We began the day with our expedition leader, Gaby, making an exciting wake-up call: “Dolphins on the starboard side.” What a treat! With cups of coffee or cameras in hand, our guests eagerly watched the show. Later we had breakfast and then headed to the bridge as we were crossing the equator. The morning was spent in Punta Vicente Roca located in the northwest region of this magical archipelago. Here we had the opportunity to snorkel with fur seals, sea turtles, flightless cormorants, and penguins. The afternoon was spent with a large colony of marine iguanas in Fernandina followed by wine tasting on the sun deck! Another wonderful day in the Galapagos Islands.
12/6/2023
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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.