2018-2019 National Geographic Expeditions Small Ship Catalog

Page 1


THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC QUEST/VENTURE OUR NEWEST ADDITIONS TO THE FLEET

AL ASK A

NEW FAMILY PROGR AM IN 2018

SOUTH PACIFIC

NEW VOYAGES ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION

2

I

BA JA CALIFORNIA

ADDED DATES ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA BIRD/SEA LION

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

I


N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C E X P E D I T I O N S 2018–2019

GAL ÁPAGOS

L AND OF THE POL AR BEARS

NORTH AMERICA 12 Alaska’s Inside Passage

30 Under Sail: Greece to the Dalmatian Coast

14 Wild Alaska Escape 15 Epic Alaska: Misty Fiords to the Lynn Canal 16 Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska and

31 Sailing the Greek Isles 32 Scotland’s Highlands and Islands

British Columbia

17 A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia, and Haida Gwaii

18 Exploring British Columbia and the

San Juan Islands

19 Columbia and Snake Rivers Voyage 20 Baja California and the Sea of Cortez:

Among the Great Whales

21 Whales and Wildness: Spring in the

S O U T H PAC I F I C 33 French Polynesia: Beyond the Postcard 34 Isles, Atolls, and Pristine Corals: Southern

21 Baja California: A Remarkable Journey 21 Destination Baja: Espiritu Santo 22 Reefs and Ruins: Belize to Tikal, Guatemala 23 Costa Rica and the Panama Canal

SOUTH AMERICA

24 Galápagos 25 Galápagos and Peru 26 Peru: Land of the Inca 27 Upper Amazon 28 Best of Patagonia: Torres del Paine to Cape Horn

29 Epic Patagonia: Fjords, Peaks, and Forests

Line Islands

35 Azure Seas from Tahiti to the Marquesas 36 Epic Polynesia: Cook Islands to Fiji

37 Easter Island to Tahiti: Tales of the Pacific

Sea of Cortez

ASIA

EUROPE

POLAR REGIONS 38 A Circumnavigation of Iceland 39 Hot Springs and Icebergs: Iceland to West Greenland

40 Exploring Greenland and the Canadian

49 Vietnam and Cambodia: Along the

Mekong River

PHOTO EXPEDITIONS 15 Epic Alaska: Misty Fiords to the Lynn Canal 17 A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British

Columbia, and Haida Gwaii

21 Baja California: A Remarkable Journey 24 Galápagos F A M I LY E X P E D I T I O N S 12 Alaska’s Inside Passage 24 Galápagos RESOURCES AND MORE 4

When You Travel With Us You Make a Difference

High Arctic

6

The Ultimate Expedition Experience

41

Epic 80ºN: Exploring Greenland and Baffin and Ellesmere Islands

7

Our Experts

8

Onboard Experience

42 Land of the Polar Bears 43 Norway’s Fjords and Arctic Svalbard 43 Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland’s East Coast 44 Journey to Antarctica 46 Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falklands

10 Special Offers 50 Deck Plans 61 Terms and Conditions 62 Expeditions Calendar

48 South Georgia and the Falklands

Front cover: Against the silhouette of an Alaskan peak, a humpback breaches sunset-hued waters.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

I

3


W H E N YO U T R AV E L W I T H U S

YO U M A K E A DIFFERENCE

A sea turtle swims amid king angelfish off Isabela Island, Punta Vicente Roca, Galรกpagos.

4 4

I I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

I I


YO U S U P P O R T T H E N AT I O N A L GEOGRAPHIC SOCIETY When you travel with us, you support the National Geographic Society’s nonprofit mission to explore and protect the planet. We return 27% of our proceeds to the Society, which funds researchers and explorers around the globe who are working to preserve species and ecosystems, protect cultures, and advance understanding of our planet and its inhabitants.

W E S U P P O RT LO C A L CO M M U N I T I E S A N D H A B I TAT S When you step aboard one of our ships, you have the opportunity to contribute to the Lindblad Expeditions–National Geographic Fund, which ensures that the incredible destinations we explore are preserved for generations to come. We support conservation, research, and education initiatives in places like the Galápagos, where guest donations have totaled more than $7.8 million since 1997, facilitating education, research, and conservation efforts in the archipelago.

The National Geographic Society receives funds from National Geographic Partners LLC (d/b/a National Geographic Expeditions). You contribute to that support when you make your purchase. To learn more, visit natgeo.com/info.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

I

5


T H E U LT I M AT E EXPEDITION EXPERIENCE Since 2004, National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions have worked together to bring you to the world’s most exceptional places aboard our fleet of expedition ships. In the spirit of true exploration, our innovative itineraries embrace spontaneity: We’ll veer off route to get a closer look at wildlife, follow a pod of orcas, or spend time swimming in a secluded cove. Aboard our fleet, you’ll experience the world from every angle: from on deck, from your kayak or Zodiac, on your feet, or through hydrophones and underwater cameras. We set out in small groups, each led by a member of our expedition team, to learn firsthand about landscapes, wildlife, and cultures. And we utilize a range of exploration tools to foster personal encounters with the wild, the amazing, and the seldom-seen: exploring the sapphire lagoons of the South Pacific from a stand-up paddleboard, or peering beneath the polar ice via a remotely operated vehicle.

The National Geographic Explorer parks in the Antarctic pack ice, allowing guests to walk right off the ship.

6

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

I


T R AV E L W I T H A W O R L D CLASS EXPEDITION TEAM Every voyage is led by an expedition team made up of dynamic and passionate people who bring a wealth of experience to the trip. At the helm of each team is an expedition leader, a veteran explorer who has the skills, foresight, and knowledge to create the most enriching experience possible for our guests. The naturalists, cultural experts, scientists, and photographers on the team explore with you throughout each day, illuminating the many facets of the places we go. Many expeditions are also accompanied by an undersea specialist, who captures images from the deep while diving and interprets the world beneath the waves. In addition, a top National Geographic photographer joins every departure of the National Geographic Explorer and the National Geographic Orion, providing real-time advice to help you take great photos. And—an exclusive feature on all our voyages—a photo instructor certified by National Geographic and Lindblad is on hand to assist with your camera settings and is trained to work with all skill levels. Below, meet some of the inspiring people who will travel with us in 2018. MICHAEL S. NOLAN

N AT U R A L I S T A N D CERTIFIED PHOTO INSTRUCTOR Michael Nolan is a naturalist and award-winning photographer who specializes in intimate portraits of marine animals. His photography has appeared in hundreds of magazines, calendars, and books in more than 45 countries worldwide. He has worked with National Geographic dolphin researchers in the Bahamas and has studied and photographed humpback whales in the Dominican Republic. Michael will join the August 12, 17, and 22, 2018 departures of Wild Alaska Escape. See page 14 for the itinerary.

C A R LO S N AVA R R O

UNDERSEA SPECIALIST Carlos Navarro is a biochemist specializing in marine biology and a freelance wildlife photographer and author. He has spent most of the past 30 years living along the shores of the Sea of Cortez and participating in numerous scientific, conservation, and environmental education projects. His diving adventures have taken him to the underwater realms of Alaska, Mexico, Svalbard, the MidAtlantic ridge islands, the Caribbean, and the coasts of South America. Carlos will join the January 13 and 19, 2018 departures of Baja California and the Sea of Cortez: Among the Great Whales. See page 20 for the itinerary.

I

PA U L A TAG L E

EXPEDITION LEADER Paula Tagle grew up in Guayaquil, Ecuador, where she obtained an undergraduate degree in geology from the Polytechnic University of Guayaquil. She came to the Galápagos in 1992, and subsequently became a naturalist guide for the Galápagos National Park. In 2004, she published the children’s book Galápagos Bedtime Stories. In addition, she writes a column about the Galápagos for the Ecuadorian newspaper El Universo. As the first certified field educator for the National Geographic Global Explorers program, she teaches young travelers about the Galápagos archipelago’s legendary wildlife and will join several Galápagos departures in 2018. See page 24 for the itinerary.

SUSAN SEUBERT

N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C PHOTOGRAPHER Award-winning travel and editorial photographer Susan Seubert has photographed more than 20 feature stories for National Geographic Traveler since joining the magazine as a contributor in 2004. Her subjects range from Canada to the Caribbean and Texas to Thailand. Her work has been recognized by the department of journalism at Columbia University with an Alfred Eisenstaedt Award, and most recently by the North American Travel Journalists Association for excellence in photography. Susan will join the August 30, 2018 departure of Easter Island to Tahiti: Tales of the Pacific. See page 37 for the itinerary.

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

I

7


Clockwise from above: The observation lounge and library aboard the National Geographic Orion; an Upper Deck Category 5 cabin with a balcony aboard the National Geographic Explorer; the sauna aboard the National Geographic Explorer is the perfect place to end the day.

THE PERFEC T BA SE FOR EXPLORING Traveling aboard the National Geographic–Lindblad fleet, you’ll enjoy the daily thrill of discovery without sacrificing comfort. Each of our ships provides an inviting home base with quality amenities, personalized service, and a vibrant yet casual onboard experience. Public spaces include comfortable lounges where evening recaps are held; inviting dining rooms with open seating; and an open bridge, where guests are always welcome. After an invigorating day spent on shore, you may find yourself unwinding with a massage in the onboard spa or enjoying a lively conversation in the lounge with one of our experts. To ensure an intimate experience, ship capacity ranges from just 28 to 148 guests, depending on the vessel. Suites and private balconies are available on most ships, and all cabins face outside, offering your own view of passing icebergs or tropical isles. The newest additions to our fleet, the 100-guest National Geographic Quest and its twin ship, the National Geographic Venture, feature a variety of enhancements that make them among the top exploration ships out there. From customized expedition landing craft to tiered observation platforms on the bow, these state-of-the-art vessels are designed to bring travelers to spectacular regions while offering an enriching and comfortable experience on board. 8

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

I


Clockwise from above: Hotel manager Patrik Svärdmyr welcomes guests aboard the National Geographic Explorer; the National Geographic Islander dining room; a young guest visits the bridge of the National Geographic Sea Lion.

A N I M B L E A N D TA L E N T E D C R E W Our guest services staff are integral to the success of every expedition—and they’re accustomed to working around spontaneous excursions or wildlife sightings so that your onboard experience is always top-notch. A hotel manager and guest services team accompany each voyage to ensure your needs on board are met, no matter how big or small. Each ship’s head chef designs menus with an emphasis on sustainability that are inspired by the region we’re exploring—and incorporate fresh, local ingredients we pick up along the way. Whether you’re dining on Ecuadorian fare in the Galápagos or enjoying a traditional meal and entertainment in Angkor, dining experiences with our fleet offer another window into your destination.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

I

9


SPECIAL OFFERS To help you get out exploring, we’re providing a slew of special offers on many of our voyages. Below, take a look at all the ways you can save, from free airfare to complimentary bar tab and tips for our crew.

A L A S K A’ S I N S I D E P A S S A G E |

Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free round-trip airfare between Seattle and Alaska on select May 2018 departures. See page 13.

T R E A S U R E S O F T H E I N S I D E PA S SAG E: ALASKA AND BRITISH COLUMBIA |

Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free one-way air between Sitka and Seattle on select departures. See page 16.

A REMARKABLE JOURNEY TO ALASKA, BRITISH COLUMBIA , AND HAIDA GWAII |

Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free one-way airfare from Sitka to Seattle on select May 2018 departures. See page 17.

C O L U M B I A A N D S N A K E R I V E R S V OYA G E |

Book by December 31, 2017 and receive a $500 air credit on select 2018 departures. See page 19.

CO S TA R I C A A N D T H E PA N A M A C A N A L |

Book now and receive free international round-trip airfare between Miami and Costa Rica or Panama or a complimentary Panama City extension on all departures between December 2, 2017 and March 19, 2018. In addition, book the December 16, 2017 departure and we will waive the single-cabin premium in Categories 1 and 2. See page 23.

G A L Á PAG OS |

Book by December 31, 2017 to guarantee 2018 prices for 2019 departures, and receive free round-trip international airfare between Miami and the Galápagos on select 2018 departures. In addition, receive free airfare to Peru on select combinations of Galápagos with Peru: Land of the Inca and/or Upper Amazon. See pages 24–27.

UPPER AMAZON |

Book now and save 10% when you combine an Upper Amazon expedition with Galápagos and/or Peru: Land of the Inca. See pages 24–27 for itineraries.

E P I C P A TA G O N I A : FJ O R D S , P E A K S , AND FORESTS |

Book the October 6, 2018 departure and receive free international roundtrip airfare between Miami and Santiago or Buenos Aires. See page 29.

HOT SPRINGS AND ICEBERGS: ICELAND TO WEST GREENLAND |

Book now and receive complimentary round-trip charter airfare between Reykjavík and Kangerlussuaq on the September 5 and 9, 2018 departures. See page 39.

J O U R N E Y TO A N TA R C T I C A |

Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free international round-trip airfare between Miami and Buenos Aires on the November 26, 2018 departure. See page 45.

A N TA R C T I C A , S O U T H G EO R G I A , A N D T H E FALKLANDS |

Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free international round-trip airfare between Miami and Buenos Aires (or Santiago) on the November 5 and 6, 2018 departures. See page 47.

SO U T H G EO RG I A A N D T H E FA L K L A N DS |

Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free international round-trip airfare between Miami and Buenos Aires, as well as charter airfare, on all departures. See page 48.

WHALES AND WILDNESS: SPRING IN THE SEA OF CORTEZ |

Book any 2018 departure and receive a $500 air credit per person plus $1,000 off the expedition cost for each child traveler under the age of 18. See our website for the itinerary.

S VA L B A R D, I C E L A N D, A N D G R E E N L A N D’ S EAST COAST | Book now and receive free one-way charter airfare from Oslo to Longyearbyen. See our website for the itinerary.

A L L N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C E X P LO R E R , N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C O R I O N , S E A C LO U D, A N D LO R D O F T H E G L E N S V OYA G E S | Book now and we’ll cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew.

Offers are for new bookings only, may not be combined with other offers, and are subject to availability. Free economy airfare or air credit must be booked through Lindblad Expeditions. Complimentary bar tab excludes superpremium brands of alcohol.

S O U T H P A C I F I C V O YA G E S A B O A R D T H E N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C O R I O N |

Receive free international round-trip airfare between Los Angeles and Papeete, Nadi, or Santiago. Book two or more South Pacific voyages aboard National Geographic Orion and save 10%. See pages 33–37.

10

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

I


A polar bear poses on the ice.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

I

11


A L A S K A’ S I N S I D E PA S S AG E T H E N AT G E O DIFFERENCE • The National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture, and National Geographic Sea Lion are each equipped with a fleet of expedition landing craft and kayaks, allowing for in-depth exploration of icebergs, calving glaciers, and hidden coves. • O ur undersea specialist reveals Alaska’s seldom seen marine life, and the ship’s hydrophone transmits communication among whales. • H ear a Tlingit cultural interpreter share the oral lore of Alaska’s indigenous populations. • M eet members of the Alaska Whale Foundation to learn about the behaviors of the area whale population.

ITINER ARY

|

8

DAY 2

DAY S

I

TRACY ARM–FORDS TERROR WILDERNESS

Voyage into Tracy or Endicott Arm, both spectacular glacially carved fjords. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close, and take a cruise in an expedition landing craft for an unbeatable view of sculpted icebergs. Keep an eye out for harbor seals, porpoises, and arctic terns. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3

DAY 1

I

J UNEAU, ALASKA

Fly from Seattle to Juneau. Meet your naturalists and visit the newly constructed Alaska State Museum, home to an impressive collection of natural history and cultural artifacts. Tour downtown Juneau and settle into your cabin before dinner. Later, explore the port of Juneau on your own. National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture, or National Geographic Sea Lion for the entire voyage | Meals: D

I

PETERSBURG

Search for humpback whales as we head toward the small Alaska town of Petersburg on Mitkof Island, founded more than 100 years ago by Norwegian fishermen. Explore Southeast Alaska’s muskeg, an area with stunted trees and carnivorous plants. There is an opportunity for optional flight-seeing (weather permitting) or bike riding. Enjoy a crab feast for dinner this evening. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4

I

EXPLORING FREDERICK SOUND AND CHATHAM STRAIT

Watch for whales and hike forest trails or kayak in the tiny coves in this area. Meet members of the Alaska Whale Foundation—whose work is supported by a grant from the Lindblad Expeditions– National Geographic Fund—and discuss some of

A brown bear lumbers alongside a stream.

their recent discoveries about the region’s marine mammal population. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5

I

ICY STRAIT AND THE INIAN ISLANDS

Cruise among the Inian Islands, where an abundance of Steller sea lions reside. Hike nearby islands, kayak, and search for marine mammals in the rich waters off Icy Strait. Conditions permitting, we’ll lower the ship’s hydrophone to listen in on the whales’ communication. Meals: B/L/D

Above: A humpback whale demonstrates its power as it breaches the surface of Frederick Sound. 12

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ALASKA

I


I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: From May through August, expeditions depart every week. See the calendar on page 62 for specific departure dates. Certain departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order. All Alaska’s Inside Passage departures are family friendly. See the box below for details.

COST

Kayaking in Southeast Alaska

DAY 6

I

GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE

By special permit, explore Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, a not-to-be-missed Alaska gem. See glaciers that end abruptly at the water’s edge, and observe them calving, when tons of ice crash into the sea. Wilderness abounds—mountain goats and brown bears patrol the shore; and harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and puffins swim in these icy waters. A native Tlingit interpreter joins us to share the local lore. We will also be joined by a National Park Service ranger. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7

I

XPLORING ALASKA’S ISLANDS, E BAYS, AND FJORDS

Today, nature is our guide. We may explore an isolated beach to take a closer look at tide pools and beachcomb, hike stunning forest trails, or see bear tracks worn into the soil while walking

an isolated meadow. Sightings of bald eagles are very common. If conditions permit, we’ll go kayaking, always watching for marine and terrestrial life. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8

I

SITKA/SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

After breakfast, disembark in Sitka, Southeast Alaska’s only oceanfront town. Visit the onion-domed St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church. At the Alaska Raptor Center, get an up-close view of species normally seen at a distance. Drive to the airport for our afternoon flight to Seattle. Meals: B

I

Quest/Venture

Category 1

$6,590

$5,990

Category 2

$7,290

$6,890

Category 3

$7,790

$7,990

Category 4

$8,690

N/A

Category 5

$9,590

N/A

Sea Lion

See descriptions, photos, and deck plans for the newly built National Geographic Quest and National Geographic Venture on page 56, and the National Geographic Sea Lion on page 57. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin on the Quest or Venture, add $3,400 in Category 1 and $3,310 in Category 2. For a single cabin on the Sea Lion, add $3,000 in Category 1 and $3,450 in Category 2. Airfare to/from Seattle and between Seattle and Alaska is not included in the expedition cost. The group flights from Seattle to Juneau and return from Sitka, or vice versa, are $410 per person. Maximum ship capacity: National Geographic Quest: 100 National Geographic Venture: 100 National Geographic Sea Lion: 62

SPECIAL OFFER

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

Book by December 31, 2017 and receive complimentary round-trip airfare between Seattle and Alaska on the May 20 and 27, 2018 departures.

Add a seven-day extension to Denali National Park and Preserve, including a stay at the North Face Lodge. Visit our website or call for details.

EXPEDITION TEAM

N E W ! N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C G LO B A L E X P LO R E R S P R O G R A M

Our new family program, which recently launched in the Galápagos, will soon be available aboard our Alaska voyages! Beginning in June 2018, young travelers

on all our Alaska expeditions can participate in the National Geographic Global Explorers program. Developed with National Geographic Education, this hands-on, interactive program teaches kids how to explore like scientists and offers all kinds of fun activities—like learning about glaciers by making ice cream sundaes, or using glacial ice to paint watercolors. Our certified field educators are trained to optimize the myriad learning opportunities found in Alaska. Kids will hone their observation skills and learn to capture and share their experiences through photographs, videos, maps, drawings, and more. With a range of activities to choose from—in the field and on board— our flexible program encourages young travelers to explore their own interests, whether it’s marine biology or photography.

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ALASKA

A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin will join the September 29, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

Travelers get up close to icebergs in an expedition landing craft.

I

13


WILD ALASKA ESCAPE T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • Enter narrow channels and small ports that are inaccessible to large ships aboard the agile National Geographic Sea Bird. • Peer into the hidden world beneath the ship—alive with whales, sea lions, and colorful fish—through underwater footage interpreted by our undersea specialist. • G et close up to dramatic icebergs and glaciers on excursions by expedition landing craft in Tracy or Endicott Arm. • Learn from a team of naturalists during hikes and bike rides through ancient forests and kayaking excursions along rugged coastlines.

ITINER ARY

|

6

DAY S

DAY 3

I

LYNN CANAL

Venture to the northern limit of Alaska’s Inside Passage, the Lynn Canal—North America’s longest and deepest fjord. Spend the day hiking and kayaking in the shadows of snowcapped peaks. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4

I

HAINES

Known as the “adventure capital of Alaska,” Haines is situated on a scenic peninsula between the Chilkoot and Chilkat Rivers. Hike one of the many world-class trails in the area, or cycle along the edge of a glacial fjord. Or set off on a rafting excursion, keeping an eye out for bald eagles, bears, and moose as we float through the spectacular Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 1

I

DAY 5

SITKA, ALASKA

Arrive in Sitka, Alaska, and enjoy a walk in Sitka National Historical Park, where Tlingit and Haida totem poles tower over coastal trails. Visit the Alaska Raptor Center for an up-close look at Alaska’s birds of prey. National Geographic Sea Bird for the entire voyage | Meals: L/D

DAY 2

I

E XPLORING BARANOF OR CHICHAGOF ISLAND

Explore the breathtaking bays of Baranof or Chichagof Island, both of which are part of the ancient Tongass National Forest. Chichagof Island harbors one of the highest concentrations of bears in the world, and both islands are home to diverse wildlife. Kayak or paddleboard along rugged coastlines. In the afternoon, go hiking through the temperate rain forest, listening for the calls of bald eagles from the tops of towering spruce and hemlock trees. Meals: B/L/D

I

TRACY ARM–FORDS TERROR WILDERNESS

Wake up in Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, part of the Tracy Arm–Fords Terror Wilderness. Cruise through this glacially carved wilderness, then set out to explore by expedition landing craft. View the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close—and, if we’re lucky, witness the dramatic sight of huge slabs of ice breaking off and crashing into the water below. If conditions permit, paddle a kayak below the steep walls of the fjord. Celebrate your voyage with a farewell dinner on board. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6

I

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: May 19–24 May 24–29* May 29–June 3 June 3–8* June 28–July 3 July 3–8*

July 8–13 July 13–18* Aug. 7–12 Aug. 12–17* Aug. 17–22 Aug. 22–27*

*These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Juneau and ending in Sitka.

C O S T Category 1

$4,290

Category 2

$4,990

Category 3

$5,990

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Sea Bird on page 57. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $2,150 in Category 1 and $2,500 in Category 2. Airfare to Sitka and return from Juneau, or vice versa, is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: 62

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Krista Rossow will join the May 29 and June 3, 2018 departures. Read her bio and find more experts on our website.

JUNEAU/SEATTLE

Disembark in Juneau and transfer to the airport for your flight to Seattle. Meals: B

Humpback whale breaching Above: A hiker explores sun-streaked woodlands in Tongass National Forest. 14

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ALASKA

I


EPIC ALASK A: M I S T Y F I O R D S T O T H E LY N N C A N A L T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • A board the National Geographic Sea Bird, travel to the southern and northern extremes of Alaska’s coastal waterways, experiencing the breadth and beauty of its forests, fjords, and glaciers. • B y special permit, spend a day sailing the coastal waters of Tongass National Forest, and enjoy a full day to explore Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. • K ayak and cruise by expedition landing craft amid the breathtaking cliffs of Misty Fiords National Monument. • R aft through the remote Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve—home to one of the largest convocations of bald eagles in the world. ITINER ARY

|

11

DAY S

Discover the island’s unique muskeg ecosystem, and explore by bicycle or take aerial shots on an optional flight-seeing tour (weather permitting). Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 5

I

TRACY ARM–FORDS TERROR WILDERNESS

Navigate the iceberg-strewn waters of Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, where waterfalls cascade down granite cliffs. Capture images of the majestic South Sawyer or Dawes Glacier. If conditions permit, venture closer in expedition landing craft. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 6 AND 7

DAY 1

I

KETCHIKAN, ALASKA

Arrive in the coastal city of Ketchikan. View the priceless collection of 19th-century Tlingit totem poles at the Totem Heritage Center before embarking the National Geographic Sea Bird. National Geographic Sea Bird for the entire voyage | Meals: D

DAY 2

I

ISTY FIORDS NATIONAL M MONUMENT

Wake amid the glacially carved cliffs of Misty Fiords National Monument. Set out by expedition landing craft and kayak into this spectacular wilderness of lakes, waterfalls, and snowcapped peaks. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 3 AND 4 I BEHM CANAL/ CLARENCE STRAIT/PETERSBURG Hike beneath towering trees in the Tongass National Forest. Then cruise through scenic channels in search of humpback whales. Visit the quaint town of Petersburg on Mitkof Island.

I

HAINES/LYNN CANAL

Explore Haines on a hike, a bike ride along a glacial lake, or a rafting excursion through the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. At the ancient Tlingit village of Klukwan, photograph a traditional dance performance. Hike or kayak at the northern limit of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 8

I

GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE

In Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, get up close to blue icebergs and watch for ice calving off the glacier. Search for mountain goats, harbor seals, and puffins along the coast, and learn local lore from a native Tlingit interpreter and National Park Service ranger. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 9 AND 10 I ICY STRAIT/INIAN ISLANDS/BARANOF OR CHICHAGOF ISLAND Cruise amid the Inian islands, home to Steller sea lions; search for whales off Icy Strait; and venture to the shores of Baranof or Chichagof Island. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 11

I

SITKA/SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

Disembark to visit Saint Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral and the Alaska Raptor Center before transferring to the airport for your flight home. Meals: B

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: June 8–18* June 18–28

July 18–28* July 28–Aug. 7

*These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Sitka and ending in Ketchikan. These departures are designated photography expeditions. See the box below for details.

C OST Category 1

$8,990

Category 2

$10,490

Category 3

$11,890

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Sea Bird on page 57. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $4,500 in Category 1 and $5,250 in Category 2. Airfare to Ketchikan and return from Sitka, or vice versa, is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: 62

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Rich Reid will join the July 18 and 28, 2018 departures. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

SPECIAL PHOTOGRAPHY D E PA RT U R E S As indicated above, select departures of this expedition are designated as photography expeditions. You’ll learn tips and techniques on an in-depth and wide-ranging photo expedition through Alaska’s famed Inside Passage. Photograph the glacially carved cliffs of Misty Fiords; the icescapes of Glacier Bay; and the wildlife-rich waters of Icy Strait, home to whales, puffins, and Steller sea lions. Visit our website for details.

Above: Travelers frame an iceberg at close range from their expedition landing craft.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ALASKA

I

15


T R E A S U R E S O F T H E I N S I D E PA S S AG E: AL A SK A AND B RITISH COLUMBIA T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • The nimble National Geographic Quest and National Geographic Venture were designed to navigate narrow Alaska inlets and passageways that are inaccessible to larger ships. • B y special permission, spend a full day discovering the calving ice fields and wildlife-rich waters of spectacular Glacier Bay. • M eet with members of a Kwakwaka’wakw community—indigenous peoples of British Columbia—and enjoy a traditional performance. • E xplore the charming city of Victoria, British Columbia on a guided tour, and enjoy a private reception surrounded by incredible artwork at the Robert Bateman Centre. ITINER ARY

|

1 4 DAY S

community and watch a traditional First Nations performance. Continue north, disembarking to explore picturesque bays and inlets by kayak and on foot. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 8 AND 9

I

MISTY FIORDS, ALASKA/ PETERSBURG

Cruise beneath the cliffs of Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness. Set out by expedition landing craft or kayak to explore forested backwaters framed by snowcapped peaks. Search for humpback whales as we navigate to the fishing village of Petersburg on Mitkof Island. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 10

DAYS 1, 2, AND 3 I SEATTLE, WASHINGTON/SAN JUAN ISLANDS/ VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA Arrive in Seattle and embark our ship. Discover the San Juan Islands on hikes and kayaking excursions, and seek out orcas in the surrounding waters. Explore the charming city of Victoria, choosing from a variety of excursions. In the evening, enjoy a private reception at the Robert Bateman Centre. National Geographic Quest or National Geographic Venture for the entire voyage | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 4

I

GULF ISLANDS

Paddle a kayak along the Strait of Georgia, explore pristine islets, and spot harbor seals and seabirds. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 5, 6, AND 7 I ALERT BAY/ JOHNSTONE STRAIT/BRITISH COLUMBIA’S INSIDE PASSAGE In Alert Bay, visit the U’Mista Cultural Centre to meet with members of a Kwakwaka’wakw Above: A brown bear with its catch 16

I

I

TRACY ARM—FORDS TERROR WILDERNESS

Enter Tracy or Endicott Arm—spectacular fjords where waterfalls cascade from glacially carved walls. Board expedition landing craft to maneuver among icebergs and get close-up views of a glacier. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 11

I

GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE

By special permission, enjoy an entire day to explore Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. A Huna Tlingit cultural interpreter joins us on board to give a firsthand perspective on Alaska’s indigenous people. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 12 AND 13 I INIAN ISLANDS/ICY STRAIT/BARANOF OR CHICHAGOF ISLAND Hike and kayak among the Inian Islands, and search for whales in the Icy Strait. The next day, set out by foot or kayak to explore either Baranof or Chichagof Island—both part of the Tongass National Forest. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 14

I

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Aboard the National Geographic Quest Apr. 30–May 13 Sept. 2–15* Aboard the National Geographic Venture Sept. 1–14* *These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Sitka and ending in Seattle.

COST Category 1

$9,990

Category 2

$10,640

Category 3

$11,190

Category 4

$11,990

Category 5

$12,890

See descriptions, photos, and deck plans for the National Geographic Quest and National Geographic Venture on page 56. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $5,000 in Category 1 and $5,320 in Category 2. Airfare to Seattle and return from Sitka, or vice versa, is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: National Geographic Quest: 100 National Geographic Venture: 100

SPECIAL OFFER Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free one-way airfare between Sitka and Seattle on the April 30, September 1, and September 2, 2018 departures.

EXPEDITION TEAM

SITKA

Disembark in Sitka and visit St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Sitka National Historical Park, and the Alaska Raptor Center. Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Meals: B CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ALASKA

A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Phil Schermeister will join the September 1, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website. I


A R EM A R K A B LE JO U R N E Y TO A L A SK A , B RITISH COLUMB IA , AND HAIDA GWAII T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • B y special permission, explore the rich wildlife and culture of Haida Gwaii—an archipelago known as the Canadian Galápagos—aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird or National Geographic Sea Lion. • B oard a kayak or expedition landing craft and glide into fjords inhabited by orca and humpback whales. • S pend a full day discovering the enormous glaciers and incandescent icebergs of Glacier Bay National Park—accessible thanks to our special permit. • A National Geographic photographer joins select departures to give onboard talks and provide hands-on instruction during excursions. ITINER ARY

|

1 5 DAY S

Haida Heritage Site. Enjoy a traditional dance performance and feast, gaze up at the totem poles of SGang Gwaay, and meet artisans to learn about their cultural heritage and artwork. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 9, 10, AND 11

I

ALASKA’S INSIDE PASSAGE

Spend three days encountering spectacular scenery and wildlife along Alaska’s coast. Visit the charming fishing village of Petersburg; cruise and kayak past the glacially carved cliffs of Tracy or Endicott Arm spotting orca, humpback whales, and Steller sea lions; and go ashore for walks through the forest. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 12, 13, AND 14 I GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK/INIAN ISLANDS/ CHICHAGOF ISLAND/BARANOF ISLAND DAYS 1 AND 2 I SEATTLE, WASHINGTON AND GULF ISLANDS, BRITISH COLUMBIA Arrive in Seattle in the afternoon and embark our ship. The next day, search for orcas and cruise around the forested Gulf Islands. National Geographic Sea Bird or National

By special park permit, spend the day among the enormous glaciers and expansive wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park. A native Tlingit interpreter joins us to share the lore and legend of the area. Then enjoy two days kayaking and hiking among incredible wildlife around the Inian Islands, Baranof Island, and Chichagof Island.

Geographic Sea Lion for the entire voyage

Meals: B/L/D Daily

Meals: Day 1: D; Day 2: B/L/D

DAY 15

DAYS 3, 4, AND 5 I ALERT BAY AND JOHNSTONE STRAIT, CANADA/BRITISH COLUMBIA’S INSIDE PASSAGE In the village of Alert Bay, visit the U’Mista Cultural Centre to watch a traditional performance by the Kwakwaka’wakw people and learn about their culture. Then head north along the unspoiled coastline, looking for whales, dolphins, bears, and other wildlife. We’ll stop to explore the many bays and inlets by kayak and on foot. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6, 7, AND 8

I

HAIDA GWAII

Discover the wildlife and cultural sites of the Haida Gwaii archipelago, including the magnificent Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Above: Walking among the totems at SGang Gwaay

I

I

SITKA/SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

In Sitka, visit Saint Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral, and see rehabilitated eagles up close at the Alaska Raptor Center. Transfer to the airport for the flight to Seattle. Meals: B

SPECIAL PHOTOGRAPHY D E PA RT U R E S As indicated above, select departures of this expedition are designated as photography expeditions. You’ll learn tips and techniques as you photograph the extraordinary biodiversity and cultural riches of the Haida Gwaii archipelago and dramatic fjords and inland waterways of southeastern Alaska. Visit our website for details and for the National Geographic photographer joining each trip.

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ALASKA

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird May 5–19 Aug. 27–Sept. 10* Aboard the National Geographic Sea Lion May 6–20 Aug. 26–Sept. 9* *These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Sitka and ending in Seattle. These departures are designated photography expeditions. See the box below for details.

COST

Category 1

$10,900

Category 2

$12,450

Category 3

$14,530

See the descriptions, photos, and deck plans for the National Geographic Sea Bird and National Geographic Sea Lion on page 57. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $5,450 in Category 1 and $7,410 in Category 2. Airfare to/from Sitka or Seattle is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: National Geographic Sea Bird: 62 National Geographic Sea Lion: 62

SPECIAL OFFER Book by December 31, 2017 and receive complimentary one-way air between Sitka and Seattle on the May 5, 2018 departure.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Ken Garrett will join the August 27, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

I

17


EXPLORING B RITISH COLUM B IA AND THE SAN JUAN ISL ANDS T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • D iscover the coastal wilderness of British Columbia and the most remote of the San Juan Islands aboard the new National Geographic Venture. • E xamine the behavior of orcas at close range, using underwater exploration tools like a video camera and hydrophone. • G lide into the secluded fjords and inlets of Desolation Sound while exploring by kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or Zodiac. • S pend a day exploring the charming city of Victoria, and attend a private reception at acclaimed natural history artist Robert Bateman’s museum.

ITINER ARY

|

8

DAY S

DAY 4

I

VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Arrive in charming Victoria, situated on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Choose from several activities as we explore British Columbia’s capital city. Visit private gardens, bike along the waterfront, take a walking tour through historic neighborhoods, or peruse local art galleries. In the evening, enjoy a private reception at the Robert Bateman Centre while learning about the work of one of Canada’s best known artists. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5

I

EXPLORING THE GULF ISLANDS

Wake up this morning among the Gulf Islands, a forested archipelago in the Strait of Georgia. We’ll take our pick of perfect spots to kayak, hike, and search for wildlife. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 DAY 1

I

S EATTLE

Arrive in Seattle and embark our ship to begin your expedition. National Geographic Venture for the entire voyage | Meals: D

DAY 2

I

EXPLORING THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS

Spend the day exploring the more remote San Juan Islands, an emerald green archipelago off the coast of Washington that is ideal for kayaking, hiking, and exploring by Zodiac. Search for seals, sea lions, and sea otters in rocky inlets, and spot bald eagles while walking through dense forests. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3

I

Visit the picturesque town of Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. Explore fascinating collections at the Whale Museum, and stop in at small shops and galleries. Later, search for orcas on our way to British Columbia. Meals: B/L/D Above: Kayakers at sunset in the San Juan Islands

18

I

JOHNSTONE STRAIT/ALERT BAY

Sail through Johnstone Strait, one of the foremost viewing areas for orcas in the Northern Hemisphere. In the village of Alert Bay, visit the U’Mista Cultural Centre to watch a traditional performance by the Kwakwaka’wakw people, and learn about their ancient culture. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7

I

DESOLATION SOUND

DAT E S 2018: Sept. 15–22 Sept. 22–29* Sept. 29–Oct. 6

I

Oct. 6–13* Oct. 13–20 Oct. 20–27*

*These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Vancouver and ending in Seattle.

COST Category 1

$4,990

Category 2

$5,690

Category 3

$6,190

Category 4

$6,990

Category 5

$7,790

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Venture on page 56. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $2,500 in Category 1 and $2,850 in Category 2. Airfare to Seattle and return from Vancouver, or vice versa, is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: 100

EXPEDITION TEAM

Desolation Sound is a network of sheltered fjords and inlets on the north end of British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. Explore evergreen-shrouded shores by kayak or go hiking through forests and meadows. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner with the ship’s captain. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8

FRIDAY HARBOR

I

I N F O R M AT I O N

A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Phil Schermeister will join the September 15, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

VANCOUVER

Arrive in Vancouver, British Columbia’s largest city. Set against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains, this coastal metropolis is enveloped by natural beauty. Disembark our ship after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Meals: B Resident killer whales spy-hop in Johnstone Strait, British Columbia. CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/CANADA

I


C O L U M B I A A N D S N A K E R I V E R S V OYA G E T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • A board the new National Geographic Quest, retrace the path of Lewis and Clark’s trailblazing expedition through the Pacific Northwest. • C ruise through the towering canyons of the Columbia River Gorge, and explore the coastline by kayak or Zodiac. • B oard jet boats for a thrilling ride through the rapids of the Snake River and into Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest gorge. • Enjoy delicious meals made with fresh ingredients sourced from local providers located along the path of our journey.

ITINER ARY

|

7

DAY S

Bonneville Lock and Dam and Beacon Rock. Hike within sight of one of the gorge’s myriad waterfalls, which include Multnomah Falls, among the highest in the U.S. Continue on to Hood River, and end the day with a vineyard tour and wine tasting.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Apr. 12–18 Apr. 18–24* Sept. 17–23 Sept. 23–29*

Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4

I

THE DALLES

Learn about the region’s natural history at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center. Hike or bike among the cliffs and cascades along Highway 30, one of the original coast-to-coast U.S. highways. At the Maryhill Museum of Art, browse an eclectic collection of native baskets, Rodin sculptures, and chess sets. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5

DAY 1

I

PORTLAND, OREGON

After boarding our ship, cruise the lower reaches of the Willamette River through downtown Portland. National Geographic Quest for the entire voyage Meals: B/L/D

DAY 2

I

ASTORIA, OREGON

Sail to the mouth of the Columbia River. Walk through reconstructed Fort Clatsop, where Meriwether Lewis and William Clark hunkered down for the winter of 1805–1806, and visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum. Weather permitting, choose between a Zodiac or kayak excursion to Cape Disappointment (where the river meets the Pacific Ocean) or the Lewis and Clark Wildlife Refuge. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3

I

COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE AND HOOD RIVER

As we sail east on the Columbia River, deepening canyons signify the beginning of the 100-milelong Columbia River Gorge. Get oriented at

I

*These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Lewiston or Spokane and ending in Portland.

COST

PALOUSE RIVER

This tributary of the Snake River empties out from a narrow canyon, with calm waters ideal for exploring by Zodiac and kayak. Take in the iconic view of Palouse Falls. Later, sail up the Snake River, sampling local specialties along the way. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6

I

CLARKSTON, WASHINGTON

LEWISTON, IDAHO OR SPOKANE, WASHINGTON

Disembark in Clarkston and transfer to Lewiston, Idaho or Spokane, Washington for your flight home. Meals: B/L/D

$4,890

Category 2

$5,690

Category 3

$6,650

Category 4

$7,390

Category 5

$8,190

Maximum ship capacity: 100

SPECIAL OFFER

Meals: B/L/D

I

Category 1

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Quest on page 56. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $2,450 in Category 1 and $2,850 in Category 2. Airfare to Portland and return from Lewiston or Spokane, or vice versa, is not included in the expedition cost.

At the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, opt for a jet boat ride over rapids and past abandoned homesteads and gold mines to Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest gorge.

DAY 7

Sept. 29–Oct. 5 Oct. 5–11* Oct. 11–17 Oct. 17–23*

Book by December 31, 2017 and receive a $500 air credit on the April 12, April 18, October 11, and October 17, 2018 departures.

EXPEDITION TEAM

OPTIONAL EXTENSION Add a one-day Portland, Oregon city tour and/or Willamette Valley wine tour. Visit our website or call for details.

A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Jonathan Kingston will join the September 29, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

Above: The Vista House observatory sits high above Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/COLUMBIASNAKE

I

19


BAJA CALIFORNIA AND THE SEA OF C O R T E Z : A M O N G T H E G R E AT W H A L E S T H E N AT G E O DIFFERENCE • C ruise into the breeding grounds of Bahía Magdalena aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird or the National Geographic Sea Lion, and observe gray whales and their calves with our naturalists. • G o snorkeling amid sea lions, king angelfish, and brilliant blue damselfish. • G limpse the marine world through underwater video footage, and listen in on the haunting songs of whales. • H ike among sand dunes, a cactus forest, and deserted islands.

ITINER ARY

|

9

DAYS 3, 4, AND 5

DAY S

I

BAHÍA MAGDALENA

Bahía Magdalena—a vast wilderness of sand dunes, mangrove channels, and protected waters—is one of the main breeding and calving areas for California gray whales. Every year, gray whales migrate here from the Arctic waters of Alaska; it is one of the longest known migrations of mammals and one of nature’s greatest spectacles. In this vast water nursery, observe these enormous yet gentle animals from the ship and at water level from our expedition landing craft. Our extensive experience navigating these waters, as well as the ship’s cutting-edge exploration tools, maximize the likelihood of up-close encounters with gray whales and their calves.

DAYS 1 AND 2 I LA PAZ, MEXICO/SAN CARLOS Fly from Los Angeles to Los Cabos. Upon arrival, check in to the CostaBaja Resort and Spa. Enjoy the following morning on your own, and later, gather for lunch at a local restaurants in La Paz. Then transfer to the fishing community of San Carlos, where we’ll board the ship. National Geographic Sea Bird or National Geographic Sea Lion for the entire voyage | Meals: Day 1: D;

We’ll go ashore to explore the ever shifting sand dunes of Isla Magdalena during a cross-island walk to one of the most pristine beaches of the Pacific coast. On the mudflats, spot migrating birds at rest, including frigatebirds, pelicans, cormorants, terns, and great blue herons. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 6

I

GORDA BANKS AND LOS CABOS

This morning, we cruise past Friars Rocks at Land’s End and dock at San Jose del Cabo. Here, you can choose to explore the historic town

A traveler pauses for a photo between desert and sea.

or visit a nearby estuary for a unique birding opportunity. The afternoon is spent at the Gorda Banks seamount or La Fortuna, both gathering places for whales, dolphins, and other sea life. Humpbacks

Day 2: B/L/D

Above: A gray whale spy-hops just feet from passengers on a well-positioned expedition landing craft. 20

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/BAJACALIFORNIA

I


I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird Jan. 13–21* Feb. 16–24 Jan. 19–27 Feb. 24–Mar. 4* Jan. 27–Feb. 4* Mar. 2–10 Feb. 2–10 Mar. 10–18* Feb. 10–18* Aboard the National Geographic Sea Lion Jan. 26–Feb. 3 Feb. 17–25* Feb. 3–11* Feb. 23–Mar. 3 Feb. 9–17 *These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in La Paz and ending in San Carlos.

COST

National Geographic Sea Bird at sunset in the Sea of Cortez

are often active here at this time of year, and we may witness them tail-lobbing, flipper-slapping, and breaching. Our onboard marine biologists and naturalists will be available to interpret the behaviors of these majestic mammals. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7

I

ISLAS LOS ISLOTES AND ESPÍRITU SANTO

With their deeply indented bays and dramatic cliff faces, Los Islotes and Espíritu Santo are two of the most beautiful islands in the Sea of Cortez. In the waters offshore, we’ll have the opportunity this morning to snorkel and swim among curious sea lions. After lunch, examine the intriguing geologic layers of the islands from the water during a kayaking excursion, and go ashore to see compacted volcanic ash blanketed by solidified lava flows. Enjoy time to go beachcombing, or opt for a walk along rocky cliffs to spot brown pelicans, gulls,

wandering tattlers, and boobies. Cap off the day with a beach barbecue, and gather around a bonfire to share stories from the day’s adventures and take in a stunning display of stars. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8

I

EXPLORING THE SEA OF CORTEZ

Today we enjoy the luxury of having no specific plan. You may spend time on the lookout for whales, as well as bottlenose and common dolphins; or explore some of the many uninhabited islands in the Sea of Cortez, such as Isla San Francisco or Isla San Jose, known for its sweeping beaches and arroyos. Birdlife may be plentiful, and the nutrient-rich sea is home to an incredible variety of fish, including king angelfish, surgeonfish, butterfly fish, damselfish, and the beautiful parrotfish. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9

I

Category 1

$6,590

Category 2

$7,590

Category 3

$8,590

See descriptions, photos, and deck plans for the National Geographic Sea Bird and National Geographic Sea Lion on page 57. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $3,300 in Category 1 and $3,800 in Category 2. Airfare to/from Los Cabos is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: National Geographic Sea Bird: 62 National Geographic Sea Lion: 62

EXPEDITION TEAM

LA PAZ

Disembark after breakfast in La Paz and drive to the airport for your flight home. Meals: B

A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. Marine biologist and filmmaker Greg Marshall will join the January 13 and 19, 2018 departures. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

M O R E WAY S TO E X P LO R E BAJA CALIFORNIA Cruise the Sea of Cortez on our eight-day Whales and Wildness voyage in springtime, when many whale species and large pods of dolphins can be spotted. Join our 16-day photo expedition, Baja California: A Remarkable Journey, on which our daily movements are determined according to the best conditions for photography. Or take part in a four-day wellness program on our Destination Baja: Espíritu Santo trip. Visit our website for the itineraries or call for details.

Dolphins leap in the Sea of Cortez.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/BAJACALIFORNIA

I

21


REEFS AND RUINS: B E L I Z E T O T I K A L , G U AT E M A L A T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • S et out from the National Geographic Quest to kayak amid palm-fringed islands, and step ashore to view a colony of rare red-footed boobies. • S pot rainbow-colored fish, turtles, and rays while snorkeling or diving the corals of the Belize Barrier Reef. • Venture into the jungles of Guatemala with local experts to discover Tikal’s spectacular temples and pyramids. • E xplore the expansive Maya ruins of Yaxhá and the secluded site of Topoxte, located on a tiny island in a lake.

ITINER ARY

|

9

DAY S

DAY 4 I GLOVER REEF, BELIZE/SOUTH WATER CAYE MARINE RESERVE

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S

Enjoy snorkeling and optional diving opportunities at the protected marine reserves of Glover Reef and South Water Caye. Skim atop the crystalline waters by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Meals: B/L/D

2018: Feb. 8–16 Feb. 13–21 Feb. 18–26

DAY 5 I LIGHTHOUSE REEF AND HALF MOON CAYE NATURAL MONUMENT

COST

Sail north to Lighthouse Reef and go snorkeling, diving, or kayaking. Visit Half Moon Caye, a pristine nature reserve of littoral forest and beaches, and view a nesting population of red-footed boobies. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 DAY 1

I

B ELIZE CITY, BELIZE

Arrive in Belize City and embark our ship. National Geographic Quest through Day 5 Meals: D

DAY 2 I LAUGHING BIRD CAYE NATIONAL PARK OR SAPODILLA CAYES MARINE RESERVE, BELIZE Trace the southern edge of the Belize Barrier Reef, anchoring along the shores of Laughing Bird Caye National Park or Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve. Snorkel, kayak, or try stand-up paddleboarding. For certified scuba divers, dive opportunities abound (at an additional cost). Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3

I

QUIRIGUÁ AND RÍO DULCE, GUATEMALA

Anchor off the coast of Guatemala and travel inland to the ancient Maya city of Quiriguá. Have lunch on the shores of Lake Izabal, then take a local boat through the limestone canyon of Río Dulce. Meals: B/L/D

I

BELIZE CITY/FLORES, GUATEMALA/TIKAL

Disembark in Belize City and fly to Flores, Guatemala. Transfer to Tikal and spend the afternoon exploring this extraordinary site. Camino Real Tikal Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7

I

TIKAL, GUATEMALA

Explore Tikal’s architectural treasures. Encounter ancient Maya art and hieroglyphs that illuminate the history and spiritual significance of Tikal.

Category 1

$5,490

Category 2

$5,890

Category 3

$6,290

Category 4

$6,990

Category 5

$7,790

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Quest on page 56. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $2,750 in Category 1 and $2,950 in Category 2. Airfare to Belize City and return from Flores is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: 100

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic archaeologist Richard Hansen will join the February 28, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

Camino Real Tikal Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8

I

YAXHÁ AND TOPOXTE, GUATEMALA

Visit Yaxhá, a former Maya ceremonial center overlooking Yaxhá Lake. If you wish, climb a temple for a panoramic view. Next, take a local boat to visit the secluded site of Topoxte, located on an island in the lake. Venture into the ruins of this Maya city. Camino Real Tikal Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9

I

FLORES/GUATEMALA CITY

Feb. 23–Mar. 3 Feb. 28–Mar. 8 Mar. 10–18

E X TEN D YO U R TR I P Make the most of your proximity and extend your trip with a visit to Antigua, Guatemala. Or combine your Belize to Tikal expedition with our nine-day Costa Rica: Cloud Forest to the Caribbean expedition. Visit our website or call for details.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport. Meals: B

Above: The iconic Temple of the Great Jaguar presides over Tikal’s ceremonial center. 22

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/BELIZE

I


C O S TA R I C A A N D T H E PA N A M A C A N A L T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • A board the new National Geographic Quest, transit the Panama Canal over two days. • B y special permission, take a guided walk through the tropical forests of Barro Colorado Nature Monument, site of a National Geographic– supported wildlife tracking study. • S norkel the pristine reef surrounding Isla Coiba, one of Panama’s most remote national parks. • C ruise into Costa Rica’s Golfo Dulce to visit Casa Orquídeas, a flowering tropical paradise reachable only by boat.

ITINER ARY

|

8

DAY S

and orchids closed to the general public and reachable only by boat. Later, explore the placid bay.

I N F O R M AT I O N

Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAT E S

DAY 5

I

COIBA NATIONAL PARK, PANAMA

At Isla Coiba, observe a vibrant undersea world while swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6

I

GULF OF PANAMA ISLETS/ PANAMA CANAL TRANSIT

Today, explore the tiny islets of the Gulf of Panama. Set sail for the Panama Canal this afternoon. We’ll most likely begin our crossing at night, when the canal is dramatically lit. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7 DAY 1

I

SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA/ PUERTO CALDERA

Upon arrival in San José, transfer to Puerto Caldera and embark our ship. National Geographic Quest for the entire voyage | Meals: D

DAY 2

I

OSA PENINSULA

Anchor off the Osa Peninsula. In Corcovado National Park, swim in waterfall pools, take an optional horseback ride on the beach, or trek through the rain forest for a chance to see four species of monkeys. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 3 AND 4

I

GOLFO DULCE

Enter the mangrove-fringed Golfo Dulce. Venture ashore at Playa Blanca. Then head inland to visit remote indigenous communities and experience daily life on the Osa Peninsula. Hike in mature rain forest or kayak in the Golfo Dulce. The following day, visit the Casa Orquídeas, a tropical paradise of ornamental palms, bromeliads, heliconias,

I

GATÚN LAKE/PANAMA CANAL TRANSIT

Board an expedition landing craft to visit Barro Colorado Nature Monument in Gatún Lake by special arrangement. Scientists have worked at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute on Barro Colorado Island since 1923. It is also the site of a National Geographic–supported wildlife project. Join local guides for a walk through the forests. This evening, continue through the complex lock system of the canal. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8

I

COLÓN/PANAMA CITY

After breakfast, disembark in Colón and transfer to the airport in Panama City for your flight home. Meals: B

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Kike Calvo will join the March 19, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

Above: A sloth hangs loose in the jungles of Costa Rica.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/COSTARICA

2017: Dec. 2–9 Dec. 9–16*

Dec. 16–23 Dec. 23–30*

Dec. 30–Jan. 6, 2018

2018: Jan. 6–13* Mar. 19–26* Jan. 13–20 Dec. 8–15* Jan. 20–27* Dec. 15–22 Jan. 27–Feb. 3

Dec. 22–29* Dec. 29– Jan. 5, 2019

2019: Jan. 5–12* Jan. 12–19 Jan. 19–26*

Feb. 9–16 Feb. 16–23*

Jan. 26–Feb. 2 Feb. 2–9*

*These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Panama City and ending in San José.

COST Category 1

$5,990

Category 2

$6,590

Category 3

$6,990

Category 4

$7,790

Category 5

$8,690

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Quest on page 56. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $3,000 in Category 1 and $3,300 in Category 2. Airfare to San José and return from Panama City, or vice versa, is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: 100

SPECIAL OFFER Book now and receive free international round-trip airfare between Miami and Costa Rica or Panama, or a complimentary Panama City extension on all departures between December 2, 2017 and March 19, 2018. In addition, book the December 16, 2017 departure and we will waive the single-cabin premium in Categories 1 and 2.

I

23


G A L Á PAG OS T H E N AT G E O DIFFERENCE • The National Geographic Endeavour II and National Geographic Islander are each equipped with kayaks, paddleboards, and Zodiacs, allowing for up-close exploration. • J oin our naturalists on interpretive island walks to learn about Galápagos wildlife, and witness incredible interactions between animals in their natural habitat. • M eet endangered Galápagos giant tortoises at a National Geographic–supported captive-breeding program, and then observe these creatures in the wild. • Through our new National Geographic Global Explorers program, young travelers learn to explore like scientists and tell the stories of this legendary archipelago.

ITINER ARY

|

10

DAY S

I

lunch, we begin our exploration of the islands and their diverse wildlife. National Geographic Endeavour II or National Geographic Islander through Day 8 | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 3–8

I

EXPLORING THE GALÁPAGOS

In keeping with the nature of an expedition, our program is flexible, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this extraordinary wildlife sanctuary. All ship itineraries are regulated by the Galápagos National Park. Each of our voyages includes Islas San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz, and Baltra as well as some of the other islands listed below. Meals: B/L/D Daily

I

DAY 1

I

GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR

Arrive in Guayaquil and transfer to our hotel upon arrival. Hotel Hilton Colón

DAY 2

I

GUAYAQUIL/GALÁPAGOS

This morning, fly to the Galápagos Islands and board our comfortable expedition ship. After

I SLA BARTOLOMÉ

Walk to the top of Bartolomé’s volcanic cone for a stunning view of Pinnacle Rock and the surrounding beaches. You may also have the opportunity to swim with Galápagos penguins.

I

I SLA SANTIAGO

Follow a path along a series of tide pools and underwater caverns in search of Galápagos fur seals, marine iguanas, sea lions, shorebirds, and Sally Lightfoot crabs.

ISLA SANTA CRUZ

Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, a center of research and conservation. Then tour the neighboring captive-breeding program for endangered Galápagos giant tortoises, run by the Galápagos National Park and supported by the Lindblad Expeditions–National Geographic Fund. Travel into the highlands to observe and photograph these tortoises in the wild.

I

ISLA ISABELA

Explore the largest island in the group, home to marine iguanas, abundant sea turtles, the only species of flightless cormorant in the world, and the only penguin species that inhabits the Equator. Cruise by Zodiac and hike against a backdrop of giant shield volcanoes, and snorkel in the cool waters that often draw whales and dolphins to the area.

I

I SLA FLOREANA

Hike to a turtle-nesting beach and a lagoon that is home to flamingos and other bird species. At Champion Islet, snorkel among sea lions, and visit Post Office Bay, founded by whalers in the 18th century. If you see a letter addressed to someone who lives near you, the tradition is to deliver it by hand.

Above: Galápagos sea lions relax on the beach at Gardner Bay, Isla Española. 24

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/GALAPAGOS

I


I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018 and 2019: Expeditions depart Fridays on the National Geographic Endeavour II and Saturdays on the National Geographic Islander. See the calendar on page 62 for departure dates. All Galápagos departures are family friendly. Visit our website for photography and video expeditions. See the box below for details.

COST

Endeavour ll Islander 2018-2019* 2018-2019*

Underwater rays of sun light up a green sea turtle off Isla Isabela.

I

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

ISLA FERNANDINA

Discover the marine iguana haven of Punta Espinoza as we hike over lava flows. Galápagos hawks, sea lion nurseries, and rare flightless cormorants can be found while exploring this island. Snorkel among sea turtles, penguins, and the occasional marine iguana.

I

Extend your trip with a pre-voyage visit to colonial Quito followed by a stay at Mashpi Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World set in the Chocó rain forest, one of the world’s top five biodiversity hotspots.

G A L Á PAG O S A N D P E R U

ISLA ESPAÑOLA

See swallow-tailed gulls, Española mockingbirds, boobies, and waved albatrosses in this birder’s paradise. Walk among vivid green-and-red marine iguanas and unique lava lizards, and observe sea lions up close on a pristine white-sand beach.

DAY 9

I

GALÁPAGOS/GUAYAQUIL

After breakfast, disembark the ship and fly to Guayaquil. The evening is at your leisure. Hotel Hilton Colón | Meals: B

DAY 10

I

GUAYAQUIL

Depart Guayaquil for your flight home. Meals: B

Discover the natural wonders of the Galápagos and the cultural treasures of Peru—all on one extraordinary journey. This 16-day expedition combines the Galápagos voyage described on these pages with our Peru: Land of the Inca itinerary on page 26. See the calendar on page 62 for departure dates through February 2019 and visit our website for trip details and pricing.

YO U R T R I P M A K E S A D I F F E R E N C E The National Geographic Society funds research, conservation, and exploration, including vital studies on the endangered Galápagos penguin and the seasonal migration patterns of Galápagos tortoises.

I

SPECIAL PHOTOGRAPHY A N D V I D EO D E PA RT U R E S Select departures of this expedition are designated as photography and video expeditions. You’ll learn tips and techniques from renowned National Geographic experts as you capture up-close encounters with unique species such as flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, and domed giant tortoises. Visit our website for details and for the National Geographic photographer or expert joining each trip.

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/GALAPAGOS

Category 1

$6,960

$7,330

Category 2

$8,100

$8,290

Category 3

$8,990

$9,170

Category 4

$9,970

$9,750

Category 5

N/A

$11,860

Suite A

$11,950

N/A

Suite B

$12,890

N/A

Suite C

$13,660

N/A

Category 2 Solo

$10,130

N/A

Category 3 Solo

$11,240

N/A

*Please note: The pricing above is valid for 2019 departures booked by December 31, 2017. Visit our website for updated 2019 pricing after that date. See descriptions, photos, and deck plans for the National Geographic Endeavour II and National Geographic Islander on page 62. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. Third-person rates are available in designated cabins at one-half the double-occupancy rate. For holiday pricing aboard both ships and single-cabin pricing on the National Geographic Islander, please visit our website. Airfare to/from Guayaquil and airfare within Ecuador is not included in the expedition cost. Airfare between Guayaquil and the Galápagos is $520 per adult and $260 per child under age 12 (subject to change). Maximum ship capacity: National Geographic Islander: 48 National Geographic Endeavour II: 96

SPECIAL OFFERS Book any 2019 departure by December 31, 2017 and we’ll honor the 2018 expedition cost. Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free round-trip international airfare between Miami and the Galápagos on select 2018 departures. Visit our website or call for details.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. Filmmaker and National Geographic Emerging Explorer Sandesh Kadur will join the June 1 and 8, 2018 departures. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

I

25


PERU: LAND OF THE INCA T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • Watch day break over Machu Picchu and learn about National Geographic– funded excavations that helped uncover the site. • J oin archaeologist Peter Frost † for an insider’s perspective on his archaeological expeditions in Peru. • Attend a private demonstration of traditional Andean weaving techniques by a National Geographic grantee. • I n the Sacred Valley of the Inca, visit a private family museum filled with colonial artwork, and see a dance of paso horses.

ITINER ARY

|

ship. Later, meet National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa, who has helped preserve and revive traditional Inca textiles. Hotel Sol y Luna

8 DAY S

Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4

I

MACHU PICCHU

A morning train ride brings us to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a guided walk in the sanctuary, and then check in to our lodge overlooking the Andes— the only accommodation adjacent to Machu Picchu. This afternoon, return to the site to explore with a guide, head off on your own to see the Inca Bridge, or soak in the hotel’s hot tub. Belmond Sanctuary Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5

DAYS 1 AND 2 I LIMA, PERU/CUSCO/ SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCA Arrive in Lima and overnight at our airport hotel. The next day, fly to Cusco and drive to Moray, an intriguing Inca site believed to be an agricultural laboratory. After a traditional Peruvian lunch, stop at a local market and then check in to our hotel. Wyndham Costa del Sol Airport Hotel; Sol y Luna | Meals: Day 2: B/L/D

DAY 3

I

SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCA

Spend the day exploring the archaeological sites and Andean culture of the Sacred Valley with National Geographic grantee Peter Frost† (or one of his colleagues), who has been exploring the Andes for 35 years. Peter joins us for a talk at our hotel and accompanies our visit to Ollantaytambo. Visit a family-owned hacienda for lunch and witness a presentation of traditional horseman-

I

MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO

Awaken this morning at Machu Picchu, where our options include an early hike to the Sun Gate. Enjoy time to explore on your own. After lunch, board the train back to the Sacred Valley, continuing by coach to Cusco. Our home here is a converted 16th-century monastery. Belmond Monasterio Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6

I

CUSCO

Enjoy a full day of exploration in Cusco. See the 15th-century Sacsayhuaman fortress and the Coricancha, a 17th-century cathedral and convent built atop the ruins of the most important Inca temple. Belmond Monasterio Hotel | Meals: B/L

DAY 7

I

CUSCO/LIMA

After our flight back to Lima, visit the renowned Museo Larco. Gather for a farewell lunch at Casa Aliaga, a lovely colonial home. Belmond Miraflores Park Hotel | Meals: B/L

DAY 8

I

LIMA

Transfer to the Lima airport for the return flight home. Meals: B

Above: Perched on a secluded mountaintop in the Peruvian Andes, Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most celebrated archaeological sites. 26

I

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018 and 2019: Expeditions depart every week on either Saturday or Sunday. See the calendar on page 62 for specific departure dates.

C O S T $5,690* *Please note: The pricing above is valid for 2019 departures booked by December 31, 2017. Visit our website for updated 2019 pricing after that date. Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,380. On the December 22 and 30, 2018 departures, there is an additional holiday surcharge of $730 per person. Airfare to/from Lima and within Peru are not included in the expedition cost. The round-trip group flight between Lima and Cusco is $435 per person (subject to change).

SPECIAL OFFER Book any 2019 departure by December 31, 2017 and we’ll honor the 2018 expedition cost. Book now and receive free round-trip international airfare between Miami and Cusco on select departures when you combine this Peru expedition with our Galápagos voyage (see pages 24–25). Visit our website or call for details.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts will accompany this trip. National Geographic historian Peter Frost† will join Day 3 on most departures. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

W H AT TO E X P E C T We will be traveling at high elevations while in Cusco and at Machu Picchu. Cusco is at an altitude of 11,200 feet, and Machu Picchu is at 8,000 feet. Participants should be physically fit. This expedition is not suitable for anyone who suffers from a respiratory disorder, a circulatory ailment, or a disability that limits mobility.

† On departures that coincide with Peter’s assignments, one of his colleagues will join us.

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/PERU

I


U P P ER A M A ZO N T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • E xplore the amazing biodiversity of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve with our team of naturalists, and encounter rare pink dolphins, sloths, howler monkeys, giant lily pads, and an astounding variety of birdlife. • Learn from a National Geographic–Lindblad certified photo instructor, who travels with us aboard the elegant Delfin II riverboat. • G lide into the backwaters by kayak or skiff for an up-close look at the intricacies of the Amazonian ecosystem. • M eet the ribereños (indigenous people) who live along the river’s edge, and get a glimpse into their way of life.

ITINER ARY

|

10

DAY S

monkeys, including noisy howlers, shaggy-tailed monk saki monkeys, and various species of saddleback tamarins. Watch for an astounding variety of birds. In the waterways, look for massive paiche fish, rare pink dolphins, and piranhas. Enjoy an opportunity to swim in a lake in the reserve’s interior, and go on a bird-watching hike. Slip through the forest in a skiff as night falls, using a spotlight to find caimans, fishing bats, and other creatures of the night. Pay a visit to communities on the reserve’s edge and get to know the ribereños, “those who live on the riverbanks,” and their age-old traditions. Learn how they make jewelry and other local handicrafts, and find out how local subsistence farmers cultivate wild plants and trees to earn income. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 1

I

DAY 9

LIMA, PERU

Arrive in Lima in the late evening and transfer to our hotel. Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport Hotel

DAY 2

I

LIMA/IQUITOS/NAUTA

This morning fly from Lima to Iquitos and continue overland to Nauta, where the Delfin II awaits. Settle into your cabin, and gather for a welcome dinner. Delfin II through Day 8 | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 3–8

I

PACAYA-SAMIRIA NATIONAL RESERVE

Spend this week exploring the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, a pristine swath of jungle stretching more than five million acres and harboring some of the Amazon’s most fascinating flora and fauna. Two powerful rivers, the Marañón and the Ucayali, converge here at the headwaters of the mighty Amazon. Set out into this wilderness on daily excursions by skiff, kayak, and, when the water level permits, hikes on dry land. Spot sloths and

I

NAUTA /IQUITOS/LIMA

After breakfast, disembark in Nauta, and return to Iquitos overland for a flight to Lima. Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport Hotel

Meals: B/L

DAY 10

I

LIMA

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Meals: B

E X TEN D YO U R TR I P Combine this trip with a voyage to the Galápagos or Peru: Land of the Inca expedition-or join all three-and enjoy a 10% savings. Visit our website or call for details.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and local naturalists, will accompany this trip. Eliana Elias, co-founder and executive director of Minga Perú, an organization supported by the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund, will join the March 10 and August 25, 2018 departures.

Above: A scarlet macaw perches amid foliage.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/AMAZON

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Feb. 3–12 Feb. 10–19 Mar. 10–19 Mar. 17–26 Mar. 24–Apr. 2 Mar. 31–Apr. 9

May 26–June 4 June 30–July 9 July 7–16 Aug. 18–27 Aug. 25–Sept. 3 Oct. 13–22

Oct. 27–Nov. 5 Nov. 3–12 Dec. 8–17 Dec. 15–25 Dec. 29– Jan. 7, 2019

2019: Jan. 5–14 Jan. 12–21 Jan. 19–28 Jan. 26–Feb. 4 Feb. 2–11 Feb. 16–25 Feb. 23–Mar. 4 Mar. 2–11 Mar. 9–18

Mar. 16–25 Apr. 27–May 6 May 4–13 May 11–21 May 18–27 June 8–17 June 15–24 June 22–July 1 Aug. 10–19

Aug. 17–26 Aug. 24–Sept. 2 Oct. 26–Nov. 4 Nov. 2–11 Nov. 9–18 Nov. 30–Dec. 9 Dec. 7–16 Dec. 14–23

COST

2018

Suite

$6,990

$7,190

2019

Master Suite

$8,260

$8,590

See the Delfin II description, photo, and deck plan on page 59. Prices are per person, double occupancy. Due to limited availability, single cabins are offered on a request basis only; please call for availability and rates. On the December 29, 2018 departure, there is an additional holiday surcharge of $690 per person for a Suite and $430 per person for a Master Suite. Airfare to/from Lima and within Peru is not included in the expedition cost. The round-trip charter flights between Lima and Iquitos are $440 per person (subject to change). Maximum ship capacity: 28

SPECIAL OFFER Save 10% on each expedition when you combine this trip with a voyage to Galápagos and/or Peru: Land of the Inca. Book now and receive free round-trip airfare from Miami to Iquitos when you combine with select departures to Galápagos. Visit our website or call for details.

I

27


B E S T O F PATA G O N I A : TO R R E S D EL PA I N E TO C A P E H O R N T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • S ee Patagonia by land and sea, exploring the staggering peaks of Torres del Paine National Park and setting sail into Chile’s coastal fjords aboard the National Geographic Orion. • S ettle into Tierra Patagonia, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World perched on stunning Lake Sarmiento (October departure). • A National Geographic photographer joins each departure, offering tips and techniques for capturing the majesty of the region. • Enjoy special access to remote wildlife reserves, including the Karukinka reserve in Tierra del Fuego and Argentina’s Isla de los Estados (Staten Island).

ITINER ARY

|

15

DAY S

DAY 7

I

PUERTO NATALES

After a final morning in Torres del Paine, depart for Puerto Natales, where we embark our ship. National Geographic Orion for the remainder of the trip | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8

I

CHILEAN FJORDS

Today we begin our exploration of the Chilean coastline. Spot elephant seals and other wildlife as you glide through fjords and inlets. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 9, 10, AND 11 I TIERRA DEL FUEGO: KARUKINKA/BEAGLE CHANNEL/ CAPE HORN By special permission, visit the private reserve of Karukinka Natural Park, which harbors rich wildlife. Then sail the Beagle Channel exploring fjords and glaciers. The next day, visit Cape Horn.

DAYS 1 AND 2

I

U.S./SANTIAGO, CHILE

Depart on an overnight flight to Santiago and check in to our hotel. Set out on a tour of the city. Hotel Santiago by Mandarin | Meals: Day 2: L

DAY 3

I

PUERTO NATALES

Fly to Puerto Natales, one of southern Patagonia’s gateways, and settle into our hotel before an afternoon tour of the town. Hotel Singular | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 4, 5, AND 6

I

TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK

Spend three days discovering Torres del Paine National Park. Tailor your exploration of this spectacular park to your interests, choosing from a variety of excursions that include hiking and horseback riding. Explora Lodge (March) or Tierra Patagonia (October) | Meals: B/L/D Daily

Above: Torres del Paine National Park

28

I

Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 12 AND 13

I

ISLA DE LOS ESTADOS, ARGENTINA

At extraordinary Isla de los Estados (Staten Island), spot fur seals and colonies of rockhopper and Magellanic penguins, and see the San Juan de Salvamento “lighthouse at the end of the world.” Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 14 AND 15

I

USHUAIA/SANTIAGO, CHILE/U.S.

Disembark in Ushuaia, and fly to Santiago by private charter to connect with your overnight flight home. Meals: Day 14: B/L

OPTIONAL EXTENSION Add a four-day post-voyage extension to Easter Island on the October 25, 2018 departure. Visit our website or call for details.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Mar. 7–21* Oct. 25–Nov. 8 If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2. *This departure follows the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Ushuaia and ending in Puerto Natales.

COST Category 1

$13,940

Category 2

$14,600

Category 3

$15,610

Category 4

$17,540

Category 5

$19,640

Category 6

$21,710

Category 1 Solo

$20,120

Category 3 Solo

$22,620

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Orion on page 53. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. Airfare to/from Santiago and within South America is not included in the expedition cost. The group flights between Santiago/Puerto Natales and Ushuaia/Santiago are $855 per person (subject to change). Maximum ship capacity: 102

SPECIAL OFFER Book any departure and we will cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. Filmmaker and National Geographic photographer Krista Rossow will join the March 7, 2018 departure. Read her bio and find more experts on our website.

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/PATAGONIA

I


E P I C PATAG O N I A : FJ O R D S , P E A K S , A N D F O R E S T S T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • Trace the Chilean coast from the stunning wetlands of Chiloé National Park all the way to Cape Horn aboard the National Geographic Explorer, and head overland to magnificent Torres del Paine National Park. • B e one of the few people to explore Isla de los Estados (Staten Island), located at the extreme end of South America. We have been granted special permission to visit the island. • H one your photography skills alongside a National Geographic photographer. • Venture through pristine wildlife reserves not readily accessible to the public, including the privately owned Karukinka reserve in Tierra del Fuego. ITINER ARY

|

20

DAY S

Coyhaique National Reserve, nestled below the Andes. Later, continue to Coyhaique and stroll through the central square. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 7–10

I

THE INLAND PASSAGE AND THE CHILEAN FJORDS

Set out to explore in Zodiacs, kayaks, and on foot. A highlight is Pio XI Glacier, the longest glacier in the Southern Hemisphere outside Antarctica. As the ship navigates the Kirke Narrows, look for condors and other wildlife. Meals: B/L/D Daily

Arrive in Santiago, Chile after an overnight flight and check in to the Hotel Santiago by Mandarin. Take a guided tour of the city. The next day, fly to Puerto Montt and embark our ship. National Geographic Explorer for the entire voyage | Meals: Day 2: D; Day 3: B/L/D

DAYS 4 AND 5 I ISLA GRANDE DE CHILOÉ/PUMALÍN NATIONAL PARK On Chiloé Island, see fishermen’s houses perched on stilts. Explore the forests and wetlands of Chiloé National Park. The next day, head into Pumalín National Park. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 6

I

AYSÉN/COYHAIQUE/ANDES MOUNTAINS

Explore the privately owned Parque Aiken del Sur, and enjoy a Patagonian-style barbecue. Alternatively, take a full-day excursion to the

Above: A guanaco looks out from an Andean bluff.

I

DAT E S 2018: Oct. 6–25 If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST

Category 1

$18,990

Category 2

$20,420

Category 3

$21,250

Category 4

$22,520

From Puerto Natales, drive to Torres del Paine National Park. Discover one of the most spectacular and wildlife-rich areas in the Americas.

Category 5

$26,630

Category 6

$30,990

Category 7

$35,500

Meals: B/L/D

Category A Solo

$25,520

DAYS 12 AND 13 I EXPLORING TIERRA DEL FUEGO: KARUKINKA NATURAL PARK

Category B Solo

$26,560

DAY 11

DAYS 1, 2, AND 3 I U.S./SANTIAGO, CHILE/PUERTO MONTT

I N F O R M AT I O N

I

PUERTO NATALES/TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK

Continue to the newest and largest protected area on Tierra del Fuego: Karukinka. We have obtained permission to visit the private reserve, which harbors abundant wildlife. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 14 AND 15 I CHILEAN FJORDS/ BEAGLE CHANNEL/CAPE HORN Continue exploring the Chilean fjords. Sail the Beagle Channel, and hike and kayak. The next day, we round Cape Horn. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 16, 17, AND 18 I ISLA DE LOS ESTADOS (STATEN ISLAND), ARGENTINA We have received special permission to visit Isla de los Estados. See the 1884 San Juan de Salvamento “lighthouse at the end of the world,” which inspired Jules Verne’s novel of the same name. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 19 AND 20

I

USHUAIA/BUENOS AIRES/U.S.

See the National Geographic Explorer description, photos, and deck plan on page 52. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. Airfare to Santiago and return from Buenos Aires, and within South America, is not included in the expedition cost. The group flights between Santiago/ Puerto Montt and Ushuaia/Buenos Aires are $805 per person (subject to change). Maximum ship capacity: 148

SPECIAL OFFERS Book by December 31, 2017 and receive complimentary round-trip economy airfare from Miami to South America. We will also cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Kike Calvo will join this departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

Disembark in Ushuaia. Take a charter flight to Buenos Aires and connect to your overnight flight home. Meals: Day 19: B/L

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/PATAGONIA

I

29


U N D E R S A I L : G R E E C E T O T H E D A L M AT I A N C O A S T T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • S ail aboard the legendary Sea Cloud, an elegant four-masted tall ship built by E. F. Hutton for his wife, Marjorie Merriweather Post. • Venture to four fascinating countries with our team of experts, who offer insight into history and culture. • E xplore numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Olympia, Greece and the seldom visited archaeological ruins of Butrint—an ancient Albanian city. • Enjoy a private performance of traditional Croatian klapa music at a monastery courtyard in enchanting Dubrovnik.

ITINER ARY

|

12

DAY S

DAY 6

I

SARANDË AND BUTRINT, ALBANIA

Cut off from the world for 50 years by its Stalinist dictator, Albania is a little-known place of gorgeous mountain landscapes and stunning coasts. Dock in Sarandë and discover the ancient city of Butrint, another World Heritage site. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7

I

KRUJË

Drop anchor in Durrës and drive to the medieval citadel of Krujë. Wander through the market to the Ethnographic Museum. Also visit the museum devoted to Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg. Return to Durrës and enjoy an Albanian folkloric show. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 DAYS 1 AND 2

I

U.S./ATHENS, GREECE/ PIRAEUS

Depart on an overnight flight to Athens, arriving the next morning. Visit the New Acropolis Museum, then transfer to Piraeus and set sail aboard our elegant tall ship. Sea Cloud for the entire voyage Meals: Day 2: L/D

DAYS 3 AND 4

I

AT SEA/OLYMPIA

Round the southern coast of the Peloponnesus peninsula, enjoying a full day of sailing. Dock in Katákolo and travel to ancient Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games. Visit the legendary ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage site, and see the Olympic Stadium and the Archaeological Museum. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 5

I

ITHÁKI

Discover gemlike villages nestled along the coast of Itháki. View the sites that some claim link the island to Homer’s Ithaca, and swim in a secluded bay. Meals: B/L/D Above: Medieval battlements encircle the terra-cotta roofs of Dubrovnik. 30

I

I

PERAST AND KOTOR, MONTENEGRO

Sail into Montenegro via the magnificent Gulf of Kotor. Stop at the historic town of Perast before taking a local boat to the islet of Gospa od Škrpjela, or Our Lady of the Rocks. Steeped in lore, the tiny islet was created by fishermen dropping rocks from their rowboats. Explore medieval Kotor this afternoon. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9

I

DUBROVNIK, CROATIA

Known as the “pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik is regarded as one of the best preserved medieval towns in the world. Spend the day exploring the marvelous Old City, and enjoy a performance of traditional Croatian klapa music. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 10 AND 11

I

I

DAT E S 2018: May 28–June 8 June 7–18* Aug. 21–Sept. 1* Sept. 14–25

DUBROVNIK/U.S.

Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Meals: B

2019: May 31–June 11 Aug. 20–31 Aug. 30–Sept. 10*

*These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Dubrovnik and ending in Athens. If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST

2018

2019

Category 1

$12,690

Category 2

$14,350

$14,640

Category 3

$17,350

$17,700

Category 4

$18,260

$18,630

Original Deluxe B

$19,870

$20,270

Original Deluxe A

$21,500

$21,930

$12,940

Owner’s Suite

$24,230

$24,270

See the Sea Cloud description, photos, and deck plan on page 58. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $6,300 in Category 1 in 2018, and $6,470 in 2019. Airfare to Athens and return from Dubrovnik, or vice versa, is not included in the expedition cost.

SPECIAL OFFER Travel on the Sea Cloud and we will cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew.

EXPEDITION TEAM

KORČULA/HVAR

Anchor at the island port of Korčula, one of the most beautiful towns in the Balkans, and see the house believed to be Marco Polo’s birthplace. Explore Hvar the next day, taking a tour inside the delightful walled city. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 12

I N F O R M AT I O N

A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic expert Grace Fielder will join the June 7, 2018 departure. Read her bio and find more experts on our website. .

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

Add a two-day extension in Athens and/or a three-day extension in Mostar, Trogir, and Split. Visit our website or call for details.

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/GREECE

I


SAILING THE GREEK ISLES T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • Take to the seas aboard the Sea Cloud, a historic four-masted tall ship designed by its original owner, Marjorie Merriweather Post. • D elve into Greek culture and history with our team of experts during onboard presentations and guided tours. • A nchor at some of the lesser known Cyclades, visiting pilgrimage sites, typical villages, and archaeological sites. • S pend a day in beautiful Santoríni, and see the extraordinary site of Akrotiri, destroyed in a volcanic eruption in 1627 B.C.

ITINER ARY

|

9

DAY S

DAY 5

I

DELOS

Delos is the mythological birthplace of the ancient Greek twin gods Artemis and Apollo. Discover the island’s ruins, including the Terrace of the Lions and the Temple of Apollo. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6

I

AMORGÓS

Step ashore on the isle of Amorgós. Visit the main village, perched in the mountains, and see its beautiful domed churches and windmills. Explore the dazzling white monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, clinging to a cliff face above the sea. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7

DAYS 1 AND 2

I

U.S./ATHENS, GREECE/ PIRAEUS

Arrive in Athens after an overnight flight and visit the New Acropolis Museum. Travel to Piraeus and settle into your cabin. Sea Cloud for the entire voyage | Meals: Day 2: L/D

DAY 3

I

AT SEA

Enjoy a glorious day of sailing among the idyllic isles of the Cyclades. Relax on deck and attend presentations by our experts on the area’s history and ecology. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4

I

I

SANTORINI

Incomparable Santorini is an island archipelago formed from a single volcanic cone that erupted in the second millennium B.C., burying the island’s Minoan culture in ash. Sail into the caldera, and drive to the beautiful town of Oia, which affords unrivaled views of the volcanic island. After lunch, visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8

I

SÍFNOS/AT SEA

Drop anchor at Sífnos, a rugged island featuring a harbor lined with waterfront tavernas and a beautiful upper chora (village). This afternoon, find a spot on deck to watch the crew hoist the Sea Cloud’s sails by hand as we return to Piraeus. Meals: B/L/D

TÍNOS

Dotted with green marble quarries and villages steeped in Venetian history, Tínos has long been a haven for artists. Explore the picturesque village of Pyrgos, and visit the church of Panagia Evangelistria, where thousands of pilgrims come every year to pray at one of Greece’s holiest shrines. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9

I

PIRAEUS/ATHENS/U.S.

Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for your return flight. Meals: B

Above: The famed Santorini sunset casts a peachy glow on the whitewashed town of Oia.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/GREECE

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: June 17–25 Aug. 31–Sept. 8 Sept. 7–15

2019: Sept. 9–17 Sept. 16–24

If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST

2018

2019

Category 1

$9,490

$9,680

Category 2

$10,680

$10,890

Category 3

$12,750

$13,000

Category 4

$13,500

$13,770

Original Deluxe B

$14,990

$15,290

Original Deluxe A

$15,950

$16,270

Owner’s Suite

$18,250

$18,620

See the Sea Cloud description, photos, and deck plan on page 58. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $4,750 in Category 1 in 2018, and $4,840 in 2019. International airfare to/from Athens is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: 58

SPECIAL OFFER Travel on the Sea Cloud and we will cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic expert Chad Cohen will join the August 31, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website. .

OPTIONAL EXTENSION Add a two-day extension in Athens and/or a three-day extension in Crete. Visit our website or call for details.

I

31


SCOTL A N D'S H IG H L A N DS A N D ISL A N DS T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • The versatile Lord of the Glens can navigate a variety of waterways, from narrow locks to open waters. • S ee Scotland’s stunning landscapes close up while kayaking across the famous Loch Ness and hiking on the Isle of Skye. • O ur team of experts offer in-depth perspectives on Scottish history and culture during visits to ancient castles and churches. • O n select departures, attend the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo —an annual international celebration of military pageantry—on an optional extension to Edinburgh.

ITINER ARY

|

9

DAY S

DAY 5

I

LOCH LINNHE/OBAN

Today, our ship descends Neptune’s Staircase—a set of eight interconnected locks—en route to the town of Oban. Explore Oban on foot, visiting a whiskey distillery and McCaig’s Tower, a hilltop monument inspired by the Roman Colosseum. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6

I

ISLE OF MULL/IONA/TOBERMORY

Continue to the Isle of Mull in the Inner Hebrides. Venture into Duart Castle, and take a ferry to the island of Iona. Visit the medieval abbey ruins and the rebuilt abbey church, and stroll through St. Oran’s Chapel and the royal graveyard where generations of Scottish kings are buried. Continue to charming Tobermory. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 1 AND 2

I

U.S./INVERNESS, SCOTLAND

After an overnight flight, arrive in Inverness and board our ship. Lord of the Glens for the entire voyage | Meals: Day 2: D

DAY 3

I

CULLODEN/CLAVA CAIRNS/ LOCH NESS

Visit Culloden, the infamous battlefield where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite forces were defeated in 1746. See the prehistoric standing stones of Clava Cairns. Later, set sail on the Caledonian Canal. Enter Loch Ness and learn about its legendary monster. Moor at Fort Augustus for a kayaking or hiking excursion. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4

I

LAGGAN LOCKS/BANAVIE/ GLENFINNAN

Ascend a flight of locks that runs through Fort Augustus. Glide down the tree-lined canal known as Laggan Avenue, or hike or bike along the towpath. Follow the canal to the town of Banavie, at the base of Great Britain’s highest mountain. Drive to Glenfinnan and enjoy an afternoon walk. Return to the ship, where we’ll welcome local musicians for an evening of music. Meals: B/L/D Above: Eilean Donan Castle 32

I

DAY 7

I

EIGG OR ISLE OF RUM/INVERIE

Sail to the isle of Eigg and get a sense of daily life on this tiny island community. Look for marine mammals, including Atlantic seals, minke whales, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds. Alternatively, visit the Isle of Rum, home of the lavish Kinloch Castle. Cruise on to the town of Inverie, and enjoy a drink at the most remote pub in the British Isles. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8

I

ISLE OF SKYE

Continue to the Isle of Skye. At the Museum of the Isles, trace the legacy of the 1,300-year-old Clan Donald. Take a guided walk in the Cuillin Hills, or explore Eilean Donan Castle. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9

I

KYLE OF LOCHALSH/ INVERNESS/U.S.

Disembark in Kyle of Lochalsh and transfer to the Inverness airport for your return flight home. Meals: B

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: June 10–18 June 17–25* July 22–30 July 29–Aug. 6*

Aug. 5–13 Aug. 12–20* Aug. 19–27 Aug. 26–Sept. 3*

2019: June 1–9* June 8–16 July 20–28 July 27–Aug. 4*

Aug. 3–11 Aug. 10–18* Aug. 17–25 Aug. 24–Sept. 1*

If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2. *These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Kyle of Lochalsh and ending in Inverness.

C OST

2018

Category 1

$7,880

$7,990

2019

Category 2

$9,000

$9,100

See the Lord of the Glens description, photo, and deck plan on page 60. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin in 2018, add $3,940 in Category 1 and $4,480 in Category 2. For a single cabin in 2019, add $4,000 in Category 1 and $4,550 in Category 2. International airfare to/from Inverness is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: 48

SPECIAL OFFER Travel on the Lord of the Glens and we will cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew.

EXPEDITION TEAM

OPTIONAL EXTENSION Add a two-day extension in Edinburgh. The extensions on the July 29 and all August 2018 departures include the Military Tattoo, while the other extensions include a special evening celebrating Scottish music and culture. Visit our website or call for details. CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SCOTLAND

A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Jim Richardson will join the June 17, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website. I


F R E N C H P O LY N E S I A : B E YO N D T H E P OS TC A R D T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • The nimble National Geographic Orion can traverse the narrow Tiputa Pass into the lagoon at Rangiroa, one of the largest atolls in the world. • G o ashore at the seldom visited isle of Huahine, former residence of Tahitian royalty and home to the highest density of ancient marae (meeting grounds) in French Polynesia. • S kim across serene turquoise lagoons in a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard. • Take in spectacular views over Bora-Bora from one of its emerald crags, and then snorkel or dive from a private motu—an islet on the outer reef.

ITINER ARY

|

10

DAY S

DAY 5

I

HUAHINE

Former home to Tahitian royalty, Huahine maintains the highest density of ancient marae in French Polynesia. Visit these sites with archaeologists, and then bike into the lush interior of the island. Explore the verdant shoreline by kayak, paddleboard, or Zodiac, and finish the day with a swim in the island’s crystal-clear lagoon. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 6 AND 7

I

TUAMOTU ARCHIPELAGO

Spend two days exploring some of the nearly 80 islands and atolls in the so-called “dangerous archipelago.” In the waters surrounding Fakarava, snorkel protected reefs, or ride the current into the lagoon on a drift dive. Navigate the limestone grottoes of Makatea, or search for endemic fruit doves and myriad seabirds. Then snorkel and dive among colorful fish on the nearby reef. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 1 AND 2

I

U.S./PAPEETE, TAHITI

Depart the U.S. on an overnight flight to Tahiti. Upon arrival, check into dayrooms, and briefly tour Tahiti before embarking our ship. National Geographic Orion for the entire voyage Meals: Day 2: L/D

DAY 3

I

BORA-BORA, SOCIETY ISLANDS

Jutting out from an aquamarine lagoon ringed with tiny islets, Bora-Bora’s angular volcanic crags are a spectacular sight. Explore the island by 4x4, and then snorkel, dive, kayak, or paddleboard from one of the islets on the outer reef. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4

I

RAIATEA/TAHAA

Encircled by a single reef and sharing a common lagoon, Raiatea and Tahaa offer plenty to explore. Spend the morning at Marae Taputapuatea, the starting point for Polynesian seafarers heading for Easter Island, Hawaii, and New Zealand. On Tahaa, visit a family-run vanilla plantation. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8

I

RANGIROA

The atoll of Rangiroa is a ring of slender islands known for some of the best diving and snorkeling in French Polynesia. Our ship anchors here, inside the world’s second largest lagoon near the village of Tiputa, where local musicians greet us. Spend time with villagers, and then kayak, snorkel, or scuba dive in the lagoon—home to manta rays, dolphins, and sea turtles. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 9 AND 10

I

RANGIROA/ PAPEETE/U.S.

Disembark and fly to Papeete to connect with your overnight flight home. Meals: Day 9: B/L

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographers David Doubilet and Jen Hayes will join the April 26, 2018 departure. Read their bios and find more experts on our website.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Apr. 12–21 Apr. 26–May 5 June 7–16 July 5–14

July 12–21* July 19–28 July 26–Aug. 4* Aug. 2–11

If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2. *These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order.

COST Category 1

$7,690

Category 2

$9,380

Category 3

$10,990

Category 4

$11,990

Category 5

$14,520

Category 6

$16,840

Category 1 Solo

$11,540

Category 3 Solo

$16,490

See the National Geographic Orion description, photos, and deck plan on pages 52–53. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. Airfare to/from Papeete and between Rangiroa and Papeete is not included in the expedition cost. The group flight between Rangiroa and Papeete is $250 per person. (subject to change). Maximum ship capacity: 102

SPECIAL OFFERS Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free round-trip international airfare between Los Angeles and Papeete. We will also cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew. Book two or more South Pacific voyages aboard the National Geographic Orion and save 10% on each expedition.

Above: A snorkeler swims amid tropical f ish in Tahiti.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SOUTHPACIFIC

I

33


I S L E S , AT O L L S , A N D P R I S T I N E COR AL S: SOUTHERN LINE ISL ANDS T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • Watch on deck as the National Geographic Orion navigates the pass in Moorea’s reef to anchor in Opunohu Bay, as Capt. James Cook did in 1777. • S pend three days in the Southern Line Islands, identified as one of the healthiest reef systems in the world by National Geographic Explorerin-Residence Enric Sala. • R ide Zodiacs through reef passes, snorkel over beds of giant clams, or dive the atolls’ outer reefs. • E xamine ancient Polynesian sacred sites on Moorea with an archaeologist, or hike through the isle’s lush tropical forests.

ITINER ARY

|

10

DAY S

channels of their lagoons by Zodiac or kayak, see nesting boobies and tropic birds on shore, and snorkel above colorful tropical reefs. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6 AND 7

I

SOUTHERN LINE ISLANDS/AT SEA

On our final day in the Southern Line Islands, go ashore with our naturalists for a walk through coastal palm groves to seek out endangered coconut crabs, the largest land-dwelling invertebrates in the world. During a day at sea, bring your binoculars to the deck and join our naturalists in seeking out marine mammals and seabirds. Photographers will have plenty of opportunities to capture images of wildlife and the aquamarine waters. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 8 DAYS 1 AND 2 I U.S./PAPEETE, TAHITI/ RANGIROA Depart the U.S. on an overnight flight to Tahiti. Arrive in Papeete, Tahiti early this morning and take a short flight to Rangiroa. Embark our ship and settle into your cabin in the afternoon. National Geographic Orion for the entire voyage Meals: Day 2: L/D

DAYS 3, 4, AND 5 I AT SEA/SOUTHERN LINE ISLANDS, KIRIBATI A day at sea brings us to the far-flung Southern Line Islands, where we’ll snorkel or dive some of the most remote and pristine coral reefs on Earth. Marine ecologist and National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Enric Sala researched these islands as part of the Pristine Seas project and identified their surrounding waters as one of the only remaining healthy, undisturbed spots in the ocean. Enjoy plenty of time to explore these seldom visited atolls: Navigate the intricate Above: An aerial view of Rangiroa atoll in the South Pacifi c 34

I

I

MOOREA, FRENCH POLYNESIA

Approach the stunning isle of Moorea this morning, and seek out the playful dolphins and humpback whales that inhabit the surrounding waters. Encircled by a dazzling turquoise lagoon, the island’s peaks rise out of the water in a lush explosion of emerald green splendor. We’ll anchor for the day in Opunohu Bay on the island’s north shore, and spend time hiking tropical forest trails or exploring ancient Polynesian sacred sites with an archaeologist. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 9 AND 10

I

PAPEETE/U.S.

Disembark in Papeete this morning and tour Tahiti before transferring to the airport for your overnight flight home. Meals: Day 9: B/L

OPTIONAL EXTENSION Add a stay at The Brando, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World set on the private atoll of Tetiaroa, French Polynesia, following any of our South Pacific voyages. From your elegant beachfront villa, go snorkeling or diving, take nature walks with an island researcher, watch calving humpbacks, and enjoy the creations of a Michelin-starred chef. Visit our website or call for details.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Apr. 19–28 May 3–12

June 14–23 Aug. 9–18

If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST Category 1

$7,690

Category 2

$9,380

Category 3

$10,990

Category 4

$11,990

Category 5

$14,520

Category 6

$16,840

Category 1 Solo

$11,540

Category 3 Solo

$16,490

See the National Geographic Orion description, photos, and deck plan on pages 52–53. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. Airfare to/from Papeete and from Papeete to Rangiroa is not included in the expedition cost. The group flight from Papeete to Rangiroa is $250 per person (subject to change). Maximum ship capacity: 102

SPECIAL OFFERS Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free roundtrip international airfare between Los Angeles and Papeete. We’ll also cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew. Book two or more South Pacific voyages aboard the National Geographic Orion and save 10% on the total expedition cost. Plus, enjoy a complimentary pre-voyage stay at the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa in Papeete, Tahiti, situated on 32 acres of lush tropical gardens alongside a lagoon. Receive a $125 per person resort credit when you book.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Chris Rainier will join the August 9, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SOUTHPACIFIC

I


A Z U R E S E A S F R O M TA H I T I TO TH E M A RQ U E SA S T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • A National Geographic photographer joins each departure of the National Geographic Orion, offering onboard talks as well as hands-on instruction during excursions. • A longside our naturalists, hike to a remote waterfall or search for rare birds on the far-flung isle of Fatu Hiva. • E xplore the seldom visited Tuamotu Archipelago by kayak and stand-up paddleboard, walk its pristine beaches, and snorkel or dive vibrant reefs. • W itness a traditional Marquesan dance performance at an ancient marae—an open-air space used for spiritual and community gatherings.

ITINER ARY

|

17

DAY S

DAYS 6 AND 7

I

AT SEA/NUKU HIVA, MARQUESAS

We begin our exploration of the Marquesas on the isle of Nuku Hiva. Gaze at ancient petroglyphs and witness a dance performance at a marae, used for spiritual gatherings. Or hike up a lush valley in search of rare birds. Later, visit the village to peruse unique handicrafts. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 8–12

DAYS 1 AND 2

I

U.S./PAPEETE, TAHITI

Depart the U.S. on an overnight flight to Tahiti, arriving in Papeete the following morning. Check into dayrooms, and briefly tour Tahiti before embarking our ship. National Geographic Orion for the entire voyage | Meals: Day 2: L/D

DAYS 3, 4, AND 5

I

AT SEA/TUAMOTU ARCHIPELAGO

Our exploration of the “dangerous archipelago” begins at Fakarava, part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. After a festive welcome with traditional dancers, learn about the island’s pearl industry. Snorkel protected reefs or ride the current into the lagoon on a drift dive. Continue to Raroia, where Thor Heyerdahl’s famous Kon-Tiki raft made landfall in 1947. Meals: B/L/D Daily

I

Anchor at Hiva Oa and explore Me'ae Iipona, home to one of the largest ancient tiki statues in Polynesia. Visit the Calvary Cemetery to see the gravesites for French artist Paul Gauguin and Belgian singer Jacques Brel. The following day, go ashore at Fatu Hiva to visit a remote village and view Marquesan art displays. Tackle a challenging hike to a waterfall, or go bird-watching in the Omoa Valley. Our final two days in the Marquesas are open for exploration. Scuba dive with manta rays, or navigate coastal waters by kayak and Zodiac. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 13, 14, AND 15 I TUAMOTU ARCHIPELAGO/MAKATEA Spend two days exploring the isles and atolls of the Tuamotu Archipelago. Snorkel or dive stunning reefs, kayak and paddleboard across turquoise lagoons, and walk palm-fringed beaches. Continue to Makatea to explore its unusual limestone grottoes, or search for seabirds. Then snorkel and dive on the nearby reef. Meals: B/L/D Daily

I

PAPEETE/U.S.

Disembark in Papeete and transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home. Meals: Day 16: B/L

Above: Hawksbill sea turtle on coral reef, French Polynesia

I

DAT E S 2018: June 21–July 7 Aug. 16–Sept. 1 If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST

HIVA OA/FATU HIVA/AT SEA

DAYS 16 AND 17

I N F O R M AT I O N

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SOUTHPACIFIC

Category 1

$15,680

Category 2

$18,670

Category 3

$21,990

Category 4

$23,990

Category 5

$28,940

Category 6

$33,440

Category 1 Solo

$23,520

Category 3 Solo

$32,990

See the National Geographic Orion description, photos, and deck plan on pages 52–53. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. Airfare to/from Papeete is not included in the expedition cost. .Maximum ship capacity: 102

SPECIAL OFFERS Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free round-trip international airfare between Los Angeles and Papeete. We will also cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew. Book two or more South Pacific voyages aboard the National Geographic Orion and save 10% on each expedition.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Jason Edwards will join the June 21, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website. Cultural expert Christina Thompson will join the June 21, 2018 departure as a guest speaker. Writer and filmmaker Jon Bowermaster will also be on board as guest speaker on the August 16, 2018 departure.

I

35


E P I C P O LY N E S I A : C O O K I S L A N D S T O F I J I T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • A board the state-of-the-art National Geographic Orion, cruise among five Pacific Island groups—French Polynesia, Cook Islands, Samoa, Wallis and Futuna, and Fiji. • G lide in Zodiacs through the narrow pass at Aitutaki, and swim in the island’s dazzling inner lagoon. • M arvel at elaborately decorated cathedrals in tiny Wallis and Futuna, a difficult-to-reach autonomous French territory. • Enjoy a special Fijian welcome at the village of Waitabu, and then see firsthand how locals created the country’s healthiest marine parks as you snorkel and dive the bordering reef. ITINER ARY

|

17

DAY S

enjoy Polynesian drumming and dancing. Experience traditional food, culture, and hospitality in a traditional village. Then enjoy two days to relax aboard National Geographic Orion as we sail west. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 9 AND 10

I

SAMOA

Hike through vibrant rain forests, take a dip in a swimming hole, go snorkeling or diving on the reef, and soak up the languid rhythms of island life that drew Robert Louis Stevenson to these shores. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 11 AND 12

DAYS 1 AND 2

I

U.S./PAPEETE, TAHITI

Arrive in Papeete after an overnight flight. Check in to dayrooms, and briefly tour Tahiti before embarking our ship. National Geographic Orion for the entire voyage | Meals: Day 2: L/D

DAYS 3, 4, AND 5

I

TAHAA/RAIATEA/ AT SEA

On Tahaa, snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard the lagoon and stroll the tiny island’s beaches. On adjacent Raiatea, explore Marae Taputapuatea, a ceremonial site that served as the starting point for Polynesian seafarers. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6, 7, AND 8

I

AITUTAKI, COOK ISLANDS/AT SEA

In 1789, Capt. William Bligh sailed to Aitutaki just before the mutiny aboard the H.M.S. Bounty. Board Zodiacs to access the volcanic atoll’s spectacular lagoon and its white-sand beach. Once ashore, step over sacred welcome stones and

I

EXPLORING WALLIS AND FUTUNA

Be on deck just after sunrise as National Geographic Orion navigates the channel into the lagoon at Wallis Island. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, Mata-Utu— built of hand-chiseled blue volcanic stone—or admire the colorful interior of the Church of St. Joseph. Later, snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard from one of the tiny islets offshore. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 13, 14, AND 15

I

EXPLORING FIJI

Discover Taveuni, known as “the garden island” for its rich endemic vegetation. Enjoy a warm Fijian welcome at the village of Waitabu, and snorkel in one of the Pacific’s most successful community marine parks. Explore the waterfalls of Bouma National Heritage Park, and dive nearby reefs. Witness a dramatic fire-walking ceremony, at Beqa Island. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 16 AND 17

I

LAUTOKA/U.S.

Disembark in Lautoka on Fiji’s Viti Levu. Tour the western part of the island before transferring to the airport in Nadi for your overnight flight home. Meals: Day 16: B/L

Above: On Fiji’s Taveuni Island, a copper-tone sunrise greets a visitor.

36

I

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: May 10–26 May 24–June 9* *This departure follows the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Lautoka and ending in Papeete. If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST Category 1

$15,680

Category 2

$18,670

Category 3

$21,990

Category 4

$23,990

Category 5

$28,940

Category 6

$33,440

Category 1 Solo

$23,520

Category 3 Solo

$32,990

See the National Geographic Orion description, photos, and deck plan on pages 52–53. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. Airfare to Papeete and return from Nadi, or vice versa, is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: 102

SPECIAL OFFERS Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free round-trip international airfare from Los Angeles to Papeete and return from Nadi, or vice versa. We will also cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew. Book two or more South Pacific voyages aboard the National Geographic Orion and save 10% on each expedition.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Michael Melford will join the May 24, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SOUTHPACIFIC

I


E A S T E R I S L A N D T O TA H I T I : TA L E S O F T H E PA C I F I C T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • A board the National Geographic Orion, trace the legend of the ill-fated H.M.S. Bounty to the seldom visited Pitcairn Island, where descendants of its mutineers still live today. • J oin archaeologists on Easter Island to delve into an intriguing lost culture and examine ancient burial sites and towering moai. • D ive or snorkel the pristine reefs of Fakarava, part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. • E xplore the unusual geology of Henderson Island with our naturalists, and seek out the isle’s four endemic bird species.

ITINER ARY

|

20

DAY S

wonders. Continue to Pitcairn Island, where about 50 descendants of the 18th-century H.M.S. Bounty mutineers still live. Meet residents and hear a few words of their unusual Pitkern dialect—a blend of English “sailor speak” and Polynesian phrases. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 11 AND 12

I

AT SEA/MANGAREVA, FRENCH POLYNESIA

Spend a day at sea scanning the horizon with our naturalists or relaxing on deck with a good book. Arrive at Mangareva, the largest of the Gambier Islands, famous for its black pearls. Venture underwater to snorkel or dive, and meet islanders to learn about their culture. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 13–18 DAYS 1–5

I

U.S./SANTIAGO, CHILE/ EASTER ISLAND

Depart the U.S. on an overnight flight to Santiago, Chile. Upon arrival, transfer to the Ritz Carlton. This evening, meet fellow travelers and staff for a welcome reception. Early the next morning, fly to Easter Island, where we will spend two nights at the Hanga Roa Eco-Resort. Explore volcanic calderas and join archaeologists to examine the island’s colossal moai statues. National Geographic Orion for the entire voyage | Meals: Day 2: B; Days 3–5:

B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6–10

I

AT SEA/PITCAIRN ISLANDS

On the two-day journey west from Easter Island, listen to informative talks by our experts. Once at Ducie Island, watch for frigatebirds and boobies, and snorkel or dive among spectacular reefs. Continue to pristine Henderson Island, an uplifted atoll and UNESCO World Heritage site. On hikes and Zodiac excursions, discover the island’s four endemic bird species and natural

I

AT SEA/TUAMOTU ARCHIPELAGO

Our exploration of the “dangerous archipelago” begins in Pukarua, where traditional dancers will greet us. Navigate reefs and islets during a day at sea, then explore an uninhabited atoll such as Tahanea. In Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, learn about the island’s pearl industry, and walk its pristine beaches. Snorkel the protected reefs or ride the current into the lagoon on a world-famous drift dive. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 19 AND 20

I

PAPEETE/U.S.

Arrive in Papeete, Tahiti, and take a tour of the island before transferring to the airport for your overnight flight home. Meals: Day 19: B/L

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Susan Seubert will join the August 30, 2018 departure. Read her bio and find more experts on our website.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Mar. 26–Apr. 14 Aug. 30–Sept. 17* *This departure spends one fewer day in Santiago and follows the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Papeete and ending on Easter Island. Visit our website or call for details. If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST Category 1

$17,990

Category 2

$21,350

Category 3

$25,370

Category 4

$27,490

Category 5

$32,820

Category 6

$37,970

Category 1 Solo

$26,990

Category 3 Solo

$37,990

See the National Geographic Orion description, photos, and deck plan on pages 52–53. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. Airfare to Santiago and return from Papeete, and between Santiago and Easter Island, or vice versa, is not included in the expedition cost. The group flight between Santiago and Easter Island is $625 per person (subject to change). Maximum ship capacity: 102

SPECIAL OFFERS Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free round-trip international airfare from Los Angeles to Santiago and return from Papeete, or vice versa. We will also cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew. Book two or more South Pacific voyages aboard the National Geographic Orion and save 10% on each expedition.

Above: Easter Island is shrouded in mystery and guarded by the famous moai statues.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SOUTHPACIFIC

I

37


A C I R C U M N AV I G AT I O N O F I C E L A N D T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • Traveling aboard the National Geographic Explorer gives us unparalleled access to Iceland’s most remote landscapes, including offshore islands near the Arctic Circle. • Capture images of gushing geysers, cascading waterfalls, and seabirds in flight, shooting alongside a National Geographic photographer. • Actively explore Iceland’s geology by Zodiac or kayak and cruise the Jökulsárlón ice lagoon by small boat. • Learn from a team of naturalists while exploring geothermally active Mývatn, and take in the beauty of Goðafoss waterfall. . ITINER ARY

|

11

DAY S

DAY 6

I

SIGLUFJÖRDUR AND AKUREYRI

At Siglufjördur, visit the Herring Museum for a reenactment and a tasting. In picturesque Akureyri, stroll past period houses or visit the botanical garden. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7

I

LAKE MÝVATN AND HÚSAVÍK

Drive to Mývatn, the most geologically active area in Iceland. See the boiling mud pools at Hverarönd and visit the explosion crater at Viti. Continue to Goðafoss waterfall. Meet the ship in Húsavík and sail north. Take Zodiacs ashore to the island of Grímsey on the Arctic Circle. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8

DAYS 1 AND 2

I

U.S./REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND

Explorer for the entire voyage | Meals: Day 2: L/D

I

FLATEY ISLAND/LÁTRABJARG

Cruise north to Flatey Island, a trading post for many centuries. Navigate Iceland’s wild western frontier, sailing past the Látrabjarg cliffs, home to a huge population of razorbills. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4

I

EXPLORING NORTHWESTERN ICELAND

Get immersed in the stunning scenery of the Westfjords region. Hike to a remote waterfall, or take a cruise in a Zodiac. Anchor at Vigur Island, where we’ll visit an eider farm. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5

I

EXPLORING NORTHEAST ICELAND

Today is left open to explore with our naturalists on foot or by Zodiac. Conditions permitting, set out by kayak. Meals: B/L/D

Fly overnight to Reykjavík and take a tour of the old town. Learn about Norse culture at the National Museum. Later, embark our ship. National Geographic

DAY 3

I

DAY 9

I

DJÚPIVOGUR

Dock in Djúpivogur to explore the Vatnajökull ice cap. Take in the shimmering blue ice on a boat ride through the Jökulsárlón lagoon. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 10

I

WESTMAN ISLANDS

Cruise by the Westman Islands. Catch sight of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Surtsey, a new island formed by a series of volcanic eruptions in the 1960s. Land on Heimaey and visit the island’s crater, where the earth is still hot, and take in stunning vistas. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 11

I

REYKJAVÍK/U.S.

Disembark in Reykjavík. Soak in the Blue Lagoon or visit a geothermal plant and horse farm before your flight home. Meals: B/L

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: June 28–July 8 July 7–17

If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

C OST Category 1

$10,270

Category 2

$11,890

Category 3

$12,360

Category 4

$14,130

Category 5

$15,410

Category 6

$18,420

Category 7

$21,350

Category A Solo

$14,860

Category B Solo

$15,450

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Explorer on pages 50–51. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. International airfare to/from Reykjavík is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: 148

SPECIAL OFFER We will cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew on all departures.

EXPEDITION TEAM

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS

ÍSAFJÖRDUR

Spend the morning in Ísafjarðardjúp, then soak up the tranquil beauty of Hornstrandir, Iceland’s northernmost peninsula, exploring by Zodiac and watching for seabirds. Meals: B/L/D

July 16–26 July 25–Aug. 4

Add a new three-day post-trip extension heli-hiking on glaciers in Iceland or a one-day pre-trip extension to Reykjavík’s Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon. Visit our website or call for details.

A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photo editor Susan Seubert will join the June 28 and July 7, 2018 departures. Read her bio and find more experts on our website.

Above: Amid myriad shades of blue and gray, travelers stroll the ice-cluttered shores of Jökulsárlón . 38

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ICELAND

I


H O T S P R I N G S A N D I C E B E R G S : ICEL A N D TO W E S T G R EEN L A N D T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • The National Geographic Explorer is equipped with kayaks and Zodiacs that allow for up-close exploration of fjords and massive icebergs. • Watch for the magnificent northern lights—we’ll spend time searching for them in the skies over Iceland and Greenland. • Take a private cooking class at a popular Reykjavík restaurant, and savor an exclusive dinner and musical performance. • D elve into volcanic geology and ecology while riding horseback across lava fields and discovering steaming fumaroles with our experts.

ITINER ARY

|

9

DAY S

Greenland. As we fly, take in stunning aerial views of the ice cap that covers most of the country. Embark the National Geographic Explorer for our journey along Greenland’s western coast, laced by fjords harboring glaciers and icebergs. As we cruise this rugged coastline, keep an eye out for humpback and minke whales. The next day, disembark at Sisimiut, a former whaling port. Visit the town museum, wander amid its colorful 18th-century buildings, and welcome aboard students of the National School for Greenlandic Clothing to learn how traditional clothing is crafted.

I N F O R M AT I O N

I

U.S./REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND

Fly overnight to Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital. Choose one of the following excursions: Take a swim in the thermal baths of the Blue Lagoon, learn about alternative energy on a visit to a geothermal power plant, or attend an Icelandic horse show at the Eldhestar Farm and Riding Centre. Grand Hotel | Meals: Day 2: L

DAY 3

I

Today either take a full day’s excursion around the Golden Circle or choose one of three active options: Go hiking across the rolling scrublands just outside the city, ride an Icelandic horse through the Hafnarfjörður lava field, or join a cooking class at the Salt Kitchen. Tonight, enjoy a special dinner and musical performance in Reykjavík. Grand Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 4 AND 5 I KANGERLUSSUAQ, GREENLAND/SISIMIUT Choose a walking or biking tour of Reykjavík in the morning followed by a chartered flight to

If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST

$6,990

Category 2

$7,590

National Geographic Explorer through Day 7

Category 3

$7,870

Meals: B/L/D

Category 4

$8,540

Category 5

$10,090

Category 6

$12,110

Category 7

$13,950

Category A Solo

$9,490

Category B Solo

$9,840

I

DISKO BAY/ILULISSAT/ WESTERN COAST

Sail into Disko Bay and set out to explore the Ilulissat Icefjord, a tongue of the Greenland ice cap and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take an extraordinary cruise among towering icebergs at the mouth of the fjord, and see glacial ice. Then visit the archaeological site at Sermermiut, an abandoned precolonial settlement. The next day, we’ll have options to explore the fjords by kayak or Zodiac, or hike inland across the tundra. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 8

REYKJAVÍK

2018: Sept. 5–13 Sept. 9–17

Category 1

DAYS 6 AND 7

DAYS 1 AND 2

DAT E S

I

KANGERLUSSUAQ/ REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND

Disembark the National Geographic Explorer in Kangerlussuaq and fly back to Reykjavík. Grand Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9

I

REYKJAVÍK/U.S.

Head out on a scenic drive amid the volcanic landscapes and natural hot springs of the Reykjanes peninsula to the tiny fishing village of Grindavík. Or opt for a soak in the Blue Lagoon. Transfer to the airport in Keflavík for your flight home. Meals: B/L

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Explorer on pages 50–51. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. International airfare to/from Reykjavík and between Reykjavík and Kangerlussuaq is not included in the expedition cost. The round-trip group flights between Reykjavík and Kangerlussuaq are $1,520 per person (subject to change). Maximum ship capacity: 148

SPECIAL OFFERS Book now and receive complimentary charter airfare between Reykjavík and Kangerlussuaq on the 2018 departures. We will also cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew on all departures.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Ronan Donovan will join both 2018 departures. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

Above: The midnight sun gives way to the otherworldly swirls of the aurora borealis.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ICELAND

I

39


E X P L O R I N G G R E E N L A N D A N D THE CANADIAN HIGH ARCTIC T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • M aneuver between the soaring icebergs at the mouth of the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. • J oin our naturalists to observe polar bears, walruses, ringed seals, bearded seals, and—with luck—narwhals in their natural habitat. • E xplore Lancaster Sound, the gateway to the Northwest Passage, and hear from our experts about the legendary explorers who sought to make history here. • D iscover Arctic-adapted flora, and seek out caribou and arctic foxes while hiking the landscapes of Baffin Island.

ITINER ARY

|

16

DAY S

DAYS 5 AND 6

Depart on an overnight flight to Reykjavík and take a guided tour of the old town, including Hallgrímskirkja Church. After lunch, check in to the hotel in time for a welcome reception and dinner. Grand Hotel | Meals: Day 2: L/D

DAYS 3 AND 4 I KANGERLUSSUAQ, GREENLAND/GREENLAND’S WEST COAST AND SISIMIUT Fly by chartered aircraft to Kangerlussuaq and embark the National Geographic Explorer. Cruise Greenland’s rugged west coast, carved by spectacular glacier-draped fjords. Get an up-close view of the coastline on Zodiac excursions and search for humpback and minke whales. At Sisimiut, a former whaling port, visit the museum and wander amid a picturesque jumble of 18th-century buildings. National Geographic Explorer through Day 13 Meals: B/L/D Daily

Above: In the Davis Strait, the National Geographic Explorer pulls close to an ice triumphal arch sculpted by the elements. 40

I

DISKO BAY/AT SEA

Sail into Disko Bay to explore the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Ilulissat Icefjord. Glide among towering icebergs at the mouth of the fjord, and then hike to the archaeological site at Sermermiut. Spend the next day at sea, watching for wildlife as we cruise toward Lancaster Sound. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 7–11

DAYS 1 AND 2 I U.S./REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND

I

I

EXPLORING THE CANADIAN HIGH ARCTIC

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Aug. 6–21 If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST

Category 1

$1 3,990

Category 2

$14,990

Category 3

$15,600

Category 4

$16,750

Category 5

$20,200

Category 6

$23,290

Category 7

$27,000

Category A Solo

$18,740

We begin our exploration along Lancaster Sound, the eastern gateway to the Arctic archipelago, and will spend our days searching for ringed seals, arctic foxes, walruses, and polar bears. Delve into the region’s human history on visits to archaeological sites of the Thule people at Devon Island and vibrant Inuit villages such as Pond Inlet, sustained by fishing and artistic traditions. Meals: B/L/D Daily

Category B Solo

$19,500

DAYS 12 AND 13 I AT SEA/BAFFIN BAY/ GREENLAND’S WEST COAST

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Explorer on pages 50–51. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. International airfare to/from Reykjavík and charter air between Reykjavík and Kangerlussuaq are not included in the expedition cost. The round-trip group flights between Reykjavík and Kangerlussuaq are $1,520 per person (subject to change).

Disembark on the eastern shores of Baffin Island to hike the tundra, in search of caribou and arctic foxes. Or follow our naturalists to learn more about hardy arctic plants. We’ll cruise the coastline in search of walruses and other icons of the Canadian north. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 14, 15, AND 16

I

KANGERLUSSUAQ/ REYKJAVÍK/U.S.

Disembark in Kangerlussuaq and fly to Reykjavík by chartered aircraft. The next day features either a full-day tour of the Golden Circle or a walking or city-by-bike tour of Reykjavík. On our final day in Reykjavík you have your choice of excursions: a soak in the Blue Lagoon; a tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula; or a visit to the hot springs, geothermal power plant, and horse farm. After lunch, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Grand Hotel

Maximum ship capacity: 148

SPECIAL OFFER We will cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew on all departures.

EXPEDITION TEAM

Meals: Days 14 and 15: B/L/D Daily; Day 16: B/L

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ARCTIC

A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Phil Schermeister will join this departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

I


EPIC 80° N: EXPLORING G REENL AND AND BAFFIN AND ELLESMERE ISLANDS T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • A board the National Geographic Explorer, venture to 80˚ north latitude, and discover the virtual terra incognita at the northernmost reaches of the planet. • V isit ancient sites with an archaeologist, and learn about the Thule people, who predate the Inuits. • Trace the rugged and remote coast of northwest Greenland, on the lookout for polar bears as well as minke, humpback, and beluga whales. • H one your photography skills while framing incredible Arctic landscapes with a National Geographic photographer.

ITINER ARY

|

24

DAY S

DAYS 11–15 I DEVON ISLAND/ ELLESMERE ISLAND/ FARTHER NORTH Our exact day-to-day itinerary remains quite flexible. We may walk along Devon Island with our ship’s archaeologist to learn about the Thule people, ancestors of the Inuit. Hike the tundra of Philpots Island in search of arctic hares and muskoxen, and cruise Smith Bay along Ellesmere Island, bordered by steep mountains and tumbling glacial ice. Visit Skraeling Island to look for Inuit artifacts, and see the tidewater glaciers of Makinson Inlet by Zodiac. Spend two days exploring to 80ºN and beyond if the ice allows. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 16–22

I

DAYS 1 AND 2

U.S./REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND

Depart on your overnight flight to Reykjavík. Upon arrival, tour the old town, or soak in the Blue Lagoon. Grand Hotel | Meals: Day 2: L/D

DAYS 3 AND 4

I

GREENLAND’S WEST COAST AND BAFFIN BAY

Fly to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland and embark the National Geographic Explorer. Spend the next day at sea en route to the north end of Baffin Island. National Geographic Explorer through Day 22

Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 5–10

I

THE CANADIAN HIGH ARCTIC

Enter the Canadian High Arctic, and visit the Inuit community of Pond Inlet in Nunavut. Cruise Baffin Island’s northern coast, and search for ringed seals, arctic foxes, and polar bears as well as beluga and bowhead whales. Seek out the elusive narwhal, take a walk on Beechey Island, and cruise Lancaster Sound to spot polar bears on the ice. Meals: B/L/D Daily

I

EXPLORING WESTERN GREENLAND

Visit the small community of Etah in northwest Greenland. Continue to Uummannaq, where mummies dating back to 1475 were discovered in 1972 and featured on the cover of National Geographic magazine. Sail into Disko Bay to cruise among the towering icebergs of the Ilulissat Icefjord, and visit the UNESCO archaeological site of Sermermiut. Our final day at sea is spent exploring the scenic fjords of western Greenland by kayak or Zodiac. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 23 AND 24

I

KANGERLUSSUAQ/ REYKJAVÍK/U.S.

Disembark in Kangerlussuaq and fly to Reykjavík by chartered aircraft. The next day enjoy a tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula and then transfer to the airport for your flight home. Grand Hotel Meals: Day 23: B/L/D; Day 24: B/L

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Aug. 17–Sept. 9 If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST

Category 1

$25,990

Category 2

$27,990

Category 3

$28,970

Category 4

$30,990

Category 5

$37,470

Category 6

$42,710

Category 7

$49,640

Category A Solo

$34,990

Category B Solo

$36,210

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Explorer on pages 50–51. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. International airfare to/from Reykjavík and between Reykjavík and Kangerlussuaq is not included in the expedition cost. The round-trip group flights between Reykjavík and Kangerlussuaq are $1,520 per person (subject to change). Maximum ship capacity: 148

SPECIAL OFFER We will cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew on all departures.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and local naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographers David Doubilet and Jen Hayes will join this departure. Read their bios and find more experts on our website.

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS Add a four-day post-trip extension to Iceland that includes Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, Akureyri, and Lake Mývatn or a one-day post-trip extension to Reykjavík’s Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon. Visit our website or call for details.

Above: A Zodiac navigates the big ice of Philpots Island.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ARCTIC

I

41


LAND OF THE POLAR BEARS T H E N AT G E O DIFFERENCE • The National Geographic Explorer is an ice-class vessel that allows us to probe the floes in search of resident wildlife, including walruses, seals, and the majestic polar bear—the very symbol of the Arctic. • D iscover unusual Arctic flora and tidewater glaciers on walks with naturalists, and spot huge walruses, bearded and ringed seals, arctic foxes, and reindeer. • E xperience the legendary midnight sun: the ethereal light of the northern summer, when the sun never sets. • Learn tips and techniques on wildlife and landscape photography from the National Geographic photographer who accompanies the trip.

ITINER ARY

|

11

DAY S

vessels that navigated the Arctic Sea in the late 1800s and early 1900s. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail reception. Radisson Blu Airport Hotel | Meals: Day 1: B; Day 2: B/D

DAY 3

DAYS 1 AND 2

I

U.S./OSLO, NORWAY

Depart on an overnight flight to Oslo. Upon arrival, check in to the Radisson Blu Airport Hotel. On an afternoon tour of this charming city, stroll among the famed Vigeland sculptures—hundreds of lifesize human figures set in terraced parkland. Visit the Fram Museum, showcasing the polar ship Fram and dedicated to the explorers and wooden

I

OSLO/LONGYEARBYEN

Depart Oslo on a private charter flight, and enjoy views of the southern fjords en route to Longyearbyen. On arrival in Longyearbyen, meet a local guide and take a short bus ride to Camp Barentz in the nearby Advent Valley for a taste of Arctic culture. Here, you’ll discover a unique collection of buildings including an authentic gamme, a traditional round building with an open fire in the center; and a lavvo, the traditional tent of the Sami people. Enjoy refreshments and an expert presentation on the polar bear before meeting some of the friendly sled dog huskies that reside at camp. Embark National Geographic Explorer, your base for the next six days. National Geographic Explorer through Day 9 Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 4–9

I

EXPLORING SVALBARD

This voyage is undertaken in the spirit of discovery, and our travel in the archipelago is exploratory by design. In a region ruled not by humans but

Guests explore Svalbard via kayak.

Above: A polar bear meets its refl ection in Svalbard.

42

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ARCTIC

I


I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: May 16– 26 May 23–June 2 May 30–June 9 If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST

Guests in a Zodiac get closer to the ice formations of Svalbard.

by polar bears, we let nature guide our course. Svalbard lies north of the Arctic Circle, where the summer sun never sets. With our fully stabilized ice-class expedition ship, we are able to probe the ice in search of wildlife; our exact day-to-day itinerary remains flexible, depending on local ice and weather conditions. Zodiacs and kayaks take us closer to experience the region’s geologic features and the wildlife that flourishes during the summer months. With our National Geographic photographer and seasoned naturalists, venture by Zodiac to the foot of vast tidewater glaciers, kayak among sparkling icebergs, and explore fjords that split the coastline. Hike through miniature gardens blooming on the tundra; and search the edge of the pack ice for polar bears, walruses, seals,

reindeer, and arctic foxes. Svalbard is one of the best places on the planet to observe majestic polar bears in their natural environment. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 10

I

LONGYEARBYEN/OSLO

In Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in Svalbard, disembark and enjoy time to explore the museum and art gallery. Founded by an American coal executive in 1906, this is one of the northernmost human settlements on Earth. Fly back to Oslo this afternoon. Radisson Blu Airport Hotel | Meals: B/L

DAY 11

I

OSLO/U.S.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Meals: B

M O R E WAY S TO D I S CO V E R S VA L B A R D

Category 1

$10,430

Category 2

$11,150

Category 3

$11,630

Category 4

$12,320

Category 5

$15,620

Category 6

$17,100

Category 7

$19,520

Category A Solo

$13,950

Category B Solo

$14,540

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Explorer on pages 50–51. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. Airfare to/from Oslo and within Norway is not included in the expedition cost. The group flights between Oslo and Longyearbyen are $725 per person (subject to change). Maximum ship capacity: 148

SPECIAL OFFER We will cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Erika Larsen will join the May 23 and 30, 2018 departures. Read her bio and find more experts on our website.

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS Add a five-day pre-trip extension to the breathtaking fjords of Norway or a four-day post-trip extension to Iceland that includes Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, Akureyri, and Lake Mývatn. Visit our website or call for details.

Discover Norway’s fjord-carved coast on foot, by kayak, or by Zodiac; seek out Arctic wildlife; and explore local communities on our Norway’s Fjords and Arctic Svalbard expedition May 3–19, 2018.

I

Or, explore three quintessential northern destinations on an epic voyage June 13–29, 2018 to Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland’s East Coast, where you’ll encounter big ice, myriad birdlife, stunning landscapes, and authentic Arctic culture. Visit our website for details and pricing.

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ARCTIC

Geysir, Golden Circle

I

43


J O U R N E Y T O A N TA R C T I C A T H E N AT G E O DIFFERENCE • The state-of-the-art National Geographic Explorer and National Geographic Orion are each equipped with top exploration tools, including a remotely operated vehicle that captures footage of the ocean floor. • Learn from a team of biologists, geologists, and undersea specialists who offer insights and in-depth presentations throughout the trip. • G et up close to icebergs, wildlife, and hard-to-reach places by using our fleets of kayaks and Zodiacs. • O bserve a range of penguin species, as well as seals and whales, and photograph them alongside our onboard photo instructor.

ITINER ARY

|

14

DAY S

DAY 3

I

USHUAIA, ARGENTINA

Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, and enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise of the Beagle Channel before embarking our ship. National Geographic Explorer or National Geographic Orion for the remainder of trip

Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4

I

AT SEA/DRAKE PASSAGE

While crossing the legendary Drake Passage, spot whales and other marine life that glide alongside the ship. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 5–10

DAYS 1 AND 2 I U.S./BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA OR SANTIAGO, CHILE Depart on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires (National Geographic Explorer departures) or Santiago (National Geographic Orion departures). Settle into our hotel before heading out on an afternoon tour of the city. Gather tonight for a welcome reception. Sofitel Buenos Aires Hotel or Hotel Santiago by Mandarin | Meals: Day 2: L

I

EXPLORING ANTARCTICA

With nearly 24 hours of daylight at this time of year, we have ample opportunity to explore the Antarctic Peninsula and the surrounding islands. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, the schedule is flexible so that we can take advantage of the unexpected—watching whales perform off the bow, taking an after-dinner Zodiac cruise, or heading out on an extra landing during the day. We anticipate making Zodiac landings each day to hike, kayak among the icebergs, or experience close encounters with wildlife. Meals: B/L/D Daily

The National Geographic Explorer attracts a cast of curious penguins.

Depending on weather and sea conditions, we plan to make the following stops:

I

PARADISE BAY

This pristine bay is edged by soaring, ice-covered peaks. Hike to a summit for a breathtaking view, or kayak along a cliffside rookery in search of blue-eyed shags.

Above: A Gentoo penguin dives in the water. 44

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ANTARCTICA

I


I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Nov. 25–Dec. 8* Nov. 26–Dec. 9 Dec. 5–18* Dec. 6–19 Dec. 15–28* Dec. 16–29† Dec. 25–Jan. 7, 2019*† Dec. 26–Jan. 8, 2019†

2019: Jan. 4–17* Jan. 5–18 Jan. 14–27* Jan. 15–28 Jan. 24–Feb. 6* Jan. 25–Feb. 7 Feb. 3–16* Feb. 4–17

*These departures are aboard the National Geographic Orion. All other departures are aboard the National Geographic Explorer.

†Visit our website for special holiday pricing on these

departures. If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST Travelers capture a tail slap on camera during a thrilling close encounter with a humpback whale.

I

L EMAIRE CHANNEL AND PETERMANN ISLAND

Cruise through the Lemaire Channel between towering snowcaps and blue icebergs. Step ashore at Petermann Island to the cries of thousands of gentoo penguins standing along the shoreline, as if awaiting your arrival.

I

N EKO HARBOR

Dock in Neko Harbor. Walk among penguins on the beach or climb high onto an ice field for a panoramic vista of the untouched peaks surrounding this idyllic bay.

I

P ORT LOCKROY

In 1944, the British government began an expedition code-named Operation Tabarin, creating a series of base stations in Antarctica. Base A, at Port Lockroy, is now a museum and Antarctica’s only public post office.

DAYS 11 AND 12

I

AT SEA

Enjoy the ship’s amenities as the Antarctic coast disappears from view. Round the southernmost tip of South America, and see the meeting of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Celebrate your voyage at a farewell dinner on board. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 13 AND 14 I USHUAIA, ARGENTINA/ BUENOS AIRES OR SANTIAGO, CHILE /U.S. Disembark in Ushuaia. After lunch, fly to Buenos Aires (National Geographic Explorer departures) or Santiago (National Geographic Orion departures) by private charter and connect with your overnight flight home. Meals: Day 13: B/L

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS For voyages aboard the National Geographic Explorer, add an extension in Buenos Aires or to Iguazú Falls or Easter Island. For voyages aboard the National Geographic Orion, add an extension in Santiago or to Easter Island. Visit our website or call for details.

Explorer

Orion

Category 1

$13,890

$14,170

Category 2

$14,940

$15,230

Category 3

$15,380

$16,960

Category 4

$16,550

$20,500

Category 5

$19,990

$23,440

Category 6

$22,800

$27,290

Category 7

$26,600

N/A

Category A Solo

$18,680

$21,250

Category B Solo

$19,220

$25,440

See descriptions, photos, and deck plans for the National Geographic Explorer and National Geographic Orion on pages 50–53. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. For holiday pricing, please visit our website. International airfare to/from Buenos Aires or Santiago and airfare to/from Ushuaia are not included in the expedition cost. The group flight to/from Ushuaia is $890–$1,240 per person depending on the departure (subject to change). Maximum ship capacity: National Geographic Explorer: 148 National Geographic Orion: 102

SPECIAL OFFERS Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free roundtrip international airfare between Miami and Buenos Aires on the November 26, 2018 departure. We will also cover your bar tab and tips for the crew on all departures.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Phil Schermeister will join the November 26, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

A kayaker maneuvers around an icy landscape in the waters of Antarctica.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ANTARCTICA

I

45


A N TA R C T I C A , S O U T H G E O R G I A , A N D T H E FA L K L A N DS T H E N AT G E O DIFFERENCE • Set out from the National Geographic Explorer or National Geographic Orion in a Zodiac or kayak to get up close to the exquisite icebergs of the Antarctic Peninsula. • W ith our team of experts, trace the riveting story of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s fateful expedition on South Georgia, and get immersed in a sea of black and white amid thousands of king penguins. • V isit the pioneer outposts of Port Stanley in the Falklands and Port Lockroy in Antarctica. • G et hands-on instruction from a National Geographic photographer as you frame breaching whales, elephant seals, and numerous penguin species.

ITINER ARY

|

24

DAY S

balcony associated with Eva Perón. Or check in to the Hotel Santiago by Mandarin before our guided overview of this vibrant city backed by the magnificent Andes. Sofitel Buenos Aires Hotel or Hotel Santiago by Mandarin | Meals: Day 2: L

DAY 3

I

USHUAIA, ARGENTINA

Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, and enjoy lunch aboard a catamaran on the Beagle Channel. Then embark our ship and set sail. National Geographic Explorer or National Geographic Orion for the remainder of the trip | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4

I

AT SEA/DRAKE PASSAGE

Settle into shipboard life as we cross the Drake Passage to Antarctica. Keep a lookout for seabirds plus whales and other marine life. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 1 AND 2 I U.S./BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA OR SANTIAGO, CHILE Depart on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires (National Geographic Explorer) or Santiago (National Geographic Orion). Settle into the Sofitel Buenos Aires Hotel before seeing the city’s beaux arts palaces and the famous

DAYS 5–10

I

EXPLORING ANTARCTICA

With long hours of daylight this time of year, we have ample opportunity to explore the Antarctic Peninsula and the surrounding islands. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, the schedule is flexible. We anticipate making landings each day to hike, kayak among the icebergs, or experience close encounters

A guest captures the view from the deck of the National Geographic Orion.

with wildlife. Depending on conditions, we may kayak in pristine Paradise Bay and sail among the jagged snowcaps that flank Lemaire Channel. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 11–17

I

AT SEA/SOUTH GEORGIA ISLAND

After two days at sea, arrive in South Georgia, renowned for its beauty and wildlife—and for Sir Ernest Shackleton’s final resting place. Glide past

Above: Forming a sea of black and white, king penguins cluster on the beaches of South Georgia.

46

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ANTARCTICA

I


I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Nov. 5–28*† Nov. 6–29†

2019: Feb. 13–Mar. 8* Feb. 14–Mar. 9

*These departures are aboard the National Geographic Orion and begin and end in Santiago, Chile. All other departures are aboard the National Geographic Explorer and begin and end in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

†These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in the Falklands and ending in Antarctica.

If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST Lindblad Cove, Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica

dramatic cliffs, on the lookout for young Antarctic fur seals. Hike through this breathtaking landscape, and cruise into a remote bay where thousands of king penguins await. Meals: B/L/D Daily

I

DAYS 18 AND 19

AT SEA

As we head toward the Falkland Islands, explore the ship’s library; head to the bridge to meet the captain; and enjoy engaging presentations on wildlife, photography, and more. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 20 AND 21

I

FALKLAND ISLANDS

Dock in Port Stanley, and stroll along streets lined with Victorian-style houses. Visit the Anglican Cathedral and the Falkland Islands Museum. Hike and kayak along rocky coasts,

spotting Magellanic penguins, herds of elephant seals, and the largest albatross colony in the world. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 22

I

AT SEA

On our final day at sea, enjoy one last chance to view the marine life of these southern waters. Toast our epic voyage at a festive farewell dinner. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 23 AND 24 I USHUAIA, ARGENTINA/BUENOS AIRES OR SANTIAGO, CHILE/U.S. Disembark in Ushuaia. Fly by charter to Buenos Aires or Santiago and connect with your overnight flight home. Meals: Day 23: B/L/D

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS For voyages aboard the National Geographic Explorer, add an extension in Buenos Aires or to Iguazú Falls or Easter Island. For voyages aboard the National Geographic Orion, add an extension in Santiago or to Easter Island. Visit our website or call for details.

YO U R T R I P M A K E S A D I F F E R E N C E The National Geographic Society funds research, conservation, and exploration, including climbing expeditions in Antarctica and research assessing the effect of global warming on female leopard seals.

Explorer

Orion

Category 1

$23,990

$24,620

Category 2

$25,740

$26,380

Category 3

$26,950

$28,450

Category 4

$28,220

$35,660

Category 5

$34,750

$41,150

Category 6

$39,990

$47,720

Category 7

$46,450

N/A

Category A Solo

$32,180

$36,930

Category B Solo

$33,690

$42,670

See descriptions, photos, and deck plans for the National Geographic Explorer and National Geographic Orion on pages 50–53. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. International airfare to/from Buenos Aires or Santiago and airfare to/from Ushuaia are not included in the expedition cost. The group flight to/from Ushuaia is $890–$1,240 per person depending on the departure date (subject to change). Maximum ship capacity: National Geographic Explorer: 148 National Geographic Orion: 102

SPECIAL OFFERS Book by December 31, 2017 and receive free roundtrip international airfare between Miami and Buenos Aires (National Geographic Explorer departures) or Santiago (National Geographic Orion departures) on any of the November 2018 departures. We will also cover your bar tab and tips for the crew on all departures.

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Ralph Lee Hopkins will join the November 5, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

Black-browed albatrosses nuzzle coral-tipped beaks in the Falklands.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/ANTARCTICA

I

47


SO U T H G EO RG I A A N D T H E FA L K L A N DS T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • J oin our naturalists for an interpretive walk among tens of thousands of stately king penguins on a remote beach in South Georgia. • E ach departure of the National Geographic Explorer is accompanied by a National Geographic photographer who offers insight on capturing the compelling stories of the South Atlantic. • G lide in a kayak or Zodiac amid curious fur seals in the Falklands, and view an impressive colony of black-browed albatrosses. • S ail a catamaran amid the islands of Beagle Channel, spotting wildlife along the way.

ITINER ARY

|

1 9 D AY S

Today we wander through the remote town of Stanley, and hoist a drink at the historic Upland Goose pub. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 9–13

I

SOUTH GEORGIA ISLAND

Arrive in South Georgia, renowned for its beauty and wildlife—and Sir Ernest Shackleton’s final resting place. Glide past dramatic cliffs, on the lookout for young Antarctic fur seals. Hike through this breathtaking landscape, and cruise into a remote bay where thousands of king penguins await. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 14, 15, AND 16

DAYS 1 AND 2

I

U.S./BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

Depart on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires and set out on a guided city tour. Sofitel Buenos Aires | Meals: Day 2: L

DAYS 3 AND 4

I

USHUAIA/AT SEA

Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Take a catamaran cruise on the Beagle Channel. Later, embark the ship and begin our voyage across the South Atlantic. National Geographic Explorer for the remainder of the trip | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 5–8

I

FALKLAND ISLANDS/AT SEA

Each island in the Falklands is distinctive in its beauty. The archipelago boasts the largest albatross colony in the world; thousands of irresistible gentoo, rockhopper, and Magellanic penguins; and fur and elephant seals.

Above: King penguins at sunrise, South Georgia

48

I

I

AT SEA/FALKLAND ISLANDS

After two days at sea, we return once more to the stunning shores of the Falklands. Take a walk along the pristine beaches, wander amid the waving tussock grass, view an impressive black-browed albatross colony, and be welcomed for a grand tea at the home of the McGill family.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S 2018: Mar. 6–24* Oct. 22–Nov. 9

2019: Mar. 6–24

*The March 6, 2018 departure spends one fewer day at sea, includes an additional day in South Georgia, and ends with a flight from the Falklands to Santiago, Chile. Visit our website for the detailed itinerary. If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST

Category 1

$16,990

Category 2

$18,130

Category 3

$19,130

Category 4

$20,350

Category 5

$24,580

Category 6

$28,350

Category 7

$32,880

DAYS 17, 18, AND 19 I AT SEA/USHUAIA, ARGENTINA/BUENOS AIRES/U.S.

Category A Solo

$22,660

Category B Solo

$23,910

Disembark in Ushuaia and board our chartered flight to Buenos Aires followed by an overnight flight home. Meals: Days 17 and 18: B/L/D

See the description, photos, and deck plan for the National Geographic Explorer on pages 50–51. Prices are per person, double occupancy, except those marked solo, which are based on single occupancy. International airfare to/from Buenos Aires and airfare to/from Ushuaia are not included in the expedition cost. The group flight to/from Ushuaia is $890–$1,240 per person depending on the departure date (subject to change).

Meals: B/L/D Daily

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS Prior to your voyage, add a two-day extension in Buenos Aires. Or add a four-day post-voyage extension to Easter Island or a three-day post-voyage extension to Iguazú Falls. Visit our website or call for details.

Maximum ship capacity: 148

SPECIAL OFFERS

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader and naturalists, will accompany this trip. National Geographic photographer Jay Dickman will join the March 6, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

Book by December 31, 2017 and receive complimentary round-trip airfare between Miami and Buenos Aires plus free round-trip charter airfare on all departures. We will also cover your bar tab and tips for the crew on all departures. Plus, solo travelers may book the Category A Solo or Category B Solo cabins on the March 6, 2018 departure and receive the standard double rates for Category 2 and Category 3, respectively. Please call for details.

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SOUTHGEORGIA

I


VIETNAM AND CAMBODIA: A LO N G T H E M EKO N G R I V ER T H E N AT G E O D I F F E R E N C E • J oin our team of experts on a seven-night cruise along the Mekong aboard the elegant Jahan riverboat. • Ride local boats among the floating houses of Kampong Chhnang, and ride an oxcart through the paddies surrounding the village of Kampong Tralach. • Watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, and spend two full days exploring the spectacular Angkor complex with our experts. • Enjoy special dining experiences, including a private dinner and traditional music and dance performance at one of Angkor’s temples and a dinner at the historic home of former U.S. ambassador to Vietnam Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr. in Ho Chi Minh City. ITINER ARY

|

15

DAY S

Wat Hanchey, and meet the friendly residents of Angkor Ban on a village stroll.

I N F O R M AT I O N

Jahan through Day 12 | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAT E S

DAY 8

I

KAMPONG CHHNANG/ KAMPONG TRALACH

Anchor at Kampong Chhnang and visit a village known for traditional pottery. Glimpse a unique way of life in the floating villages of Tonle Sap, and in Kampong Tralach, ride oxcarts to an ancient Buddhist temple. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 9 AND 10

DAYS 1, 2, AND 3

I

U.S./SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA

Depart for Siem Reap, crossing the international date line and “losing” a day. Upon arrival on Day 3, settle into our riverside hotel. La Résidence d’Angkor

DAYS 4 AND 5

I

ANGKOR

Rise early to watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, a 12th-century Khmer temple. Explore Ta Prohm and Banteay Srei, and pay a visit to Les Artisans d’Angkor, a traditional arts school. Ride a tuk-tuk, or motorized rickshaw, to the walled city of Angkor Thom to see the Bayon Temple and the Terrace of the Elephants. This evening, enjoy a private dinner and traditional Cambodian music and dance performance at one of Angkor’s temples. La Résidence d’Angkor | Meals: Day 4: B/L/D; Day 5: B/D

DAYS 6 AND 7

I

KAMPONG CHAM

Travel to the Mekong River, stopping for a picnic in Kampong Cham. Embark the Jahan and catch the sunset on deck before a welcome dinner. The next day, see an eighth-century temple at

I

PHNOM PENH/ THE MEKONG

During a full day in Phnom Penh, ride a cyclo (bicycle taxi) to the Royal Palace and its Silver Pagoda. Browse Khmer sculpture at the National Museum, and learn about the Khmer Rouge at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Tonight, witness an apsara dance performance. Then enjoy a relaxing day on the river, crossing into Vietnam in the afternoon. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 11 AND 12

I

TAN CHAU OR CHAU DOC, VIETNAM/CAI BE

Meander through the colorful markets of Tan Chau or Chau Doc and Cai Be, and visit nearby floating villages and river communities to learn about local enterprises. In the evening, gather for a gala dinner aboard the Jahan. Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 13, 14, AND 15

I

MY THO/HO CHI MINH CITY/U.S.

Disembark in My Tho and visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda before traveling to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Meet with a local expert and explore the city’s historic sites, including the Reunification Palace, seat of the South Vietnamese government during the Vietnam War. Have a private dinner at the former residence of U.S. Ambassador Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr. Transfer to the airport for your return flight, arriving home the same day. Park Hyatt Saigon

I

2019: Jan. 14–28 Jan. 22–Feb. 5* Feb. 11–25 Feb. 19–Mar. 5* Feb. 25–Mar. 11

*These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Ho Chi Minh City and ending in Siem Reap. If departing from outside the U.S., plan to arrive on the morning of Day 2.

COST

2018

2019

Category 1

$10,980

$11,190

Category 2

$11,790

$12,030

Category 3

$13,850

$14,130

Category 4

$16,580

$16,910

See the description, photo, and deck plan for the Jahan on page 60. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $5,490 in Category 1 in 2018, and $5,600 in 2019. International airfare to Siem Reap and return from Saigon, or vice versa, is not included in the expedition cost. Maximum ship capacity: 48

EXPEDITION TEAM A diverse team of experts, including an expedition leader, a cultural expert, and a naturalist, will accompany this trip. National Geographic historian Barry Till will join the March 6, 2018 departure. Read his bio and find more experts on our website.

.

Meals: Day 13: B/L/D; Days 14 and 15: B

Above: Draped in bright saffron robes, two monks gaze at Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.

2018: Jan. 29–Feb. 12 Feb. 6–20* Feb. 12–26 Feb. 26–Mar. 12 Mar. 6–20*

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/VIETNAM

Take to the Mekong aboard the luxurious river boat Jahan.

I

49


DECK PL ANS

N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C E X P LO R E R The National Geographic Explorer is a state-ofthe-art, fully stabilized, ice-class expedition ship with a reinforced forward hull that enables it to navigate polar environments while providing exceptional comfort. The ship carries kayaks and Zodiacs, as well as sophisticated video equipment that allows access to the underwater world. Our open bridge provides guests an opportunity to meet our officers and learn about navigation. All dining venues on board offer regionally inspired cuisine using fresh, local ingredients.

SPECIAL FEATURES: An undersea specialist, a National Geographic–Lindblad-certified photography instructor, a video chronicler, a full-time doctor, an elevator, an Internet café, a fitness center, a spa treatment room, a sauna, and laundry service. A National Geographic photographer accompanies every departure. WELLNESS: The vessel is staffed by a wellness specialist and features a glass-enclosed fitness center, an outdoor stretching area, a spa treatment room, and a sauna.

CAPACITY: 148 guests in 81 outside cabins REGISTRY: Bahamas OVERALL LENGTH: 367 feet PUBLIC AREAS: A bistro bar, a chart room, a gift shop, a library, a restaurant, a lounge with a bar and audiovisual facilities, an observation lounge, and a mudroom. Wi-Fi is available in select areas. MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables. The menu emphasizes regional fare. CABINS: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes, en suite bathrooms, climate controls, a flat-screen TV, Ethernet and Wi-Fi connections, and USB ports. Some have balconies. EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: Zodiacs, double kayaks, a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), a hydrophone, a splash cam, an underwater video camera, a crow’s-nest remote-controlled camera, and a video microscope

50

I

Above: Guests can follow the ship’s course in the chart room; the ship’s lounge invites guests to gather for nightly recaps and presentations.

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SHIPS

I


Clockwise from above: a Category 3 cabin; a Category 7 cabin with a step-out balcony; a standard bathroom.

ELEVATOR

LIBRARY

OBSERVATION LOUNGE

BRIDGE

BRIDGE DECK

WELLNESS DECK

CHART ROOM

FITNESS CENTER

LOUNGE 107

105-S

103

101

DECK

LEXspa

SAUNA

SUN DECK

108

106-S

104

102

DECK

VERANDA DECK RESTAURANT

BISTRO

RECEPTION BAL.

BAL.

230

228

BAL. BAL. BAL. BAL. BAL. BAL.

226

224

222

220

218

216

214

212

210

208-S

206

204

202

GALLEY

219 221

GLOBAL GALLERY

BALCONY BAL. BALCONY

215

213

211

209

217

207

205

203-S

201

BAL. BAL.

UPPER DECK

Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 Category 4

339

337

341-T

343-T

333-S

335

331-S

329-S

327

325

323

321

319

317

315

313

311-S

309-S

307

305

303

301

Category 5 Category 6 350

346

348

344

342

340

338

336

334-S

332-S

328

330-S

326

324

322

320

318

316

314

312-S

310-S

308

306

304

302

Category 7

INTERNET CAFE

WC IW

DOCTOR’S OFFICE

+

I

UNDERSEA SPECIALIST

ZB

LOCKERS

Category A Solo Category B Solo

MAIN DECK

C A B I N C AT E G O RY G U I D E

MUD ROOM CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SHIPS STAFF OFFICE

ZODIAC BOARDING

ZB

I

51


DECK PL ANS

N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C O R I O N The National Geographic Orion is a state-ofthe-art ship in the National Geographic– Lindblad fleet. Fully stabilized, it is spacious and modern, with a variety of public rooms that offer panoramic views of the passing landscape. The National Geographic Orion is friendly and informal, fostering a welcoming atmosphere where like-minded guests share in exceptional experiences and enrichment. CAPACITY: 102 guests in 53 outside cabins REGISTRY: Bahamas OVERALL LENGTH: 338 feet PUBLIC AREAS: An outdoor café, a lounge and cocktail bar perfect for briefings and entertainment, a restaurant, a sundeck with a hot tub, a reception desk, an observation lounge and library, a global gallery, a marina platform, and a mudroom. Wi-Fi is available in the observation and main lounges. Guests are welcome on the open bridge to meet the captain and officers and learn about navigation.

MEALS: Served in a single seating with unassigned tables. Exceptional cuisine features tastes of the regions we visit. CABINS: All cabins offer ocean views, private facilities, climate controls, Ethernet and Wi-Fi connections, USB ports, and a flat-screen TV. Some have balconies. EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: Zodiac landing craft, a fleet of 24 double kayaks, a hydrophone, underwater video cameras, a video microscope, a crow’s-nest camera, and a remotely operated vehicle (ROV). Plus, for South Pacific voyages, there is snorkel gear for all guests, 10 stand-up paddleboards, scuba gear* for 24 guests, a glass-bottom Zodiac, and a splash cam. SPECIAL FEATURES: Laundry service, an elevator, a full-time doctor, a wellness specialist, a video chronicler, an undersea specialist, a National Geographic photographer, and a National Geographic–Lindblad-certified photo instructor. Plus, for South Pacific voyages there are two dive masters. WELLNESS: The spa features a unisex dry sauna, fitness center with Life Fitness equipment, and a spa/massage/treatment room.

*Diving is available on all five South Pacific itineraries at an additional cost. Scuba divers must be certified by an internationally recognized dive association prior to the voyage, and certification cards and logbooks must be shown on board. Divers must have logged 25 dives in total and made a dive within the 12 months preceding the voyage. If you have not made an open-water dive within the past year, please contact us about a dive refresher course in Tahiti prior to your voyage. Above: The dining room serves locally inspired cuisine; the observation lounge features charts and a library for guest use. 52

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SHIPS

I


Clockwise from above: a Category 6 owner’s suite with French balcony; a Category 6 bathroom; a Category 3 cabin; the ship’s main lounge and bar

C A B I N C AT E G O RY G U I D E Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 Category 4 Category 5 Category 6 Category 1 Solo Category 3 Solo

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SHIPS

I

53


DECK PL ANS

N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C E N D E AV O U R I I The state-of-the-art National Geographic Endeavour II is one of the latest additions to the National Geographic–Lindblad fleet. This fully stabilized ship allows for smooth passage among the Galápagos Islands. Our Ecuadorian captain and officers welcome guests to the open bridge. CAPACITY: 96 guests in 52 outside cabins

a video chronicler, National Geographic Global Explorers program for kids and teens, snorkel instruction, a fitness center, laundry service, and a global gallery. WELLNESS: A new spa and fitness center, exercise classes, and a wellness specialist

Clockwise from top left: The National Geographic Endeavour II features 52 cabins accommodating 96 guests; our dining room serves all guests in one sociable seating; a typical Category 4 cabin

REGISTRY: Ecuador OVERALL LENGTH: 236 feet PUBLIC AREAS: New forward lounge and bar accommodating all guests for presentations and gatherings, a restaurant, a large library with Mac® kiosks, an open-air observation deck, and an area for underwater gear.

OBSERVATION DECK GYM & SPA

MEALS: Served in a single seating with unassigned tables. The menu is international with an Ecuadorian flair.

414

412

409

420

418

416

A B I N C A T E G O R Y G U I D E C

EXPEDITION GEAR 327 325

SPECIAL FEATURES: A shipboard doctor, a National Geographic–Lindblad-certified photo instructor,

321

319

317

315

313

318

316

314

311

BAR WC

330 328 326 324 322

320

DOCTOR’S OFFICE 221

219

228 226 224 222

UPPER DECK

217

215

213

218

216

214

211

209 207 205 203

201

208 206 204 202

RECEPTION DESK

ZODIAC BOARDING

RESTAURANT

GALLEY WC

Category 1

Category 2

Category 3

Category 4

LOUNGE

LOUNGE DECK

229 227 225

411

BRIDGE DECK

EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: Zodiacs, a glass-bottom boat, kayaks and paddleboards, snorkel gear and wet suits for both adults and children, a video microscope, and an underwater video camera

I

413

BRIDGE

422

GLOBAL GALLERY

CABINS: All face outside with large windows, Wi-Fi access, private facilities, and climate controls. Beds can be configured as two twins or as a single queen. Seven sets of cabins feature a connecting door and can be booked together for families.

54

415

LIBRARY

WC

Category 5 Suite A

Suite B

Suite C

Category 2 Solo

Category 3 Solo

MAIN DECK

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SHIPS

I


N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C I S L A N D E R Designed for just 48 guests, the intimate National Geographic Islander offers comfortable public spaces and a variety of exploration tools. Our Ecuadorian captain and officers welcome guests to the open bridge.

WELLNESS: A spa and fitness center, exercise classes, and a wellness specialist

Clockwise from top left: The National Geographic Islander; a member of our hospitality staff in the dining room; the lounge and bar; a Category 5 cabin

CAPACITY: 48 guests in 24 outside cabins REGISTRY: Ecuador

MEALS: Served in a single seating with unassigned tables. The menu is international with an Ecuadorian flair.

SPECIAL FEATURES: A shipboard doctor, a National Geographic–Lindblad certified photo instructor, a wellness specialist, a video chronicler, snorkel instruction, a fitness center, laundry service, and a global gallery

I

408

406

407

405

404

403

Category 1

402

Category 2

401

Category 3

Category 4

Category 5

UPPER DECK LIBRARY

306

304

305

303

302 BRIDGE

FITNESS CENTER

LOUNGE 301

INTERNET

BRIDGE DECK

210 208 DINING ROOM 209 207

206 204 202

LEXspa

EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: Zodiacs, a fleet of kayaks and paddleboards, snorkel gear and wet suits for both adults and children, a video microscope, and an underwater video camera

205 203 201

DOCTOR

CABINS: All have a window with an outside view, Wi-Fi access, private facilities, ample storage, and climate controls. The bed can be configured as two twins or as a single queen.

A B I N C A T E G O R Y G U I D E C

SUN DECK

RECEPTION

PUBLIC AREAS: An open-air observation deck and a second covered outside deck with hammocks, tables, and chairs; a lounge and bar accommodating all guests for presentations and gatherings; a dining room; a library; Mac ® kiosks; and Wi-Fi access.

BAR

OVERALL LENGTH: 164 feet

MAIN DECK

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SHIPS

I

55


DECK PL ANS

N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C Q U E S T A N D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C V E N T U R E The state-of-the-art National Geographic Quest and National Geographic Venture are the latest additions to the National Geographic–Lindblad fleet. The twin sister ships are specially designed for our expeditions and built in the U.S.A.

EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: A fleet of eight Zodiacs, 24 kayaks, snorkeling gear, a hydrophone, an underwater video camera, a video microscope, paddleboards, a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), and a splash cam

CAPACITY: 100 guests in 50 outside cabins

SPECIAL FEATURES: Exercise equipment and a spa, and an elevator. A National Geographic– Lindblad-certified photo instructor, a video chronicler, an undersea specialist, and a wellness specialist are also on board.

REGISTRY: United States OVERALL LENGTH: 238 feet PUBLIC AREAS: Each ship features a partially covered observation deck with chairs, tables, and an outdoor bar; a fitness center; a lounge with full-service bar and audiovisual facilities; a spa; a mudroom for storage of expedition gear; a global gallery; public restrooms on all decks; and an elevator. The open bridge provides guests an opportunity to meet our officers and captains and learn about navigation.

108

106

104

107

105

103

102

SUNDECK

BRIDGE W.C.

101

OBSERVATION DECK VIEWING PLATFORM

GLOBAL GALLERY

A B I N C A T E G O R Y G U I D E C

SPA ELEVATOR

GYM

MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables. Breakfast and lunch are wide-selection buffets with chef action stations, while dinners are primarily served plated.

ELEVATOR

Clockwise from top left: National Geographic Quest underway; a Category 4 cabin; the dining room with wraparound fl oor-to-ceiling windows; a Category 5 cabin

DINING ROOM

LOUNGE W.C.

LOUNGE DECK

CABINS: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes and offer Wi-Fi access, private facilities, and climate controls. Category 4 cabins have balconies and sliding glass doors. Connecting cabins are also available in Categories 1, 2, and 3.

228

226

224

222 220

218

216

214

229

227

225

223

221

219

217

215

ELEVATOR

212

210

208

206 204

202

211

209

207 205 203

201

W.C.

Category 1

Category 2

Category 3

Category 4

Category 5

UPPER DECK MUD ROOM

308 306 304 302

314

312

310

315

311

309 307 305 303 301

ELEVATOR

W.C.

MAIN DECK

56

I

TREATMENT ROOM

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SHIPS

I


N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C S E A B I R D A N D N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C S E A L I O N Our twin sister ships the National Geographic Sea Bird and National Geographic Sea Lion can enter narrow waterways inaccessible to bigger ships. Both ships have been recently restyled and refreshed. A fleet of kayaks and expedition landing craft provides easy access to places of interest, and plenty of public spaces allow guests to relax in comfort after a day of exploring. Our captain and officers welcome guests to the open bridge. CAPACITY: 62 guests in 31 outside cabins

SPECIAL FEATURES: Wi-Fi access, exercise equipment, a spa, a wellness specialist, a National Geographic–Lindblad-certified photo instructor, and a video chronicler. A doctor is on board in Baja and Costa Rica/Panama, and an undersea specialist is on board in Baja and Alaska. WELLNESS: The vessel is staffed by a wellness specialist and features exercise equipment, a spa, and an outdoor stretching area.

Clockwise from top left: The 62-guest National Geographic Sea Lion; the lounge bar; the open sundeck is the perfect place to enjoy the view; a Category 3 cabin

REGISTRY: United States OVERALL LENGTH: 152 feet

MEALS: Served in a single seating with unassigned tables. The menu features locally inspired fare. CABINS: All cabins face outside with windows, private facilities, reading lights, and individual climate controls. EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: A bow camera; a hydrophone; kayaks; snorkeling gear; expedition landing craft; a splash cam; stand-up paddleboards; an underwater video camera; a video microscope; and, in Baja, wet suits

I

A B I N C A T E G O R Y G U I D E C SUNDECK LEXspa

105

103

101

CPTN.

106

104

102

100

BRIDGE

PUBLIC AREAS: A library, a gift shop, a lounge with full-service bar and audiovisual facilities, an observation deck, a partially covered sundeck with chairs and tables, and an outdoor stretching area

GYM EQUIPMENT

BRIDGE DECK 219 216

217 214

215 211 212 210

Category 1

Category 2

Category 3

209 207 205 203 201 208 206 204 202 200

OBSERVATION DECK

UPPER DECK 305 303 301 DINING ROOM

BAR LOUNGE

304 302 300

MAIN DECK

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SHIPS

I

57


DECK PL ANS

Clockwise from top left: the Sea Cloud; staff pays meticulous attention to detail before dinner; a Category B cabin.

S E A C LO U D

CAPACITY: 58 guests in 30 cabins, including two owner’s suites

30 32 34 36

BRIDGE

The Sea Cloud, a four-masted square-rigger, was built in 1931 by Wall Street businessman E. F. Hutton for his wife, Marjorie Merriweather Post. Cabins and common areas are beautifully appointed with antiques and period-style furniture. The Sea Cloud carries 30 sails measuring a total of 32,000 square feet. They are raised by hand by a spirited crew, and guests have the chance to learn about their design and function during the voyage. Guests are welcome on the open bridge to learn how the Sea Cloud is navigated and sailed. While the ship is elegant, the atmosphere on board is relaxed and casual. A National Geographic–Lindblad-certified photography instructor will be on board on all departures.

31 33 35 37

CAPTAIN’S AND LIDO DECK LOUNGE

16

18 20 22 24

17

PROMENADE DECK 2

OVERALL LENGTH: 360 feet

1

MEALS: Served in a single seating with unassigned tables. The menu emphasizes regional fare.

4

6

8

5

7

9

A B I N C A T E G O R Y G U I D E C

and cabins equipped with windows or portholes, private facilities, individual climate controls, and a hair dryer. The two owner’s suites, once the quarters of Hutton and Post, have sitting areas, fireplaces, and walk-in closets—and were designed by Ms. Post herself.

I

3

10

MAIN DECK

CABINS: The ship features 30 outside staterooms

58

29

19 21 23 25

REGISTRY: Malta PUBLIC AREAS: An outdoor lido bar, two sundecks, a first-class restaurant, an elegant bar and lounge, and Wi-Fi access in the lounge and on the Lido deck

28

RESTAURANT LOUNGE

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SHIPS

Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 Category 4

Original Deluxe B Original Deluxe A Owner’s Suite

I


Clockwise from top left: the Delfin II; a Master Suite; the dining room features wrap-around windows.

DELFIN II The Delfin II is an intimate riverboat with luxurious suites that offer expansive Amazon views. Skiffs and kayaks allow guests to venture down narrow jungle waterways on day and night excursions. CAPACITY: 28 guests in 14 outside suites REGISTRY: Peru

SPA

ENCLOSED LOUNGE

LOUNGE

BAR

BRIDGE

EXERCISE ROOM

OBSERVATION DECK

OVERALL LENGTH: 120 feet PUBLIC AREAS: An enclosed air-conditioned lounge and lecture room; an observation deck with sofas, chairs, and a bar; a reference library; and an open bridge where guests are welcome to meet the captain and officers. MEALS: Served in a single seating with unassigned tables. The menu features local cuisine made from sustainable ingredients. SUITES: Elegant, air-conditioned guest suites feature large windows and private facilities. Four are master suites with 90-degree panoramic windows, and four suites can be interconnected to accommodate families.

12

14

16

11

13

15

DINING ROOM

UPPER DECK 2

4

6

8

1

3

5

7

MAIN DECK

EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: 10-person skiffs with individual seat cushions and plenty of leg room, a fleet of kayaks, rain ponchos, and rubber boots SPECIAL FEATURES: A National Geographic–

A B I N C A T E G O R Y G U I D E C

Suite Master Suite

Lindblad-certified photography instructor and wellness specialist will be on board all departures. See pages 21 and 27 for the cabin category guide.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SHIPS

I

59


DECK PL ANS

LO R D O F T H E G L E N S CAPACITY: 48 guests in 26 outside cabins REGISTRY: Great Britain OVERALL LENGTH: 150 feet

CAPACITY: 48 guests in 24 outside cabins REGISTRY: Vietnam

MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling, meals focus on healthy cuisine including fresh Scottish poultry, trout, and other options. CABINS: Cabins are tasteful, comfortable, and amply sized, with outside views. Most cabins have picture windows (three have two large portholes high in the cabin). Facilities include a private bathroom with shower, individually controlled air-conditioning and heating, a television, a music system, a hair dryer, a telephone, a safety deposit box, bathrobes, and toiletries. SPECIAL FEATURES: Bicycles are available. There is complimentary Internet access at a computer in the reception area. Lord of the Glens is the only ship of its kind able to both navigate the locks of the Caledonian Canal and sail among the islands of the Inner Hebrides. She offers us the unique ability to explore both the Highlands and the fabled Scottish isles.

SIR WALTER SCOTT

LOUNGE/LIBRARY

LOUNGE

TERRACE

MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables. The menu features regional fare. CABINS: Every cabin is exceptionally spacious and comfortable. All face outside, and all have glass doors and private balconies for enjoying the scenery along the Mekong River and its tributaries. There is a mix of cabins with twin and queen-size beds. Each has private facilities and a hair dryer, individual climate control, a music entertainment system, and a mini-bar. A choice of pillows is provided on request. SPECIAL FEATURES: There is a spa that offers a choice of massage treatments, and a fitness room with a steam bath and a treadmill, a stationary bicycle, and an elliptical trainer. The boutique has a fine selection of local artwork and textiles. Morning tai chi classes are offered on the Terrace Deck. DVD and iPod® players are available on request.

RESTAURANT

APSARA SPA

SPA POOL FUNNEL BAR

THOMAS TELFORD DECK RECEPTION

RESTAURANT

302 304

TERRACE DECK BOUTIQUE

305

201

203 205

207 209

211

202

204 206

208 210

212

103 105

107 109

111

113

104 106

108 110

112

114

BRIDGE

301 303

ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON

PUBLIC AREAS: Outdoor areas include the Terrace Deck, with both covered and open-air spaces, a small swimming pool, and a full-service bar. The lounge, located on the Upper Deck, has a library and facilities for films, slide shows, and presentations. The ship is fully air-conditioned. Guests are welcome on the open bridge to meet the captain and officers and learn about navigation.

LOBBY LOUNGE

306

ALEXANDER GRAHAM BELL DECK 201

203 205

207

209 211

217

219*

202

204 206

208

210 212

214 216

218*

RECEPTION

UPPER DECK

DAVID ROBERTS DECK

FITNESS ROOM

DAVID LIVINGSTONE

OVERALL LENGTH: 230 feet

OBSERVATORY

PUBLIC AREAS: With exterior teak decks, hardwood finished interiors, and fine fabrics, Lord of the Glens offers a stylish and relaxing ambience. The two lounges and two open-air viewing areas are social hubs aboard ship. There is a bar, and space to read books from the wellstocked library.

TERRACE

JAHAN

105

MAIN DECK 104* 106*

JAMES WATT DECK

60

I

See pages 32 and 49 for the cabin category guide.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/SHIPS Cat 1 color

Cat 2 color

Cat 3 color

Suite color


RESPONSIBILITY National Geographic Expeditions (as defined herein) will provide educational enrichment for trips as outlined in its catalog and on its website (natgeoexpeditions.com) (each an “Expedition”) and has licensed qualified professional tour operators to organize and administer such Expeditions. The designated tour operator, in turn, acts only as an agent for any transportation carrier, hotel, ground operator, or other suppliers of services connected with specific Expeditions (“Other Providers”), and the Other Providers are solely responsible and liable for providing their respective services. The passenger tickets in use by the carriers will constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the passenger; the carriers are not responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time the participants are not aboard their conveyances. National Geographic Partners, LLC d/b/a National Geographic Expeditions, its parent, subsidiaries, and their respective employees, affiliates, officers, directors, successors, representatives, assigns (collectively “National Geographic”) and the tour operator will not be held liable for (A) any damage to, or loss of, property or injury to, or death of, persons occasioned directly or indirectly by an act or omission of any Other Provider, including but not limited to any defect in any aircraft, watercraft, or vehicle operated or provided by such Other Provider; and (B) any loss or damage due to delay, cancellation, or disruption in any manner caused by

TERMS AND CONDITIONS Basis of Rates: All prices are per person based on two persons sharing a room or cabin. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars. The rates are based on tariffs, currency values, airfares and third-party charges as of catalog publication date and are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. While National Geographic will do everything possible to maintain the listed prices, if it is necessary to levy a surcharge, National Geographic reserves the right to do so, and notification will be given at the time of final invoicing. Eligibility: Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire Expedition. Included in Expedition Cost: Accommodations and meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner); educational materials; pre-departure information; entrance fees, excursions, and sightseeing noted as included in the itinerary; all gratuities except those for train or ship's crew, unless otherwise noted on the itinerary page; ground transportation during the Expedition; transfers to and from group flights where applicable; services of National Geographic experts and/or local guides, lecturers, Expedition leaders, and any other staff; and taxes, port charges, baggage handling, and service charges. Please note: the “B, L, D” notations apply to the period during the Expedition only and do not include any meals on flights to/from the Expedition. Internal airfare is included on some international Expeditions as indicated in the itinerary. Not Included in Expedition Cost: Air transportation and related fees (except as indicated in the itinerary); activities noted as optional in the itinerary; gratuities for train or ship’s crew, unless otherwise noted on the itinerary page; passport, visa, and permit expenses; medical expenses and immunizations; baggage/ accident/cancellation insurance; personal expenses, such as laundry, telephone calls, and alcoholic beverages; and any other items not specifically noted as included. Single/Shared Accommodations: A limited number of single rooms/cabins are available at an extra cost on a first-come, first-served basis. National Geographic Expeditions and/or the tour operator will assist persons requesting a roommate. The participants will be notified if a suitable roommate is not available, in which case the single rate will be charged. Payments, Cancellations, and Refunds: To reserve space on an Expedition, a $500 per-person deposit is required for Expeditions that are nine days or less; a $750 per-person deposit is required for Expeditions that are ten to 15 days; and a $2,000 per-person deposit is required for Expeditions that are 16 days or more except if noted on the itinerary page. Final payment is due no later than 90 days prior to departure. Payments must be made by credit card. A participant’s reservation may be canceled if full payment has not been received by 90 days prior to departure. For reservations made within 90 days of the departure date, full payment is required when the reservation is accepted. All cancellation notices must be received in writing and will become effective as of the date of the postmark. If a participant cancels 120 days or more prior to departure, a refund less an administrative fee of 50% of the deposit will be made. Per-person charges for cancellations that occur less than 120 days prior to departure (“Cancellation Penalty Period”) are as follows: 91-119 days prior to departure: 100% of the deposit amount; 45-90 days prior to departure: 50% of the Expedition cost; 44 or fewer days prior to departure: 100% of the Expedition cost. This policy also applies to pre- and post-Expedition extensions. Any revisions made within the Cancellation Penalty Period, such as a change in departure date or choice of Expedition, are subject to this cancellation policy. Any airline tickets issued are subject to the carrier’s refund policy. Arriving late or leaving an Expedition in progress, for any reason whatsoever, will not result in a refund, and no refunds will be made for any unused portions of an Expedition. National Geographic Expeditions reserves the right to cancel any Expedition because of inadequate

the laws, regulations, acts or failures to act, demands, orders, or interpositions of any government or any subdivision or agent thereof, or by acts of God, strikes, fire, flood, war, rebellion, terrorism, insurrection, sickness, quarantine, epidemics, theft, or any other cause(s) beyond their control. The participant waives any claim against National Geographic and/or the tour operator for any such loss, damage, injury, or death. By registering for an Expedition, the participant certifies that he/she does not have any mental, physical, or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for himself or herself or other participants. National Geographic Expeditions and the tour operator reserve the right in their sole discretion to accept, decline to accept, or remove any participant on an Expedition. National Geographic Expeditions and the tour operator reserve the right, without penalty, to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their judgment, conditions warrant or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the participants. Neither National Geographic, nor the tour operator, will be liable for any air carrier's cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket to or from the participant's Expedition departure city. Baggage and personal effects are at all times the sole responsibility of the participant.

enrollment that makes the Expedition economically infeasible to operate or because of good-faith concerns with respect to the safety, health, or welfare of the participants. If an Expedition is canceled prior to departure, the tour operator will provide the participants with a full refund of monies paid to the tour operator; except in the event that the cancellation is due to a significant event that makes it infeasible to operate the Expedition as planned, in which case the tour operator will provide the participants with a refund and/or credit toward a future Expedition equivalent to the amount paid to the tour operator. If National Geographic Expeditions cancels the Expedition in progress, the participants will receive a prorated refund based on the number of days not completed on the Expedition. Except as outlined above when National Geographic Expeditions cancels an Expedition, National Geographic and the tour operator have no responsibility for any expenses, including any non-refundable expenses, incurred by the participants in preparing for a cancelled Expedition or for any additional arrangements should the participants embark prior to the scheduled group departure date. Trip-cancellation insurance is available at an additional cost and is strongly recommended. For more information about and to enroll in an option available through Travel Insurance Services, visit the “Travel Insurance” section of our website at natgeoexpeditions.com. Itinerary Changes: The itineraries and staff presented in the catalog or on the website are subject to modification and change by National Geographic Expeditions or the tour operator. Every reasonable effort will be made to operate Expeditions as planned, but alterations may still occur after final itineraries are sent. Documentation: Participants are responsible for obtaining any documents required for their participation in the Expedition such as a valid passport, all visas, vaccination certificates, and any other documents. Failure to obtain documents does not negate the terms and conditions, and any extra costs incurred for rerouting due to travel without the necessary documents will be the participant’s responsibility. Health Requirements: Participants must be in good physical and mental health. Any physical condition, diet, or treatment requiring special attention must be reported in writing when the reservation is made. National Geographic Expeditions encourages participants to consult a doctor for specific medical advice about any activities or destinations. Certain Expeditions may require that the participant obtain medical consent prior to departure as a condition of participation. Medical Authorization and Coverage: In the event the participant becomes sufficiently incapacitated as to be unable to direct his or her own care, there is no one on the Expedition who can direct participant’s care, and National Geographic Expeditions is unable or does not have time to contact participant’s emergency contact, the participant, by registering and paying a deposit for an Expedition, authorizes any medical treatment deemed necessary in the event of any injury or illness while participating in the activity including, but not limited to, X-ray, examination, anesthetic, medical or surgical diagnosis, or treatment and hospital care which is deemed advisable by, and is to be rendered under the general or specific supervision of, any physician and/or surgeon licensed in the United States, or, if in a foreign country and no physician licensed to practice in the United States is reasonably available, by a duly licensed physician deemed competent to render the necessary care. In addition, the participant certifies that they have medical insurance which will cover personal accidents, medical expenses, medical evacuation, air ambulance, loss of effects, repatriation costs and all other expenses which might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience occurring to the participant, or that in the absence of this medical insurance coverage, the participant agrees to pay all costs of rescue and/ or medical services as may be incurred on the participant’s behalf.

Copyright © 2017 National Geographic Partners, LLC. E Recycled paper NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPEDITIONS and the Yellow Border Design are trademarks of the National Geographic Society, used under license.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

L I F E LO N G E X P LO R E R To learn about the Lifelong Explorer program, visit natgeoexpeditions.com/lle.

Photography: National Geographic Expeditions and the tour operator and the Expedition leader reserve the right to take photographs or videos during the operation of any Expedition or part thereof and to use the resulting photography, videos, or recordings for promotional or commercial use. By making a reservation on an Expedition, the participant agrees to allow his/her likeness to be used by National Geographic, National Geographic-authorized third parties, and the tour operator without compensation to the participant. If the participant prefers that his/her likeness not be used, he/she must notify National Geographic Expeditions and/or the tour operator in writing prior to departure of the Expedition. Copyright in all photographs, video, and related materials created by the participant (“Expedition Materials”) will belong to the participant upon creation. The participant grants to National Geographic a non-exclusive, worldwide, irrevocable license to use any Expedition Materials provided to National Geographic and/or the tour operator in any media for the following limited purposes: editorial use, promotion of this editorial use, promotion of National Geographic’s travel programs, or promotion of the mission of National Geographic. Assumption of Risk: By registering for an Expedition, the participant acknowledges that he/she is aware that travel such as the Expedition he/she is undertaking involves potentially dangerous activities, some in remote areas of the world, with a risk of illness, injury or death which may be caused by forces of nature, illness, or by willful or criminal conduct of third parties or by terrorism. The participant further acknowledges that weather conditions may be severe, adverse and/or unpleasant and that medical services or facilities may not be readily available or accessible or consistent with standards in the United States during some or all of the time during which he/she is participating on the Expedition and that when available may not be of the quality which exists in the United States. Arbitration Agreement: Arbitration Agreement policy and process is available at natgeoexpeditions.com/terms Privacy Policy: Our privacy policy can be found at nationalgeographic.com/ community/privacy/ Mailing List: If you are receiving duplicate catalogs, have address updates, or would like to be removed from future National Geographic Expeditions mailings, please call toll-free 1-888-966-8687. Other: The applicable Terms and Conditions may vary from those listed above based upon the specific Expedition selected by the participant. Please see our website to review the most up-to-date Terms and Conditions for each Expedition. A copy of the final Terms and Conditions applicable to each participant will be sent in pre-Expedition communications. Complete Terms: For the most complete and up-to-date Terms and Conditions, please see natgeoexpeditions.com/terms Key: t=top, c=center, b=bottom, l=left, r=right: Photo Credits: Jonathan Aguas (4-5), Deborah Barnette (back cover), Marc Cappelletti (56tr), Ken Carlson (13bl), Sisse Brimberg & Cotton Coulson (8cr, 50br, 51tl), Marvin del Cid (22tl), Stewart Cohen (8t, 50t, 50cr, 55tr), Paul Cowan (31tl), Alexandra C. Daley-Clark (9cr), Jennifer Davidson (17tl), Danita Delimont (18tl), Stephen Emerson (32tl), Andrey Gudkov (29tl), Eric Guth (9cl, 39tl, 56tl, 56cr), Ralph Lee Hopkins (3tl, 28 tl, 40tl, 41tl, 42tl, 43bl, 44tl, 45tl, 45bl, 46cr, 47bl), John Hyde (14br), Sven-Olof Lindblad (55tl), Jeff Litton (cover, 2cr, 13br), Michael Luppino (51tr, 51cr, 52t, 52cr), Richard Maack (59tr), Sophie Mattison (back cover), Jeff Mauritzen (13tl), Joe McDonald (43bc), Emily Mount (14tl), Carlos J. Navarro (16tl), Flip Nicklin (46tl), Michael S. Nolan (2br, 6, 10-11, 20tl, 42br, 43 tl, 44cr, 47tl, 48tl), Angelica Ocay (back cover), Nisha Patel (back cover), John Peter (60tl), Marco Ricca (8cl, 9tr, 52br, 53tr, 53cr, 53br, 53cr, 57cr), Susan Seubert (15tl), Hugh Sitton (49tl), Tom Soucek (12tl), Susan Stoker (back cover), Ian Strachan (2tl), Keren Su (27tl), Monica and Michael Sweet (33tl), Rikki Swenson (57tl), Evan Thornton (back cover), Vincent Truchet (35tl), Kirsten Tucker (back cover), David Vargas (24tl, 25c, 49br, 54tl, 54tr, 54cr, 57tr, 58tl, 59tr, 59t, 60tr), Dirk Weyer (58tr)

I

61


EXPEDITIONS CALENDAR 2019 DEPA RTU RE DAT E S

# OF DAYS

ALASKA'S INSIDE PASSAGE

12

8

SEA LION/ QUEST OR VENTURE*

WILD ALASKA ESCAPE

14

6

SEA BIRD

EPIC ALASKA: MISTY FIORDS TO THE LYNN CANAL

15

11

SEA BIRD

TREASURES OF THE INSIDE PASSAGE: ALASKA AND BRITISH COLUMBIA

16

14

QUEST/ VENTURE

A REMARKABLE JOURNEY TO ALASKA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, AND HAIDA GWAII

17

15

SEA BIRD/ SEA LION

EXPLORING BRITISH COLUMBIA AND THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS

18

8

VENTURE

COLUMBIA AND SNAKE RIVERS VOYAGE

19

7

QUEST

SHIP

PAGE

2 0 1 8 D E PA R T U R E DAT E S

JAN.

FEB.

MAR.

APR.

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUG.

SEPT.

OCT.

NOV.

DEC.

JAN.

FEB.

8, 15. 22, 29

5, 12, 19, 26

2, 9, 16

NORTH AMERICA 1, 1*, 7*, 8, 4*, 5, 5*, 3*, 10, 13*, 20, 20*, 8*, 14, 15, 11, 12, 12*, 10*, 17, 17*, 27, 27* 15*, 21*, 22, 18*, 19, 19*, 24* 22* 29* 25, 26 19, 24, 29

8, 18

30

1, 2

5, 6

27, 26

12, 18 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24

BAJA CALIFORNIA AND THE SEA OF CORTEZ: AMONG THE GREAT WHALES

20

9

SEA BIRD/ SEA LION

WHALES AND WILDNESS: SPRING IN THE SEA OF CORTEZ

20

8

SEA BIRD/ SEA LION

31

BAJA CALIFORNIA: A REMARKABLE JOURNEY

20

16

SEA BIRD/ SEA LION

4, 16, 18

DESTINATION BAJA: ESPIRITU SANTO

20 4/5

SAILING THE CARIBBEAN

W

8

SEA CLOUD

CUBA BY LAND AND SEA: CULTURAL HERITAGE AND NATURAL WONDERS

W

11

HARMONY V

REEFS AND RUINS: BELIZE TO TIKAL, GUATEMALA

22

9

QUEST

COSTA RICA AND THE PANAMA CANAL†

23

8

QUEST

6, 13, 20, 27

COSTA RICA: CLOUD FOREST TO THE CARIBBEAN

W

9

LAND PROGRAM

12, 26

GALÁPAGOS

24

10

5, 6*, 12, ENDEAVOUR II/ 13*, 19, 20*, ISLANDER* 26, 27*

GALÁPAGOS AND PERU

25

16

ENDEAVOUR II/ ISLANDER* + LAND PROGRAM

5, 13*, 19, 27*

2, 10*, 16, 24*

2, 10*, 16, 24*, 30

7*, 13, 21*, 27

5*, 11, 19*, 25

2*, 8, 16*, 22, 30*

PERU: LAND OF THE INCA

26

8

LAND PROGRAM

6, 13, 21, 27

4, 10, 18, 24

3, 10, 18, 24

1, 7, 15, 21, 29

5, 13, 19, 27

UPPER AMAZON †

27

10

DELPHIN II

3, 10

10, 17, 24, 31

26

BEST OF PATAGONIA: TORRES DEL PAINE TO CAPE HORN

28

15

ORION

EPIC PATAGONIA: FJORDS, PEAKS, AND FORESTS

29 20

PATAGONIA: CHILEAN FJORDS AND ARGENTINA’S STATEN ISLAND

W

11

ORION

UNDER SAIL: GREECE TO THE DALMATIAN COAST †

30

12

SEA CLOUD

SAILING THE GREEK ISLES †

31

9

SEA CLOUD

VOYAGE TO ANTIQUITY: EXPLORING SICILY AND MALTA

W

16

SEA CLOUD

SCOTLAND'S HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS †

32

9

LORD OF THE GLENS

SEA BIRD

7, 12 17, 22

3, 28

13, 19, 26, 27

15, 22, 29

6, 13, 20

17, 23, 29

5, 11, 17

2, 3, 10

2, 7, 9, 14

1, 4, 7, 10

8, 15, 22 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

7, 14, 21, 28

7, 14, 21

8, 13, 18, 23, 28

10

19

17, 22, 27

4, 9, 14, 19, 25

2, 16

SOUTH AMERICA 2, 3*, 9, 10*, 16, 17*, 23, 24*

2, 3*, 9, 10*, 6, 7*, 13, 14*, 4, 5*, 11, 12*, 1, 2*, 8, 9*, 15, 6, 7*, 13, 16, 17*, 23, 20, 21*, 27, 18, 19*, 25, 16*, 22, 23*, 14*, 20, 21*, 24*, 30, 31* 28* 26* 29, 30* 27, 28*

3, 4*, 10, 11*, 17, 18*, 24, 25*

1*, 8*, 15*, 22*, 29*

6*, 19, 26

2, 9, 10*, 16, 17*, 23, 24*, 30

1*, 7, 8*, 14, 15*, 21, 22*, 28, 29*

4, 5*, 11, 12*, 18, 19*, 25, 26*

1, 2*, 8, 9*, 15, 16*, 22, 23*

6, 14*, 20, 28*

3, 11*, 17, 25*

1*, 8*, 15*, 22*, 29*

19, 26

2, 16, 24*

1*, 14, 22*, 28

4, 12*, 18, 26*

1, 9*, 15, 23*

2, 10, 16, 24, 30

8, 14, 22, 28

5, 11, 19, 25

2, 9, 16, 23, 30

7, 13, 20, 27

3, 10, 18, 24

2, 9, 22

12, 20, 26

3, 9, 17, 23

30

7

18, 25

13, 27

3

8, 15, 29

5, 12, 19, 26

2, 16, 23

7

25

EXPLORER

6 7

29

EUROPE

62

I

28

7

21

14

17

31

7

14 10, 17

22, 29

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

5, 12, 19, 26

I


2019 DEPA RTU RE DAT E S

PAGE

# OF DAYS

SHIP

2 0 1 8 D E PA R T U R E DAT E S

FRENCH POLYNESIA: BEYOND THE POSTCARD

33

10

ORION

12, 26

ISLES, ATOLLS, AND PRISTINE CORALS: SOUTHERN LINE ISLANDS

34

10

ORION

19

AZURE SEAS FROM TAHITI TO THE MARQUESAS

35

17

ORION

EPIC POLYNESIA: COOK ISLANDS TO FIJI

36

17

ORION

EASTER ISLAND TO TAHITI: TALES OF THE PACIFIC

37 20

ORION

JAN.

FEB.

MAR.

APR.

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUG.

7

5, 12, 19, 26

2

SEPT.

OCT.

NOV.

DEC.

JAN.

FEB.

25*, 26

5*, 6, 15*,16, 25* 26

4*, 5, 14*, 15, 24*, 25

3*, 4

SOUTH PACIFIC

3

14

9

21

16

10, 24

26

30

POLAR A CIRCUMNAVIGATION OF ICELAND

38

11

EXPLORER

HOT SPRINGS AND ICEBERGS: ICELAND TO WEST GREENLAND

39

9

EXPLORER

EXPLORING GREENLAND AND THE CANADIAN HIGH ARCTIC

40 16

EXPLORER

6

EPIC 80ºN: EXPLORING GREENLAND AND BAFFIN AND ELLESMERE ISLANDS

41

24

EXPLORER

17

LAND OF THE POLAR BEARS

42

11

EXPLORER

16, 23, 30

NORWAY'S FJORDS AND ARCTIC SVALBARD

43

17

EXPLORER

3

SVALBARD, ICELAND, AND GREENLAND'S EAST COAST

43

17

EXPLORER

JOURNEY TO ANTARCTICA

44

14

EXPLORER/ ORION*

ANTARCTICA, SOUTH GEORGIA, AND THE FALKLANDS

46 24

EXPLORER/ ORION*

SOUTH GEORGIA AND THE FALKLANDS†

48

19

EXPLORER

49

15

JAHAN

EPIC ALASKA: MISTY FIORDS TO THE LYNN CANAL

15

11

SEA BIRD

A REMARKABLE JOURNEY TO ALASKA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, AND HAIDA GWAII

17

15

SEA BIRD/ SEA LION

WHALES AND WILDNESS: SPRING IN THE SEA OF CORTEZ

20

8

SEA BIRD/ SEA LION

BAJA CALIFORNIA: A REMARKABLE JOURNEY

20

16

SEA BIRD/ SEA LION

CUBA BY LAND AND SEA: CULTURAL HERITAGE AND NATURAL WONDERS

W

11

HARMONY V

GALÁPAGOS

24

10

ENDEAVOUR II

ALASKA'S INSIDE PASSAGE

12

8

SEA LION/ QUEST OR VENTURE*

GALÁPAGOS

24

10

28

7, 16, 25

5, 9

13

14, 15*

5*, 6

6

13*, 14

22

ASIA VIETNAM AND CAMBODIA: ALONG THE MEKONG RIVER

29

6, 12, 26

6

14, 22

11, 19, 25

PHOTO EXPEDITIONS 18, 28

5

27

4, 18, 16

10

28

11

1, 9

13*, 20, 20*, 27, 27*

3, 3*, 10, 10*, 17, 17*, 24, 24*

23, 30

FAMILY EXPEDITIONS

5, 6*, 12, ENDEAVOUR II/ 13*, 19, 20*, ISLANDER* 26, 27*

2, 3*, 9, 10*, 16, 17*, 23, 24*

1, 1*, 7*, 8, 8*, 4*, 5, 5*, 11, 14, 15, 15*, 12, 12*, 18*, 19, 21*, 22, 22*, 19*, 25, 26 28, 29*

2, 3*, 9, 10*, 6, 7*, 13, 14*, 4, 5*, 11, 12*, 1, 2*, 8, 9*, 15, 6, 7*, 13, 16, 17*, 23, 20, 21*, 27, 18, 19*, 25, 16*, 22, 23*, 14*, 20, 21*, 24*, 30, 31* 28* 26* 29, 30* 27, 28*

3, 4*, 10, 11*, 17, 18*, 24, 25*

1*, 8*, 15*, 22*, 29*

6*, 19, 26

2, 9, 10*, 16, 17*, 23, 24*, 30

1*, 7, 8*, 14, 15*, 21, 22*, 28, 29*

4, 5*, 11, 12*, 1, 2*, 8, 9*, 15, 18, 19*, 25, 16*, 22, 23* 26*

†Departure dates before January 2018 or beyond February 2019 are listed on the itinerary pages for these trips.

I

CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM

I

63


PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

1 1 4 5 1 7 T H S T R E E T N W, W A S H I N G T O N , D C

|

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

20036

P H OTOS FRO M O U R T R AV EL ER S

|

R E S E R V E O N L I N E AT N AT G E O E X P E D I T I O N S .CO M O R C A L L 1 - 8 8 8 - 9 6 6 - 8 6 8 7

7948–17

PERU: L AND OF THE INCA @ide_si

EPIC AL ASK A: MISTY FIORDS TO THE LYNN CANAL @evan.thornton

L AND OF THE POL AR BEARS @nisha1184

JOURNEY TO ANTARCTICA

@sue117

GAL ÁPAGOS @sophiemattison

SCOTL AND’S HIGHL ANDS AND ISL ANDS @debbarnette

SVALBARD, ICEL AND, AND GREENL AND’S EAST COAST @kirsten-tucker


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.