The highly maneuverable 48-guest National Geographic Gemini is geared for discovery in the Galápagos with expedition tools and onboard experiences that will expand your understanding of this legendary destination.
The sunrise was spectacular, yet a bit spooky. The thin fog spread across the surface of a glassy ocean, signaling we had come into an area of cold upwelled water. The lines of turbulence on the surface had all the terns, shearwaters, and storm petrels in a feeding frenzy. Later, at Punta Vicente Roca, the northwesternmost tip of Isabela Island, we followed the coast closely in Zodiacs. Fur seals, marine iguanas, Galapagos sea lions, blue-footed boobies, and brown noddy terns rested on the ledges. The afternoon on shore was marine iguana central and one had to watch where one stepped. Our outing was complete when penguins finally made their appearance along the shore.
From the first light, Delfin II was tied alongside the jungle. A large troop of squirrel monkeys were easily seen from the ship while we had our first coffee during the early morning. The day started well and continued to provide new experiences for us. We had our first opportunity to kayak and swim in the refreshing waters of Clavero Lake. Between our explorations of Clavero Lake and Supay, our galley team prepared a nice surprise for us. We had a cooking class provided by our chef on how to make one of Peru´s most iconic dishes, ceviche. We, of course, learned the Amazonian way of preparing it.
We spent our last day on the warm rain-shadow side of the Cascade Mountains as we continued west. Spring is in full force, or as full as it can get with nine inches of rain a year. The green grass-covered hills are already turning pink and soon to yellow as temperatures climb and the spring flora succumbs to drought. We admired the tenacity of these plants as they bravely flowered with minimal resources. From the brilliant canary-yellow of the arrowleaf balsamroot flowers to the azure blue of the native larkspur, the colors of the rainbow were represented in the delicate structures of flower petals. Spring is in the air and on the hillsides as well.
As we sail north through the Atlantic, the rhythm of life onboard offers relaxation, enrichment, and presentations about all manner of fauna, exploration, and photography. Gentle ocean swells frame our days, with many guests enjoying time on the bridge scanning the horizon for seabirds and marine life. The camaraderie of shared discovery is ever-present, from spontaneous wildlife sightings to quiet moments over tea. A hands-on sextant lesson brought celestial navigation to life, connecting us with centuries of seafarers who traveled these same waters by the stars.
Today, guests aboard National Geographic Endurance awoke early in the harbor of Praia, Terceira Island, named because it was the third island of the Azores Archipelago to be colonized by the Portuguese. After breakfast, guests had the choice between a hike on the volcanic coast or a leisurely guided tour of the island. During the hikes, the natural pools in front of the sea were visible and inland, the fog created a misty impression in the fields, making the cows disappear. After the burger lunch buffet on board, guests continued to explore the volcanic island and the lava tunnel, or they went on a UNESCO-site city exploration with a visit to Angra do Heroismo. Guests returned on board for recap and an exquisite degustation of Azorean cheese. Following dinner, Naturalist Claudia gave a presentation about literature under the sea.
