To awaken in the western realm of the Galapagos is to be transported back to a time when the land was newly formed and fresh for exploration. We start our day at the base of Alcedo Volcano, where we walk upon an area uplifted from the ocean in the 1950s. Giant tortoises, land iguanas, and numerous Darwin finches are encountered as we explore. Navigating to Tagus cove in the afternoon, we walk in Darwin’s footsteps. Surrounded by Galapagos penguins and green sea turtles as we swim, we are accepted as part of this environment. As the sun changes its luminosity in the late afternoon, we witness the Galapagos penguins returning to shore to bathe in the late light of our setting sun.
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.
