We started our day, hiking on Bartholomew Island, a place known as an open book to Geology, where we can learn about the different volcanic features that started holding the base of primary succession of our endemic ecosystems. Pioneer plants and small volcanic cones were spotted on the way up to the top of the island. Once of the highest peak, we encountered one breathtaking landscape of Bartholomew north and south beach, with green mangroves in between. After breakfast, we went to relax and swim off a sandy beach, the water was calm and suddenly we saw couple of penguins that were fishing around. Then we came back to our ship and went to snorkel along the coastline, we jumped from or zodiacs and as we swam further into the deep water, we spotted a large variety of fish suspended along the vertical walls of the tuff cone that created pinnacle rock. A couple of white tipped reef sharks were also spotted as well as marbled rays and sea lions. Some of our guests chose the option to experience our glass bottom boat, where you can learn about the marine life in the islands and not get wet.
After lunch, we navigate to Chinese Hat. This is a small parasitic island off the coast of Santiago. Along the coast of Santiago we could see an extensive black lava field from 1897. We chose to snorkel along the black lava field that forms a calm bay with Chinese Hat; the water was turquoise blue color and as the water was calm and clear. This was definitely was of the best snorkeling outings of our trip, every single one of them are different, but this one was full on dense schools of fish and some reef sharks swimming around, we explore the underwater caves found there in search of lobsters and any other types of creatures.
A zodiac ride was offered to experience some better photography and enjoy the colors of the late afternoon. Penguins, sea lions, sharks and fish of all colors and sizes made this day, one great expedition on land and under the sea. Every day is a great experience here in Galapagos, We feel happy because our guests are very happy and having fun here.