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Writer's pictureFatjax

My Right Foot

San Cristobal, Galapagos, Ecuador

Monday 19th - Saturday 25th Friday February 2025


We realised we were the intruders on this Island.  The seals and iguana are not scared of humans, and are given right of way wherever they wish to roam.  We quickly became accustomed to the aroma of these very commanding inhabitants.

Once settled in the anchorage, we waited for the many people who would be checking our home.  The first, a diver went under our boat to make sure we did not have any new growth on the hull.  Iain was confident.  If the diver found a single barnacle, it was transferred by him! One thing Iain and Dugald do regularly is clean the hull.  We are streamline!!


Next were the Customs and Excise people.  They arrived en mass to confirm we did not have any illegal items on board.  The stipulations for entering these waters are very strict.  The islands are protected to ensure nothing is brought in which may disrupt their eco system.


With pencils sharpened and clip boards at the ready, they took turns to look through our home. It was quite a nerve racking experience.  There were many different departments all looking to tick several boxes before we were given permission to stay.  Iain was confident all our boxes were tick worthy.  If nothing else, we know how to execute a List.


Once checked in, we made our way ashore via one of the many water taxis in search of sustenance. A much needed celebratory beer was had, making all right with the world.

The following day, we decided to go for a trek to the San Cristobal Gianni Arismendy Environmental Interpretation Centre.  The terrain was very simple as the Centre had laid paths which we followed until they disappeared.  In true Kirkpatrick style, we decided to just go a little further to see where it would lead.  We marched onwards revelling in the beauty of the fauna. Such joy after being at sea.

As the path disappeared, the terrain became quite rugged and we found ourselves climbing over rocks and boulders.  Dugald was the sensible member of our walking party.  He wore his trainers. Iain and I wore flip flops.  Unless Iain is attending a wedding or a funeral, no other footwear is necessary.


While we were scampering over rocks and pools, up hills, down valleys, I was also trying to observe the beautiful forest.  I cannot multitask when so much excitement is coursing through my veins.  I slipped on a rock, breaking a flip flop.  Not to be deterred by something as minor as one shoe, we continued.  Several times, my gallant men offered their footwear, or tried to find a leaf, rock, log, or even plastic bottle which may suffice, but to no avail.

We continued to our destination. The water’s edge. After such a trek it was wonderful to have a swim with the inhabitants of this island. The unspoilt beach was a welcome change, alleviating any irritation in my right foot. 


The inevitable was looming.  The return journey. We marched on, trying to look on the bright side.  I still had one flip flop.

 It is a well known fact, I do not do uphill with a smile and a spring in my step, but on this occasion, as the pain in my foot was more pressing, the gradient was incidental. Eventually we arrived back in the hub of the town for a cool drink.

Next was the ARC bus tour to the turtle sanctuary and the San Cristobal Biological Reserve. Our guide explained the various projects being undertaken to preserve and understand the turtles. I'm not sure how I felt about seeing these gentle giants confined in large enclosures, but I do understand the theory behind the drive to increase the population.



When not touring or mending the boat, there were the daily Sundowners, where the newly acquired matching shirts were debuted. Meals with the rest of the fleet and the amusing dodge the wildlife to the water taxi at the end of the night.

We enjoyed our time in San Cristobal.  Six days of socialising and exploring the island which is regulated to keep it authentic for its inhabitants yet also cater for the vast number of tourist who visit each year bringing much needed revenue to sustain the many diverse eco systems which are unique to this island.


Let's see what the next island brings.....



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