Wednesday, May 5th Floreana

The island of Floreana, a 5 hour motor sail from Santa Cruz and Baltra was breathtaking at dawn. The Highlands at Puerta Valiesco Ibarra was accessed by an open bus. The San Paulo and Scalcia trees with plum, orange, banana and guyabana dotting the landscape. Each island has its own unique flora and fauna.









Darwin's Tree finches flit from branch to branch singing their songs as yellow warblers sing for their supper.










Sea Lions are king here and they occupy nearly every available spot that is available.










There are about 40 gentle giants on Floreana and it is amazing how close you can get to them!









We hiked the highlands which had beautiful views of the bay.










We went snorkeling from the panga at Comorant Point. The water was so clear you could see all the way to the bottom. I didn't have a wet suit, but the temp. was perfect. We saw brightly colored fish, chocolate chip starfish and an octopus. After returning to the ship, we changed and went for another shore excursion before dinner. We saw blue footed bobbies, pelicans, flamingos and sea turtle nests.














We assisted one baby sea turtle make it to the ocean, only to be scooped up by a frigate bird and eaten! That's life.




Captain's dinner tonight and we met the crew.