This morning I'm happy to see that I'm not the only "early riser" who's enjoying the spectacle that unfolds in the natural theater. The dark silhouette of Bartholomew Island contrasts the first purple and later orange brush strokes across the eastern sky, as the National Geographic Endeavour gently rides its anchor at Sullivan Bay, only a few cables away of the eastern coast of Santiago Island.
As we start our climb to the summit, we are surprised to see how high the sun has reached, so early in the day as it does at these equatorial latitudes. Even those who didn't necessarily wake up early to enjoy the morning light are now happy to have reached the summit of Bartholomew before the increasing heat of midday sets in. Hot day or not, the postcard view from the summit is worth it all, as Sullivan Bay and Pinnacle Rock lie at our feet and the crystalline waters hint at the great opportunity of exploring the underwater world of the Galapagos, after a reinvigorating breakfast aboard our floating home.
We are excited to find that the underwater conditions today are more than suitable for both snorkeling and our glass bottom boat. Underwater exploration is a very important part of our expedition through the islands, as many amazing and gratifying discoveries await us beneath the waves.
As we repeatedly venture into the water today, schools of razor surgeonfish along with colorful parrot fish make their way across the volcanic reefs, teeming with life.
The Galapagos penguins even made a “star” appearance right at the end of our excursion, as Chinese Hat Island unfolds in the flat light of the afternoon. What a wonderful way to end another fantastic day in Galapagos.
