Well, I'm back from Galapagos and I must admit it has been one of the most wonderful experiences.
We were 31 people with a Tauck tour on the Isabela II for 4 nights. The staff could not have been nicer or more solicitous. The food was great, the cabin was fine, the weather perfect and the animals, oh the animals!!! The most awesome was the school of dolphin we saw while in a panga. It really was quite and experience.
Thanks to everyone here who provided so much help and advice.
After spending 2 more days in Guayaquil after the tour ended, we went to Cuenca for 1 night. We had a private guide arranged thru Metropolitan Touring. We were able to see much of the countryside as well as the town on Cuenca. Unfortunately, we were there over the week-end and many places were closed, but I didn't feel as if I missed anything.
If anyone has specific questions, I'll be happy to answer what I can.

Hi
Welcome back
Glad to hear you had a nice time and that you enjoyed the Isabella 2 as much as I did .
I know , the animals and birds are something, it is really difficult to explain what a great experience it all is.
Was Pepe still the bartender?
Were Mario , Lobo and Albert the Naturalist guides.?
Percy

Percy,
Yes, Pepe was still the bartender but we had different nauralists. Alex, Gilda and Katherine were wonderful. Alex was born in the Galapagos and his father was instrumental in establishing the national park there.

Lolo,

Did you take the 8 day cruise or a shorter one? We are planning on going in December. Is 8 day too much? Are
there better islands to see or some that are not worth going to?

Thanks

Glad you enjoyed your trip to that remarkable destination. The dolphins would indeed be a highlight!