On Jan. 16, the Ecuadorian oil tanker Jessica ran aground off the island of San Cristobal, leaking 200,000 gallons into the waters of the islands. Fortunately, the impact of the spill seems limited. Galapagos wildlife appears to have had a lucky escape, according to Dr. Robert Bensted-Smith, director of the Charles Darwin Research Station, located in the Galapagos.

Thanks to favorable winds and currents, the fuel was dispersed. A hot equatorial sun also helped to evaporate the slick. As a result, tour operators also have been lucky. Cruises continue, with tour operators able to run their normal itineraries.