12-31-07 LOS ISOLTES: We did a zodiac cruise of the sea lion rookery and nature preserve in the morning. There were hundreds of sea lions including many pups sunning on the rocks and swimming around the zodiac. The little islands are more volcanic rocky cliffs covered in bird poop, the red rock is white washed by pelicans, boobies, turkey vultures, frigate birds and gulls. A cardura cactus at the top of the island was white with new green buds, responding to the generous dose of fertilizer supplied by the birds. After the cruise, we snorkeled the same area to see the sea lions in the cold water. If they seem awkward on land, that is how graceful they are in the water. They shoot by like torpedoes, but twisting, flipping and turning upside down and sideways. Or, they lie limply on the surface. If there were hundreds of sea lions, there were almost as many snorkelers and divers. There were a dozen boats other than our ship. Our naturalists said they never saw more than one or two at a time before today.
Sea Lion Watchers.
Sea Lions.
ISLA PARTIDA: In the afternoon, we went to
Ensenada Grande, a beautiful, U-shaped bay with two separate beaches. Between the beaches, thick volcanic ash rock formations demonstrate tafone weathering, a lacy, veil like change in the rock. We first kayaked along the rocks and then had a zodiac tour of the bay. The New Years Eve celebration started with a piñata party for the kids. Staying up to Eastern Time midnight was a struggle, and a few of us, about ten, made it to local Midnight.
More Pelicans.
Tafone Weathering-Looks Lacy.
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