Dear Friends of Galapagos Infinito, 

It feels amazing to be back on the Ocean. Our community, public and private articulation has enabled us to bring the Oceanic Classroom onboard the Ballenato to the 7th graders of 5 schools of San Cristobal Island. Sailing daily for 7 days over the course of two weeks, we are reaching 108 students. For many of them it is the first time on a boat, first time visiting Playa Ochoa Beach, and first time snorkeling. 

At the helm of the boat, studying a navigational chart, spotting wildlife at sea, or exploring the habitable area of the boat, the students interact with the Capitan, deckhand and naturalist guide, learning about life at sea and the Islands’ wonders. 

Once at the beach, we implement our locally adapted Ocean Connection Workshop methodology developed by I Am Water Foundation, which we trained for as part of the Oceans For All Alliance. Our facilitators lead the students through a practice of breathing, mindfulness and yoga; followed by an engaging moment of Ocean Literacy to reflect on the benefits we receive from the Ocean, and why the Ocean needs us in return. Then we dive into the three exploration stations: water safety & snorkeling; nature walk; and intertidal exploration. After a well deserved lunch, free time to play in the sea, and a sharing circle to close our time on the beach, it’s time to get back on board and continue exploring our wild Galapagos volcanic coastlines. 

Over the next 3 months, we need to take Ballenato sailboat to Floreana, Isabela and Santa Cruz, to reach 400 more students before the end of the school year to reach our objective of ocean access to all 7th graders in the province. Can you help?  

Infinite gratitude, 

Noémi