Galapagos

I am going to the Galapagos for the first time next month and need to cut back my packing to only the essentials.

Just a few questions: I'll be diving on Peter Hughes liveaboard

1) I'll be diving in a Pinnacle 7mm wool lined hooded suit. Do you think this will be sufficient?

2)I will be taking my 10d housed in Sea&Sea- What lenses would you recommend I take ( 8mm, 20mm, 50mm macro and lifesize converter, 100mm macro, 30-85 mm zoom are my current lenses to choose from) ? of course if someone can think of any other lens I might need- maybe i could try to get before the trip!

3) Anything else I need? or any insights would be greatly appreciated.

I have been on the boat last July, and enjoyed it.

You will be OK with a 7mm.

Your chances of seeing whalesharks in Jan are poor. You will be able to dive with friendly sea lions, who are quite fast. I didn't find the macro that interesting there, but then again I wasn't really looking for it.

Have a great time

You should be warm-that is the warmer water temp time.

The lens you have should be a good combo for above and below.

Have a great trip.

I would be hesitant to leave many lenses at home. This is one of those "once in a lifetime" dive locations for most, and the conditions and locations can vary quite a bit as far as I can tell from my research of the area. I would not want to be limited on my setup choices when that far from home. I would take all the camera gear you can manage.

Even if you dont take the zoom, I would take the 8 through the 50 at least, and would try and take the 100 as well, just in case you run into a day of "nothing but macro". The 100 would also be great for any topside critters you run into!

Hi -

My wife and I were on the Peter Hughes boat this past summer and had a great time.

7mm with hood and GLOVES and you will be fine..

I found my 18-70 zoom beneficial. There were times when clinging to rocks that the occasional eel would pop out...turn around and a hammer was approaching..just never new what to expect.

If you are stopping at Cousins you will want your marco..

Here is a link with some of the stuff we saw and the lenses that I used...

http://homepage.mac.com/mikepalasz/PhotoAlbum10.html

I carried all my photo equipment on all the planes and also had a small backpack. Also took a 36" wheeled duffle. I would not worry about the luggage. Peter's crew will transport it for you from airport to boat..

M.

Thanks guys!