Today we visited Española Island. In the morning, we had a lot of fun with various water activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and spending time on the beach. Gardner Bay has an amazing white sand beach and lots of sea lions. In the afternoon, we navigated to Suarez Point, where I oversaw Zodiac driving lessons for our very curious Global Explorers. Dolphins joined in the fun, swimming alongside the Zodiac while the kids were at the wheel. Later, we disembarked at Suarez Point and went for an amazing walk to explore the area. We observed a very large nesting colony of Nazca boobies, colonies of sea lions, and so much more. It was a delightful day.
12/6/2023
Read
National Geographic Islander II
Isabela and Fernandina
Our day began with a mesmerizing exploration of Roca Redonda and Punta Vicente Roca. The morning sun cast a golden glow on the towering cliffs that define this part of Isabela Island. We navigated along the coast, observing the diverse marine life that thrives in these nutrient-rich waters. Notable encounters included playful Galapagos sea lions, elegant flightless cormorants, and sea turtles. Snorkeling enthusiasts were treated to a world beneath the waves and non snorkelers saw just as much from our glass-bottom Zodiac. In the afternoon, our expedition led us to the pristine shores of Fernandina Island. This uninhabited island is a haven for wildlife. The highlights were undoubtedly the iconic Galapagos marine iguanas basking on black lava rocks. As we carefully navigated the island's trails, we marveled at the otherworldly landscapes shaped by ongoing volcanic activity. A sighting of a Galapagos hawk soaring overhead added a touch of wild majesty to our exploration. The sense of isolation and raw nature in these untouched Galapagos corners reminded us of the importance of preserving these ecosystems. Our journey continues tomorrow, promising new wonders in this extraordinary archipelago.
