Cruising the Galapagos Islands

Sarah Appleton 01 February 2018
Arriving in Baltra was quite simply one of the most exciting feelings, almost like I had landed on another planet. The land is so barren and vast, a mixture of black volcanic rock, red dust and occasional cactus, with one solemn airport hangar in view.

We were all buzzing with excitement and great anticipation of the trip that was to come, as this is typically a bucket list type destination. After arrival, we were transferred by zodiac boats (little rubber dingy style) out to our intimate, yet luxurious cruise ship, our home for the next 7 nights. For the first 3 days we felt like we were the only people living on earth, just vast ocean and islands with not another ship or human insight, just incredible.

The Galapagos Islands are all about the expedition zodiac rides, as well as the landings to see the wildlife, fauna and flora. So many different experiences, we kayaked with the sea turtles, snorkelled with the sea lions (these are like big playful puppies, very inquisitive and friendly!), snorkelled with sharks, penguins, turtles and even the odd water iguana. On land, there are such vast varieties of bird species, including the infamous blue footed “Booby”, “Red Booby” and “Nazca Booby”, and it was the right time of year for seeing their chicks. Many other birds such as Galapagos Heron, waved Albatross, Frigate birds (the black birds that puff out a big red balloon from their chests), we even saw an owl!

Half way through the week we made our first stop on an island inhabited by humans, quite surreal to realise people can live here, to visit a research centre for the giant Tortoises. You will come across ‘Lonesome George’ many a time while in Galapagos, he was a male Pinta Island Tortoise and the last known individual of the subspecies. Unable to find him a mate, in his last few years he was known as the rarest creature in the world, and George now serves as a poignant symbol for conservation efforts in the Galapagos islands. Visiting such a special and incredible place really does make you feel protective of our planet.

Back on our ship, cocktail in hand, we saw something truly spectacular, Manta Ray’s jumping and flipping out of the water, several at a time. Many an hour was spent up on deck keeping watch over this amazing sight, whilst taking in the stunning surroundings, enjoying the eternal spring weather that is found here.

All the islands are varied, some were covered in red sand, others were like something you would expect to see in Australia, pure white sand with turquoise water, some were just black volcanic rock, all having their own unique eco systems. Visiting the Galapagos has given me an insight into such a unique and different style of trip, certainly one I won’t ever forget and would highly recommend for those looking for a new experience, or those with a keen interest in getting off the beaten track focusing on an incredible variety of wildlife.

Please contact me to plan your trip to Galapagos.