On our fourth day on board the National Geographic Endeavour II, we stopped by the south side of Santa Cruz Island. The archipelago’s second largest island is almost 1000m2 in area and circular in shape. Located in the center of the Galapagos, it is also the economic center and has the highest population of the five inhabited islands. Today, we had the chance to explore Puerto Ayora, a town of about 12,000 residents. At the Galapagos National Park giant tortoise breeding center, we learned about the efforts to save these endangered animals and saw a variety of species in corrals. We then traveled to the highlands to see giant tortoises in the wild. Along the way, we stopped at a local farm stand to sample products made from sugar cane, coffee, and cacao. We concluded our busy day visiting local artisans.
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.
