In the morning, we visited the island of North Seymour. This small island, centrally located, is home for a large number of seabirds. We were very lucky to see blue-footed boobies, great and magnificent frigatebirds, brown pelicans, and swallow-tailed gulls right on the trail. The birds’ tameness is amazing. It is an overwhelming feeling to see the birds and feel like we become part of nature. North Seymour Island was a highlight, as we found a colony of Galapagos sea lions coexisting in peace with Galapagos land iguanas. In the afternoon, we visited the red island of Rabida. The island is a great place for snorkeling in the Pacific Ocean with colorful fish and playful Galapagos sea lions. We finished the day with an easy stroll. We observed greater flamingos and enjoyed every minute with the Galapagos sea lions. What a wonderful start in the Enchanted Islands!
4/15/2025
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National Geographic Gemini
Isabela Island
Tuesday on Isabela Island began with a wet landing at Urbina Bay where guests ventured on a nature walk along gentle terrain shaped by dramatic geological uplift. The trail revealed fascinating coastal formations and offered close encounters with endemic wildlife, including our first encounter with Galapagos giant tortoises, land iguanas, penguins, and flightless cormorants. After the walk, guests had the option to swim or snorkel from the beach where the calm and clear waters provided a refreshing break before everyone returned to National Geographic Gemini. In the afternoon, we continued north toward Punta Vicente Roca. Guests gathered at the bow with the expedition leader to take in the striking volcanic landscape and learn more about the island’s natural history. The day’s exploration continued with a Zodiac ride along the coast of Ecuador Volcano, offering a closer look at the rugged shoreline and opportunities to spot wildlife, such as sea turtles, penguins, and Galapagos fur seals. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the ship crossed the equator, marking the moment with a pod of dolphins during sunset — a memorable finale to a day filled with discovery, connection with nature, and the wild beauty of the Galápagos.
