DIVING IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS: UPDATE
On Tuesday, 10 July, 2007, the director of the Galapagos National Park began the first in a series of stringent enforcement efforts by suspending dive trips operated by tour companies not in possession of the appropriate permits. The Galapagos National Park is enforcing current legislation which requires that tour operators have a specific diving permit to run dive charters inside the Galapagos Marine Reserve and Park. Previously many operators have carried out dive tourism with only a land tour permit.
This decision will affect only those yachts which do not have the appropriate permits and is effective immediately. It is anticipated that by the middle of 2008, several activities in the GMR - including diving - will have their regulatory language and procedures established. Until such time the GNP is required by law to control and sanction boats that do not follow regulations. Tour operators and agencies are only able to sell tour packages for authorised activities.
It is recommended that those visitors who have planned a dive trip to Galapagos contact their tour operators for the latest information. Other information can be obtained directly from the Park offices: Raquel Molina, Director (director@spng.org.ec) and Edwin Naula, Head of Public Use (enaula@spng.org.ec).
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