Dotting the Pacific Ocean off the western coast of South America almost 1000 kilometres from Ecuador, the mystical Galapogas Islands are known for their historical significance and ecotourism. Darwin Island, named after the scientist Charles Darwin, is one of the smallest of the archipelago measuring just one square kilometre in size. This remote island’s main attraction is the sheer abundance and diversity of marine life inhabiting the surrounding waters. It has no dry landing site as it abruptly rises vertically out of the ocean, which makes it popular with liveaboard diving vessels. The Arch, also called ‘Darwin’s Arch, is renowned for its abundant bird life and its spectacular diving opportunities. Visitors can look forward to immersing themselves in this wildlife mecca, spot dolphins, manta rays, humpback whales, shark whales, and hammerhead sharks; or view the elaborate courtship rituals of the Great frigatebirds trying to secure a mate with its red inflatable neck pouch.