Sealed with a kiss - Derek Rogers

Swimming with playful sea lions and seeing giant tortoises in slow motion have to be right up there for amazing real life experiences! In the astounding Galapagos Islands Intrepid's Summer Davis discovers that the underwater world is equally as colourful and exotic as the fantastic sights above ground...

"Swirling under a cyclone of bubbles, a spirited sea lion stares sweetly into your snorkel mask, its puppy dog eyes pleading to play with you. Almost twice your size, you freeze with fear then realize this hefty mammal means no harm as it dives down in circles below you.

Unthreatened by man, the animals of the Galapagos Islands don't fear human interaction. Hammerhead sharks cruise carelessly around scuba divers, proud frigate birds pose for photographers and marine and land iguanas lie motionless on the warm rocks and paths of the islands' explorers.

Off the coast of Ecuador, the 150-plus islands of the Galapagos archipelago are home to hundreds of unique species of finches, migratory birds, giant tortoises, marine mammals, fish and the only penguins north of the equator. Humans inhabit only two islands, and small 16-passenger boats receive special permission to access certain islands at specific times, allowing minimal human interruption of nature's way.

To witness wildlife in this natural zoo you can head off on an island hike, climb an active volcano, go on a bird watching expedition or underwater exploration. You could stumble upon a pair of waved albatross mid-mating dance or a flock of flamingoes flying across a lagoon. Sport your snorkel gear and spot a white-tipped reef shark, swim with a turtle or skim above a family of rays. Whether under the water, on land or sailing off into the horizon, Galapagos adventures are one-of-a-kind and a wonder of the world not to be missed!"