We met a veterinarian studying in Galapagos--her current job is catching Short Earred Owls and collecting DNA samples to see if they vary from island to island. She was planning on diving with Academy Bay Scuba in two days, and offered us her spot so that my husband and I could go instead. So nice of her! We had to dive then, because our trip was coming to a close and you can't dive and fly in the same 24 hours. And we got in with a recommendation that this is a quality shop. It is! They were professional and informative. The gear seemed well maintained. They fitted us the night before, so that we could leave early the next day with no hitches. We had about a 45 minute, rough, fast ride to our site off of Pinzon Island. Travel tip: Dramamine only works if you take it early. If you start to feel sick, it is pretty much too late. A girl on our boat was throwing up 20 minutes out of the harbor. Our guide reviewed with this group, as there were two new divers, and the rest of us hadn't dove in awhile. He gave us clear expectations of what he wanted. We went into the water, and he had us demonstrate that we could clear the water out of our masks, and we could locate our regulators if the mouthpiece got away from us. Two sea lions frolicked in the distance. And then we were off!
This moment is my artist's inspiration for today. I was so mesmerized by the way the turtles just appeared and disappeared into the blue.
It is hard to describe, and hard to paint. I am not sure I captured it. I may try again on canvas, where I have a little more control over the paint. Watercolor paper tends to do its own thing.
This was a two dive, two tank trip--one by Pinzon Island and the other at a place called Guy Fawkes Sur. Not the best visibility, a little bit of current, but not bad. Water temperature was wonderful...we weren't sure why they fitted us with full wetsuits. Very comfortable. At one point, we were surrounded by 7 or 8 sea turtles. We searched and searched for sea horses but were unsuccessful. But the rest of it was marvelous! Some of these photos were taken by the guide, some are from my GoPro. More pictures in the album...
Erin made things easier than I thought possible. So good at answering questions in a timely manner and explaining all. I feel she looks out for me.
Fran Folkman
2 hours ago
Very personable and knowledgeable! Able to answer questions and provide advice based on personal experiences.
Robert Thompson
3 hours ago
Erin is a seasoned travel planner and is very personable. She is a good listener and uses our questions and concerns to make the trip just as we want it. She is very good at moving the booking process along and meticulous with the details.
This is why we came back to have her plan this trip for us.
Lynn Oveson
19 hours ago
Erin C. was incredibly helpful and thorough. I had answers immediately or within the same day.
Marilyn Snook
1 day ago
Great follow through and help in what needed to be done to have a safe successful trip !