Pacific Ocean, Galapagos, Between PTO Ayora and Pto Viamill - 22-Nov-03

I just returned to the island of santa cruz from the island of Isabella. Port Viamill is 75km from pto. Ayora. The trip should take about 2 hours, depending on the boat. I HIGHLY recommend seeking out a boat with 2 engines, as one engine, in the big bad pacific ocean, with STRONG currents, and sharks, doesnt seem enough

Byron or Fabian at ´´living the dream´´ travel agency (right near the peir, across from the little part in the centre of the street) Will be pleased to arrange safe travel with his pal Checho. However….

Back to last Monday:

I am very excited for my trip to the island of Isabella. Neat! Almost no tourists go there, and its undeveloped life should give me a chance to get to know the locals, learn some Spanish, and travel on horseback to the top of a volcano. Ahhh.. But to get there. 75KM from where I now stand (GPS Later) is the port I desire. A nice leisurely 2 hour boat ride on a beautiful sunny day should be lovely, and I am really looking forward to it. I have my book, (The exploration of the Amazon Basin – thank you Adam) and I am ready!

The sea (del mar) has other plans for me. Now, I am not sure how many of you have traveled the open ocean on a small (5m long, 2 wide) boat before, but its no cruise. Especially today, its not good. The long rolling waves are at least 3m from lull to point, and everyone gets airborne every time we pass over one. Eeeek.

30 min in, I have been covered with spray a lot. I am totally drenched. Also, while I don’t know it yet, my passport is completely underwater.

60 min in. Two of my fellow passengers, Ecuadorian, are vomiting over the side.

90 min in. My ass is numb from being slammed down on the seat hundreds of times, all of my clothing is soaking wet, and I am fearfully eyeing the bag which contains the digital camera. I hope it lives…..

2.5 hrs. No more gas, seas were rougher than anticipated, used too much fuel. We have to stop while massive waves roll under us to change tanks.

2hrs 45min. we arrive!! YIPPIE!! I am alive.

Ahh, traveling. Its so nice when you can appreciate something as small as still being alive. J

Till next time (the town of pto viamill, and don vincenties house)

Simon