What an exciting expedition we have started onboard the National Geographic Islander around the Galapagos Islands! Today we visited the oldest of the Islands, Española. This spectacular island was brought from the depths of the Pacific Ocean through successive eruptions and uplifts.
The place we visited in Española was Gardner Bay. This is a place where eruptions killed coral reefs and the natural processes, like shells washing ashore, contributed to the formation of this wonderful place.
We experienced amazing conditions when we went snorkeling. We had great visibility, calm water and there were plentiful fish. It was fun exploring in the water. Different kinds of tropical fish, corals and playful sea lions were among the attractions of the day.
Later, as some still had energy, we went to Gardner beach to enjoy the rest of the day.
A big colony of sea lions was found there, with females preparing to enter their breeding cycle, males establishing colonies, and babies playing in the water while their mothers are out fishing.
What a great day in the Galapagos, and the excitement is just starting!
