Today National Geographic Endeavour II explored Santiago Island; this place is heaven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. We started the day with a pre-breakfast hike along Espumilla beach. One group of guests went kayaking along the coast looking for sea lions, sea turtles, and blue-footed boobies. Later in the morning we offered our first round of glass-bottom boating, with more kayaking and Zodiac rides to explore the coast of Buccaneer Cove. Then we headed back to the ship to get ready for snorkeling and exploring the underwater world of Buccaneer Cove. To finish the day’s activities we had the option to return to the beach for some afternoon fun, including a sunset hike among the wildlife and amazing landscapes.
6/12/2025
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National Geographic Endeavour II
Bartolomé and Sombrero Chino Islands
Warm ocean air and a colorful sunrise met us as we approached Bartolomé. Guests traveled by foot or Zodiac to experience the compacted ash landscape. On our first snorkeling excursion, we swam with diving penguins and sea creatures like whitetip and blacktip sharks, rays, and parrotfish. On the next snorkeling opportunity, we enjoyed seeing even more fish and sea stars! After lunch, we were back on the Zodiac for a third snorkeling opportunity. We dove in by Sombrero Chino. We spotted whitetip sharks, a school of fish, sea lions, pufferfish, and more. We ended the day by circumnavigating Sombrero Chino on Zodiac. We spotted more penguins. The community spirit that has developed over the week was evident as a Zodiac of guests serenaded Sarah on her birthday! Traveling to the Galapagos has made the world feel small. We have found common ground with guests and staff and made connections between our actions back home and the conservation of this beautiful archipelago. Written by Sarah Magnano and Robin Lockwood, Grosvenor Teacher Fellows