National Geographic Endeavour II rounded the north of Isabela to reach Fernandina, the westernmost and youngest island of the Galapagos. As the ship navigated, we woke up to see the majestic shield volcanoes of the islands all around us. These waters are very rich with an array of life. A pod of common dolphins was spotted in the distance. On land, we encountered large colonies of marine iguanas, sea lions, lava lizards, crabs, turtles, and various seabirds, including cormorants, blue-footed boobies, and penguins. While snorkeling, we spotted green sea turtles and marine iguanas feeding on algae beneath the waves. In the afternoon, we explored Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela by Zodiac. We encountered more wildlife, including Galapagos fur seals and lots of sea turtles, flightless cormorants, and Galapagos penguins. We celebrated as we crossed the equator, ending a wonderful expedition day.
1/19/2025
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National Geographic Endeavour II
Hood Island
Our first full day spent exploring this enchanted archipelago was filled with surprises. After breakfast, we walked along the beach of Gardner Bay to enjoy a colony of friendly sea lions. We got to know some of the famous birds that Darwin observed during his visit to this island, such as finches and mockingbirds. Afterwards, we practiced snorkeling and enjoyed swimming in the turquoise waters of the bay. In the afternoon, we visited Punta Suarez, one of the most amazing sites in the Galapagos. We saw marine iguanas basking on the rocks, blue-footed boobies, frigates, seagulls, and a great colony of Nazca boobies. The day’s highlight was a few waved albatrosses, a bird that usually migrates at this time of the year. We finished our day of incredible experiences with the tame wildlife and the spectacular scenery of this volcanic archipelago.
