorkeling will be on Tues. We arrived at Espanola Island after lunch. We dropped anchor and got ready for our zodiac ride and walk on the island. This was another very rocky walk and we saw Galapagos Marine Iguanas, lizards, Nazca (formerly called Masked) Boobies, Blue-footed Boobies, Waved Albatross (on the ground and flying), White Egrets and other bird life, and of course, sea lions. Back on board at 6 PM, drinks on the bow, shower time and then the daily briefing (our usual late afternoon routine). The seas were a little rough starting in the afternoon. Some people were not doing real well. Diane ate dinner but I skipped it and went to sleep. Never got sick but wasn’t very hungry (made up for the food the next day).


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