January 20, 2001

This morning we anchored at Santa Fe (Barrington) Island where we were greeted by a mockingbird. Santa Fe may well be the oldest island in the Galápagos.

After climbing over volcanic.rock we entered an area of Opuntia cactus. Here we also discovered the noble-looking Palo Santo and Scalesia along with a variety of other dry zone vegetation

Our major goal was to see some of the few remaining large land iguanas that are endemic to this island. Returning, having completed our mission a lagoon presented an unforgetable view.

Along a beach after three days of trying, I was finally able to capture on film a Ghost crab. But there was no time to celebrate. Our panga awaited and we were soon on our way.

After lunch and a siesta we anchored at Academy Bay outside Puerto Ayora on Isla Santa Cruz. Approaching the largest settlement in the Galapagos we were again greeted by sea birds and Marine iguanas lining the shore.

Puerto Ayora is home to the National Park Services. We saw the famous giant tortoises that once dominated the islands. The star. of course, was Lonesome George.

Today, they are part of the Charles Darwin Research Station. At the station we had our last opportunity to enjoy the flora and fauna .

Then, passing the graveyard we walked to town to admire the architecture and port life before returning to our yacht. It would soon be time to leave these beautiful islands.

Index — Ecuador & the Galapagos

Adventure Begins