South Pacific Ocean, None - Polarsteps

We were really looking forward to this day, a trip to Fernandina Island. The Galapagos Islands lie on this location because of a volcanic hotspot. The hotspot doesn't move, but the tectonic plate does. Since the plate is moving towards the mainland, the oldest islands are on the east🧭. Which makes Fernandina the youngest, with one of the most active volcanoes. Being so young, not many land animals have found their way to the island yet. But marine iguanas did. Today it was 100% certain we would spot them. Juan also promised us to see them underwater (our dream), but the cold weather made them avoid a dip in the cold sea (they would probably freeze and drown). Today we also detected another Galapagos endemic species: the Galapagos snake! 🐍New species unlocked 🔓 As well as many shore birds, our morning was complete! After sailing, snacking and siestaing, we anchored for our afternoon panga cruise and snorkeling session in Punta Vicente Roca. A stunning rocky wall faces us and landing here is impossible. Again we discovered many shore birds in their natural habitat. However, today we were looking for the one and only Galapagos fur seal! We encountered many many sea lions, but the seal is shy, low in numbers and prefers rocky and shady areas over the hot beaches. Today we were lucky! New species unlocked 🔓 But more of all, we were lucky having a guide with us, we would not be able to spot the differences between the seals!