Well I finally managed to leave the wonderful Galapagos Islands after a truly unique experience although the boat journey across the pacific ocean between Isabela and Santa Cruz will surely be remembered as the worst trip of my year. Not only did the tiny boat break down halfway across (in rougher seas then I have ever experienced) but the captain of the rescue boat trapped his hand in between the 2 boats as they were trying to transfer the passengers in incredibly dangerous circumstances and he was unable to take the boat back. I was wondering at one point whether we would ever make it back to dry land so was relieved when we finally arrived.
After my work at the tortoise breeding centre came to an end, I headed towards Santa Cruz to attempt to achieve my advanced diving certificate. I have been fortunate enough to dive in some of the world´s most exotic waters but I think this surpassed anything I have seen before. Visiting North Seymour Island, we were treated to the rare sight of a 10m whale shark on our descent followed by schools of white tip and Galapagos sharks. Together with the eagle rays, turtles and sealions, I was oblivious to the dangerous currents and conditions we were experiencing. Gordon Rocks and Floreana were the next sites we visited and despite the lack of hammerheads, we filmed some great sealife. After qualifying as an advanced diver and spending the best part of a week on a boat and totally overcoming my seasickness I found a local to give me a sailing lesson which has now encouraged me to take a course back in Plymouth (a black tip shark circling the tiny boat as we sailed back into the harbour was a bonus).
With 2 weeks left before my return home and no plans I decided to return to my adopted family on Isabela and spend my last days chilling on the beach. Returning to the capital city has been rather a shock to the system as I´d completely forgotten about traffic and crowds. I am now spending my last day in Quito, packing my rucksack for the final time (which I am convinced is now well over the weight limit) and looking forward to catching up with all my friends and family at home.
So my journey of a lifetime has now come to an end and what a journey it has been. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had such an opportunity with so many highlights and have made some lifelong friends along the way. I will be back in the UK in less than 24 hours and looking forward to my next adventure, whatever that may be.
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Sunday 16 November 2008
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