Galapagos - Bartolome Island

We sailed overnight to Bartolome island, and after an early breakfast we boarded the zodiacs to go walk on the island. We were in a group of 12 with our expedition leader who explained things as we walked up to a high point above Sullivan Bay, from where I took this pano shot. The island is volcanic with very interesting rock and larva formations. We did not see much wildlife other than lava lizards, as today it was all about the geology. 

We were back on the boat by 9.30am. The authorities limit the time you are allowed to spend on the islands and certain areas can only be visited during certain hours, and always with a guide,  which is a good way to control the impact of visitors to these islands. 

After a coffee the boys all went snorkelling while I stayed on the boat. It was very windy and a bit cool, with water temps of 20C which is a bit cool for me!! I felt like editing my photos and then I went to the gym for a quick workout. They were back in time for an early lunch and had enjoyed the snorkelling seeing many fish, rays and a shark. 

After lunch we went to a briefing about our next location, Santiago Island, while the boat was sailing there. After we arrived we had our second outing for the day, when we went on a zodiac tour to see the wildlife in Buccaneer Cove. We saw sea lions, seals, blue footed boobies, nazca boobies, Galapagos hawks, brown pelicans, and so many other birds that I cannot remember their names. I have added extras of a sea lion, the brown pelican and a blue footed booby.


At supper time our family was invited to dine with the captain of the ship, and he was very interesting, telling us all about the rules and regulations imposed on the boats by the Galapagos National Park, to ensure this ecosystem is maintained and not damaged in any way. He also told us all about the wildlife they see here, including a blue whale that they saw 2 weeks ago.


Tomorrow we are off to another island and we have been promised snorkelling with marine turtles!


Wifi is very poor here and I am having trouble uploading - I have to post this very late at night when most people have gone to bed so that the wifi is not overloaded. During the day it is impossible to get access for any length of time. 


We found out today that the puppy being allocated to us is Miss Green. The breeder thought she would suit our family as she is one of the smaller females (as I requested a small dog) and apparently has a very calm and loving nature, less crazy than the usual bonkers Viz puppy!