Gulf of Panama
Having transited the Panama Canal and made our way into the Pacific Ocean last night, the National Geographic Sea Lion entered the Gulf of Panama which gently rocked us while we slept. We awoke this morning again to clear skies. Some people up on the bow caught an early glimpse of a humpback whale spouting as it came close to the ship and continued on its way. Those loosening up muscles and joints, with qigong shaking and light stretching, on the Bridge deck had a different reward… yummy smoothies. Thanks Galley crew!
Not long after breakfast we arrived at our morning anchorage, the Panamanian nature reserve of Isla Iguana, on the lower western side of the gulf. The deep blue waters surrounding our ship changed colors on its way to the shore, blue turquoise, aquamarine and then clear as it met the silky white sandy beach of this sun-drenched paradise. Offering the perfect balance to this was abundant shade, a cool steady breeze, and coolers full of water, soda and beer. The crew lowered Zodiacs and we were transported to our treasure island for snorkeling, swimming, beach-combing, lazing in the shade, and walking with the Naturalists and Photo Experts to the other side of the island. The land seemed to move as we disembarked the Zodiacs – was that because we had gained our sea legs? No, actually, the shells on the beach were moving – hermit crabs of all shapes and sizes scurried this way and that, stopping suddenly to retract and become immobile at the slightest hint of movement nearby.
Snorkelers and swimmers enjoyed the coral and rock-face panorama vibrant with multi-colored fishes. Even a turtle was sighted. Walkers enjoyed the circling frigate birds overhead, and iguanas, geckos and lizards that blended into the landscape.
In the afternoon we continued cruising through the Gulf of Panama keeping an eye out for more wildlife. The morning sun and gentle rocking of the ship, along with full bellies from lunch found people in deckchairs and back in their cabins for siesta. Later in the afternoon, were talks on photography, and on the history and economy of Panama. At this writing we are convening in the lounge for cocktails and recap. What a stunning day!
