Just finished our 2nd day in this adventure land. Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands consists of 13 main islands, five of which are inhabited, seven minor islands, and more than 200 islets and rocks sitting 600 miles of South America’s Pacific coast . These islands support 7,000 species of flora and fauna, and an astounding 97% of the reptiles and 80% of the land birds exist nowhere else on earth.

When we landed on the island of Santa Cruz, we were whisk away to our yacht which is appropriately called the Elite, as it is very luxurious. There are 14 of us on board plus a large crew. Yesterday included a “HOT” walk on Bachas Beach to see several interesting creatures including black marine iguanas, pink flamingos fishing for breakfast, and Sally Lightfoot crabs. Exhausted by the walk, we sat on our balcony to watch a colorful sunset. Dinner was exceptional with fresh seafood, and although lots of engine noise while moving on to another island, we both slept well.

Today we woke up in Darwin’s Bay looking at Genovesa Island. The morning walk was definitely a challenge for an old lady, but well worth the effort. We hiked straight up 50 rugged rocky steps, called El Barranco or Prince Philip’s Steps leading from the ocean to the top of a large cliff, only to be greeted by 2 red footed boobies. Then we began a VERY long and hell hot walk along a plateau of dried lava that produced many species of birds…my favorite being the mating frigate (large red breast).

By the time we returned to the boat, Connie & I were both totally exhausted and overheated. Cold showers and a short nap were mandatory before a lunch on the top deck of grilled shrimp, octopus and fresh tuna.

The afternoon involved what they referred to as “challenging snorkeling” but was actually very easy. On the way out to the scuba site, we were so excited to see a pilot whale come up beside the boat. Our guide said he had not seen one in Darwin Bay in 10 years…there’s my luck kicking in again. Once in the water, we saw a Galapogos shark and lots of large fish …all varieties. I also spotted a large octopus but the rest of the small group was ahead of me when I saw him. Their loss😜

Dinner on top deck tonight visiting with some very interesting folks from all over including England and Canada. We will sail 6-7 hours thru the night to Santiago Island.