GalapagosGuys

Whale sharks are gentle giants that inhabit all warmer oceans around the Earth. They are enormous creatures that inspire awe and wonder, yet we know very little about them. As recently as 2015, scientists have made an effort to change this by attaching satellite tracking devices on the dorsal fins of whale sharks to learn more about them. Scientists and conservationists can now understand their movements and habits, as well as their longevity. It is now clear that these giants travel thousands of kilometers each year to go from feeding to breeding grounds. Powerful swimmers, they are able to maintain a substantial pace for long periods of time. The Galapagos Islands exist in an area of the ocean where three strong currents converge, creating a unique upwelling that brings nutrients and food to the surface from deep below. This attracts smaller fish which attract larger fish, including several species of sharks. The islands here newborns in geological terms, having formed approximately 4 million years ago due to volcanic eruptions that spewed lava upwards from the sea bed. Lava cooled into pillars of rock that jutted out of the ocean, forming what we now know as the Galapagos Islands. Life here is also relatively new, arriving by water, air, or on rafts of vegetation.

Darwin's Arch was one of the most famous and cherished natural formations in the world. Designated a world heritage sight, the arch was popular among tourists and nature enthusiasts. Cruise ships would pass by and allow photography and scuba divers from around the world ventured here to see the iconic structure. Named for Charles Darwin who studied this area in the 1800s and developed his theory of natural selection (evolution) based on his research, the arch was an important tribute to his contribution to our understanding of the world, and even ourselves. The nearby Darwin Island and the unique underwater structure beneath the arch formed what is referred to as "The Theatre". People are forbidden from setting foot on the island or the arch platform for safety and conservation reasons. But scuba divers who come here can perch on the rocks at a depth of approximately 23m (70 feet) to see an incredible assortment of marine life. Hammerhead sharks, Galapagos Sharks, spotted eagle rays and whale sharks drift past The Theatre on the ocean current, providing a breath taking close view of some of the ocean's most magnificent animals. This has been referred top as the world's biggest Imax theatre. The convergence of three major ocean currents creates a unique climate and habitat, bringing an abundance of life and diversity. Scientists are not sure why, but almost all of the whale sharks here are mature, pregnant females. It is believed that they come here from all areas of the planet to bear their young. Surprisingly little is known about this or about what happens in the first few years of a whale shark's life. In May 2021, Darwin's Arch collapsed due to erosion. Scuba divers and nature lovers were devastated at the loss of such a beautiful formation. In a fitting tribute, this structure is now known as Pillars of Evolution. Because this area is protected so vigorously, drone footage, and particularly a drone flythrough is incredibly rare. This footage shows Darwin's Arch in all of its glory before the collapse. It is a spectacular view that can never be recreated.

Sea lions are the puppies of the ocean. They were nicknamed "sea dogs" by the sailors of the past few centuries because of their strong resemblance to our canine companions. Their faces are similar and their antics are equally endearing. Young sea lions are curious and playful, wearing what appears to be a perpetual smile on their faces. Scuba divers love to sea these beautiful creatures in the water. Sleek and graceful, the sea lions often appear quickly and dart around the divers in an attempt to engage them in play. Perhaps it is entertaining for the sea lions to demonstrate how superior they are in the water, able to turn sharply, dive and ascend almost quicker than the eye can track them. In comparison, humans are extremely slow and clumsy. Divers cannot move through the ocean at anything faster than the pace of a brisk walk. They drift along, needing to be conscious of their ascent and their air consumption at all times. The sea lion can hold its breath and go up or down as it wishes. These lovable animals often show up at depths of 20-30m (60-90 feet) where we would not expect them to be. They hunt for fish, eels, and octopus at these depths. And sometimes they just arrive to investigate the bubbles or the group of large and slow moving creatures. This playful fellow is a young one and it is possible that he is waiting for his mother to return from hunting. As he grows, he will venture farther out into the ocean, taking part in the hunting himself. At this size, large sharks would consider the sea lion a meal and he would be in great danger if he ventured far from the rocks and the shoreline. Sea lions are incredibly agile and they are usually able to avoid capture by predators if they see them coming in time. The scuba divers in this video are exploring the rocks near Pizon Island in the Galapagos. This dive will be one that they do not soon forget.

Cormorants are aquatic birds that are unbelievably agile in the ocean, feeding primarily on fish. They are extremely capable hunters, able to outmaneuver even the most slippery salema as this bird demonstrates so clearly. Solon is an experienced scuba diver who is exploring the rocks around an island in the Galapagos. Although he has been diving for more than 35 years, working as a scuba dive master, he captured something on film that he has witnessed only a handful of times in the many thousands of dives that he has done. A cormorant appeared over the rocks in front of him, hunting for a meal. The bird ignores Solon and swims so close to him that he could have touched it with his hands. Showing off lightning speed, the cormorant streaks back and forth as it pokes its head into crevices in an attempt to catch something unseen. There is a fish that knows it is being pursued and it is doing its best to find a hiding spot that protects it from the sharp beak of the cormorant. The chase goes back and forth with the bird changing directions at what seems to be an impossible speed. The fish eventually finds itself cornered and the bird spears it with its beak, quickly making its way to the surface where it will swallow the fish whole. Cormorants rarely tear their food. They will pursue only what they can fit down their throat. Solon continues his dive, amazed by what has taken place right in front of him. He captured more footage of the millions of salemas that were like a cloud above them. The food web is complex and animals can be predators one minute and prey the next. It is fascinating to see this in action as one of the species employs such skill to stay alive in what can be a very hostile world.

Scuba diving gives people an opportunity to slip into a strange and mysterious world. Every time a diver ventures beneath the waves, the sights are different. This diver was not surprised to see a massive school of black striped salemas, bait fish that gather schools of millions. They can eclipse a diver, creating a mesmerizing and beautiful effect. Solon, a seasoned diver is venturing deep into a canyon, surrounded by these fish and it appears as if he is entering a cave. Suddenly, he comes face to face with a cormorant, an aquatic bird that is capable of diving to impressive depths in search of eels and fish. This cormorant is hunting and he is probably as surprised as Solon is with the face to face encounter.

Sea lions are like the puppies of the ocean. They are loveable and curious, often looking for an opportunity to play. Their behaviour and their features are much like that of our canine companions. Aptly nicknamed "sea dogs", they have been charming sailors for centuries. Tourists that venture to the Galapagos Islands often remark that the sea lions are the most captivating of all the animals. Scuba divers have a special fondness for sea lions as well. The males, or bulls, are often territorial and it is wise to avoid getting close to them. But the females and the youngsters are inquisitive and friendly, in most cases. To encounter a sea lion underwater is a very welcome opportunity to play with them and witness their antics up close. They are curious about the clumsy humans who visit their world and they are likely to come up and inspect anything that the scuba diver holds out to them. These divers were exploring Pinzon dive site in the waters around Isabela Island in the Galapagos when they encountered a magnificent school of salemas, the bait fish that swarm in such numbers that they can create a complete eclipse around a diver. Mesmerized by the beauty, they captured the spectacle on video. In the middle of this wonderful experience, they became the objects of fascination for a group of young sea lions out hunting for their lunch. The sea lions were intrigued by the camera on a pole and by the divers. Sea lions love attention and these playful pups followed the divers and swam in circles around them for several minutes. Forgetting all about the fish, the divers were easily distracted by the antics of these underwater clowns.

Sea turtles are magnificent animals that capture the hearts of scuba divers and nature lovers. They are gentle, peaceful, and graceful. Usually reclusive and shy, seeing one from a distance is usually all that one could hope for. Occasionally, they will allow a respectful scuba diver to approach for a close look, but the encounters don't usually last long. This curious sea turtle had no problem with these scuba divers swimming along beside him. And when he noticed that one of them had a strange and shiny object in his hands, the turtle went over for a closer look. Then he decided to have a little nibble at the fascinating object. This created a once in a lifetime opportunity for some footage of the inside of the turtle's mouth. After a little chew on the camera, the turtle calmly went off on its way. This footage was captured off Wolf Island in the Galapagos. This area is one of the most unique and diverse areas on the planet. Life here changed approximately 4 million years ago when lava erupted from underwater volcanoes, creating pillars of rocks that jut up from the ocean floor. Some of these pillars created islands and life began to find its way here. Three strong ocean currents converge around these islands, bringing a vast supply of nutrients up from the depths. Fish congregate and attract larger animals. Whale sharks follow the currents here to bear their young. Large schools of hammerhead sharks drift on the currents. These islands are one of the most thrilling places to scuba dive in the world.

Bait balls are spectacular sights that are fascinating to watch. They are also very tempting for scuba divers to enter because the experience of being surrounded by millions of fish can be both beautiful and exhilarating. Fish gather in tight schools, known as bait balls to avoid predators. The more threatened they feel, the tighter they gather. Thousands of fish moving in unison create a mesmerizing visual effect, which is precisely why they do this. It makes it difficult for sharks, sea lions, and other carnivores to identify and zero in on individuals. The smaller fish scramble to stay in the middle of the ball and they constantly adjust in order to maintain their position relative to the other fish. Predators will circle the bait ball and herd it upwards, if they can, to make attacks more successful. Some will charge the school and try to grab any unwary fish that cannot see them approaching. Sometimes predators even work together to increase their chances of a meal. When a diver sees a bait ball, it may just be the fish swimming in formation for security and not due to a sudden threat. But it may also be caused by the presence of an ambitious attacker that is displaying feeding behaviour. It is wise to avoid a bait ball if there could be sharks or swordfish nearby because a lunge attack might cause unintended injury to the diver. ON some occasions, the bait ball makes the decision and the scuba diver is surrounded without it being intentional on his or her part. This is what happened to Solon and a few other divers in the Galapagos Islands. Footage from different divers and different angles tells a story that shows us exactly why a bait ball can be dangerous. Solon can be seen looking cautiously above and around him. The jacks are surrounding him and he is looking for the edge of the bait ball so he can avoid being caught in the middle. Unfortunately, the ball is large and it is moving more quickly than Solon can swim. He looks for signs of danger and tries his best to stay in the open where a predator will be able to recognize him and avoid him. As the jacks clear away, Solon's instincts prove to be accurate as a large Galapagos shark comes into view above. The shark's movements and fin position show that the shark is in feeding mode and likely to attack the school. Solon is able to move out and away, leading the other divers closer to the rocks where they will be able to avoid the shark. Where there is one Galapagos shark, there is often several and a smart scuba diver understands not to remain close to the food source. The underwater world is beautiful and dangerous at the same time. We are guests in this domain and foolish behaviour can have disastrous consequences.

Whale sharks inspire awe and wonder like few other animals. They are magnificent and gentle creatures, reaching a length of 17m (54 feet) and weighing as much as 45,000kg (100,000lbs). To witness one in the wild is an experience that cannot be fully described. For scuba divers, an encounter, or even a sighting of a whale shark in the wild is a life long dream. But, to swim alongside one that is unconcerned and accepting of a diver's presence is truly life changing. These divers were as at one with nature as is possible and their wonder and appreciation of this giant beast is obvious. Whale sharks are protected in the Galapagos Islands and many parts of the world. Strict rules require divers to maintain a respectful distance and to avoid actual contact with the animals, no matter how tempting it might be to touch one. But whale sharks have no reason to fear a human, or even a group of them. They are used to remoras and sharks surrounding them, and swimming in close proximity. Unless the whale shark recognizes the behaviour as threatening, it is unlikely to react. These sharks are capable of outswimming most animals, or diving deep to avoid conflict. The whale shark here is simply cruising along effortlessly and is possibly even curious about the clumsy creatures around it. In these remote waters, these gentle creatures will often allow a close inspection by those who approach respectfully. The Galapagos Islands are an area of the world with a rich abundance and diversity of life that is unique and fascinating. It is no wonder that Charles Darwin learned so much during his voyage to the islands in the 1800s.

Hammerhead sharks are one of the top predators in the Galapagos Islands. But that changes when a pod of orcas arrives in the area. Orcas, also known as killer whales are transient in these waters. They come and go as they please, carried by the current and by instinct, they travel in and around almost all waters around the globe. They are the ocean's undisputed apex predator, fearing nothing. Orcas are highly intelligent animals, possessing sophisticated communication abilities that allow them to work together to hunt large and powerful prey, such as this unfortunate hammerhead shark. Dive guides near Wolfe Island were leaving their dive boat, making a short trip in their panga (inflatable dinghy) to the nearby dive site. As they neared the shallower water and prepared to get in, they noticed a pod of orcas near the dive site. There was an obvious commotion happening just below the surface. The orcas had captured a hammerhead shark and they were tearing it apart and eating it. Interestingly, the orcas were cooperating with each other and taking turns instead of competing with each other. Orcas live in pods, or families with complex social structures. They spend decades together and the rules in the pod are well adhered to. For these scuba divers, it was a rare opportunity to witness one of nature's most intimidating and impressive animals in action. Although this was unfortunate for the shark, this harsh side of nature is needed to keep the delicate balance of the ocean in check.

Hammerhead sharks are one of the primary predators of stingrays, such as these beautiful spotted eagle rays that live in the Galapagos Islands. The rays should do anything they can to avoid these huge predators, but instead, these bold eagle rays calmly swim straight through a school of endless sharks drifting on the current. They are literally swimming through a gauntlet of carnivores as if they are unafraid. The hammerheads do more than just leave them alone. Some of the sharks actually change direction slightly as if they are intentionally avoiding them. This video was taken at Wolf Island in the Galapagos. The hammerheads congregate here due to the convergence of three strong ocean currents that bring an abundance of plankton and food up from the ocean bottom. This, in turn, brings small fish and larger predators that prey on those fish. The oceans around the Galapagos are alive with some of the most plentiful and diverse life on the planet. This particular spotted eagle ray is easily distinguished by his curled wing and other injuries. The scuba diver with the camera is Solon, a dive master who has been guiding clients in these waters for over 35 years and he has captured video of this stingray since before 2015. When he dives this site, the stingray often appears and it seems to approach him with curiosity, much like a trusted friend. Solon has captured spectacular video of this ray circling him or simply hovering on the current right beside him. In this video, the stingray appears from out of the blue and makes a direct line towards him. It seems to be more than a coincidence that it swims right in front of him and circles slowly before drifting off into the blue. Solon has a true love for the ocean and for all of the creatures who live there. He is happier in this magical world than anywhere else and his love and respect is contagious. Solon can be found through Float N' Flag Dive Centre in Ontario for those who want to experience some of the best diving the world has to offer.

Marine iguanas are a wonder of evolution, having adapted to the harsh life on The Galapagos Islands. The islands were formed less than 4 million years ago when volcanoes erupted, spewing lava upwards from the ocean floor, creating the pillars of rock and islands that are now the Galapagos Islands as we know them. Described as a "land borne of fire", the islands are beautiful and extremely harsh at the same time. Fresh water is scarce and the animals that thrive here have changed over time to meet the demands of this unforgiving climate. Marine iguanas are one of the best examples of this adaptability. During the six month droughts that exists on the islands, the lizards would have starved if they did not venture into the surf in search of food. Vegetation on the island becomes dormant and undigestible when water availability drops to nearly zero. The lizards enter the water to eat the algae that grows on the rocks under the waves. The females and juveniles eat the vegetation that can be found in tide pools and shallows. The mature males have learned to hold their breath for up to 30 minutes at a time so that they can dive and forge on the moist plants. Because of the high salt content, the lizards have developed glands that allow them to concentrate and expel salt from their nostrils. The lizards have also developed the ability to swim in raging surf and strong currents, due to their powerful tails. Huge claws help the iguanas anchor themselves on the rocks while they eat. This scuba diver had the good fortune to witness one of these incredible animals feeding and then going to the surface to breath so it can return to the algae bed. These iguanas are cold blooded and they will lose body heat rapidly in the cool water. They spend their afternoons and mornings basking on black lava to absorb heat before they plunge into the ocean each day at noon to feed. Surprisingly, this strange looking lizard is graceful and sleek as it swims, looking completely at home in the water.

Solon is an experienced scuba diver who has seen many amazing sights in his 35 years of exploring beneath the waves in the Galapagos Islands. While diving near Cousin's Rock, he looked above and saw a massive school of devil rays slowly cruising through. These are also called mobula, a member of the ray family, like their close relatives, the spotted eagle rays and the manta rays. Mobula closely resemble mantas in appearance, although they are slightly smaller with a typical wingspan of up to 5.2m (17 feet). They are named devil rays because of their habit of leaping out of the water, breaching in a spectacular display. Most species of mobula lack a stinger, and in those that have one, it is encased, rendering it completely harmless. Mobula are sleek and graceful and a large school like this is a breath taking sight.

The Galapagos bullhead shark is a small bottom-dwelling shark that inhabits the Galapagos Islands waters. It was discovered 175 years ago, but almost nothing has been learned about the shark since its initial discovery. Researchers have not completed any meaningful studies on this fish. They do not know how many there are, where they breed, how they interact, or which habitats they prefer. So little is known about these sharks that they are listed as "data deficient." It is believed that the sharks have been in existence since the early Jurassic period. They grow to 107cm (3.5ft). Recently, a project was undertaken in the Galapagos Islands to learn more about this mysterious animal. In Spanish, it is called " Thiburon Gato de Galapagos" which translates to Cat Shark of the Galapagos. They prefer to lie on the sandy bottom, being poor swimmers in comparison with other sharks. IT has recently been learned that they are nocturnal feeders, foraging for crabs and shellfish on the sea bottom. After eating prey with hard shells, this small shark regurgitates the undigestible shells. The more we learn about the ocean and the marine animals who live there, the more we understand that there is more needing to be learned than we ever imagined.

Hammerhead sharks are large and powerful animals that strike fear in the hearts of many. They are formidable hunters with rows of razor sharp teeth. Sleek and graceful in the water, they are beautiful and deadly at the same time. Yet, surprisingly, there have been only 17 unprovoked attacks by hammerheads on humans in the past 500 years. Not a single encounter was fatal. But it is undeniable that people perceive these sharks as being vicious, blood-thirsty beasts. Myths surrounding these animals and their aggressiveness are persistent and wide spread. In truth, they are no danger to humans when treated respectfully. This video shows the moment when Solon, an experienced scuba dive guide finds himself in the path of a school of ten foot hammerheads, drifting on the current near Wolf Island in the Galapagos. Solon has been diving in these waters for nearly 35 years, escorting the most adventurous scuba divers through wild and stunningly beautiful areas of the ocean. Formed as recently as 4 million years ago, these islands are home to some of nature's most unique and magnificent creatures. Three strong ocean currents collide here to create the ideal conditions that allow incredible diversity and abundance of life to thrive. It is one of the most remote areas on the planet, and for Solon, it is almost like his second home. He is as comfortable here under the waves as most people are in their home or office. Solon has an impressive understanding of and respect for the ocean and the animals that live here. He knows that if he keeps his movements slow and if he stays among the rocks on the bottom, the sharks will regard him with only mild curiosity. His bubbles rise up and give away his position, allowing the sharks to see him from a great distance. The sharks also feel the vibrations created by even the most subtle fin kick, and they are aware of his respiration and heart rate. They sense that Solon is calm and unafraid. And they know that he poses no threat to them as they swim around and past him. Humans are clumsy guests in this underwater domain. In comparison with these hammerhead sharks, we are slow and awkward. To have them allow us to share this space is a privilege not to be taken lightly. Solon can be found through Float N' Flag Dive Centre in Ontario, Canada.

For most scuba divers, a close-up encounter with a stingray is a memorable experience. To look into the eyes of such majestic and beautiful creatures can stir the soul. These scuba divers are slowly making their way to the surface after a beautiful dive near Wolf Island in the the Galapagos. They have been watching hammerhead sharks drifting past on the ocean currents. As they near the surface, an incredible spotted eagle ray drifted closely past Solon, the Dive guide on this adventure. Stingrays are highly intelligent creatures and although they are generally shy and reclusive, they have a curious nature, and they will often swim closely past a scuba diver who is acting in a respectful manner. Solon had the privilege of being closely investigated by this beautiful animal. He has seen this particular stingray, recognizable by distinctive markings and old injuries, on dives in this area for more than seven years. From its reaction, it seems as if the stingray has become very comfortable with him in particular. As the divers drew closer to the boat, a magnificent Manta ray glided past them, also interested in these clumsy humans. These are the giants of the deep, often boasting wingspans of up to 7m (23 feet). The divers who had already passed their gear to the boat above, remained in the water so that they could enjoy this visit with the manta ray. At the same time, a school of mobula came through and they repeatedly swam around the divers for a close inspection as well. To have such a beautiful experience on a single dive with three different species of stingray is remarkable. Solon is a highly experienced scuba dive guide, having taken people on adventures beneath the waves for nearly 35 years. He has a talent for finding opportunities to closely observe the oceans beautiful animals in their own environment. He teaches other divers how to act in a non threatening manner, increasing the opportunities for interactions on the animals' own terms. Solon's love for the ocean, and all of the creatures that live there is contagious. Solon can be found through Float N’ Flag Dive Centre in Ontario.

The Galapagos Islands are home to incredible wildlife. These islands host one of the earth's most diverse ecosystems. The convergence of three powerful ocean currents creates a unique climate and it draws animals from all around the planet. Some thrive here all year round, like the sea lions that inhabit almost all rocky shores and beaches in the Galapagos. Other animals, like the orca are more likely to come and go, depending on mating habits, food supplies, and ocean temperatures. A large, male orca was hunting in the vicinity of this Galapagos dive boat, doing his best to catch sea lions and Pacific green turtles. A very wary and clever sea lion knew that an orca in the area was a dangerous thing. Orcas are among the most powerful and effective hunters in the world. They are the top ocean predator and they fear nothing. The sea lion decided to climb the stairs at the rear of the dive boat before he became lunch. The sea lions in this part of the world coexist with the humans who allow them a respectful distance whenever possible. This young fellow knew he had a much better chance aboard the boat where he was safe from the jaws of the killer whale. The smell of the food cooking on board was probably part of the reason that he decided to stay and accompany the divers along the shore to the next dive site. Sea lions live in colonies and they have territories and well established social groups. It was not fair to the sea lion to take him far from his home beach, so the divers made sure that he got off the boat before they covered enough distance for the sea lion to become lost. As tempting as it would be to touch or pet this adorable sea lion, residents of the Galapagos adhere to the strict laws that prohibit physical contact. They gently remind their guests that there is a hands off policy too. Nature rarely needs help from humans and interfering, even with the best of intentions can have negative effects. But in this case, allowing the seal lion to hitch a ride seemed like the right thing to do.

Solon is a dive guide who has been taking people on underwater adventures for nearly 35 years in the Galapagos Islands. His love of the ocean is obvious to those who follow him beneath the waves. Solon has a deep respect for the animals here, as well as the delicate balance that exists in this mysterious world. Solon has brought a group of divers to Wolf Island. Here, they drop out of the panga, an inflatable boat that brings them close to shore, and then they descend quickly to the rocks below. These islands were formed only a few million years ago when lava spewed from underwater volcanos, creating great pillars and a few islands. The strong currents here bring an abundance of life and a supply of food for larger marine animals. The divers hold onto the rocks in order to avoid being pulled by the currents. Sitting still, they watch in wonder as magnificent creatures drift past them and among them. For more than 30 minutes, they will watch and witness sights that surpass any experience in an Imax theatre. This massive spotted eagle ray is a familiar sight in Galapagos. He has a few distinctive injuries that make him easily recognizable. Solon has been seeing this same ray for more than 7 years. The eagle ray lazily drifts past Solon, as casually as somebody would pass beside a trusted friend. Solon swims behind the ray briefly to capture footage of this gorgeous beast. Soon after settling back into a crevice, Solon receives a visit from a large Pacific green sea turtle. This show continues for the scuba divers as hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and thousands of fish swim past and around them, making every minute in this magical world memorable.

Solon has lived his entire life in the Galapagos Islands. He is an accomplished scuba diver who has been working as an underwater guide for nearly 35 years. He has logged approximately 15,000 dives, taking his adventurous clients to some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the planet. Solon has seen magnificent ocean creatures up close as often as almost anyone in the business. One of his dive excursions brought his guests to a remote and secluded area where manta rays congregate and feed. Solon intended to give these divers a close look at one of the ocean's most amazing creatures. He delivered more than he had ever hoped when the rays circled above the group, completely eclipsing them as they blocked out the sun above. Manta rays are beautiful and majestic giants with a wingspan that can reach 10m (29 feet). They are massive animals and they glide through the water with a grace that is impossible to describe. Manta rays are highly intelligent, and although reclusive and difficult to find, they can also be curious about a scuba diver who appears non threatening. Solon has a true love for this incredible underwater domain and a healthy respect for the creatures who call this home. To interact with such a beautiful beast in the wild is something that he will never forget.

Solon is an accomplished scuba diver who has been working as an underwater guide for nearly 35 years. He has logged approximately 15,000 dives, taking his adventurous clients to some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the planet. Solon has seen magnificent ocean creatures up close as often as almost anyone in the business. With all of his experience in the water, only something truly amazing could take his breath away like this encounter with a manta ray did. Manta rays are beautiful and majestic giants with a wingspan that can reach 10m (29 feet). They are massive animals and they glide through the water with a grace that is impossible to describe. Solon was returning to the surface when he came upon this manta feeding in a school of smaller fish. He was thrilled to catch it all on video and he thought the encounter was over. To his surprise, the manta ray buzzed past solon, brushing against his hip with its outstretched wing tip. Solon didn't realize this was happening until the ray was past him, arcing smoothly out of sight. Manta rays are highly intelligent, and although reclusive and difficult to find, they can also be curious about a scuba diver who appears non threatening. Solon has a true love for this incredible underwater domain and a healthy respect for the creatures who call this home. To interact with such a beautiful beast in the wild is something that he will never forget.

Hammerhead sharks are menacing looking animals that patrol the waters of the Galapagos Islands in huge numbers. Enormous beasts, with a mouth full of razor sharp teeth, they strike fear in the hearts of many who do not understand them. Despite their fearsome reputation, they pose no danger to scuba divers or swimmers. There have been very few unprovoked attacks on humans and there has never been a documented case of a fatal injury inflicted by a hammerhead shark. Hammerheads are graceful and powerful creatures.

Whale sharks are truly the gentle giants of the ocean. They are the largest shark, and also the largest fish that exists today, being slightly smaller than the now extinct megalodon. Only a few species of whales are larger, although whales are mammals. Whale sharks are a species of shark, despite the word whale being part of their name. This is a reference to their immense size as well as the fact that they are filter feeders, like baleen whales. They have no ability to bite or to defend themselves so they outswim their predators or dive deep where other sharks are unable to go. Their tough skin makes them difficult to bite when they reach full size. Scuba divers travel from all over the world to the Galapagos Islands to witness these beautiful animals in their natural environment. If they are lucky, they will catch a glimpse of one as it passes by. But these scuba divers have met this large female face to face and the encounter is truly a once in a lifetime experience. A large Galapagos shark makes a lunge at a large jack that is using the whale shark as shelter. The smaller fish easily avoids the shark but it is a rare moment to be caught on video. All of the whale sharks in this area are large, pregnant females. Scientists are unsure why only pregnant females are found here. Despite the abundance of food, the sharks are never seen eating. This is the area surrounding Darwin Island, one of the most famous dive sites in the Galapagos Islands. Because it is so remote and difficult to get to, very few people are fortunate enough to visit this incredible place.

Orcas, also known as killer whales are the undisputed apex predators of the ocean. They are massive animals with an intellect to match. They hunt cooperatively with a highly sophisticated ability to communicate with each other. Orcas have no natural predators. These scuba divers have been exploring the waters around Darwin's arches, one of the most famous dive sites in the world. As they made their way back to the boat in the inflatable panga, a pod of orcas came close and examined them curiously. Despite their size and power, these animals have never attacked a human in the wild. The divers were eager to slip into the water to meet the killer whales face to face. After getting the nod from the guide, they had an encounter that they will never forget. The orcas swam close to get a better look. Orcas are found in almost all oceans and seas around the world. Their food varies, depending on their location and which pods they belong to. They are one of the most magnificent and awe-inspiring creatures in the ocean.

These scuba divers are meeting one of the ocean's most beautiful and intimidating sharks closer than they ever dared to hope for. The hammerhead shark is a greatly feared and widely respected animal with a reputation that would intimidate even a seasoned scuba diver. They are sleek and efficient killing machines that command respect from anyone who sees one in motion. Yet, they are rarely interested in harming humans. Unprovoked attacks are almost non existent and fatalities due to hammerhead sharks have never been documented anywhere. Their reputation is undeserved, despite their fearsome appearance.

Sea lions are adorable and comical animals that inhabit most of the beaches and rocky shores in the Islands of the Galapagos. They are seemingly everywhere, lazing on the shorelines and lounging in the sun. They are also very comfortable with humans and they will find a spot to sleep on piers, benches, and even parked boats. For the most part, they live in harmony with the residents of these islands. They are given respect and proper distance when needed. The people of the Galapagos Islands have a very firm understanding of the need to not interfere with nature in any way. Sea lions are the clowns of the ocean and their antics in the water always brings a smile to the faces of anyone who watches them. They play happily, chasing each other and calling out with a bark that resembles a dog with a sore throat. But the dominant male sea lions in a colony have a very different nature. When they reach sexual maturity, they have little interest in play or being friendly. They are aggressive when threatened or disturbed and they command respect. Weighing well over 200kg (440lbs), they have massive heads and a set of teeth that gives them a ferocious look when they want to intimidate. They choose their spots to sunbathe with little concern for the thoughts of the people using the piers or sidewalks. Understandably, nobody wants to challenge these alpha males if it can be avoided. Luckily, sea lions are slow moving and clumsy on land. They aren't vicious by nature and they are much more bark than bite. This sea lion blocks the ramp to the passenger boats with a cocky arrogance that is intimidating, but also endearing and amusing. Unless somebody invades his space, he has no desire for a confrontation, but he's not interested in the boat schedule or the passengers' need to get past. As if he has suddenly had enough of the sun tanning, the bull awkwardly makes his way over to the shade of the park bench. A woman and her young child do their best to stay out of his way. Other passengers waiting for the ferry move their luggage, uncertain of what will happen if they don't clear the way. Even the man sitting on the bench has a sudden case of extreme etiquette as he stands to give up his seat. Sea lions will take over park benches without hesitation. But this one makes a decision to lie under the bench and make use of the shade. The gentleman politely takes his seat again when he sees that it isn't being claimed by the bull. The sea lions of the Galapagos are entertaining and fascinating to watch. But make sure to get out of the way when a large bull is headed towards you!