Chinese Hat and Sullivan Bay, 12/13/2024, National Geographic Islander II
Aboard the
National Geographic Islander II
Galápagos
Our day began with a pre-breakfast kayaking outing at Chinese Hat, where we had the chance to learn about geological features like cinder cones, tuff cones, and lava flows that date back as far as 20,000 years ago. We also enjoyed a snorkeling excursion in the same area, and then we relocated National Geographic Islander II to the other side of Santiago Island at Sullivan Bay. Here, we hiked around frozen lava fields.
Bernardo, known by his friends and family as Bernie, was born In the Andean city of Quito, located in the highlands of Ecuador. His grandfather, however, moved to the Galapagos Islands in the mid-70s, and worked as one of the first Naturalist Guides,...
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The first full day of our expedition started with a visit to the small and wonderful South Plaza Island, home to a variety of wildlife, including the famous Galapagos land iguana. It was so amazing to walk nearby this unique reptile while they were heating up their bodies with the first rays of sun. During this fun walk we also spotted different species of birds, such as swallowed-tailed gulls, Darwin’s finches, frigatebirds. The highlight was walking through the colony of Galapagos sea lions. These adorable mammals were resting on rocks, and some mothers were nursing their babies. Back on board National Geographic Islander II , a delicious breakfast was waiting for us so we could have energy for kayaking along the coast of this tiny island. The afternoon was adventurous and exciting, as our guests snorkeled inside the calm bay of Santa Fe, having the chance to play with Galapagos sea lions, different colorful fish, and even a Galapagos shark! Following this incredible adventure, we went ashore to the exclusive home of the Santa Fe land iguana. It was really fascinating to walk in a forest of gigantic Opuntia cactus looking for the iguana. And there it was!...light yellow, on top of a rock, receiving the last rays of sun. What an amazing day.
Today we disembarked at the spectacular Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island and walked among red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, frigatebirds, finches, and sea lions. The island was alive with sounds, movement, and hundreds of fluffy chicks, which served as a vivid reminder of how rich and vibrant this ecosystem truly is. We also encountered marine iguanas resting on the lava rocks, perfectly adapted to this remote volcanic environment. The weather was ideal, with a gentle breeze, mild sunlight, and excellent conditions for observing wildlife. Later, we kayaked along cliffs teeming with seabirds and swam in crystal-clear waters alongside playful sea lions and Galápagos fur seals. Genovesa, one of the true gems of the northern archipelago, offered us one of the most memorable days of our expedition. It was a celebration of life, color, and sound in one of the most magical and remote places in the Galápagos, a day we will not soon forget.
Today on board National Geographic Islander II , we started the day very early by visiting Sombrero Chino. Under the light of dawn, our guests had a great stretching session conducted by our wellness specialist. It was a perfect way to connect with nature in the company of Galapagos sea lions and Galapagos penguins who playfully interrupted our stretching session to give us an unforgettable show. Without a doubt, it was the best way to start the day. The day kept getting better and better, with sunshine, turquoise waters, and a clear sky. From kayaking to glass bottom boat touring and snorkeling, our guests had several wildlife encounters, including the tiny Galapagos penguins with whom they swam and enjoyed an incredible morning full of water activities. To end this incredible day, we visited Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island. We crossed a spectacular lava flow where our guests felt like they were walking on the moon or Mars. It was a perfect way to end a day full of fabulous wildlife and fascinating geology in the Galapagos.
