We started this new expedition around the Galapagos Islands yesterday, and today was the very first full day of exploration on these fantastic Islands.
In the morning we dropped anchor at the Island of Bartolome. This Island is the always photographed one for brochures about the beauty of Galapagos. So just so that we could use all the time available, we landed before breakfast for a hike. The trail took us to a landscape that many call Mars-like full of eroded volcanic craters. At the end of the steps we were rewarded by the view of the iconic Pinnacle Rock. Then we returned to the boat to have breakfast and continue with the activities. Bartolome has what we call in Galapagos a golden sand beach, this is the place we visited to start the water options. While we snorkelled, we had our first sight of all the tropical fish found in the Archipelago. Some of us even saw penguins and a close encounter with white tipped sharks!
The day continued and the National Geographic Islander navigated to Rabida Island. A long time ago this island was formed by a large cinder cone that exploded and transformed magma into particles of scoria and ash. Over time the material ejected by the volcano was weathered and the iron content oxidized giving the entire island a dark red color. First thing we did when we arrived was to put on the water our kayaks for the first time in the week. At the same time those who preferred to snorkel left the boat at the same time to explore a location, for some the wildlife and landscape and for others the underwater environment.
Then we all came back to the ship to end the day with a relaxing walk along the red beach of Rabida. Female sea lions taking care of their pups were the highlight of the outing, as well as the sun setting behind the volcanoes of Isabela Island.
This was an exciting first day, who knows what is coming next!
