We spent a magnificent day in the Galapagos exploring two impressive islets, Bartolome and Sombrero Chino. A glorious sunrise accompanied us up a nice walk to the top of Bartolome. We noticed geological features such as spatter and cinder cones, which made us think of a lunar or Martian landscape. At the peak, we enjoyed the best viewpoint in the archipelago that included a tuff crater landmark called Pinnacle Rock.

This area offers us the chance to see a small colony of Galapagos penguins that has adapted to equatorial waters. On lava rocks next to clear blue waters, these little guys stand upright, wiggling their tails. They star in the cutest story of evolution. Galapagos penguins are the only penguin species that breeds in the tropics. Although endangered due to a dramatic population decrease during El Ni񮦣o events, the population has recovered and their numbers are on the rise!

The underwater world was also spectacular today. Sharks, rays, sea stars, and a variety of fish species were on marvelous display. The highlight was swimming with the penguins. They popped up here and there in front of our faces and disappeared in a second, proving how fast they can be underwater.

Other guests enjoyed glass-bottom boat outings and sunset Zodiac rides, followed by a BBQ dinner on the sundeck. How fortunate we are to be spending time in such a special spot on the planet.