The Mikels' Chronicals: March 15 - Floreana Island Morning Excursion

This morning we awoke for breakfast and boarded the Zodiac to head to Floreana Island for a short walk and then snorkeling. We were told we may see flamingos on the island, but no siting was made by any of the groups unfortunately. During our walk we saw many birds, spiders, and lizards. Back on the other side of the island was a white sand beach and plenty of turtle tracks up into the higher grounds where the turtles lay their eggs. We saw a few out in the ocean not too far from shore bobbing their heads. Ted took many photos of the masked boobie dive bombing for food. These animals only live 15-20 years due to their breakneck speed into the water which eventually causes them to go blind as they leave their eyes open so they can spot their prey. We also watched a sally light footed crab molt it’s skin. It almost looks like he is lathering up with soap, but it is the process he performs in a matter of hours to shed his entire skin and grow anew.

Upon completion of our walk, we went back to the original beach we came in and prepared for snorkeling. I debated whether or not to go to the “advanced” snorkeling site. But, when they warned us there were possible currents and choppy water, I figured I better not. Plus, the guides might be suspicious if I was the only one wearing a life jacket Ted stayed with me, and we had a blast once I got over my initial fear of being in the water. Our underwater camera cover worked great too. We spotted a sea turtle, sea lion, stingray, Galapagos penguins, and numerous types of fish. My favorite one had to be the most colorful fish in the group, he was teal and purple, my two favorite colors!

When we finished snorkeling we hopped back on the Zodiac and made it back to the ship only to see a sea lion hanging out on our undocking deck. As we watched him for a few minutes, he decided his spot wasn’t good enough so he jumped back in the water and onto the Zodiac we had just come from.

Enough for now-hope all is well back home.

Also, we are having zero luck uploading pictures, so you all will have to wait until we get home. We are sorry and hope you are not too bored reading our updates.