The National Geographic Islander arrived at the north-east side of Santa Cruz Island and a couple of small flat islets are visible in the distance. Today we had the chance to visit one of them, called South Plaza. This is one spectacular place to spot land iguanas, sea lions and seabirds flying along the cliff side. We offer Zodiac driving lessons for the kids and anyone who wants to jump from the ship for a swim is welcome to do so. We repositioned over lunch to Santa Fe Island where we explored the shores by kayak and the underwater realm as we snorkeled in the turquoise waters secluded by the rocky points.
- Daily Expedition Reports
- 13 Apr 2017
South Plaza and Santa Fe Islands, 4/13/2017, National Geographic Islander
- Aboard the National Geographic Islander
- Galápagos
Socrates Tomala, Naturalist/Certified Photo Instructor
Socrates was raised on Santa Cruz Island located in the heart of Galapagos Archipelago. He had a childhood filled with swimming, scuba diving, rock climbing and volunteering in conservation projects, so it was natural for him to grow very passionate ...
Read MoreShare Report
Related Reports
11/23/2022
Read
National Geographic Islander II
Isabela and Fernandina
Our day began with the chance to point out a lot of interesting geological features as we enjoyed Zodiac tours along a massive flank of Ecuador Volcano on Punta Vicente Roca. In the afternoon, we took a sunny walk on Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island. We spotted many iguanas, and a bunch of sea lions hanging around, too.
11/22/2022
Read
National Geographic Islander II
North Seymour & Rabida Islands
Relatively small and low compared to neighboring Santa Cruz, North Seymour is located to the north of Baltra. The island is dry with predominantly low shrubs, like prickly pear cacti. The incense trees are bare during the dry season. Seabirds like frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies nest on the island, and sea lions rest on the sand when they are not fishing. Land and marine iguanas also live here. Rabida is in the middle of the archipelago and has a striking red sand beach. We observed a small colony of sea lions of all ages resting or nursing. Behind the beach, American flamingos nest in a brackish lagoon. This island is full of contrasts and wildlife that we enjoyed observing during this day of expedition.