As we get closer to our final day of expedition, guests on board National Geographic Islander II visited two special sites on Isabela and Fernandina Islands. After a 10-hour navigation and crossing the Equator, we stopped by Punta Vicenta Roca, located at the mouth of the seahorse- shaped island of Isabela. Here, we had the chance to admire the walls of the extinct Ecuador Volcano as well as the wonderful marine life. This side of the island gets drenched in nutrients from the Cromwell current. In the afternoon, we walked among the fascinating marine iguanas of Fernandina Island.
11/14/2023
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National Geographic Islander II
Santa Fe and San Cristobal Islands
Our expedition is almost ending, and we spent our last day visiting the unique island of Santa Fe, located in the southeastern portion of the archipelago. Our morning started with multiple activities. While kayaking in Santa Fe Bay, guests were followed by playful Galapagos sea lions. Meanwhile, part of our group took a hike on a rocky trail to search for Santa Fe land iguanas. With its pale coloration, the species is exclusive to Santa Fe Island. Early in the morning, we found the iguanas emerging from nests as they got ready for the warmth of the sun. Finally, we were ready for breakfast! The morning had just started, though, and after breakfast we prepared for snorkeling. We were surrounded by sea lions in this calm bay. In the afternoon, we landed at the most beautiful white sand beach, Cerro Brujo. This was the first site that Charles Darwin landed the H.M.S Beagle on San Cristobal. Galapagos sea lions were sound asleep along the beach, and we enjoyed our last swim in the calm waters.