Over the last week, the World ARC fleet has been exploring a little more of the tremendously interesting Galapagos Islands. Although the sailing has been limited due to a lack of wind, the islands themselves offer much to see and do, which is keeping the crews busy. A popular destination has proven to be Puerto Villamil which is the port town, situated on the largest of the islands, Isabela.
Isabela, like the other Galapagos Islands is abundant in interesting wildlife and landscape. A long white sand beach, iguanas, penguins, flamingos and tortoises are just some of the attractions on display, greeting boats as they come ashore.
The day tours have become very popular, specially the one to 'Los Tuneles' where a series of lava flows have produced a series of arcs and tunnels underneath and above the water. This is a unique geological formation and an habitat for many Galapagos species - a spectacular place for snorkeling in Isabela.
After enjoying much of what the Islands have to provide, many of the fleet will soon be arriving in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, for a reunion programme and preparations for the next leg of the Rally. The next leg to the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia is the longest leg of the Rally so crews will be busy ensuring supplies are restocked before departing on 1st of March.