As the sun rose this morning and the air cleared, we realized that massive shield volcanoes surrounded us. The western part of Isabela gives us a clear idea of how these volcanic islands were formed, as there are recent flows visible everywhere. We started our exploration of this new land at Urbina Bay, where the terrain was uplifted in 1954 out of the tidal zone due to violent volcanic action. We find remnants underfoot of the seafloor as we encounter giant tortoises, land iguanas, and a plethora of Darwin finches. The afternoon gave us a history lesson as we walked in Darwin’s footsteps at Tagus Cove, gaining an incredible view of the hundred-mile long island of Isabela. We explored every detail of this area, land and sea, as we snorkeled with Galapagos penguins, marine iguanas, and Pacific green sea turtles, and kayaked below the massive tuff cones of the coastal area. We returned to the ship just as the sun burned a warm glow into the land as it dipped into the ether.
6/13/2025
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National Geographic Endeavour II
Genovesa Island
We started the day with excitement as we landed on the beautiful, pristine coast of Isla Genovesa - a true birder’s dream. Along the sandy beaches and steep cliffs of Darwin Bay, we were surrounded by an incredible array of birdlife. Frigatebirds soared closely overhead with their red pouches on full display, while Nazca and blue-footed boobies nested along the rocky ledges. Swallow-tailed gulls called out as we walked past. In the distance, we saw the stoic and elusive short-eared owl. The island was alive with color, sound, and constant movement. Between our excursions to Isla Genovesa, we snorkeled near Prince Philip’s Steps and discovered a vibrant world beneath the waves. Schools of fish swirled around us, a fur seal turned in the water as if dancing on cue, and sea lions relaxed nearby. As our last snorkeling adventure came to a close, we spotted a sea turtle resting calmly in a crevice. As the sun retreated into the sky on our last return to National Geographic Endeavor II, we reflected on the sheer magnitude of what we witnessed on our last full day. Isla Genovesa, like the other islands, gave us a connection to a sacred world. The harmony between land, sea, and sky reminded us how deeply interconnected, vital, and fragile these ecosystems are. Watching birds tend to their nests and marine life swim effortlessly, we were struck by how little space there is between wonder and reverence. We recognized that our journey wasn’t just about observing unique wildlife, it was about feeling part of something grander and beautifully ancient.
