For the first time in 15 months we’re posting Daily Expedition Reports from Galápagos. This simple act—the ordinary telling of the truth about an expedition day, as we have for decades—feels momentous. We are jumping for joy—knowing National Geographic Endeavour II is on the move and guests are having the extraordinary experiences we have waited so long to provide. – The Lindblad Expeditions Team
Nearly fifteen months have passed since our last expedition in the wonderful land of the Galapagos. So, when Lindblad/National Geographic announced we would restart operations in the beginning of June, our hearts were filled with joy and wonder at just the thought of experiencing nature up close and personal once again.
Finally, after more than a year of being separated from the natural world, we strapped on our hiking shoes, packed our bags, jumped on the plane and prepared to receive the tonic of wildness that was very much needed.
As soon as the sun rose above the horizon, National Geographic Endeavour II arrived to the very calm bay in front of North Seymour Island. Beautiful turquoise colors were revealed as the sunlight hit the ocean, and the seabirds that inhabit this area flew over the ship.
In the morning we hiked amongst blue-footed boobies nesting and mating, land iguanas eating cacti, and frigatebirds performing mating calls. It was a spectacular morning, full of colors, sounds and great energy from our guests who were very excited to experience nature at its fullest.
In the afternoon we navigated north to reach a beautiful island called Rabida. Our guests started to gear up in order to experience the underwater world of the Galapagos for the first time. It was a great first experience for young explorers, who were able to swim in the shallow areas, while adults enjoyed exploring farther along the shore.
Later, we enjoyed for a nice slow stroll along the beach. Watching sea lions return from fishing, with seabirds flying overhead back to the shore, was a great way to finish a fantastic day.
Our first full day back strengthened the realization that we are dependent on nature, not only for the shelter, food, water and air it provides to us every day, but more importantly for the abundant happiness, calm and wellbeing it brings to us. We’re all children of nature, and nature is where we all belong.
