Disembarking is the hardest part

Getting off a boat is never easy, physically and emotionally... saying goodbye to our new friends, both cast & crew was much much rougher than the seas of the islands.

Goodbye beautiful morning sunrise off the bow, over Mosquera beach...

Adieu ridiculously tiny cabin with bunk beds preventing a single nights snuggling...

Bon voyage weirdly comforting Christmas cushions in the lounge area...

Ciao Eduardo, the constantly smiling, wiping and generally cleaning up after our sloppy selves, waiter, buser, bartender, and candlestick maker.

Arrivederci life jackets, although you often made us look ridiculous, you provided much appreciated buoyancy whilst snorkeling, and for the most part, calmed my dear mother.

auf Wiedersehen fellow passengers and new friends, especially ze German... yep that is him on the end, looking off in the distance, completely oblivious to the photo, still rockin his stripped brautwurst hammock.

And finally, Adios Johan, a better, more knowledgeable, and engaging naturalist / guide, the islands have never known. His father became a guide many years ago, and he was raised with a love and respect of the islands, that shone through every interaction.

Ecuador and the Galapagos should be proud to count amongst themselves, Johan.

And with that, we were out...