Baltra and Boarding the Flora

After breakfast at the hotel we boarded a bus to the Quito airport where our flight to the Galapagos departed right on time.

The travel to Balta in the Galapagos was smooth and as we approached the airport we could see our ship waiting for us.

Just before we touched down the plane ascended and there was an announcement that the landing had been aborted because of high winds. The pilot attempted 2 more landings unsuccessfully, and the last of which we were within 50 feet of the runway. As we ascended after the third attempt there was an announcement that we would need to return to the mainland to refuel before an additional attempt at landing.

Three and a half hours later we successfully lated in Balta.

We finally arrived on board about 5 hours late to the schedule for the evening and unfortunately for tomorrow were significantly modified. The orientation and snorkel fitting, which is normally done upon arrival had to be postponed until tomorrow so the AM excursion to Espanola Island was cancelled. The good news, everyone arrived safely, we enjoyed drinks and a nice dinner with our friends, and we are ready for adventures in the Galapagos tomorrow.