Most of the Galápagos Islands are just the tips of larger, submerged volcanos; some, however, are the product of mechanical events where former submarine platform was uplifted a long time ago. North Seymour is an example of this being flat and dry, but it is located amidst highly productive waters. Various seabird colonies have made it their home, amongst them great and magnificent frigatebirds, native species of the Galápagos Archipelago. Each island we visit during our expedition is very different to the previous one, and Rábida has high elevations and a green vegetation cover. The most striking feature of this island is that its rocks and sands have high concentrations of iron oxide, giving it a reddish appearance.
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.
