Santiago Island, also known as James Island is of one of the few Islands visited by Charles Darwin in 1835. Today our guest visits early morning a site is known as Espumilla Bay, we have an early hike, paddleboards and kayaks around the bay. After breakfast we move to Buccaneer’s Cove where we enjoy deep-water snorkel, glass bottom boat and more kayaking along the cove. We spot lots of Pacific green sea turtles, sea lions, golden rays, an even a hammerhead shark. After lunch the National Geographic Endeavour II move to Puerto Egas, here our guests enjoy time of at the beach, follow by a hike along the coast. This was another wonderful day at the Galapagos 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.
