January 29th, 2006

FLOREANA
This morning started off grey and stayed that way all day. On our way to shore, we found a second meaning for “wet landing” when the skies opened up and started pouring. As we got to the lava cave we were heading for, however, the rain had let up. The lava cave was created when running lava solidified on the surface but continued to flow below, leaving this hollow cave/tunnel. The theory is that this means there are likely to be more scattered throughout the island. Inside the cave was quite high, and very dark. We descended almost straight down, the path straightened to a gradual slope inside. As we found our way with a few flashlights, there were several comments about who would be eaten by a monster if it were a movie. There was water at the end of the cave, but only a couple people ventured all the way to putting their feet in.
Next, on the way back to the beach, as it still was not raining, we stopped at the “post office” where sailor sued to leave letters home. Any sailors returning to the mainland were supposed to deliver them. Today the barrel is full of post cards from tourists and surrounded by signs announcing who has been there. Tourists are now the ones who are supposed to deliver the cards to near-by addresses when they go home. The beach itself was not exciting. We were going to snorkel, but there wasn’t much to see and the water was cold (at least, I found it cold). Erica and I wandered along the rocks for a bit, and when we got back were told we should have. Ooops. And then, back to the boat a bit early, as everyone was cold.
We motored around the island and had lunch before getting off again. This time we went to “Devil’s Crown” to snorkel. It was still grey, the water cold, and occasionally raining, so I almost didn’t go. I’m glad I changed my mind, though, as it was a really neat place! Several large rocks stuck out of the water to form nearly a circle, with one in the middle. We snorkeled around the outside of the longest rock, and thin into the shallower water inside. I saw two sharks, several sea lions, many rays (eagle rays according to our guide), blue footed boobies on the rocks, and approximately a million fish. The fish varied a great deal in size and color. I recognized Angel Fish and Parrot Fish, but most of the rest I couldn’t identify. I got out of the water before some people, as I was again quite cold. Also, my mask kept fogging, so I must remember to soap it and see if that helps.
After a short return to the boat – and a change into dry clothes – back to the beach, this time at Punta Cormorant. On landing we were greeted by a dead sea lion lying on the beach. Around the corner, a live one was guarding the trail. He sort of huffed at us as we took pictures and walked around him to the trail. First on the trail was a flamingo pond. There were several relatively close to us, including one juvenile that was just starting to turn pink. We hid from the rain underneath a tree while looking at them. Up over the ridge to the other side of the island we found another beach. From this beach, you could see golden rays, sharks, and green turtles swimming, as well as a few sea lions sunning and many many brightly colored crabs on the rocks. Beautiful spot – and the sky finally start to clear just before we left at 6:00. Now we’re on the boat for another night sail and an early morning start tomorrow.