Spend an interactive day with local fisherman while exploring the sea and discovering her creatures through their deep generational knowledge of the ecosystem. We participate in a unique program with the Galapagos National Park, (and supported by the World Wildlife Fund and The Charles Darwin Foundation) which provides local fishermen with an ecologically sustainable alternative to support themselves and their families through involvement with ecotourism, the end goal of which is the reduction and elimination of commercial fishing in the national park. Many locals in the Galapagos were supporting their families by fishing long before tourism to the Galapagos became world famous, and their commercial fishing activities are continued still through grandfather clauses. Most local fisherman lack the financial resources to gain a university degree, which is required to become certified naturalists guide in the Galapagos today, but are interested in being involved with tourism as an alternate means to commercial fishing. What the fisherman do have is an innate understanding of where the marine wildlife is at any time, knowledge of hidden beaches and coves seldom visited by mass tourism and an enthusiasm for sharing their home environment with visitors from all over the world.
Stopping at secluded beaches and snorkeling in the open water are highlights of the journey; depending on sea conditions our crew takes you to La Fe, Playa Escodida, Bahia Borrero or Daphne Major, away from the throngs of tours on other parts of the islands.
Traveling by modern, fully-equipped sport-fishing boat, this trip gives all involved a chance to explore the marine world of the Galapagos with true locals, in an immersive and interactive way not usually experienced by cruise ship passengers. The destinations and snorkeling sites are decided on by the fishermen, pending sea conditions and their knowledge of what wildlife is active at that time of the year and where. Relax on the beach, snorkel and swim in the turquoise waters alongside rays, colorful schools of fish, and sea lions. Depending on the time of the year, keep an eye out for turtle tracks in the sand or you may get lucky and snorkel with a pod of dolphins! Your certified local naturalist guide will be with you as well, to provide translation and wildlife interpretation.
Under the park program, these vessels are granted a 50lb per day quota for select species and anything caught cannot be sold commercially. So, if you are willing to learn from the locals, and lucky enough to reel in a tuna, wahoo or dorado during the trip – the fisherman will teach you how to make fresh sashimi on the boat or you can bring your catch back to the camp, where our chef will be delighted to prepare it for you or teach you how to make ceviche.
This is a chance to experience the exotic beauty of the Galapagos while supporting a fantastic social and conservation initiative. Note: The Fishing tour must be booked in advance and it is subject to availability.
Depending on the sea conditions, you will be transferred from the camp to either the dock in Puerto Ayora or the Itabaca Channel to board the vessels. Your naturalist guide will accompany you and this is a full day out at sea, however sine it is private, you can choose to come back early if desired.
Highlights-Discovering Life at Sea
● Spending the day on the water learning from the locals
● Hear personal anecdotes from a lifetime at sea.
● Snorkel in the clear, open sea and explore hidden beaches and coves
● Maybe catch a fish with the help of Galapagos experts
