Galapagos Islands 2015 Journal
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Things have changed in the Galapagos since Astrid and I visited in 2004. Eleven years ago, we sailed to islands scattered throughout the chain, but that's no longer possible on a 7-day voyage. Now, ships are permitted to anchor at a given site just once every 14 days. As a result, most 7-day itineraries target either the western or eastern islands. We selected the Eastern Route for its wildlife variety, especially the waved albatross which nest only on Espanola Island and only at the time of year we would be there.
Well, that was the plan. Turns out Wolf Volcano on Isabela Island began erupting just a few days before our arrival. About midway through the trip, we arrived at Genovesa Island. That evening we were supposed to sail to Bartoleme, but our guides asked if we were game for a small adventure. That was a no-brainer. We made the long sail to the northern tip of Isabela, arriving around 3:30 AM. Red-hot lava was flowing into the ocean. Such an amazing sight! Later in the gallery you'll find a few photos and a short video documenting that experience. Our tour company had to pay a stiff fine for the unplanned route deviation, but I think the staff enjoyed the detour at least as much as we did.
