The Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands have been of great interest to scientists from all over the world ever since Charles Darwin's visit in 1835, where the unique development of the flora and fauna helped him to develop his theory of evolution.

The land species which inhabit the islands were thought to have been brought by ocean currents on large or floating vegetation. They were forced to adapt to their new environments and over thousands of years changes occurred in their anatomy, physiology and behaviour. Important differences can be found among animals derived from the same original species, but living on islands with differing environs.

Two marine currents flow by the Galapagos archipelago, one cold and one warm. Their salinity differs and their waters do not mix. This special situation has led to the cohabitation of marine species very different from one another. Although the total number of species on the Galapagos is relatively small, their spectacular variety makes for a completely unique habitat.

Nowhere else in the world can you see such wild animals at such close range. Because of the lack of natural predators, most animals are quite literally fearless of human visitors. This makes for an astonishing wildlife and photographic experience.

Our home for the 8 day tour of a selection of the many points of interest on the Galapagos Islands, was the GAP Adventurer I or Pelikan.

Once again we experienced excellent food, with three hot meals each day. It was a wonder what our friendly cook was able to achieve within the confines of the very small galley.

Our genial host/naturalist guide, Gino Salazar and the crew of the Pelikan certainly made every effort to make this an exciting, enjoyable and memorable adventure. I will forever hear the grunts of a male Sea Lion bursting forth from Gino's mouth as we walked in all sorts of environments.

My sincere thanks to all of the GAP Adventurer I crew.