Today, our guests explored the westernmost part of the Galapagos. During the morning, we landed and snorkeled at Punta Espinosa on Fernandina Island. The countless Galapagos marine iguanas basking on the shoreline were a highlight. While snorkeling in the morning, guests observed Galapagos marine iguanas and green sea turtles feeding on seaweed on the rocks. In the afternoon, we took Zodiac tours to experience Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island. The site offers an impressive view of a collapsed volcano. The cliffs are good perching spots for seabirds like Nazca boobies, flightless cormorants, and Galapagos penguins. At the end of the day, our hotel department offered a wine tasting to celebrate as we crossed the equator.
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.
