Arrival and Entry to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal, Galapagos - (18)
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It was early morning as we first caught sight of the Galapagos. The islands looked as though they were clothed in soft Green Moss. Very dramatic.
It was made all the more interesting by the sea lions, who were everywhere, on swim platforms, on steps, on park benches, on rocks. They are totally oblivious of the
tourists intent on relaxing in the sun. They covered the rocks like flotsam
washed ashore. Unlike the ones in
Bolivar, our agent, came out to the boat to start the formalities. For those of you who are not boaties, go and make a cuppa, while I briefly recount the procedure for those who might want to know. ENTRY TO THE
GALAPAGOS. You need to
organise an Autografo in advance. This is the cruising permit that allows you to
visit up to 3 islands, By using them you
can get a 30 or 45 day autografo for the same price as the normal 21 day
autografo you would get if you did it yourself. You will need to
provide the following information: Copies of passports
of all crew Crew
list Boat registration
papers Approximate date of
arrival All of the
information can be sent electronically. They charge $300
for the service. You will then pay the port captain in Puerto Baquerizo
Bolivar will also
manage your sailing plan. You cannot travel around the Galapagos on your boat
without a sailing plan. But all you do, is either call or e-mail Bolivar the day
before you want to move, giving details of where you want to go and he updates
the information and puts it into the system. You also need to
get a Zarpe (exit permit) from each port in order to clear out and then into the
next port. But Bolivar will organise all of this for
you. Ok, back to the travel blog… |
