Isla Iguana, Panama
Islas Boná and Otoque lie in the Gulf of Panama, not far from the Panamanian mainland. This body of water is a rich biological brew, fueled by the regular winds that blow the warm surface waters out to sea, to be replaced by nutrient-rich, cold ocean bottom water. Exposed to the tropical sun, this creates an abundant food source, much of which is harvested by the many seabirds that live in the area. During our Zodiac explorations, we spotted brown boobies, blue-footed boobies, magnificent frigatebirds, brown pelicans, dolphins, and many other sightings.
Heading south on our way, eventually, to Costa Rica, we had a steady stream of oceanic life, including black terns, yellow-bellied sea snakes, sea turtles, flying fish… A group of pantropical spotted dolphins excited and entertained us. Our presentation series started off with Bill Schelsinger’s presentation about “Climate Change,” which was followed by a lively discussion.
Having made good speed, we made an unscheduled stop at Isla Iguana, a nature preserve. Here, we had swimming, snorkeling and beachcombing opportunities. Hiking across the island, some of us came upon an inlet with three spotted eagle-rays, and we had a great time in the middle of a magnificent frigatebird breeding colony.
Back on board, after another fine dinner, we had a night at sea, on our way to Coiba Island.
Islas Boná and Otoque lie in the Gulf of Panama, not far from the Panamanian mainland. This body of water is a rich biological brew, fueled by the regular winds that blow the warm surface waters out to sea, to be replaced by nutrient-rich, cold ocean bottom water. Exposed to the tropical sun, this creates an abundant food source, much of which is harvested by the many seabirds that live in the area. During our Zodiac explorations, we spotted brown boobies, blue-footed boobies, magnificent frigatebirds, brown pelicans, dolphins, and many other sightings.
Heading south on our way, eventually, to Costa Rica, we had a steady stream of oceanic life, including black terns, yellow-bellied sea snakes, sea turtles, flying fish… A group of pantropical spotted dolphins excited and entertained us. Our presentation series started off with Bill Schelsinger’s presentation about “Climate Change,” which was followed by a lively discussion.
Having made good speed, we made an unscheduled stop at Isla Iguana, a nature preserve. Here, we had swimming, snorkeling and beachcombing opportunities. Hiking across the island, some of us came upon an inlet with three spotted eagle-rays, and we had a great time in the middle of a magnificent frigatebird breeding colony.
Back on board, after another fine dinner, we had a night at sea, on our way to Coiba Island.
