Sun glistened through the clouds as we awoke at Bartolome Island. This very desolate-looking island in the distance was our destination and we landed early to climb to the top. Small delicate lava tubes covered the outer flanks of volcanic cones, where we noticed some pioneer plants surviving on this dry island. As we gained altitude we started to take in the full panoramic picture with many islands to be seen in the distance. An occasional manta ray took flight above the ocean, landing with a massive splash. At the summit of Bartolome, we had a clear view of Santiago and its recent lava flow. This flow surrounded a field of parasitic volcanic cones that have amassed around a large shield volcano.
Upon our return to the ship, we prepared ourselves for a second landing at Bartolome and a chance to snorkel along the coast of impressive Pinnacle Rock. White-tipped reef sharks and large schools of surgeonfish swam among us as we headed into the ocean from a fine sand beach.
Sailing into the afternoon our chef treated us to a bountiful Ecuadorian buffet representing the various regions of Ecuador. Later on, as we arrived at Rabida Island, we noticed a distinct difference in its volcanic composition as the island is bright red with iron oxide. Kayakers had a great view of the red cliffs dotted with large cacti and incense trees. Close by, the deepwater snorkelers encountered Galapagos sea lions curious about their presence in the water as well as penguins flitting by. Some of us visited the beach to relax and swim and catch our own show as blue-footed boobies plunged into the water diving for food.
Darks clouds loomed overhead as we finished this incredible day with a short inland walk at Rabida. A sea lion pup nursed as it lay with its mother among large sea stars that washed ashore. A couple of Galapagos mockingbirds ran up to us searching for the possibility of food at our feet. Nature appeared to accept us and life continued unabated as we left the shoreline and headed deeper into our expedition.
