Urbina Bay & Tagus Cove, Isabela Island, 3/30/2022, National Geographic Islander
Aboard the
National Geographic Islander
Galápagos
Today we started the day by exploring Urbina Bay. Everything around us was green. We observed land iguanas everywhere. We got lucky and saw Galapagos giant tortoises on the trail. After our hike, we went to the beach and enjoyed a refreshing time in the water.
Then National Geographic Islander moved to Tagus Cove. We snorkeled with Galapagos penguins, and sea turtles and flightless cormorants surrounded us as we kayaked. To finish the day, we had the options to hike or explore the caldera on a Zodiac ride. What an amazing day exploring these islands.
Ixora was born in the Galapagos Islands, back when the streets were made of sand and gravel. Void of TV and tablets, her childhood friends and pristine natural surroundings made for an inspiring upbringing. She was always drawn to the ocean and her l...
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The last day of the expedition began with an early hike and a Zodiac ride at dawn, as the soft light of the sun illuminated the horizon, and fresh air filled the air. At sea, the sound of the waves gently crashed against the hull of the boat as we moved towards an area rich in wildlife. Boobies, with their vibrant feathers and courtship dances, stood out among the rocks, creating an image that would remain etched in memory. Seabirds soared across the sky and the rocky landscape of the islands surrounded us, forming a stunning contrast with the tranquility of the sea. In the afternoon, we headed to Cerro Brujo, one of the most impressive beaches in the Galapagos. Stepping onto the soft sand, it felt like we were walking on silk dust. The crystal-clear waters sparkled in shades of blue and turquoise, inviting us to explore its shores, while some sea lions rested on the rocks nearby. The serenity of the place, combined with the natural beauty, made this an unforgettable experience. The day culminated with a circumnavigation around the Sleeping Lion, a rock formation that rises majestically from the ocean. It was a perfect farewell to an expedition that left our souls filled with wonder at the nature of the Galapagos.
Our day at Española Island began with a breathtaking view of Gardner Bay, a pristine white sand beach surrounded by turquoise waters. We started the morning with an incredible kayaking session, followed by snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Afterward, we enjoyed some time on the beach where we were warmly greeted by a colony of Galápagos sea lions. After a refreshing lunch on board, we made our way to Punta Suárez, a site renowned for its dramatic cliffs and thriving seabird colonies. As the hike came to an end, we were treated to the company of a stunning sunset, a perfect conclusion to an unforgettable day.
Our day began early in the morning with an invigorating kayaking session at Post Office Bay. As we paddled through the calm waters, we were greeted by the enchanting sight of dozens of sea turtles resting lazily near the surface. Along the shoreline, playful sea lions captivated our guests, providing an unforgettable start to the day. Following breakfast, National Geographic Islander II repositioned near Champion Islet where we embarked on a spectacular snorkeling adventure. The underwater world came alive with an abundance of colorful fish darting through the reefs. Playful sea lions joined us, adding a sense of joy to the experience, while sightings of whitetip reef sharks made the outing truly unforgettable. In the afternoon, we disembarked at Punta Cormorant for a hike to the flamingo lagoon, located just behind the landing beach. The vibrant pink hues of these elegant birds stood out as they fed on algae and crustaceans. We also spotted juvenile flamingos, their pale plumage hinting at their age. As the sun began to set, we returned to the ship, reflecting on an extraordinary day spent exploring the natural wonders of Floreana Island.
