We had an early morning visit to North Seymour Island. We encountered several endemic species of the archipelago, including Galapagos sea lions, marine iguanas and swallow-tailed gulls. We spotted these animals engaged in their usual daily activities along the coast. We enjoyed their company and took beautiful pictures. Inland, the area started to get much more colorful. We enjoyed the interesting red landscape provided by Galapagos carpetweed. Around this area, we observed our first blue-footed boobies, Galapagos land iguanas, Galapagos locusts, Galapagos incense trees, etc. We also spotted two species of frigatebirds, including many males showing off their inflated red pouches! All this and it was not even 10:00 a.m. yet!
Back on the ship, we participated in a safety drill and enjoyed a snorkeling presentation. Lunch was delicious! It included favorite Ecuadorian dishes.
We divided into two groups for the snorkeling activity on Rabida Island: a deep-water group for the more experienced and a beach group for those who have not snorkeled in a while. Naturalists helped the second group refresh their snorkeling skills. Once in the water, we could not have asked for better snorkeling. We observed hundreds of black-striped salemas, sardines, various other fish and a curious sea lion. After the water session, we went to the ship to change and immediately returned to the gorgeous red beach on this island. We enjoyed a late afternoon walk along the coast surrounded by beautiful fauna.
We started the navigation heading north. With notice that Wolf Volcano is still active, the captain changed the course a bit. Many of us witnessed the eruption and experienced the warmth it provides this area. A truly amazing way to close this beautiful day in paradise.
