Today we woke up anchored next to the youngest island is the Galapagos Archipelago, Fernandina. Due to its proximity to the source of magma, it has erupted over twenty times in the last two hundred years. This morning we went on a hike to explore the marvels of Punta Espinoza. Some call this place the “marine iguanas metropolis” due to the hundreds of individuals that can be found here, resting on the rocks. As it is currently the mating season in the Galapagos, we saw the territorial males fighting against each other to ensure their contribution on the next generation. Also we found some sea lions nursing their pups.
Later in the day, we navigated to Isabela Island, to a place called Punta Vicente Roca. The landscape here is extremely dramatic, because half of the volcano that used to exist here has collapsed, leaving its inner structure revealed.
First, we used our Zodiacs to snorkel by the cliffs of this extinct volcano. There was so much marine life to see, including iguanas, sharks, sea turtles, and even penguins. Afterwards we had a ride along the same coast, to get a better view of the impressive landscape.
After such an exciting day of exploration, the National Geographic Endeavour moved one more time to the north of Isabela Island, where we crossed the equator. There was a gathering out on deck, for our guests to enjoy some wine and a celebration of the crossing, which is a very old tradition for us onboard. It was an excellent ending to an incredible day!
