BCI Barro Colorado, Panama Canal
What a great place Barro Colorado happens to be! We will never be disappointed in this marvelous site full of magic moments for everyone. The day started with a magnificent sunrise reflecting on the quiet waters of Gatun Lake. Soon after, Susan –our wellness coordinator –began the day with guests participating in the stretching sessions on National Geographic Sea Lion’s upper deck. As usual, you could really feel the energy flowing from this place, probably fed by the proximity of the pristine forests at Barro Colorado Island.
One of the Senior Scientists from the Smithsonian Institution kindly visited National Geographic Sea Lion first thing in the morning. We had a great opportunity to learn about what has occurred during the the fascinating history of the Station at BCI. Right after the meeting, we were ready to go for an exploration of the challenging trails on the island. The brave long hikers took off and then the short hikers were right behind them. We had the chance to entertain many of our younger explorers aboard the ship with an incredible series of Zodiac rides. The kids –as well as the adults–were fascinated by the diversity of species observed form the Zodiacs. Crocodiles, monkeys, birds and many more critters all showed their beauty and grace to all the guests on board the Zodiacs that circled the island. Everyone had the chance to take a peek at the store and perhaps take some unique souvenirs back home for friends and family.
But what about lunch? That was the question among all proud walkers returning from the island after a well accomplished mission. A great invigorating lunch was served by the galley and all our guests had the opportunity to share stories about their experiences at the rain forest of BCI.
It was already time for the mandatory drill on board the ship, and right after that, the second great leg on the Panama Canal transit: the Pedro Miguel and Miraflores Locks. The door to the Pacific Ocean was finally opened after a successful transit of the Panama; just on time for the sunset and the far view of Panama City to say good bye and come back soon to all guests on National Geographic Sea Lion! All too soon, we were ready for our next adventure in Panama.
