Hi ,

We are almost to Manta Ecuador which is roughly 750 NM from Callao Peru.  Traci is off the entire time in Ecuador so we have what is shaping up to be a busy and interesting few days. We were granted the ability to disembark the ship early so we can catch a bus that will take us to a ferry which will bring us to Isla de la Plata sometimes known as the poor mans  Galapagos . We will get to see many of the unique creatures found on the famous Galapagos. Logistically it works for us and w/ the attention span of a child plus the fact we wouldn’t be scuba diving this will be a perfect substitute. We will be able to snorkel and hike.

The dependant children’s program went well this sea trip. Anna did particularly well developing a report on Ecuador. Layne has doing her journal and gathering facts about all sorts of animals. Declan is drawing w/ great imagination. The setting couldn’t be better for interesting subjects.

Traci is engaged w/ clinic and so far nothing she hasn’t been able to handle.  I have been doing my thing on the ship which is watching after a bunch of kids primarily our own, reading , exercising and looking to sea. Yesterday I saw a school of tuna!! We were about 50 miles off shore. I know it was tuna because I’ve seen it. We have also seen whales , Manta rays and flying fish.

Must prepare for port  … have a great day!!

“The valley spirit dies not.”  Tao

Capt Ron

Lat- 4’.39minutes N

Long- 81’. 47 minutes W

Sea depth 10827 feet