Problems in Galapagos

According to some press reports, the Galapagos Islands may become more difficult to visit as a cruising yachtsman.

Under pressure from the UNESCO, Ecuador's President Rafael Correa has taken action to combat the 'environmental degradation' of his famed Galapagos Islands. A UNESCO delegation is in the archipelago to meet with Ecuadorian government representatives to discus the 'threat to flora and fauna' of this fragile ecosystem.

President Correa has ordered his ministers to find ways to prevent this degradation. Among other suggestions, restricting tourist permits may be one obvious recommendation.

The government has already threatened to deport over 5000 Ecuadorian illegal residents and limit the current 15,000 living and working there legally. Within weeks, an official announcement should be made public.

I would like to get there before any 'official' restrictions take place.