Fernandina Island (Galapagos)

Fernandina Island, formerly known as "Narborough Island" in English (after John Narborough), is the 3rd largest and youngest of the Galapagos Islands. Just like the others, it was formed by the Galapagos hotspot. Fernandina Island is an active shield volcano. It has been erupting since April 2009. Captain Benjamin Morrell recorded one of the biggest eruptions in the history of Galapagos at Fernandina Volcano, on tile that was anchored in Banks Bay. His ship successfully escaped to safety and the account of the eruption was preserved.

Fernandina Island has an area of 642 km2 (248 mi2) and height 1476 m (4842 ft), with a summit caldera 6.5 km (4 mi) wide. In 1968 parts of the caldera floor dropped 350 m and a small lake has occupied the northern caldera floor. Due to recent volcanic activity, the Fernandina does not present much plant life. The island has a mostly rocky surface.

The island's cruise ship landing point is Punta Espinoza (on the northern coast). Some boats may stop at Punta Mangle (on the eastern coast) - a good anchorage for snorkeling with manta rays and turtles.

Fernandina Island cruise terminal

Fernandina Island tours, shore excursions, hotels

City Tours and Shore Excursions

Popular Fernandina Island shore excursion destinations are:

• Punta Espinoza