Life Aboard the Samba

Aboard the Samba:

Visitors to the Galapagos typically travel between the islands on large yachts. We were no exception. A dozen of us enjoyed fine accommodations aboard the Samba, a motor yacht captained by Guillermo Quimi. Daily we made at least two shore excursions during the week-long trip. Each adventure offered something different.

Our route took us from Baltra (location of the jet airport on Santa Cruz Island) to South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Hood, Floreana, Isabela, Fernandina, James and Bartolome islands.

Right: The Samba anchors at South Plaza Island southeast of Baltra.

Visitors to the Galapagos should be in good physical condition. Getting in and out of the panga (local name for dingy) was challenging when the seas were rough.

We ate very well. Pictured to the right is the dinner table on the final night of the voyage. Although the setting looks formal, we took our shoes off when we were aboard the boat so as to keep the interior free of sand.

Sunsets on the equator can be spectacular. Left: A wide angle lens accents the patterns of clouds above Fernandina Island.

Below: The sun sets quickly on the equator. Several passengers aboard the Samba saw the "green flash" at sunset.

Our naturalist, Juan, has 16 years of experience of guiding visitors in the Galapagos.

Left: Prior to dinner he explains an excursion planned for the following morning.

Above: He plays a guitar expertly as a crew member and guest join in.