Strong Waves Limit Galapagos Activities

The strong waves that have been impacting the west coast of South America including Chile, Peru and Ecuador.  The country of Ecuador including the Galapagos Islands was placed on Orange Alert yesterday a warning designed to advise people against entering the water.  Small boats including fishing boats, and the fibres used to provided inter-island transportation in Galapagos between Santa Cruz and San Cristobal or Isabela have all been notified they are not permitted in the water for safety reasons.  These restrictions also apply to daily dive boats and other daily snorkeling tours.

The waves are expected to be larger in Galapagos today than they were yesterday.  The Port Captain of Porta Ayora on Santa Cruz  has told boats these smaller watercrafts they are not allowed to enter the water until August 14th.  The Port Captain of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal ceased operation of these vessels yesterday and authorities are at the main dock to prevent anyone from entering the sea.

Government authorities are monitoring the waters at the Baltra Airport and are ready to cancel or redirect flights if needed.  However at this time all flights are operating as normal.

Passengers aboard Galapagos Cruises are completing land visits as normal.  The boats have been advised to take anchor in deep water away from the islands and rocks to avoid damage or injury.   Authorities have advised that no water activities in the ocean are permitted at this time. However all other activities including walks along the beach are not considered dangerous and can be enjoyed without concern.

UPDATE: Ecuador changed the alert level on Friday from Orange to Yellow and authorities announced late Friday that inter-island transport (speed boats between islands) would be allowed to resume operation.