Española Island
The garua season was evident today, as some of us were excited about going on the pre-breakfast kayaking excursion. The low-hanging clouds reminded us that this time of the year the sun shines very sporadically. We rowed alongside Gardner Island, its steep walls and lava flows came alive when we realized that the sea lions were following us. This is the same location where we would later snorkel, and we are very happy to see that the water was clear and calm. We paddled our way back to the ship and prepared to indulge in our well-deserved breakfast!
We jumped in the water with all of our gear on – wetsuits, cameras – and felt the excitement of a new snorkeling destination yet to be discovered. The 64F degree water dripped down our backs and for a moment took our breath away, however, we soon forgot the first discomfort of the cold water while swimming close to the lava flow and seeing all the air pockets and ledges that provide habitat for anemones, sea urchins, sea stars, cardinal fish and of course the ever playful Galápagos sea lions.
With two activities before lunch, it seemed like we’d had a full day already, but there was much more to come. We took a walk on a white sandy beach with more than 160 sea lions lounging nearby; they became our favorite subject to photograph. The softness of the white powdered sand allowed us to leave our shoes onboard the Zodiac and proceed barefoot. We appreciated the rare opportunity to take a stroll in a park filled with endemic species that interact before our eyes. One can only feel grateful for being alive – this has been a lifetime experience for everyone on board. We have learned so much, we have tested our bodies walking on the lava rocks and snorkeling in places we never imagined existed. Galápagos again proves to be a magical place full of surprises.
