This week's post includes photos of three different Antarctic penguin species, as well as two additional penguin species in the Galapagos Islands and Australia's Macquarie Island.
California sea lions greeted National Geographic Venture off the island of San Esteban this morning! Their curiosity even compelled them to follow our Zodiacs as we transferred to the island for hikes among the cardon cactus forest. We were thrilled to see how playful the sea lions were in the water. To explore the island of San Pedro Martir in the afternoon, we again set out in Zodiacs. This was a perfect way to explore this world-class UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The island and its steep cliff walls make it an excellent breeding ground for birds. The island is highly protected to ensure the successful population growth for the blue-footed boobies, red-billed tropic birds, and brown boobies that rely on this site as a nesting and breeding ground.
This morning, we were greeted by the calm waters of Golfo Dulce as National Geographic Quest approached Playa Blanca, the destination of the day in the heart of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula. Today was dedicated to immersing ourselves in the sustainable practices and vibrant culture of local Costa Rican families. In the morning, guests had the opportunity to explore various facets of local life. Some ventured into the heart of the Osa Peninsula to observe gold panning and visit a historic sugar mill, while others toured cacao plantations or hiked through the lush rainforest. Another group visited a women-run hearts of palm farm, learning about its eco-friendly practices. After returning to the beach for a BBQ lunch, guests were treated to traditional Costa Rican dances. In the afternoon, we resumed our explorations, visiting more local sites. Later, scientists from the Latin American Sea Turtle Association shared their efforts in protecting these remarkable creatures. We had the incredible experience of watching them release rehabilitated turtles back into the ocean—an unforgettable way to end the day.
We arrived at Floreana Island early this morning, and we could hear everyone getting ready to go ashore at Punta Cormorant before breakfast. There were blue-footed boobies, flamingoes, and frigates feeding by the shore. We got to a white sandy beach, known as “flour beach”, and there we spotted several green sea turtles, a shark, and a newborn marine iguana. We snorkeled from Zodiacs and had a ride on our glass bottom boat along the coast of Champion Islet. During the afternoon we went to Post Office Bay to kayak and to leave postcards in the wooden barrel as a continuation of an ancient tradition.
Guests of National Geographic Resolution enjoyed an unforgettable day on the South Shetland Islands, taking full advantage of a “Drake Lake” crossing to Antarctica. The adventure began with a visit to Barrientos Island where we encountered two species of penguins, gentoo and lively chinstrap penguins, offering a charming first glimpse of Antarctica’s wildlife. As the ship relocated over lunch, excitement rippled through the air when orcas were spotted in the distance, an incredible sighting of these apex predators. Afterward, most guests ventured onto Half Moon Island where they marveled at the historic Camara Base, observed majestic elephant seals, and studied whale bones and hardy lichens. The highlight was a close encounter with even more chinstrap penguins. The day ended with the Antarctic snow swirling around us, adding a truly authentic touch to the experience. What adventures will tomorrow bring as the journey continues around the White Continent?
We awoke this morning to low clouds and beautiful views as we transited through Peltier Channel. The winds were too strong for us to make a landing at Damoy Point, but when we exited into the Gerlache Strait to look for wildlife, we were met with a large pod of killer whales! In the afternoon, we made it to Fournier Bay where some ventured outside in Zodiacs and the rest got to kayak among the Antarctic ice. Humpback whales were our constant companions as we explored the calm waters of the bay. The day ended with a surprise after-dinner-landing at Danco Island, giving us our first visit to a large penguin colony. Enjoying time with the gentoo penguins was the perfect way to cap off an amazing day.
