Las Bachas Highlights:
The name "Las Bachas" comes from the locals' poor English pronunciation of "barges" to describe the WWII barges that broke free from the moorings and ran aground on this beach.  A pair of beach lagoons occasionally host flamingoes feeding in the shallows.  And the beach itself is one of the largest nesting areas of the Pacific green sea turtle in the Galapagos.  Morning excursions include a wet landing and hike to view flamingos, followed by an opportunity to swim from the beach, and a wet landing at the beach for a few hours of relaxation.

Dragon Hill Highlights:
Dragon Hill, or "Cerro Dragon" is named after it's population of land iguanas. The site offers a beautiful view of the landscape and two small brackish lagoons where flamingos and other shore birds occasionally feed. Along the trail, we'll cross a beautiful "white forest" of Palo Santo (Incense) trees and Galapagos cotton plants. Excursion options include a high-intensity hike with swimming/snorkeling at the beach, high-intensity snorkeling from a Zodiac followed by a short walk, and a low-intensity Zodiac ride along the coastline with optional dry landing for animal observation.

Puerto Ayora Highlights:
Charles Darwin Research Station, Academy Bay, Lonesome George and Galapagos tortoises, and Pelican Bay.

After Darwin's studies and surveys, the Galapagos Archipelago remained untouched except for occasional landings for water and meager supplies mustered from the uninhabited islands. Many tortoises were taken for food and oil.

Unknowingly, these ships left behind non-indigenous animals like rats and cats. This, along with human settlement and the further introduction of non-indigenous animals like goats, pigs, and dogs, had a devastating effect on many native species. Once-domesticated animals escaped and became feral, and the islands suddenly were overrun with predators never seen before. They competed for available food, eating tortoise eggs, baby iguanas, and the plant base, which led to massive erosion and overall . The Galapagos tortoises are still in danger of extinction. Just ask "Lonesome George," the last of his particular species in the world, who's estimated to be 150 years old.

In 1930, an expedition from the US arrived to create a wildlife sanctuary for the entire archipelago, and finally, in 1935, the first laws were passed to protect these islands. In 1959, the Ecuadorian government declared the Galapagos a national park, the catalyst needed to promote scientific research, restoration, and preservation of the ecosystem. That year saw the creation of the Charles Darwin Foundation, which funds the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz. Eradication of all invading species, capping or reduction of human population, and perhaps even stronger limits on tourism may be the future of the Galapagos Archipelago as scientists work to save this spectacular place and return it to its pristine, natural beauty.

Morning and afternoon shore excursions include a Tortuga Bay hike and lagoon swim, a bus ride to the highlands to observe giant tortoises in the wild and a visit o the Charles Darwin Research Station, all followed by free time to shop before returning to the ship.  Onboard, enjoy a farewell cocktail party and folkloric show with the captain and a barbecue dinner under the stars.