2014-2015 national geographic small ship expeditions
DESCRIPTION
Discover far-flung destinations from Antarctica to Iceland with a team of experts aboard the National Geographic fleet, including new voyages to Africa, Madagascar, and the coral-fringed islands of the Indian Ocean.TRANSCRIPT
EXPEDITIONS ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC–LINDBLAD FLEET | 2014–15
EXPEDITIONS ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC-LINDBLAD FLEET
NORTH AMERICA
10 Baja California and the Sea of Cortez
12 Costa Rica and the Panama Canal
14 Alaska's Inside Passage
58 The Canadian Maritimes
59 Sailing the Caribbean
59 Columbia and Snake Rivers Journey
SOUTH AMERICA
16 Galápagos
18 Upper Amazon
58 Patagonia: Argentina and the Chilean Fjords
59 Peru: Land of the Inca
EUROPE
20 Under Sail: Greece to the Dalmatian Coast
22 Sailing the Greek Isles
24 Scotland's Highlands and Islands
26 Exploring the British and Irish Isles
59 Exploring the Low Countries: Holland and Belgium
POLAR REGIONS
29 Along the Viking Trail: Iceland to Greenland
29 Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland's East Coast
30 Land of the Polar Bears
32 Norway's Fjords and Arctic Svalbard
34 Exploring Greenland and the Canadian High Arctic
36 A Circumnavigation of Iceland
38 Journey to Antarctica
40 Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falklands
ASIA
42 Wild Encounters from Borneo to Bali
44 Vietnam and Cambodia: Along the Mekong River
AFRICA
46 Wildlife and Cultures of South Africa, Mozambique, and Madagascar NEW
48 Voyage to West Africa: Gold Coast to Morocco NEW
AUSTRALIA
56 Australia's Wild Northwest with the Spice Islands NEW
58 Australia's Wild Northwest NEW
2 CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 OR RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM
Dear Traveler,As part of my introduction to all things National Geographic as the Society’s
new president and CEO, I was fortunate to travel to Antarctica aboard the
National Geographic Explorer late last year. We arrived in the middle of
penguin nesting season and it was as if we were watching March of the Penguins play out right in front of us, with hatching eggs and fuzzy chicks
being pushed along and protected by their parents. Antarctica is one of
the last untouched places on Earth, a testament to the power of nature in
its rawest form. We enjoyed 22 hours of spectacular daylight and a pristine
sense of our planet that I’ve never felt anywhere else.
We experienced Antarctica surrounded by scientists, explorers, and
photographers who informed and inspired us every step of the way, and
we couldn’t help but be moved. Every time our experts gave a talk, the
lounge was packed—no one wanted to miss a story, a photograph, or
an insight on the places we were exploring. This was an eye-opening,
transformational kind of journey, and it was also deeply—and
eff ortlessly—educational. For someone who has dedicated his career
to lifelong learning, this was education in one of its most powerful
forms. Instead of taking a class in oceanography or wildlife biology or
geology, we were living it.
This year marks 10 years of National Geographic's partnership with
Lindblad Expeditions, ten years of bringing our travelers to incredible
places from Alaska to the Amazon and from Arctic Norway to Borneo,
and ten years of inspiring people to foster our planet’s wonders.
Our alliance continues to grow and prosper: this year, the National Geographic Orion will sail the South Pacifi c to some of the last unspoiled
spots in the ocean before continuing on to Africa in 2015 where the ship
will explore off the coasts of South Africa, Madagascar, the Seychelles,
and the Maldives. We will have the rare chance to dive and snorkel in
some of these wild regions, and over the next fi ve years the National
Geographic-Lindblad Fund will donate $500,000 each year to the
National Geographic Pristine Seas project whose eff orts strive to protect
the ocean's most pristine areas.
As you work your way through this catalog, you’ll fi nd plenty of new
and unique small ship voyages from West Africa to Sri Lanka, and many
popular trips we have brought back due to high demand from the Greek
Isles to Greenland. Any one of these phenomenal voyages promises the
same exhilarating, hands-on learning experience I enjoyed in Antarctica.
I’m thrilled to invite you on board.
Sincerely,
Gary E. Knell
President and CEO
National Geographic Society
Your participation in a National Geographic Expedition provides support
to National Geographic’s mission of increasing global understanding
through exploration, geography education, and research.
Copyright © 2014 National Geographic Society C Recycled paper National Geographic Expeditions and the Yellow Border Design are registered trademarks of the National Geographic Society.
Front Cover: King penguins in South Georgia. © Ralph Lee Hopkins.
Above: Guests explore the Antarctica coast on Zodiacs launched from the National
Geographic Orion; a guest photographs a Galápagos penguin in the waters off the Galapagos; and a guest photographs frigatebirds on Genovesa Island in the Galápagos.
INDIAN OCEAN AND OCEANIA
50 Treasures of the Indian Ocean: Zanzibar to the Seychelles NEW
52 Indian Ocean Odyssey: Seychelles, Maldives, and Sri Lanka NEW
54 Wild Islands of Sri Lanka, Borneo, and the Andaman Sea NEW
56 Indonesia Odyssey: Bali to Australia's Great Barrier Reef NEW
56 Exploring the Coral Sea: Papua New Guinea to Fiji NEW
57 Reefs, Lagoons, and Volcanic Isles: Fiji to Tahiti NEW
57 Legends of the South Pacifi c: Tahiti to Easter Island NEW
RESOURCES
4 National Geographic Moments
6 The National Geographic-Lindblad Diff erence
7 Special Off ers
8 Travel with National Geographic Photographers,
Expedition Staff , and History Makers
60–65 Deck Plans
66 Expedition Calendar
67 Terms and Conditions
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Picture this: you’re sitting on a beach in South Georgia, taking in a broad vista packed with king penguins and elephant seals, when a curious seal pup hoists itself onto your lap to nuzzle you. It happened to one of our travelers this winter, and National Geographic moments like this one happen all over the planet. Further to the south, an Adelie penguin hitched a ride on our Zodiac in Antarctica, and o� the Alaskan coast, we witnessed the fascinating ballet of humpback whales breaching in unison to trap fi sh in a net of bubbles. Daredevil sea lions dodged us as we snorkeled in the Galápagos, a young gray whale came within arm’s reach to play in the Sea of Cortez, and we found ourselves surrounded by white silence as we watched polar bears leaping across the ice in Svalbard. There are some National Geographic moments you can plan for: watching fi rewalkers in Fiji or tracing the steps of Ernest Shackleton 100 years after the voyage of the Endurance in South Georgia. But there’s something especially exhilarating about the unex-pected encounter, the spontaneous connection with a culture, landscape, or animal. And those moments happen over and over again aboard the National Geographic fl eet.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MOMENTS
EVERY DAY
4 5
“ The glacially carved coastline of South Georgia forms a great amphitheater crowned by hanging glaciers and jagged peaks, an awe-inspiring backdrop for the island’s third-largest king penguin colony stretching as far as the eye can see. In addition, a great number of elephant seals sprawl across the beach with a spattering of feisty fur seals mixed in to keep things interesting. Spring is in full swing here.
Slowly, silently, and with great respect, we explore the colony with mouths agape. We observe all the diff erent behaviors, from the elegant and somewhat comical king penguins, to the curious elephant seal pups. The background sounds of braying king penguins are punctuated by the bellowing of gigantic male elephant seals that joust for control of their harems, fending off would-be challengers one after another. On a late afternoon Zodiac cruise in Cooper Bay, we encounter macaroni, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins lined up like bowling pins along the shore. A place like South Georgia puts you back in touch with what is wild in the world, a humbling experience.”—Ralph Lee Hopkins, National Geographic Photographer,
November 18, 2013, Antarctica,
South Georgia, and the Falklands
5
What makes a voyage on the National Geographic-Lindblad
fl eet an expedition instead of an ordinary cruise? Almost
everything. With a knowledgeable expedition team at our
helm, we take to the seas in the spirit of National Geographic
explorers, seeking adventure wherever we can fi nd it. Instead
of gazing from the deck at an iceberg-strewn bay in Arctic
Norway or a remote cove in the Sea of Cortez, we climb into
kayaks and Zodiacs to get closer, to fi nd hidden wildlife or go
for a hike on shore. We experience everything we can with our
senses—and then add a new dimension, sharing live footage
from the ocean deep shot by our underwater cameras, and
listening in on the conversations of whales with a hydrophone.
We celebrate the unexpected, veering off our route to follow
a pod of orcas or get a better view of a polar bear. And at
the end of the day, we return to the comfort of a spacious
cabin and relaxing common spaces, a well-equipped spa and
inspired cuisine.
National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions open doors
all over the world, so that we can spend time in Cambodian
villages off the beaten track, wander among giant tortoises
at a wildlife preserve in the Galápagos, or meet scientists
at a research station in Antarctica. We venture to National
Geographic grantee Dr. Biruté Galdikas's Camp Leakey, an
Orangutan Foundation International (OFI) research station in
Borneo, visit biologists on Panama’s protected island of Barro
Colorado, and ride Zodiacs through the canals of Harlingen in
the Netherlands—all by special permission.
While our expedition team ensures that your experience is
extraordinary, we also work hard to ensure that the extraordinary
places we visit are preserved for generations to come. Through
the Lindblad-National Geographic Fund, we support conserva-
tion and sustainability projects all over the planet, including
research initiatives at the Alaska Whale Foundation, an invasive
species eradication project in South Georgia, and numerous
education and conservation programs in the Galápagos.
TM
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC AND LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS:
THE ULTIMATE EXPEDITION EXPERIENCE
6
7
Special SavingsBook one of the small ship expeditions listed below
by July 31, 2014, and receive special savings on
select departure dates.*
GALÁPAGOS
Receive complimentary round-trip airfare on select Aug–Dec 2014
departures between Miami and the Galápagos only. See page 16
for the itinerary and visit our website or call for departure dates.
COSTA RICA AND THE PANAMA CANAL
Receive a complimentary hotel night in Panama City at the start
or end of select 2014 and 2015 departures with special access to the
Frank Gehry BioMuseo and new canal construction. See page 12 for
the itinerary and visit our website or call for departure dates.
ALASKA’S INSIDE PASSAGE
Receive complimentary round-trip airfare between Seattle and
Alaska on select May and June 2015 departures. See page 14 for
the itinerary.
JOURNEY TO ANTARCTICA
Receive complimentary round-trip international airfare between
Miami and Buenos Aires on the November 28, 2014 departure.
See page 38 for the itinerary.
ANTARCTICA, SOUTH GEORGIA, AND THE FALKLANDS
Receive complimentary round-trip international airfare between
Miami and Buenos Aires on the November 8, 2014 departure.
See page 40 for the itinerary.
SOUTH GEORGIA AND THE FALKLANDS
Receive complimentary round-trip international airfare between
Miami and Buenos Aires, plus round-trip charter flights between
Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, on the March 6, 2016 departure. See
our website for the full itinerary.
SOUTH AMERICA: BUENOS AIRES, RIO, & BRAZIL’S WILD COAST
Receive complimentary international airfare from Miami to
Salvador and return from Buenos Aires on the October 10, 2014
departure. See our website for the itinerary.
SEA CLOUD VOYAGES: UNDER SAIL: GREECE TO THE DALMATIAN
COAST; SAILING THE GREEK ISLES; AND SAILING THE CARIBBEAN
Travel on the 2014 or 2015 Mediterranean or Caribbean expedi-
tions aboard the Sea Cloud and we will cover your bar tab on
board and all tips for the crew. See pages 20 and 22 for the
itineraries.
EXPLORING THE CORAL SEA: PAPUA NEW GUINEA TO FIJI &
REEFS, LAGOONS, AND VOLCANIC ISLES: FIJI TO TAHITI
Receive a $1,000 air credit when you book your expedition.
Choose to make your flight more comfortable by using the sav-
ings towards upgrading to business class, or put it towards your
coach fare. See the itinerary details on page 56.
ALONG THE VIKING TRAIL
Receive complimentary charter airfare one-way from
Kangerlussuaq to Ottawa. See page 29 or our website for details.
*Offers are for new bookings and may not be combined with other offers.Complimentary airfare must be booked through Lindblad Expeditions.
“ Being on the National Geographic Explorer was a wonderful experience. We had whale experts, penguin experts, underwater experts, all types of experts! We were novices, and to have that kind of guidance as we were seeing someplace so spectacular was phenomenal.” —Doug and Lenore P., travelers
One of the great advantages of traveling aboard the National Geographic-Lindblad fl eet is the people you travel with: acclaimed pho-
tographers, scientists, and even history-makers. Our expedition team is full of dynamic and passionate people who bring a wealth of
experience and knowledge to each trip, from undersea specialists and naturalists to certifi ed photo instructors. At the helm of every
team is an expedition leader, a veteran explorer who has forged relationships with local communities from Alaska to Papua New
Guinea—a personal connection that allows us to get to know the places we visit on a more intimate level. A top National Geographic
photographer accompanies every voyage aboard the National Geographic Explorer and the National Geographic Orion, and on select
trips, we’ve also invited celebrated luminaries and adventurers to share their tales and insights as we discover remote places together.
Below, meet a few of the renowned photographers, expedition staff , and explorers who will be traveling with us in 2014 and 2015.
TRAVEL WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHICPHOTOGRAPHERS, EXPEDITION STAFF, AND HISTORY MAKERS
8
“ I fi rst visited the remote Asmat region in the mid-1970s. We used to bring trade items for barter. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about their lifestyle...”
—Tom Ritchie, Naturalist and Expedition Leader
TOM RITCHIESince 1977, Tom has led voyages to the far reaches of the globe, including
Antarctica, the high Arctic, the Amazon River, Africa, New Guinea, Indonesia,
Southeast Asia, the South Pacifi c, and Australia. An accomplished wildlife artist, he
has collaborated on wildlife books and scientifi c magazine articles on both natural
and human history. Tom's experiences traveling in Indonesia and the South Pacifi c
will be shared on the following National Geographic Orion voyages: October 18,
2014 Indonesian Odyssey: Bali to Australia's Great Barrier Reef; November 3, 2014
Exploring the Coral Sea: Papua New Guinea to Fiji; November 16, 2014 Reefs,
Lagoons and Volcanic Isles: Fiji to Tahiti.
FLIP NICKLINNational Geographic photographer
and marine biologist Flip Nicklin is one
of the world's leading photographers
of whales. His majestic photos and
amazing audio tracks of humpbacks
and killer whales have appeared
in numerous National Geographic
publications and television specials,
including the March 2009 feature
story for National Geographic magazine, “Still Blue: Blue Whales.”
The North American Nature Photography Association has named
him Outstanding Nature Photographer of the Year for 2012 and
he will join the following expeditions: November 16, 2014 Reefs,
Lagoons, and Volcanic Isles: Fiji to Tahiti; January 24 and 31,
2015 Baja California and the Sea of Cortez: Among the Great
Whales.
PETER HILLARYWhen Peter Hillary fi rst climbed
Mount Everest in 1990, he and his
father, Sir Edmund Hillary—who made
the fi rst ascent of Mount Everest in
1953—became the fi rst father and son
to reach the summit. He reached the
summit again in 2002 on a National
Geographic-sponsored ascent later
featured in the fi lm Surviving Everest. Peter has completed more than 40 mountaineering expeditions
and will share his stories on the following expeditions: August 8,
2014 Australia's Wild Northwest with the Spice Islands, February
6, 2015 Journey to Antarctica and the February 16, 2015
Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands.
9
CHRIS RAINIERChris Rainier is considered one of today’s leading documentary photographers specializing in indigenous
cultures. A National Geographic Society Explorer, Chris was the co-founder of National Geographic's All
Roads Photography Program and a co-director of National Geographic's Enduring Voices Project, which
sets out to preserve endangered languages and cultures through audio recordings, photography, and
storytelling. He also serves as a contributing editor for National Geographic Traveler. Chris currently directs
the Last Mile Technology Program, which empowers endangered cultures to save their ancient traditions
through the use of modern technology. Chris will join the following expeditions: November 3, 2014
Exploring the Coral Sea: Papua New Guinea to Fiji; December 3, 2014 Legends of the South Pacifi c:
Tahiti to Easter Island; February 16, 2015 Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falklands; March 20,
2015 Wildlife and Cultures of South Africa, Mozambique, and Madagascar; September 12, 2015 Sailing
the Greek Isles, and the December 26, 2015 and January 6, 2016 Journey to Antarctica.
“ Looking into the eye of a whale or dolphin, above or underwater, changes you. I wish everyone that opportunity.”
—Flip Nicklin, National Geographic Photographer
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA BIRD
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Experience up-close encounters with gray whales through the inlets of
Bahía Magdalena.
» Go snorkeling amid sea lions, brilliant blue damselfish, and schools of
king angelfish.
» Kayak clear, blue waters on the lookout for a variety of bird species
including magnificent frigatebirds.
» Explore diverse landscapes, including sand dunes, a cactus forest, and desert
islands.
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
National Geographic
photographer and marine
biologist Flip Nicklin is
one of the world's leading
photographers of whales.
His majestic photos and
amazing audio recordings
of humpbacks and orca whales have been
featured in numerous National Geographic
publications and television specials. The North
American Nature Photography Association
named him Outstanding Nature Photographer
of the Year for 2012. Flip will join a diverse
team of naturalists and experts on the January
24 and 31, 2015 departures.
BAJA CALIFORNIA AND THE SEA OF CORTEZ: AMONG THE GREAT WHALES
10
Gray whales often approach our expedition landing craft, as curious about us as we are about them.
ITINERARY: 8 DAYS
DAY 1: U.S./LA PAZ, MEXICO
Arrive in La Paz and drive along the beautiful
Malecón to meet our ship.
National Geographic Sea Bird (D)
DAY 2: EXPLORING THE SEA OF CORTEZ
We’ll follow the currents and the wildlife
today, exploring pristine, uninhabited islands
such as Isla San José or Isla Santa Catalina,
and snorkeling among colorful parrotfi sh and
fl ashing schools of surgeonfi sh. Search for
whales among the islands of the southern
Sea of Cortez, one of the best areas for
spotting blue whales and bottlenose dolphins.
Walk among huge cacti and observe the
great diversity of birdlife, including verdins,
ladder-backed woodpeckers, and Costa’s
hummingbirds. (B, L, D)
DAY 3: LOS ISLOTES AND ISLA ESPÍRITU SANTO
At Los Islotes, snorkel and swim among curious
sea lions. With its rugged cliff s and coves
carved deeply into the coastline, Espíritu Santo
is one of the most beautiful islands in the Sea
of Cortez. This afternoon, examine the island’s
volcanic landscapes on a kayak excursion.
Go beachcombing or take a hike along the
rocky coast, keeping your eye out for brown
pelicans, gulls, wandering tattlers, great blue
herons, and boobies. Tonight, gather for a
barbecue around a campfi re on the beach and
take in a splendid display of stars. (B, L, D)
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: Jan. 17–24, Jan. 24–31,*
Jan. 31–Feb. 7, Feb. 7–14,* Feb. 14–21,
Feb. 21–28,* Feb. 28–Mar. 7, Mar. 7–14,*
Mar. 14–21
* These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in San Carlos and ending in La Paz.
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $5,990
Located on Main Deck
Category 2 $6,890
Located on Upper and Bridge Decks
Category 3 $7,730
Located on Upper and Bridge Decks
See photo and deck plans for the National Geographic Sea Bird on page 62. Prices are
per person, double occupancy. For a single
cabin, add $3,000 in Category 1 and $3,450
in Category 2. International airfare between
Los Angeles and La Paz is not included in
the expedition cost.
DAY 4: GORDA BANKS AND LOS CABOS
The morning is spent at the Gorda Banks
seamount or La Fortuna, gathering places
for whales—especially humpbacks,
dolphins, and other sea life. Learn about
whale behavior with our on-board marine
biologist as you watch these giant creatures
breach and tail-lob. Then cruise past Friars
Rocks at Land’s End and dock at Los Cabos.
If you choose, take an excursion to the
historic town of San José del Cabo. (B, L, D)
DAYS 5-7: 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 to breed
and raise their calves. It is believed to
be among the longest migrations by any
mammal and is one of nature’s greatest
spectacles. In this vast aquatic nursery,
observe these enormous yet gentle animals
from the ship and at water level from our
expedition landing craft. Kayak and watch for
magnifi cent frigatebirds, pelicans, and great
blue herons on the mudfl ats. (B, L, D Daily)
DAY 8: SAN CARLOS/LA PAZ/U.S.
After breakfast, disembark in San Carlos
and drive across the peninsula to La Paz for
your return fl ight home. (B)
RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM 11
NORTH AMERICA
Bristling cacti soak up the sun on Isla Santa Catalina.
Kayakers paddle in crystal-clear waters.
� Visit our website to fi nd out about our holiday expeditions in the Sea of Cortez
in December.
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Discover hidden pools and waterfalls deep within the jungles of the
Osa Peninsula.
» Kayak around the tiny islands of the Gulf of Panama, and snorkel off
Isla de Coiba.
» Enjoy special access to the protected forests of Barro Colorado Island.
» Examine the fascinating lock system that made the Panama Canal
one of the greatest engineering achievements of its era.
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
A diverse team of experts
—from naturalists to
geologists—accompanies
these expeditions. On the
January 3 and 10, 2015
departures, we will also
be joined by writer and
photographer Christopher P. Baker. The
Lowell Thomas Award 2008 Travel Journalist
of the Year, Christopher is one of the world’s
foremost authorities on Costa Rica. He has
authored guidebooks to Costa Rica in the
National Geographic Traveler series and has
been featured on the National Geographic
Channel, NPR, and dozens of other radio and
TV outlets.
COSTA RICA AND THE PANAMA CANAL
12
An adult and juvenile brown capuchin monkey
ITINERARY: 8 DAYS
DAY 1: U.S./SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA/
HERRADURA
Upon arrival in San José, transfer to Herradura
and embark our ship.
National Geographic Sea Lion (D)
DAY 2: MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK
Spend the morning in Manuel Antonio
National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage
site, where thick forests fringe white-sand
beaches. Watch for three-toed sloths lazing
among the branches, and spot monkeys and
vividly colored birds. This afternoon, trace the
Pacifi c coastline south and stop for a refreshing
swim or a hike. (B, L, D)
DAY 3: OSA PENINSULA
Anchor off the Osa Peninsula to see some of the
most pristine lowland rain forest on the Pacifi c
coast. In the environs of Corcovado National
Park, swim in waterfall pools, ride horses on
the beach, or trek through the rain forest for a
chance to see four species of monkeys—howler,
spider, capuchin, and squirrel. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: GOLFO DULCE
Enter the mangrove-fringed Golfo Dulce along
the southwestern edge of Costa Rica. Visit
the Casa Orquídeas, a tropical paradise of
ornamental palms, bromeliads, heliconias,
and orchids that is only reachable by boat.
Keep your eye out for tanagers, parrots, and
TRIP DETAILS
2014/2015 Season: Dec. 13–20, Dec. 20–27*,
Dec. 27–Jan. 3, Jan.3–10*, Jan. 10–17,
Jan. 17–24*, Jan. 24–31, Jan. 31–Feb. 7*,
Feb. 7–14, Feb. 14–21*, Feb. 21–28,
Feb. 28–Mar. 7*, Mar. 7–14, Mar. 14–21*
* These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, beginning in Panama City and ending in San Jose.
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $5,990
Located on Main Deck
Category 2 $6,790
Located on Upper and Bridge Decks
Category 3 $7,690
Located on Upper and Bridge Decks
See National Geographic Sea Lion deck plan
on page 62. Prices are per person, double
occupancy. For a single cabin, add $3,000
in Category 1 and $3,400 in Category 2.
International airfare from Miami to San José
and return from Panama City is not included
in the expedition cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS
Add a three-day pre-trip extension
to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
or a seven-day post-trip extension to
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve,
Sarapiquí River, and Arenal Volcano. Visit
our website or call for details.
SPECIAL OFFER
Book by July 31, 2014, and receive a
complimentary hotel night in Panama
City at the start or end of select 2014 and
2015 departures with access to the Frank
Gehry BioMuseo and new Panama Canal
Expansion Observation Center. Please visit
our website or call for details.
toucans. Later, explore the placid bay, which is
ideal for kayaking and swimming. (B, L, D)
DAY 5: COIBA NATIONAL PARK, PANAMA
Isla Coiba, one of Panama’s most remote
national parks and a UNESCO World Heritage
site, off ers some of the best reefs for snorkeling
in the eastern Pacifi c Ocean. Our staff will assist
novice and expert snorkelers alike, and you’ll
also observe a vibrant undersea world while
swimming and kayaking. (B, L, D)
DAY 6: GULF OF PANAMA ISLETS/PANAMA
CANAL TRANSIT
Today, explore the tiny islets of the Gulf of Panama
by expedition landing craft or kayak. Here, we
might spot frigatebirds, brown pelicans, neotropi-
cal cormorants, and brown boobies. Set sail for
the Panama Canal this afternoon. Stretching more
than 50 miles, the canal was a colossal engineer-
ing feat completed in 1914 and is still traversed by
some 14,000 ships every year. As cargo ships tend
to pass through the canal during the day, we’ll
most likely begin our crossing at night, when the
canal is dramatically lit. (B, L, D)
DAY 7: 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, researching
its 120 mammals and diverse tree species. It is
also the site of a National Geographic-supported
project that tracks tagged animals using auto-
mated radio signals and wireless technology.
Join local guides for a walk through the forests.
This evening, continue through the complex lock
system of the canal. (B, L, D)
DAY 8: COLÓN/PANAMA CITY/U.S.
After breakfast, disembark in Colón and
transfer to the airport in Panama City for your
fl ight home. (B)
Visit our website to fi nd out about photography expeditions to Costa Rica and
the Panama Canal.
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 13
NORTH AMERICA
Transiting the Panama Canal
“With its biodiversity, the Osa Peninsula [rated one of the 50 Places of a Lifetime]is considered one of the planet’s most magnifi cent places.” –Alvaro Ugalde, “Striking Gold in Costa Rica," National Geographic Traveler, October 2009
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA BIRD
AND THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Kayak into protected coves and look for sea otters, seabirds, and harbor
seals.
» Hike through lush forests to cascading waterfalls, and ride an
expedition landing craft into coves looking for brown bears.
» Meet members of the Alaska Whale Foundation to learn about the
local whale population, and get a firsthand perspective on Alaska’s
indigenous people from a Tlingit cultural interpreter.
» Discover Alaska’s seldom-seen, vibrant marine life, revealed by our
undersea specialist.
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
The host of Nat Geo
WILD’s Expedition Wild and America the Wild, naturalist Casey Anderson
was nicknamed the “animal
magnet” while growing up.
In 2002, Casey rescued an
abandoned grizzly bear cub and dedicated his
life to raising Brutus to be an ambassador for
his wild grizzly cousins. Together, they have
been featured in the National Geographic
Channel’s Expedition Grizzly and in numerous
educational videos, fi lms, television shows,
and commercials. When not on set, they
spend their days at a rescue center helping
educate the public about wildlife conservation.
A diverse team of naturalists and experts will
join every departure. Casey will share insights
from his many adventures, including those in
Alaska where he studied the grizzly population
of Kodiak Island, on the May 16 and 23,
2015 departures.
ALASKA’S INSIDE PASSAGE
14
Humpback whales bubble-net feeding off Alaska's coast
ITINERARY: 8 DAYS
DAY 1: SEATTLE/JUNEAU, ALASKA
Fly from Seattle to Juneau, the capital of
Alaska. Visit the imposing Mendenhall Glacier
and spend the evening exploring Juneau on
your own. National Geogeaphic Sea Bird/National Geographic Sea Lion (D)
DAY 2: TRACY ARM—FORDS TERROR
WILDERNESS
Voyage into Tracy or Endicott Arm, both spec-
tacular glacially carved fj ords. 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. (B, L, D)
DAY 3: PETERSBURG
Search for humpback whales as we head to-
wards the small, Alaskan town of Petersburg on
Mitkof Island, founded more than 100 years ago
by Norwegian fi shermen. Explore southeast
Alaska’s muskeg, an area with stunted trees
and carnivorous plants. There is an opportunity
for optional fl ightseeing (weather permitting)
or bike riding. Enjoy a crab feast for dinner this
evening. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: EXPLORING FREDERICK SOUND AND
CHATHAM STRAIT
These waters often make for great whale-
watching. Go hiking or kayaking, and meet
with researchers from the Alaska Whale
Foundation—whose work is supported by a
grant from the Lindblad-National Geographic
Fund—and discuss some of their recent
discoveries about the region’s marine mammal
population. (B, L, D)
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: From May through August,
expeditions depart every Saturday
on the National Geographic Sea Bird and every Sunday on the National Geographic Sea Lion. See the calendar on page 66 for specifi c departure dates. Certain departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order.
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $6,290
Located on main deck
Category 2 $7,340
Located on upper and bridge decks
Category 3 $8,390
Located on upper and bridge decks
See photo and deck plans for the National Geographic Sea Bird/Sea Lion on page 62.
Prices are per person, double occupancy.
For a single cabin, add $3,150 in Category
1 and $3,670 in Category 2. Airfare from
Seattle to Juneau and return from Sitka is
not included in the expedition cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Add a seven-day extension to Alaska’s
Denali National Park. Visit our website or call
for details.
SPECIAL OFFER
Book by July 31, 2014 and receive
complimentary round-trip airfare between
Seattle and Alaska on select May and June
2015 departures.
DAY 5: ICY STRAIT AND INIAN PASS
Hike and kayak among the Inian Islands, where
an abundance of Steller sea lions and sea
otters reside. We’ll search for whales in the rich
waters of Icy Strait and, conditions permitting,
lower the ship’s hydrophone to listen in on the
whales’ communication. (B, L, D)
DAY 6: GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK AND
PRESERVE
By special permit, we explore Glacier Bay, a
not-to-be-missed gem of Alaska. See glaciers
that end abruptly at the water’s edge and
observe them calving as tons of ice crash into
the sea. Spot cliff side mountain goats and
brown bears on the shore, and harbor seals,
Steller sea lions, and puffi ns in the icy waters.
A native Tlingit interpreter joins us to share the
local lore. We will also be joined by a National
Park Service ranger. (B, L, D)
DAY 7: EXPLORING ALASKA’S ISLANDS, BAYS,
AND FJORDS
Today we let nature be our guide. Beachcomb,
hike forest trails, and explore by kayak in a
region with perhaps the world’s highest density
of nesting bald eagles. Enjoy a farewell dinner
this evening. (B, L, D)
DAY 8: SITKA/SEATTLE
After breakfast we disembark in Sitka,
southeast Alaska’s only oceanfront town.
Visit the onion-domed St. Michael’s Russian
Orthodox Church and walk among the totem
poles that line trails through Sitka National
Historic Park. At the Raptor Rehabilitation
Center, get an up-close view of species
normally seen at a distance. Drive to the
airport for our afternoon fl ight to Seattle. (B)
� Visit our website for information on special family and photography expeditions to Alaska’s
Inside Passage and A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia, and Haida Gwaii.
RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM 15
NORTH AMERICA
“The naturalist John Muir was exploring the coves and islands of the Inside Passage when he wrote, ‘To the lover of pure wildness, Alaska is one of the most wonderful countries in the world.’ Once you leave the larger towns in your wake and head up the quiet inlets…it’s easy to fi nd the Alaska that charmed Muir.”
—Heather Lende, “Alaska Cruise,”
National Geographic Traveler, September 2010
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ENDEAVOUR
AND THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ISLANDER
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Snorkel amid shimmering fish, sea turtles, penguins, and playful sea
lions.
» Cruise to pristine islands and walk among colonies of animals and birds
unfazed by your presence.
» Observe rare giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station.
» Explore the waters of the Galápagos by kayak, glass-bottom boat
(Endeavour only), or Zodiac.
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
Lynn Fowler fi rst arrived
in the Galápagos in 1978
as a naturalist guide for
the Galápagos National
Park. Lynn completed
her doctorate based on
her research of the giant
tortoises of Alcedo Volcano on Isabela island,
where she spent over a year living on the rim
of the crater, collecting data. Lynn also lived
in the Ecuadorian Amazon basin to work on
a wildlife research grant funded by National
Geographic. A diverse team of naturalists
will join every departure. Lynn will join the
following 2014 departures: July 5, 12, 26; Aug.
2, 9, 16; Oct. 11, 18, 25; Nov. 15, 22, 29; Dec. 6.
See our website for 2015 departures.
GALÁPAGOS
Sea lions cuddle up for a nap on the beach in Galápagos.
16
ITINERARY: 10 DAYS
DAY 1: U.S./GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR
Depart for Guayaquil and upon arrival, transfer
to our hotel. Hotel Hilton Colón
DAY 2: GUAYAQUIL/GALÁPAGOS
This morning, fl y to the Galápagos Islands and
board our comfortable expedition ship. After
lunch, we begin our exploration of the islands
and their diverse wildlife.
National Geographic Endeavour or National Geographic Islander (B, L, D)
DAYS 3–8: EXPLORING THE GALÁPAGOS
Listed below are some of the islands we visit
during our expedition. Each itinerary will include
Isla Santa Cruz and a selection of the other
stops listed on these pages. (B, L, D Daily)
ISLA BARTOLOMÉ
Walk to the top of Bartolomé's volcanic cone
for a stunning view of Pinnacle Rock and the
surrounding beaches. After the hike, immerse
yourself among schools of multicolored reef
fi sh. You may also have the opportunity to
swim with Galápagos penguins.
ISLA SANTIAGO
Follow a path along a series of tide pools and
underwater caverns in search of Galápagos
fur seals, marine iguanas, sea lions, shore
birds, and Sally Lightfoot crabs.
ISLA SANTA CRUZ
At the Charles Darwin Research Station, a
breeding station for endangered endemic
species, learn about the research done here.
Visit the neighboring captive breeding program
for endangered species of Galápagos giant
tortoises and endemic land iguanas, run by
their partners in conservation, the Galápagos
National Park Service and supported by the
Lindblad-National Geographic
Fund. Later, travel into the high-
lands to observe and photograph
these tortoises in the wild.
ISLA ISABELA
Explore the largest island in the
group, home to enormous marine
iguanas, abundant sea turtles,
the only species of fl ightless
cormorant in the world, and the
only penguin species that inhabits
the Equator. Cruise by Zodiac and hike against
the backdrop of giant shield volcanoes, and
snorkel in the cool, rich waters that often draw
whales and dolphins to the area.
ISLA FLOREANA
Take a pre-breakfast hike to a turtle nesting
beach and a lagoon home to fl amingos and
other bird species. At Champion Islet, snorkel
among sea lions, or peer into an under water
world in a glass-bottom boat (Endeavour only).
Visit Post Offi ce 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.
ISLA FERNANDINA
Discover the marine iguana haven of Punta
Espinoza as we hike over lava fl ows. Galápagos
hawks, sea lion nurseries, and rare fl ightless
cormorants can be found while exploring this
island. Snorkel among sea turtles, penguins, and
the occasional marine iguana.
ISLA ESPAÑOLA
See swallow-tailed gulls, Espaňola mock-
ingbirds, boobies, and waved albatrosses
on 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: GALÁPAGOS/GUAYAQUIL
After breakfast, disembark the ship and fl y to
Guayaquil. The evening is at your leisure.
Hotel Hilton Colón (B)
DAY 10: GUAYAQUIL/U.S.
Depart Guayaquil this morning, arriving home
the same day. (B)
� Visit our website for special Galápagos family and photography expeditions, and details
on extending your trip to Machu Picchu.
RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM 17
SOUTH AMERICA
A giant tortoise in the highlands of Santa Cruz
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2014 AND 2015: Expeditions depart
every Friday on the National Geographic Endeavour and every Saturday on the National Geographic Islander. See the calendar on page
66 for specifi c departure dates.
EXPEDITION COST:
2014
Endeavour Islander
Category 1 $5,490 $6,060
Category 2 $6,390 $6,890
Category 3 $6,950 $7,440
Category 4 $7,490 $7,990
Category 5 $9,420 $9,910
2015 Endeavour Islander
Category 1 $6,290 $6,760
Category 2 $6,990 $7,590
Category 3 $7,650 $8,270
Category 4 $8,290 $8,750
Category 5 $10,280 $10,650
Prices are per person, double occupancy. 2014
pricing applies to all departures from Sept.
through Dec. 18. Please see our website for
pricing on departures prior to Sept. 2014. 2015
pricing applies to all departures except for
holiday departures. Add an additional $500
per person for holiday departures leaving Dec.
19, 20, 26, and 27, 2014, and Dec. 18, 19, 25,
and 26, 2015.
International airfare is not included in the
expedition cost. Charter airfare between Guayaquil
and Galápagos is $495 (subject to change). See
the National Geographic Endeavour and Islander descriptions, photos, and deck plans on page 63.
SPECIAL OFFER
Book by July 31, 2014, and receive free round-trip
airfare between Miami and Galápagos on select
Aug–Dec 2014 departures. See our website or
call for details.
ABOARD THE DELFIN II
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Explore the waterways of the flooded “Mirrored Forest” of Pacaya-
Samiria National Reserve with a team of expert naturalists.
» Glide down jungle streams by skiff or kayak, spotting pink and gray
dolphins, enormous water lilies, monk saki monkeys, three-toed sloths,
piranhas, and scarlet macaws.
» Learn about the everyday traditions of the native ribereños on visits to
villages at the river’s edge.
» Go on rain forest hikes, birding walks, and nocturnal river safaris, and
get immersed in the wild atmosphere of the Amazon from the comfort
of the intimate Delfi n II.
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
Kitty Coley is a geologist,
naturalist, and avid birder
who serves as a consultant
to National Geographic magazine. As a professional
geologist, she has worked
in remote rain forests and
rugged landscapes around the world. Kitty's
love of nature has inspired her to explore
through scuba diving, backpacking, white-
water and sea kayaking, and biking. A diverse
team of naturalists and experts will join every
departure. Kitty will share her knowledge of
the Amazon's geology, fl ora, and fauna on the
November 14 and 21, 2015 departures.
UPPER AMAZON
18
A scarlet macaw peers through the foliage.
ITINERARY: 10 DAYS
DAY 1: U.S./LIMA, PERU
Arrive in Lima in the late evening and transfer
to our hotel. Costa Del Sol Ramada
DAY 2: LIMA/IQUITOS/NAUTA
After a morning visit to the celebrated Larco
Herrera Museum, fl y to Iquitos and continue
overland to Nauta, where our ship awaits. Get
settled in your elegant, hardwood-paneled cabin
and gather for a welcome dinner of fi ne Peruvian
cuisine prepared by our onboard chef. Tonight,
step out on deck to gaze at the magnifi cent night
sky over the Amazon. Delfi n II (B, L, D)
DAYS 3 AND 4: PACAYA-SAMIRIA NATIONAL
RESERVE
Glide into the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve,
one of the largest swaths of pristine jungle in
South America, stretching more than fi ve million
square acres. The reserve fl oods annually with
nutrient-rich waters and is known locally as
the Mirrored Forest for the refl ections created
by its glass-like waterways. In kayaks or skiff s,
skim along the Pucate River looking for parrots,
macaws, and perhaps shaggy-tailed monk saki
monkeys or saddle-back tamarins. Encounter a
very diff erent ecosystem on hikes on terra fi rma,
or explore up-river in a skiff . Reach the junction of
the Marañón and the Ucayali, two powerful rivers
that border the reserve and converge to create
the Amazon, and later, pay a visit to a village on
the river’s edge to learn about the traditions of
the ribereños. Learn about the inspiring work
of Minga Peru, a nonprofi t that has helped
improve health and livelihoods for the people
of the Amazon with the support of the Lindblad-
National Geographic Fund. (B, L, D Daily)
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: Feb. 21–Mar. 2,
Feb. 28–Mar. 9, Mar. 7–16, Mar. 14–23,
May 2–11, May 9–18, May 16–25,
May 23–Jun. 1, Jul. 4–13, Jul 11–20,
Jul. 18–27, Jul. 25–Aug 3, Aug. 22–31,
Aug. 29–Sep. 7, Sep. 5–14, Sep. 12–21,
Nov. 14–23, Nov. 21–30, Nov. 28–Dec. 7,
Dec. 5–14
EXPEDITION COST:
Suites $6,390
Located on Upper and Main Decks
Master Suites $7,460
Located on Upper and Main Decks with
panoramic views
See the Delfi n II photo and deck plan on
page 65. Prices are per person, double
occupancy. Due to limited availability,
single cabins are off ered on a request basis
only; please call for availability and rates.
International airfare between Miami and
Lima is not included in the expedition cost.
Charter airfare between Lima and Iquitos is
$395 (subject to change).
DAYS 5 AND 6: PACAYA-SAMIRIA NATIONAL
RESERVE
Venture deeper into the rain forest on narrow
tributaries, seeking out pink dolphins, iguanas,
and giant water lilies. On a birding hike, look for
an astounding variety of species, from tanagers
and hummingbirds to oropendolas. As the sun
sets, slip through the forest in a skiff , using a
spotlight to fi nd caimans, frogs, fi shing bats, and
other creatures of the night. From December
through May we explore Atun Poza by skiff ,
looking for lagoon birdlife, and take a short
walk to a local community. From June through
November, hike through the rain forest in search
of the soaring ceiba, or kapok tree. In skiff s, we
reach Yanayacu lagoon, the furthest point in our
journey, and with luck, enjoy a chance to swim
with pink dolphins. (B, L, D Daily)
DAYS 7 AND 8: PACAYA-SAMIRIA NATIONAL
RESERVE
During the wet season, look for massive paiche,
the Amazon's largest fi sh, and infamous piranhas,
an important food source for the local people. As
the water recedes later in the year, explore the
spontaneous ecosystems of temporary islands
that appear. Travel by skiff to Puerto Miguel and
get acquainted with the culture, folklore, and
daily life of the villagers. (B, L, D Daily)
DAYS 9 AND 10: NAUTA/IQUITOS/LIMA/U.S.
Enjoy one last morning excursion by skiff to
view wildlife. After lunch, disembark in Nauta
and pay a visit to the town’s manatee reha-
bilitation center. Return to Iquitos in time for
a late afternoon fl ight to Lima. After breakfast
the next day, transfer to the airport for your
fl ight home. Costa Del Sol Ramada (B, L, B)
SOUTH AMERICA
Sunrise over the River of Mirrors on the Delfi n II
Spot wildlife along the river during frequent skiff rides.
� Visit our website for details on extending your trip to Machu Picchu.
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 19
ABOARD THE SEA CLOUD
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Discover magnificent ruins at the ancient sanctuary on Delos, birthplace
of Apollo and Artemis
» Ride a donkey or cable car down a cliff side to the harbor on beautiful
Santoríni.
» Soak up the lively culture, mythology, and Venetian legacy of ancient villages.
» Explore the Cyclades under full sail aboard the historic square-rigger
Sea Cloud.
SAILING THE GREEK ISLESEXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
Along with a diverse team
of experts, photographer
Chris Rainier will join the
September 12 departure.
Chris is considered one of
today’s leading documentary
photographers specializing
in indigenous cultures. A National Geographic
Explorer, he was a co-founder of the Society’s
All Roads Photography Program, and
serves as a contributing editor for National Geographic Traveler. He has won numerous
awards for his photography, and was named
a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society in
London in 2011. A diverse team of experts will
join every departure.
A cobalt dome sets off the bright whitewash of a hilltop church in Santoríni.
20
ITINERARY: 9 DAYS
DAYS 1 AND 2: U.S./ATHENS, GREECE/PIRAEUS
Depart on an overnight fl ight to Athens. After
some time at leisure and lunch in the city,
travel to Piraeus and settle into your cabin on
the majestic Sea Cloud. Cast off this after-
noon, and take in your fi rst Grecian sunset at
sea. Sea Cloud (L, D)
DAY 3: AT SEA/SÍFNOS
Our fi rst morning on board is spent at sea.
We may stop for a late-morning swim before
visiting the island of Sífnos. Distinguished for its
pottery and its Venetian dovecotes, Sífnos is a
rugged island with a harbor village and a beau-
tiful upper chora (village), waterfront tavernas,
and convenient beaches. This afternoon, fi nd a
spot on deck to watch as the Sea Cloud’s sails
are hoisted up their impressive masts by hand
as we set sail for the Cyclades. (B,L,D)
DAY 4: TENOS
Drop anchor at beautiful Tenos, dotted with vil-
lages steeped in Venetian history. The island’s
terraced hillsides and green marble quarries
have long made it a haven for artists. Explore
the picturesque village of Pyrgos, adorned with
carved marble facades, and visit the church
of Panagia Evangelistria, where thousands of
pilgrims come every year to pray at Greece’s
holiest shrine. (B, L, D)
DAY 5: DELOS
The tiny archaeological gem of Delos is the
birthplace of the twin gods Artemis, goddess
of animals and the hunt; and Apollo, god of
healing, music, and light. Spend the morning
discovering the island’s incredible ruins,
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: May 24–Jun. 1, Jul. 4–12,
Sep. 12–20, Sep. 19–27
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $8,790
Located on the Promenade Deck
Category 2 $9,880
Located on the Promenade Deck
Category 3 $11,790
Located on the Captain’s Deck
Category 4 $12,490
Located on the Captain’s Deck
Category 5 $13,880
Located on the Main Deck
Category 6 $14,750
Located on the Main Deck
Category 7 $16,880
Located on the Main Deck
See the Sea Cloud deck plan on page 64.
Prices are per person, double occupancy.
For a single cabin, add $4,090 in Category
1. International airfare between New York
and Athens is not included in the expedition
cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Add a two-day extension in Athens and/
or a three-day extension in Crete. Visit our
website or call for details.
SPECIAL OFFER
Travel on the Sea Cloud in 2015 and we will
cover your bar tab and all tips for the crew.
including the Terrace of the Lions and the
Temple of Apollo. (B, L, D)
DAY 6: AMORGÓS
Drop anchor at Amorgós, the easternmost isle
of the Cyclades. 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. Later,
return to the Sea Cloud and enjoy a relaxing
afternoon beneath its splendid sails. (B, L, D)
DAY 7: SANTORÍNI
Incomparable Santoríni is an island archi-
pelago 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 through windswept
vineyards to the beautiful town of Ía. Set high
on a cliff , Ía aff ords unrivaled views of the
caldera below. After lunch, ride a donkey or a
cable car down the cliff side back to the ship.
(B, L, D)
DAY 8: AT SEA
Enjoy a glorious day of sailing among the
idyllic isles of the Cyclades. Relax on deck with
a book, observe the crew as they man the
rigging and trim the sails, and attend presen-
tations by our team of experts on the area’s
history and ecology. In the late afternoon, we
may have a chance for an impromptu stop and
a swim. (B, L, D)
DAY 9: PIRAEUS/ATHENS/U.S.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the
airport for your return fl ight. (B)
EUROPE
The majestic Sea Cloud under sail.
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 21
ABOARD THE SEA CLOUD
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Ply the waters of the Aegean, Ionian, and Adriatic Seas aboard the
magnificent Sea Cloud.
» Step back in history amid the evocative ruins of Olympia, Greece,
and Butrint, Albania, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
» Skim across Montenegro’s Gulf of Kotor to Our Lady of the Rocks, a
tiny islet created over centuries by local fishermen.
» Spend a day among the marble-paved lanes and ramparts of
Dubrovnik.
UNDER SAIL: GREECE TO THE DALMATIAN COAST
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
Historian Grace Fielder is
an expert on the history,
culture, and languages of
the Dalmatian coast. She
holds a Ph.D. from UCLA,
and is a professor of Balkan
and south Slavic linguistics
at the University of Arizona. Her courses on
Balkan history focus on the emergence of
distinct national identities following a century
of ethnic and political confl ict. Grace has
studied the local lore, music, and cuisine of
this region, and has even moonlighted as
a lavender harvester on the island of Hvar.
She will join a diverse team of experts on the
September 2, 2015 departure.
22
Encircled by medieval battlements, the terra cotta roofs of Dubrovnik shimmer in the Adriatic light.
ITINERARY: 12 DAYS
DAYS 1 AND 2: U.S./ATHENS, GREECE/PIRAEUS
Depart on an overnight fl ight to Athens, arriv-
ing the next morning. This afternoon, transfer
to Piraeus and settle into your cabin aboard
the elegant Sea Cloud. (L, D)
DAY 3: AT SEA
Round the southern coast of the Peloponnesus
peninsula, enjoying a full day of sailing. Watch
the crew hoist the Sea Cloud’s many sails by
hand. Relax with a book on deck, photograph
our yacht, and attend talks by our expedition
team. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: OLYMPIA
Dock in Katakolon and travel to the ancient site
of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games.
Visit the legendary ruins of this UNESCO World
Heritage site, the Olympic stadium, and the
superb Archaeological Museum. (B, L, D)
DAY 5: ITHÁKI
Discover gem-like Ionian villages nestled
along the coast of Itháki today. Drive around
the island to view the sites that some claim
link the island to Homer's Ithaca, and in the
afternoon, cruise into one of the island's
stunning bays for a swim. (B, L, D)
DAY 6: SARANDË AND BUTRINT, ALBANIA
Cut off from the world for 50 years by its Stalinist
dictator, Albania is now feeling its way into the
21st century. Explore the ancient city of Butrint,
a UNESCO World Heritage site, and return to
Sarandë for local refreshments at Lekuris Castle
overlooking the bay of Sarandë and Corfu Strait
below. (B, L, D)
DAY 7: TIRANA
Dock in Durrës, drive to the ancient capital
of Kruje, and visit the medieval market and
Ethnographic Museum. Continue to the
contemporary capital, Tirana, scattered with
the vestiges of one of the longest dictator-
ships in Eastern Europe. (B, L, D)
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: May 31–Jun. 11, Jun. 10–21*,
Aug. 23–Sep. 3, Sep. 2–13*
*These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, from Dubrovnik to Athens.
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $11,630
Located on the Promenade Deck
Category 2 $13,150
Located on the Promenade Deck
Category 3 $15,890
Located on the Captain’s Deck
Category 4 $16,710
Located on the Captain’s Deck
Category B—Deluxe $18,180
Located on the Main Deck
Category A—Deluxe $19,690
Located on the Main Deck
Owner's Suites $22,190
Located on the Main Deck
See Sea Cloud photo and deck plan on
page 64. Prices are per person, double
occupancy. For a single cabin in Category 1,
add $5,460. International airfare from New
York to Athens and return from Dubrovnik is
not included in the expedition cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Add a two-day extension in Athens; or a
three-day extension in Croatia and Bosnia,
including stops in Split, Trogir, and Mostar.
Visit our website for details.
SPECIAL OFFER
Travel on the Sea Cloud in 2015 and we will
cover your bar tab on board and all tips for
the crew.
DAY 8: PERAST AND KOTOR, MONTENEGRO
Sail into Montenegro via the magnifi cent 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 fi shermen drop-
ping rocks from their rowboats. Explore medieval
Kotor this afternoon, or drive up 27 serpentine
switchbacks to the top of the fj ord. (B, L, D)
DAY 9: 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 town,
a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy a
private performance of traditional Croatian
klapa music. (B, L, D)
DAY 10: KORČULA
Anchor at the island port of Korčula, one of
the most beautiful medieval towns in the
Balkans. Visit the town’s sites, and see the
house believed by some to be Marco Polo’s
birthplace. This evening, attend a private
traditional Moreška sword dance. (B, L, D)
DAY 11: HVAR
At the height of Venetian rule, Hvar was the
region’s most prosperous center. Take a tour
inside the delightful walled city. Visit the
arsenal and Croatia’s oldest active theater, and
if you choose, hike up to the citadel. (B, L, D)
DAY 12: DUBROVNIK/U.S.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the
airport for your return fl ight. (B)
RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM 23
EUROPE
The town of Perast, Montenegro.
“Those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik.”
—George Bernard Shaw,
Quoted in National Geographic Traveler, March 2004
ABOARD THE LORD OF THE GLENS
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Kayak on Loch Ness, and wander through the charming seaside
town of Tobermory.
» Stroll across the battlefields at Culloden where Bonnie Prince
Charlie was dramatically defeated.
» Hike through stunning scenery on the Isle of Skye, and learn
about the tiny community on the remote island of Eigg.
» Attend the Edinburgh Military Tattoo on an optional extension in
Edinburgh.
SCOTLAND’S HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS
24
View of Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
Photographer Catherine
Karnow fi rst traveled across
Scotland to illustrate a book
on the Scottish whisky trail.
She's been drawn back
ever since and recently lead
a photography workshop
in Scotland. Catherine has photographed
everything from Australian Aborigines to
Bombay fi lm stars. She shot the cover story
"Inside Provence" for National Geographic Traveler's April 2006 issue and captured rare
images of Prince Charles for the May 2006
National Geographic magazine feature "Not
Your Typical Radical." Catherine will share her
love for photography on the July 26, 2015
departure.
ITINERARY: 9 DAYS
DAYS 1 AND 2: U.S./INVERNESS, SCOTLAND/
KYLE OF LOCHALSH
Depart for Inverness, arriving the next morn-
ing. Drive to Kyle of Lochalsh, and board the
Lord of the Glens to the strains of a highland
piper. Settle into your cabin and gather for a
reception and dinner on board tonight. (D)
DAY 3: ISLE OF SKYE/INVERIE
Visit the Isle of Skye and take a guided walk
in the Cuillin Hills (weather permitting), or
explore Eilean Donan Castle and the quaint
village of Plockton on the mainland. At the
Museum of the Isles, trace the legacy of the
1,300-year-old Clan Donald, who once ruled
the west coast of Scotland, and walk through
the woodlands of Armadale. Then sail to
Inverie, where you can have a drink at the
most remote pub in the British Isles. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: ISLE OF EIGG/TOBERMORY,
ISLE OF MULL
Sail to tiny Eigg and see what life is like for
the roughly 90 people who live in this island
community. Look for marine animals, including
Atlantic seals, minke whales, dolphins, por-
poises, and a variety of seabirds. Alternatively,
we may visit the Isle of Rum, renowned for
spectacular Kinloch Castle. Continue to the
Isle of Mull in the Inner Hebrides to explore
Tobermory. (B, L, D)
DAY 5: IONA/DUART CASTLE/OBAN
Sail along the coast of Mull and cross to Iona
by ferry to explore this picturesque island.
Visit the medieval abbey ruins and the rebuilt
abbey church. Stroll through St. Oran’s Chapel
and the royal graveyard where generations
of Scottish kings are buried, and enjoy a brief
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: Jul. 26–Aug. 3,* Aug. 2–10,
Aug. 9–17,* Aug. 16–24, Aug. 23–31,*
Aug. 30–Sep. 7
*These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order.
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $6,990
Located on the James Watt Deck
Category 2 $7,990
Located on the A. G. Bell and David Roberts
Decks
See the Lord of the Glens photo and deck
plan on page 65. Prices are per person,
double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $
1,750 in Category 1 and $2,000 in Category 2.
International airfare between New York and
Inverness is not included in the expedition
cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
EDINBURGH (2 DAYS) 2015:
Add a two-day exploration of enchanting
Edinburgh to your voyage. Discover
Edinburgh Castle, examine Scotland’s crown
jewels and the legendary Stone of Destiny,
stroll the Royal Mile to St. Giles Cathedral.
Note: The Military Tattoo is not included on
the July 26 pre-trip extension.
walking tour of Iona. Visit photogenic Duart
Castle, an imposing fortress with a dungeon.
Sail across to the town of Oban, set on a
picturesque bay on the Firth of Lorn. (B, L, D)
DAY 6: OBAN/LOCH LINNHE/GLENFINNAN/
BANAVIE
Explore the lively town of Oban on foot,
visiting a whisky distillery and McCaig’s Tower,
a monument on a hill overlooking the town
and bay that was inspired by the Roman
Colosseum. Sail Loch Linnhe and ascend
Neptune’s Staircase, a set of eight intercon-
nected locks. Drive to Glenfi nnan, a village
nestled within the mountains, and enjoy an
afternoon walk. Continue to Banavie and this
evening welcome local musicians on board for
a lively performance. (B, L, D)
DAY 7: LAGGAN LOCKS/FORT AUGUSTUS
Sail into Loch Lochy and descend an
impressive fl ight of locks that runs through
the heart of Fort Augustus. Glide down the
tree-lined canal known as Laggan Avenue, or
hike or bike along the towpath. Moor at Fort
Augustus and set out on a kayak excursion or
a hike. (B, L, D)
DAY 8: LOCH NESS/CLAVA CAIRNS/
INVERNESS/CULLODEN
Enter Loch Ness, where we’ll learn about the
legendary monster said to inhabit the loch's
depths. Sail to Inverness and visit Culloden,
the infamous battlefi eld where Bonnie Prince
Charlie’s Jacobite forces were defeated in
1746. See the prehistoric standing stones and
passage tombs of Clava Cairns. (B, L, D)
DAY 9: INVERNESS/U.S.
Disembark in Inverness and transfer to the
airport for your return fl ight home. (B)
EUROPE
The colorful harbor at Tobermory
Edinburgh’s spectacular Military Tattoo
Lord of the Glens glides by the ruins of Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness.
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 25
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Venture into ancient ruins on the isle of Iona and explore caves lined
with geometric basalt columns on Staffa.
» Peer into the past in the prehistoric homes of Skara Brae in the Orkney
Islands and visit Jarlshof, a 4,000-year-old settlement in the Shetland
Islands.
» Gaze up at Ireland's soaring Cliffs of Moher and see the Celtic fort at
Dun Aengus on the Aran Islands.
» Discover timeless coastal villages including Fowey in England and Dingle
in Ireland.
EXPLORING THE BRITISH AND IRISH ISLES
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
National Geographic
photographer Jim
Richardson is proud of
his Celtic roots. A veteran
of more than 40 articles
for National Geographic
magazine and National Geographic Traveler, Jim spent two years
photographing the Celtic realm for the
March 2006 National Geographic article
"Celt Appeal." Jim will join a diverse team of
experts on this voyage.
26
The Ring of Brodgar, Orkney Islands
ITINERARY: 15 DAYS
MAY 11 AND 12: U.S./LONDON, ENGLAND
Depart on an overnight fl ight to London and
embark the National Geographic Explorer on
the Thames River. As we sail out of London,
stand on deck to catch a panoramic view of the
city's iconic landmarks. (D)
MAY 13: PORTSMOUTH
Set sail to Portsmouth, the naval port from
which the D-Day invasion was launched.
Delve into Britain’s nautical history here, and
see the HMS Victory, which helped defeat the
French at Trafalgar. (B, L, D)
MAY 14: FOWEY/EDEN PROJECT
Wander through the medieval streets of this
charming coastal town where explorers Drake
and Raleigh set sail. Then visit the Eden
Project, an innovative nature center, or stroll
through the Lost Gardens of Heligan. (B, L, D)
MAY 15: ISLES OF SCILLY
According to Arthurian legend, the Isles of
Scilly are all that remain of Lyonesse, a land
that vanished beneath the Atlantic. Meander
through Tresco Abbey Gardens, where
subtropical plants fl ourish. (B, L, D)
MAY 16: SKELLIG ROCKS AND DINGLE
PENINSULA, IRELAND
The isle of Skellig Michael was once an
important center of Celtic Christianity. From
the ship, gaze up at the beehive huts of its
monastery, clinging to the jagged peak 600
feet above the sea. After lunch, explore the
ancient sites of the Dingle Peninsula and
wander through the village. (B, L, D)
MAY 17: CLIFFS OF MOHER/ARAN ISLANDS
View the towering Cliff s of Moher as we
sail by them this morning. Continue to the
Aran Islands, known for their limestone
moonscapes and strong Gaelic identity. Visit
Dun Aengus, an enigmatic Celtic ring fort
perched on the edge of a cliff . (B, L, D)
MAY 18: COUNTY DONEGAL
Dock at the fi shing harbor of Killybegs and
drive to the town of Glencolumbkille to discover
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: May 6-20
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $12,990
Located on Main Deck with porthole
Category 2 $13,640
Located on Main Deck with window
Category 3 $14,250
Located on Main Deck with window
Category 4 $14,850
Located on Upper/Veranda Decks with window
Category 5 $17,730
Located on Upper Deck with balcony
Category 6 $20,460
Located on Upper/Veranda Decks—suite
Category 7 $23,720
Located on Upper Deck—suite with balcony
See National Geographic Explorer photos
and deck plan on page 61. Prices are per
person, double occupancy. For a single
cabin, add $3,410 in Category 2 and
$3,560 in Category 3. International airfare
from New York to London and return from
Bergen is not included in the expedition
cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Add a six-day pre-trip extension in Wales.
Explore Welsh culture, castles, gardens,
and abbeys, and take a scenic railway ride
through the Snowdonia mountains. Please
visit our website for details.
ancient cairns and dolmens. Cruise past
Slieve League, soaring 2,000-foot cliff s that
are the highest in Europe. (B, L, D)
MAY 19: IONA AND STAFFA, INNER
HEBRIDES, SCOTLAND
On Iona, venture into an ancient nunnery
and a 13th-century abbey. Examine the Celtic
high crosses of kings such as Duncan and
Macbeth. This afternoon, explore Staff a, an
island famed for its geometric basalt
columns and deep caves. It was here that
Felix Mendelssohn was inspired to write his
Hebrides overture. (B, L, D)
MAY 20: OUTER HEBRIDES/ST. KILDA/CALLANISH
Visit the Outer Hebrides, where Scottish Gaelic is
still spoken and artisans weave traditional woolen
fabrics. Weather permitting, explore the cottages
of remote St. Kilda, a UNESCO World Heritage site
inhabited since the Bronze Age. (B, L, D)
MAY 21: INVEREWE GARDENS/ULLAPOOL
Stroll through Inverewe Gardens, where color-
ful subtropical fl ora thrives. Later, explore the
charming fi shing village of Ullapool. (B, L, D)
MAY 22: ORKNEY ISLANDS
Encounter a sophisticated Stone Age culture
on visits to the Ring of Brodgar and the
5,000-year-old stone-slab village of Skara
Brae. Step into the medieval St. Magnus
Cathedral in Kirkwall. (B, L, D)
MAY 23: FAIR ISLE/MOUSA
Visit the bird research station, located on the
migration fl yway, and hike to a nearby beach
to look for puffi ns. Then, on the uninhabited
island of Mousa, see one of the best ex-
amples of an Iron Age broch. (B, L, D)
MAY 24: SHETLAND ISLANDS
Dock at the Shetland Islands, an archipelago
of about 100 islands and islets. Drive through a
rolling landscape dotted with Shetland ponies.
Explore the ruins at Jarlshof, which reveal 4,000
years of near-continuous settlement. (B, L, D)
MAY 25: BERGEN, NORWAY/U.S.
Disembark in Bergen and transfer to the
airport for your fl ight home. (B)
RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM 27
EUROPE
“At every graceful turn this emerald world will steal your heart away.”
—Jennifer S. Holland, “Beneath Irish Isles,”
National Geographic magazine, March 2005
“
EXPERIENCE MAJESTY AT THE ENDS OF THE EARTH
28
The National Geographic Explorer passes by a towering iceberg
Experience a dazzling world of ice aboard the National Geographic Explorer, discovering land-
scapes sculpted by the elements and ruled by wildlife. There's no better ship to take
you to the polar regions than our state-of-the-art expedition ship, a nimble ice-class vessel
that can reach some of the most remote places on the planet while off ering a world-class
experience on board. Immerse yourself in the peace and majesty of the land of the midnight
sun as you watch polar bears in Svalbard or paddle a kayak among the icebergs of
Greenland and Iceland. Encounter thousands of penguins in the spectacular icy
landscapes of Antarctica, and follow the footsteps of Shackleton in South
Georgia. Our top-notch expedition team—including a National Geographic
photographer on every voyage—and a wide range of
exploration tools, from Zodiac landing craft to remotely
operated vehicles that fi lm the ocean fl oor, bring you
closer to wilderness in its purest form.
ITINERARY | 12 DAYS ITINERARY | 17 DAYS
ALONG THE VIKING TRAIL: FROM ICELAND TO GREENLAND
More than a thousand years ago, Erik the Red set sail from
Iceland to explore a stark and spectacular land of endless
ice, rocky pinnacles, and countless islands and fj ords. With
a population hovering around 50,000 and few roads or
trees, the place he later settled and named “Greenland” has
changed little over the centuries. Follow the route of Erik
the Red from Iceland’s beautiful western coast across the
Denmark Strait and round the southern tip of Greenland.
Encounter the vestiges of Viking settlements and delve into
the mystery of their disappearance. Venture deep into fj ords
by Zodiac or kayak, and discover glaciers, whales, and
seabirds. In brightly painted coastal towns and villages from
Flatey Island to Nuuk, learn about everyday life on the Arctic
Circle.
» Trace the saga of Erik the Red at his former homestead,
and explore ancient Norse culture among remarkable
ruins on Greenland’s southwestern shores.
» Examine a wealth of Viking artifacts at Reykjavík’s
National Museum and see fascinating 15th-century
mummies featured in a National Geographic cover story
at the National Museum in Nuuk, Greenland.
» Spot razorbills among the towering cliffs of Latrabjarg,
on Iceland’s western coast, and watch for whales as we
cross the Denmark Strait.
» Stroll past colorful cottages in Qaqortoq and learn about
modern-day Greenlandic culture.
Dates: 2015: Jul. 19–Jul. 30
Expedition cost: from $10,580
SVALBARD, ICELAND, AND GREENLAND’S EAST COAST
Ice, wildlife, and adventure: that is what draws us to the
icy waters that sweep down from the Arctic Ocean to the
Greenland Sea. This is an expedition for the seasoned
traveler—well-suited for the special capabilities of the
ultimate expedition ship, National Geographic Explorer, and our expert naturalist staff . Like the intrepid sailors of
the golden Age of Exploration who set out with no fi xed
itinerary, seeking adventure, knowledge, and the unknown,
we depend on ice, wildlife, and weather conditions to guide
us on our voyage. From Arctic Svalbard, just 600 miles from
the North Pole, we embark on a quest to explore the ice's
edge all the way to eastern Greenland and Iceland.
» Explore Arctic Svalbard, the polar bear capital of the
planet, to observe these majestic creatures in their
natural habitat on the sea ice.
» Navigate the arctic wilderness of the Greenland Sea
to Iceland's wild western coast, making multiple stops
dependent on ice and weather conditions in true
expedition style.
» Watch for huge walruses, whales, and reindeer, and
spot richly dense birdlife.
» Glide between soaring ice floes, exploring via ship,
Zodiac, and kayak.
Dates: 2015: Jun. 22–Jul. 8
Expedition cost: from $13,820
NOTE: All prices are per person, double occupancy. Airfare is
not included in the expedition cost.
See our website nationalgeographicexpeditions.com for
detailed itineraries and pricing.
POLAR REGIONS
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 29
� SPECIAL AIR OFFER: See page 7 for details.
30
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Search for the very symbol of the Arctic—the polar bear—and observe
these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, on the sea ice.
» Take naturalist-led shore walks through the tundra, and cruise among
beautiful icebergs in a Zodiac or a kayak.
» Experience the legendary midnight sun: the ethereal light of the
northern summer, when the sun never sets.
» Watch for huge walruses, bearded and ringed seals, arctic foxes,
and reindeer.
LAND OF THE POLAR BEARS
A mother polar bear and her two cubs.
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
Award-winning
photographer, fi lmmaker,
and instructor Rich
Reid has specialized
in environmental and
adventure photography
for more than two
decades. Recently, the North America Nature
Photography Association presented Rich
with a Fellows Award for his professional
contribution to nature photography and he has
produced award-winning short documentaries
highlighting conservation. Rich has shared his
photography passion with guests on National
Geographic Expeditions throughout the globe
and he will join a diverse team of naturalists
and experts on the June 8 and 15, 2015
departures of this expedition.
ITINERARY: 11 DAYS
DAYS 1 AND 2: U.S./OSLO, NORWAY
Depart on an overnight fl ight to Oslo. Upon
arrival, check into our hotel. On an afternoon
tour of this charming city, stroll among the
famed Vigeland sculptures—hundreds of life-
size human fi gures set in terraced parkland.
Visit the Fram Museum, showcasing the polar
ship Fram and dedicated to the explorers
and wooden vessels that navigated the Arctic
Sea in the late 1800s and early 1900s. This
evening, explore Oslo on your own.
Thon Hotel Bristol
DAY 3: OSLO/LONGYEARBYEN
Depart Oslo on a private charter fl ight,
and enjoy breathtaking vistas en route
to Longyearbyen. Embark the National Geographic Explorer, your base for the next
six days. (B, L, D)
DAYS 4–9: 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 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
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: June 1–11, June 8-18,
June 15-25
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $9,440
Located on Main Deck with porthole
Category 2 $10,070
Located on Main Deck with window
Category 3 $10,460
Located on Main Deck with window
Category 4 $11,090
Located on Upper and Veranda Decks with
window
Category 5 $13,090
Located on Upper Deck with balcony
Category 6 $15,280
Located on Upper and Veranda Decks—suite
Category 7 $17,460
Located on Upper Deck—suite with balcony
See National Geographic Explorer photos
and deck plan on page 61. Prices are per
person, double occupancy. For a single
cabin, add $2,520 in Category 2 and
$2,620 in Category 3. International airfare
between Newark and Oslo is not included in
the expedition cost. Charter fl ight between
Oslo and Longyearbyen is $725 (subject to
change).
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Add a fi ve-day pre-trip extension to the
breathtaking fj ords of Norway or a fi ve-day
post-trip extension to Iceland that includes
Reykjavík and the Golden Circle. Visit our
website for details.
ice in search of wildlife; our exact day-to-day
itinerary remains fl exible, depending on
local ice and weather conditions. Zodiacs
and kayaks take us closer to experience the
region’s geologic features and the wildlife
that fl ourishes during the summer months.
With our National Geographic photographer
and a seasoned naturalist staff , venture to the
foot of vast tidewater glaciers, kayak among
sparkling icebergs, and explore fj ords 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.
Nowhere can the polar bear be seen more
reliably in its natural environment than here.
(B, L, D Daily)
DAY 10: LONGYEARBYEN/OSLO
In Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in
Svalbard, disembark and enjoy time to explore.
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 (B, L)
DAY 11: OSLO/U.S.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the
return fl ight home. (B)
POLAR REGIONS
Kittiwakes in fl ight over a Zodiac
A walrus displays his impressive tusks.
“I looked up to see a light dusting of snow on a tombstone-gray sea cliff . Glassing the scene with my binoculars, I realized I wasn’t seeing snow at all. It was the blending of tens of thousands of kittiwakes nesting on cliff ledges, their white heads creating a pointillist eff ect from miles away.”
–Bruce Barcott, “Svalbard’s Ice Paradise,”
National Geographic magazine, April 2009
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 31
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Stroll past medieval wooden houses in Bryggen, a UNESCO World
Heritage site in Bergen.
» Discover hidden inlets and cascading waterfalls while kayaking in
the spectacular fjord lands.
» By special permission, learn about the cultures that flourish on the
island of Smøla.
» Spot polar bears and seals on the ice floes of the Svalbard archipelago.
NORWAY’S FJORDS AND ARCTIC SVALBARD
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
Photographers Sisse
Brimberg and Cotton
Coulson have collectively
photographed more than
50 stories for National Geographic and National Geographic Traveler magazines. They have spent most of their
careers working in Europe, shooting stories
from the Arctic to Scandinavia. Both Sisse and
Cotton have been awarded prizes by Picture
of the Year International, the National Press
Photographers Association, and the White
House Press Photographers Association. They
will join a diverse team of naturalists on this
expedition.
32
Brightly painted cottages encircle a blooming shoreline in the Lofoten archipelago.
ITINERARY: 17 DAYS
MAY 19 AND 20: U.S./BERGEN, NORWAY
Depart on an overnight fl ight to Bergen, the
gateway to the fj ord lands. Ringed by seven
hills, this beautiful city was once an important
Hanseatic trading center. Discover Bergen’s
maritime history on a guided walk of Bryggen,
a UNESCO World Heritage site before embark-
ing the National Geographic Explorer. (L, D)
MAY 21: NORDFJORD
Glide through the little-known Nordfj ord and
travel overland to see the jagged peaks and
turquoise lake of Olden Valley. Hike through
deep, glacially carved valleys to Briksdal
Glacier. (B, L, D)
MAY 22: SMØLA
A small, fl at island in the North Sea, Smøla is
home to a fi shing community of about 2,100.
Spend time today exploring the wetlands,
fi shing villages, and rugged coasts by special
permission. Go for a coastal walk or bike ride,
or a take a kayaking excursion in the island's
protected bays. Many a ship has sunk around
Smøla, and our ROV should be able to view
wrecks dating back hundreds of years.
(B, L, D)
MAY 23 AND 24: EXPLORING THE FJORDS
OF NORWAY
Along the dramatic coast of central Norway,
cruise in a Zodiac along vertical rock faces,
paddle a kayak past countless waterfalls,
and go for a hike with our naturalists. Explore
hidden gems such as Melfj orden, a spectacu-
lar narrow channel that cuts between high
granite cliff s. (B, L, D Daily)
MAY 25: LOFOTEN ISLANDS
Travel among the islets by Zodiac to view
Atlantic puffi ns, razorbills, and guillemots. Go
ashore for a stroll through the fi shing village of
Aa. Later, cruise into dramatic Trollfj orden, one
of the most famous fj ords in Norway. (B, L, D)
MAY 26: TYSFJORDEN
This morning, enter the long fj ord of
Tysfj orden, where only a few small villages
cling to the rocky shores. Explore Hellemobotn
TRIP DETAILS
DATE: 2015: May 19–June 4
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $15,170
Located on Main Deck with porthole
Category 2 $15,990
Located on Main Deck with window
Category 3 $16,820
Located on Main Deck with window
Category 4 $18,120
Located on Upper and Veranda Decks with
window
Category 5 $20,690
Located on Upper Deck with balcony
Category 6 $24,150
Located on Upper and Veranda Decks—suite
Category 7 $27,750
Located on Upper Deck—suite with balcony
See National Geographic Explorer photo and
deck plan on page 61. Prices are per person,
double occupancy. For a single cabin, add
$4,000 in Category 2 and $4,200 in Category
3. International airfare from New York to
Bergen, and return from Oslo is not included in
the expedition cost. Charter airfare one-way
from Longyearbyen to Oslo is $360 (subject to
change).
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Add a fi ve-day post-trip extension to Iceland
that includes Reykjavík and the Golden
Circle. Visit our website or call for details.
and the area’s numerous side channels by
Zodiac, kayak, or on foot. (B, L, D)
MAY 27: TROMSØ
Tromsø is known as the “gateway to the Arctic”
because so many Arctic expeditions originated
here. Visit the Polar Museum and the Arctic
Cathedral, where the unique architecture
evokes snow and icebergs. (B, L, D)
MAY 28 AND 29: AT SEA/BJØRNØYA
(BEAR ISLAND)
We now set our sights on the high Arctic, taking
advantage of opportunities to explore on our
way to Bear Island. Glide via Zodiac into the
coves and inlets of this mist-shrouded island,
populated by hundreds of thousands of fulmars,
kittiwakes, and guillemots. (B, L, D Daily )
MAY 30-JUNE 2: EXPLORING SVALBARD
Spend four days searching for walruses, seals,
reindeer, arctic foxes, and polar bears among
the deep fj ords, mountains, and ice sheets of
Svalbard. Our itinerary is fl exible to allow us to
make the most of ice and weather conditions,
and wildlife sightings. Shore walks and Zodiac
and kayaking adventures bring us up close to
untouched landscapes and passing icebergs.
(B, L, D Daily)
JUNE 3: LONGYEARBYEN/OSLO
Disembark in Longyearbyen and visit the
Svalbard Art Gallery and Svalbard Museum.
Then board our charter fl ight to Oslo. Radisson Blu Airport Hotel (B, L, D)
JUNE 4: OSLO/U.S.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your
return fl ight. (B)
POLAR REGIONS
A curious polar bear cub and its mother
RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM 33
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Glide between icebergs at the mouth of the Ilulissat Icefjord, a
UNESCO World Heritage site.
» Observe polar bears, walruses, and beluga whales in their natural
habitats.
» Follow in the wake of legendary explorers as we explore the Lancaster
Sound, the gateway to the Northwest Passage.
» Discover the incredible wildlife and landscapes of Baffin Island on
hikes and excursions by Zodiac.
EXPLORING GREENLAND AND THE CANADIAN HIGH ARCTIC
34
Zodiac cruising in Illulissat, Greenland
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
Ralph Lee Hopkins's
wildlife images have
appeared in National
Geographic's books,
magazines, and online
galleries. Ralph is
founder and director
of the Expedition Photography program for
the LIndblad-National Geographic alliance.
Ralph also served as a photographer on the
historic Arctic Expedition for Climate Action in
July 2008 and has traveled beyond the Arctic
circles many times during the past 20 years.
Ralph will join a diverse team of naturalists
and experts on the July 28 and August 7,
2015 departures. Please visit our website for
National Geographic photographers on other
departures.
ITINERARY: 13 DAYS
DAY 1: U.S./OTTAWA, CANADA
Arrive in Ottawa and check into the hotel in
time for a welcome reception and dinner.
Fairmont Chateau Laurier (D)
DAY 2: OTTAWA/KANGERLUSSUAQ,
GREENLAND
Fly by chartered aircraft to Greenland,
the land of the midnight sun. Embark the
National Geographic Explorer at the head of
Kangerlussuaq Fjord, a scenic waterway that
stretches 100 miles, and is aptly known as the
“big fj ord.” (B, L, D)
DAY 3: GREENLAND’S WEST COAST AND
SISIMIUT
Dozens of deep fj ords carve into Greenland’s
west coast, many with glaciers fed by the
ice cap that covers about 80 percent of the
island. Discover this beautiful and ragged
coastline in Zodiacs, searching for humpback
and minke whales. At Sisimiut, a former whal-
ing port, visit the museum and wander amid
a picturesque jumble of 18th and 19th-century
wooden buildings. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: DISKO BAY AND ILULISSAT ICEFJORD
Sail into Disko Bay to explore the World
Heritage site of Ilulissat Icefj ord, a tongue of
the Greenland ice cap that extends to the bay.
Take an extraordinary cruise among towering
icebergs at the mouth of the fj ord. Then walk
alongside this immense, calving glacier to the
abandoned Inuit fi shing village of Sermermiut
Point. (B, L, D)
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: Jul. 28–Aug. 9, Aug. 7–Aug.
19*, Aug. 17–Aug. 31, Aug. 27–Sep. 8*
*These voyages travel in reverse from Iqaluit to Kangerlussuaq.
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $12,990
Located on Main Deck with porthole
Category 2 $13,990
Located on Main Deck with window
Category 3 $14,430
Located on Main Deck with window
Category 4 $15,550
Located on Upper and Veranda Decks with
window
Category 5 $18,680
Located on Upper Deck with balcony
Category 6 $21,290
Located on Upper and Veranda Decks—suite
Category 7 $24,790
Located on Upper Deck—suite with balcony
See National Geographic Explorer photos and
deck plan on page 61. Prices are per person,
double occupancy. For a single cabin, add
$3,500 in Category 2 and $3,610 in Category
3. International airfare between Newark and
Ottawa is not included in the expedition cost.
Charter fl ights from Ottawa to Kangerlussuaq,
and Iqaluit to Ottawa, or vice versa, are
$1,750 (subject to change).
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Add a fi ve-day pre-trip extension to the
breathtaking fj ords of Norway or a fi ve-day
post-trip extension to Iceland that includes
Reykjavík and the Golden Circle. Visit our
website for details.
DAY 5: AT SEA/BAFFIN BAY
Watch for wildlife, enjoy the ship’s amenities,
and attend talks by our experts as we travel
through Baffi n Bay. (B, L, D)
DAYS 6-8: EXPLORING THE CANADIAN HIGH
ARCTIC
Carved by Ice Age glaciers, Lancaster Sound is
the eastern gateway to the Arctic Archipelago.
European explorers like William Baffi n fi rst
ventured here in the 15th century to search for
the Northwest Passage. The sound has been
a favorite Inuit hunting and fi shing location
for hundreds of years. Our days here will be
spent searching for ringed seals, arctic foxes,
walruses, and polar bears, as well as beluga
and bowhead whales. We may even see the
elusive narwhal, an arctic whale known for the
long, spiraling tooth that projects up to ten feet
from its upper jaw. (B, L, D Daily)
DAYS 9-11: PADLOPING/HALL PENINSULA
We spend another day in true expedition
style, exploring the Padloping region and the
unspoiled Hall Peninsula of Baffi n Island. Hike
the tundra in search of caribou and arctic
foxes, or follow our botanist to learn more
about the hardy arctic plants. The exposed
rocky cliff s of Monumental Island are used
as haul-outs by walruses. We’ll cruise the
coastline in search of these icons of Canada's
far north. (B, L, D)
DAYS 12-13: IQALUIT/OTTAWA/U.S.
Disembark in Iqaluit and fl y to Ottawa by
chartered aircraft. Fly home the following day.
(Day 12: B, L; Day 13: B)
POLAR REGIONS
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 35
Bowhead whale
A polar bear pads across an ice fl oe.
A CIRCUMNAVIGATION OF ICELANDABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Explore Europe’s largest ice cap, and discover the lava-sculpted
landscapes of the Westman Islands.
» Soak in hot springs, and see boiling mud pots and the thundering
Godafoss.
» Go whale-watching and spot birdlife on the shores of Iceland and
its surrounding isles.
» Get up close to spectacular sculptures in ice on a cruise among
the scattered icebergs of Jökulsárlón.
36
Travelers take in the power and beauty of Godafoss
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
One of the fi rst female
photographers to work
for National Geographic,
Annie Griffi ths has taken
photographs in more than
100 countries during her
illustrious career. Her
work has appeared in numerous National Geographic magazine articles along with
LIFE, Geo, Smithsonian, Fortune, Merian, Stern, and many other publications. Annie
has received awards from the National Press
Photographers Association, the Associated
Press, the National Organization of Women,
and the White House News Photographers
Association. Annie will join a diverse team of
naturalists and experts on this expedition.
ITINERARY: 11 DAYS
JULY 7 AND 8: U.S./ REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND
Fly overnight to Reykjavík, the world’s north-
ernmost capital. Take a guided overview of the
Old Town, including Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral.
Learn about Norse culture at the National
Museum, featuring Viking treasures. Embark
National Geographic Explorer. (Day 2: L, D)
JULY 9: EXPLORING THE WEST COAST OF
ICELAND
Navigate Iceland’s wild western frontier,
sailing past the soaring Látrabjarg cliff s, home
to a huge population of razorbills. Continue
to Flatey island, a trading post for many
centuries, and take walks around the charm-
ing hamlet here. Explore the coast by Zodiac
this afternoon. (B, L, D)
JULY 10: ÍSAFJÖRDUR
Located in the West Fjords, the town of
Ísafj ördur lies on a tiny spit jutting out into
the water against a backdrop of steep hills
and is renowned for its traditional eider down
production. It’s a picture postcard of Icelandic
life and a great place for hiking, kayaking, and
spotting eider ducks. (B, L, D)
JULY 11: EXPLORING NORTHWESTERN
ICELAND
Hornstrandir is Iceland's northernmost
peninsula, situated in the Westfj ords region.
Stunningly beautiful and peaceful, this remote
corner of Iceland is uninhabited and can only
be accessed on foot or by boat. Summertime
is magical with 24 hours of daylight and
many species of seabirds including puffi ns,
guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes. (B, L, D)
JULY 12: SIGLUFJÖRDUR AND AKUREYRI
Start the day in Siglufj örur, the center of
Iceland’s once-thriving herring industry, and
stop by the Herring Museum for a talk and
a tasting. Then continue on to picturesque
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: July 7–17
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $9,440
Located on Main Deck with porthole
Category 2 $10,290
Located on Main Deck with window
Category 3 $10,620
Located on Main Deck with window
Category 4 $11,560
Located on Upper and Veranda Decks with
window
Category 5 $13,680
Located on Upper Deck with balcony
Category 6 $16,370
Located on Upper and Veranda Decks—suite
Category 7 $18,880
Located on Upper Deck—suite with balcony
See National Geographic Explorer photos
and deck plan on page 61. Prices are per
person, double occupancy. For a single
cabin, add $2,540 in Category 2, and
$2,660 in Category 3. International airfare
between New York and Reykjavík is not
included in the expedition cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Add a two-day pre-trip extension to see
Reykjavík’s Golden Circle. Visit our website
or call for details.
Akureyri. Explore the old town, with its beauti-
fully maintained period houses set against a
backdrop of snow-capped mountains, or visit
the botanical garden. (B, L, D)
JULY 13: MÝVATN AND HUSAVIK
Drive to Mývatn, the most geologically active
area in Iceland. See the bubbling mud pools
at Hverarönd and the volcanic crater at Viti
before continuing on for an unforgettable
sight: Godafoss, the “waterfall of the gods.”
Meet the ship in Húsavík and set sail for the
tiny island of Grímsey, where we offi cially
arrive in the Arctic Circle. (B, L, D)
JULY 14: EXPLORING NORTHEAST ICELAND
Iceland’s rugged east coast is an unspoiled
stretch of rocky outcrops, hidden coves, and
hills that beckon hikers. Today is left open
to explore this beautiful landscape with our
naturalists by Zodiac and on foot. (B, L, D)
JULY 15: DJÚPIVOGUR
Dock in Djúpivogur to explore the vast
Vatnajökull ice cap. For a closer look at the
ice cap, take a boat ride through Jökulsárlón,
a lagoon strewn with spectacular icebergs
sculpted into all shapes and sizes. (B, L, D)
JULY 16: WESTMAN ISLANDS
The Westman Islands are among the youngest
of the world’s archipelagos. In 1963, the
world witnessed on fi lm the birth of its newest
island, Surtsey—a UNESCO World Heritage
site—which we’ll see as we cruise past the
coast. In 1973, Heimaey was threatened by
lava fl ows that nearly closed off its harbor.
Visit the crater, where the earth is still hot.
(B, L, D)
JULY 17: REYKJAVÍK/U.S.
Disembark in Reykjavík and soak in the
geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon before
your fl ight home. (B, L)
RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM 37
POLAR REGIONS
Atlantic Puffi ns
“A fi nal relic from the world’s last ice age, this North Atlantic island nation is a world of knife-cut valleys, gargantuan fj ords, monumental cliff s, black-sand beaches, thundering waterfalls, and silent white glaciers. ”
–Andrew Evans, “Harmonic Convergence,”
National Geographic Traveler, November/December 2011
“Awb
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER AND
THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» View the magnificent mountains, towering icebergs, and ice formations
that make up the dramatic Antarctic landscape.
» Cruise aboard sturdy Zodiac landing craft in search of leopard seals.
» Kayak in protected waters, paddling around icebergs as penguins
swim nearby.
» Walk on shore amid thousands of penguins, including gentoo, Adélie,
and chinstrap.
JOURNEY TO ANTARCTICAEXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
National Geographic
photographer Michael
Melford has produced more
than a dozen feature stories
for National Geographic magazine and more than
30 for National Geographic Traveler, including eight cover stories. On
assignment for National Geographic for the past
ten years, Michael has often used photography
to bring attention to the planet's wonders and
the need to preserve them. Michael will join
a diverse team of naturalists and experts on
the January 7 and 17, 2015 departures. Please
visit our website for National Geographic
photographers on other departures.
38
Gentoo penguins waddle through the snow.
ITINERARY: 14 DAYS
DAYS 1 AND 2: U.S./BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA*
Depart on an overnight fl ight to Buenos Aires,
Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital. Settle into
our hotel before heading out on an afternoon
tour of the city. Gather tonight for a welcome
reception. Casesar Park Hotel/MGallery
DAY 3: BUENOS AIRES/USHUAIA
Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the
world, and enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise of
the Beagle Channel. Then embark the National Geographic Explorer or National Geographic Orion and set sail. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: AT SEA/DRAKE PASSAGE
While crossing the spectacular Drake Passage,
spot whales and other marine life that glide
alongside the ship. (B, L, D)
DAYS 5–10: EXPLORING ANTARCTICA
With long 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 fl exible 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 land-
ing during the day. We anticipate making several
Zodiac landings each day to hike, kayak among
the icebergs, and experience close encounters
with wildlife. (B, L, D Daily)
Depending on weather and sea conditions, we
plan to make the following stops:
PARADISE BAY
This pristine bay is edged by soaring,
ice-covered peaks. Hike to a summit for a
breathtaking view, or kayak along a cliff -side
rookery in search of blue-eyed shags.
LEMAIRE CHANNEL AND PETERMANN ISLAND
Cruise through the Lemaire Channel between
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2014/2015 Season: Nov. 28–Dec. 11,
Dec. 18–31, Dec. 28, 2014–Jan. 10, 2015,
Jan. 7–20, Jan. 17–30, Jan. 27– Feb. 9, Feb.
6–19
2015/2016 Season: Nov. 27–Dec. 10, Dec.
7–20, Dec. 6–19*, Dec. 16–29* • Dec. 17–30
Dec. 26, 2015–Jan. 8, 2016*, Dec. 27, 2015–
Jan. 9, 2016, Jan. 5–18*, Jan. 6–19, Jan. 16–29
*These departures are aboard the National Geographic Orion and
begin and end in Santiago, Chile instead of Buenos Aires, Argentina. All
other departures are aboard the National Geographic Explorer.
EXPEDITION COST:
2014/2015 SEASON Explorer
Category 1 $12,350
Category 2 $13,280
Category 3 $13,690
Category 4 $14,720
Category 5 $17,670
Category 6 $20,240
Category 7 $23,560
2015/2016 SEASON Explorer Orion
Category 1 $12,970 $12,970
Category 2 $13,940 $13,940
Category 3 $14,370 $15,460
Category 4 $15,460 $18,550
Category 5 $18,550 $21,250
Category 6 $21,250 $24,740
Category 7 $24,740 N/A
See descriptions, photos, and deck plans for the NG Orion and NG Explorer on pages 60 and 61. Prices
are per person, double occupancy. For single cabin
and holiday pricing, please visit our website.
International airfare between Miami and Buenos
Aires is not included in the expedition cost. Charter
airfare between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia begins at
$790 (subject to change).
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.
NEKO HARBOR
Dock in Neko Harbor. Walk among penguins
on the beach or climb high onto an ice fi eld
for a panoramic vista of untouched peaks
surrounding this idyllic bay.
PORT 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 offi ce.
DAYS 11 AND 12: 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 Pacifi c Oceans.
Celebrate your voyage at a farewell dinner on
board. (B, L, D Daily)
DAYS 13 AND 14: USHUAIA, ARGENTINA/
BUENOS AIRES*/U.S.
Disembark in Ushuaia. Fly to Buenos Aires
and connect with your overnight fl ight home.
(B, L on Day 13)
RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM 39
POLAR REGIONS
A kayaker paddles toward an icy landscape in the waters of Antarctica.
“[A traveler] stands among the penguins, incredulous. 'I know I'm here, but I don't believe I'm here,' she exclaims to no one in particular. 'It's beyond all dreams.'" –Kenneth Brower, "The Great White Hope," National Geogarphic Traveler, October 2013
Id
� SPECIAL OFFER: Free airfare on the Nov. 28 and Dec. 8, 2014 National Geographic Explorer departures. See page 7 for details.
Getting up close and personal with one of South Georgia’s king penguin colonies is an incredible experience.
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER AND
THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Glide past massive icebergs in a Zodiac or a kayak.
» Trace the story of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s fateful expedition to
Antarctica and South Georgia and celebrate the centennial of his
voyage with a complimentary vintage-style expedition jacket and a
toast at the historic gravesite of Shackleton.
» Immerse yourself in a sea of black and white amid thousands of
king penguins in South Georgia.
» Visit the outposts of Port Stanley in the Falklands and Port Lockroy
in Antarctica.
ANTARCTICA, SOUTH GEORGIA, AND THE FALKLANDS
40
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
Award-winning
photographer, fi lmmaker,
and instructor Rich
Reid has specialized
in environmental and
adventure photography
for more than two
decades. Recently, the North America Nature
Photography Association presented Rich
with a Fellows Award for his professional
contribution to nature photography, and he has
created award-winning short documentaries
concentrating on the conservation of the
planet's oceans and wildlife. Rich will join a
diverse team of naturalists and experts on
the Feb. 14, 2015 departure. Please visit
our website for the National Geographic
photographers on other departures.
ITINERARY: 24 DAYS
DAYS 1 AND 2: U.S./BUENOS AIRES,
ARGENTINA*
Depart on an overnight fl ight to Buenos Aires,
Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital. Settle into
our hotel before embarking on an afternoon
tour of the city. Caesar Park Buenos Aires
DAY 3: BUENOS AIRES/USHUAIA
Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the
world, and enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise
on the Beagle Channel. Then set sail on the
National Geographic Explorer. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: AT SEA
Settle into shipboard life as we sail to the
Falkland Islands. Keep a lookout for seabirds,
as well as whales and other marine life that
swim alongside the ship. (B, L, D)
DAYS 5 AND 6: 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. (B, L, D Daily)
DAYS 7-13: AT SEA/SOUTH GEORGIA ISLAND
After two days at sea, arrive in South Georgia,
renowned for its beauty and wildlife—and
Shackleton’s fi nal resting place. Glide past
dramatic cliff s, and look for young Antarctic
fur seals. Hike through this breathtaking
landscape, and cruise into a remote bay
where thousands of king penguins await.
(B, L, D Daily)
DAYS 14 AND 15: AT SEA
As we head west toward the Antarctic
Peninsula, watch for whales from the ship’s
bridge, attend talks by our experts, and enjoy
the amenities on board. (B, L, D Daily)
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2014/ 2015 Season: Nov. 8–Dec. 1,
Feb. 14–Mar. 9, Feb. 16–Mar. 1
2015/ 2016 Season: Nov. 7–30, Jan. 25–Feb. 17,
Feb. 14–Mar. 8*, Feb. 15–Mar. 9
*Departures on the National Geographic Orion departing in 2016 begin
and end in Santiago, Chile instead of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Please
call for details.
Please note: The February 2015 and 2016 departures
follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order.
EXPEDITION COST:
2014/2015 SEASON Explorer Orion
Category 1 $21,360 $21,360
Category 2 $22,890 $22,890
Category 3 $23,960 $25,090
Category 4 $25,090 $30,780
Category 5 $30,780 $35,520
Category 6 $35,520 $41,190
Category 7 $41,190 N/A
2015/2016 SEASON Explorer Orion
Category 1 $22,430 $22,430
Category 2 $24,030 $24,030
Category 3 $25,160 $26,340
Category 4 $26,350 $32,320
Category 5 $32,320 $37,300
Category 6 $37,300 $43,250
Category 7 $43,250 N/A
See descriptions, photos, and deck plans for
the National Geographic Orion and National Geographic Explorer on pages 60 and 61.
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For
single cabin and holiday pricing, please visit
our website. International airfare between
Miami and Buenos Aires is not included in
the expedition cost. Charter airfare between
Buenos Aires and Ushuaia begins at $790
(subject to change).
DAYS 16-20: 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 fl exible. We
anticipate making several landings each
day to hike, kayak among the icebergs, and
experience close encounters with wildlife.
Depending on conditions, we plan to kayak
in pristine Paradise Bay and sail between the
jagged snowcaps that fl ank Lemaire Channel.
(B, L, D Daily )
DAYS 21 AND 22: AT SEA
On our fi nal days at sea, enjoy one last chance
to view the marine life of these southern
waters. Toast our epic voyage at a festive
farewell dinner. (B, L, D Daily)
DAYS 23 AND 24: USHUAIA, ARGENTINA/
BUENOS AIRES*/U.S.
Disembark in Ushuaia with some time to
explore. Fly to Buenos Aires by private charter.
Connect to your fl ight home, and arrive the
next day. (B, L on Day 23)
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 41
POLAR REGIONS
NEW ITINERARY: SOUTH GEORGIA & THE FALKLANDS19 DAYS
MARCH 6–24, 2016
Steeped in Shackleton lore and covered in
glaciers, South Georgia explodes with life:
dense colonies of king penguins, fur seals,
elephant seals, and macaroni penguins.
Add the Falklands, ablaze with tussock
grass, colonies of rockhopper penguins,
and ledges fi lled with albatrosses—and
you have one of the most brilliant travel
experiences on the planet. Visit our
website for details.
“If doctors told me I had only two weeks to live, I’d spend one week on South Georgia and the other week getting there.” –Brent Houston, “Island of the Kings,”
National Geographic Traveler, October 2009
“G
� SPECIAL OFFER: Free airfare on the Nov. 8, 2014 National Geographic Explorer departure. See page 7 for details.
� SPECIAL OFFER: Free international
and charter airfare. Visit our website
for details.
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
National Geographic
photographer and naturalist
Jeff Mauritzen's travels
have immersed him in
the wildlife of nearly 50
countries around the world.
Jeff recently completed an
extensive shoot for National Geographic Kids
photographing wildlife for an upcoming Animal Encyclopedia. Jeff has lived at sea aboard
seven diff erent ships and he looks forward to
sharing his passion for wildlife photography and
life at sea on the August 28 and September 7,
2015 departures. A diverse team of naturalists
and experts will join every departure. Please
visit our website for National Geographic
photographers on other departures.
WILD ENCOUNTERS FROM BORNEO TO BALIABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Meet with National Geographic grantee Dr. Biruté Galdikas on a visit
to Camp Leakey, an orangutan research and conservation center she
established in the forests of Indonesian Borneo.
» Skim through the jungles of Tanjung Puting National Park on an all-day
excursion by boat, and interact with orangutans and other rare wildlife
at rehabilitation centers.
» Explore the incredible array of Borneo's flora and fauna at Bako
National Park, home to seven different ecosystems.
» Swim and snorkel the coral reefs off the pristine, uninhabited isles
of the Natuna and Anambas archipelagos.
A pair of young Bornean orangutans embrace.
42
ASIA
ITINERARY: 13 DAYS
DAYS 1–3: U.S./SINGAPORE/AT SEA
Depart for Singapore, crossing the international
date line and arriving the following afternoon. We
will have time to explore Singapore’s diverse
neighborhoods before boarding the National Geographic Orion. As we set sail on the South
China Sea, hear talks by our experts, and get
acquainted with our ship and its amenities. (D)
DAY 4: ANAMBAS ARCHIPELAGO
Our fi rst stop is the remote Anambas
Archipelago, where we’ll snorkel the
unspoiled reefs surrounding Pulau Bawah or
Pulau Lintang, perhaps ending the day with a
beach barbecue. (B, L, D)
DAY 5: NATUNA ARCHIPELAGO
Scattered in the South China Sea between
Borneo and the Malaysian peninsula, the 272
islands of the Natuna Archipelago are graced
with white-sand beaches and volcanic peaks
and fringed with coral reefs. Depending on
the weather, we will likely stop to snorkel at
either Pulau Senua or Pulau Tiga, both pristine
and uninhabited, and later enjoy a festive
welcome ceremony in one of the fi shing
villages that dot the islands. (B, L, D)
DAY 6: BAKO NATIONAL PARK, SARAWAK,
BORNEO
In Bako National Park, thick rain forests give
way to secluded beaches, and the coast is
ornamented with sea arches and colorful
sea stacks. The park harbors seven distinct
ecosystems and most of the plant species
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: May 23–Jun. 4*, Jun. 2–
Jun. 14, Aug. 28–Sep. 9*, Sep. 7–Sep. 19
*These departures follows the itinerary shown but in the reverse order.
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $9,550
Located on Main Deck with large oval windows
Category 2 $11,090
Located on Main Deck with large oval windows
Category 3 $13,170
Located on the Upper Deck–suite with window
Category 4 $14,420
Located on the Bridge Deck–deluxe suite
with window
Category 5 $17,210
Located on the Bridge Deck–suite with
balcony
Category 6 $19,990
Located on the Bridge Deck–owner's suite
with balcony
See Orion photos and deck plan on page 60.
Prices are per person, double occupancy.
For a single cabin, add $4,740 in Category
1 and $6,570 in Category 3. International
airfare from San Francisco to Singapore
and return from Bali is not included in the
expedition cost.
found in Borneo. Enjoy a full day to explore on
a variety of walks and hikes, go birding, and
track rare primates like the proboscis monkey.
(B, L, D)
DAYS 7–9: KUCHING/AT SEA
Continue to Kuching, the capital of the
Malaysian state of Sarawak. Visit the
Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, discuss ongoing
research on orangutan behavior, and hear
about a successful program that has reintro-
duced more than a thousand endangered
animals into the wild. During free time this
afternoon, discover the cultural treasures
of Kuching. Spend two days relaxing at sea,
tracing the western coast of Kalimantan, or
Indonesian Borneo. (B, L, D Daily)
DAYS 10 AND 11: TANJUNG PUTING
NATIONAL PARK, KALIMANTAN
Set on a peninsula jutting out from the southern
edge of Kalimantan, Tanjung Puting National
Park is a trove of rare species and diverse
habitats. While the park is home to some 220
bird species and numerous monkey species,
its most famous residents are the endangered
orangutans. Board boats for a full-day excursion
into the forest, gliding on narrow channels
on the lookout for hornbills, crocodiles, and
perhaps the unusual proboscis monkey.
Our destination is Camp Leakey, a research
station established in 1971 by primatologist
Dr. Biruté Galdikas, a protége of legendary
paleontologist Louis Leakey and the founder
of Orangutan Foundation International (OFI).
A many-time National Geographic grantee,
Dr. Galdikas joins us to discuss her eff orts to
save the orangutan from extinction through
rehabilitation and habitat preservation. Our
boats bring us to feeding stations throughout
the forest, where we can observe these gentle
creatures at close range. The following day,
visit the OFI’s wildlife rehabilitation center to
learn how captive and orphaned orangutans
are rescued and rehabilitated. (B, L, D Daily)
DAY 12 AND 13: AT SEA/DENPASAR, BALI/U.S.
Cross the Java Sea to the lovely Indonesian
island of Bali. Disembark the following
morning and transfer to the airport for your
overnight fl ight home. (B)
ASIAAAASSIAAAAASSIAAASIA
Snorkeling over a pristine reef
A proboscis monkey
RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM 43
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
Paula Swart is an expert on
Asian culture and history, and
her travels have taken her
to Vietnam and Cambodia
numerous times, including a
rail journey that she led from
Beijing to Hanoi in 1994.
Paula holds degrees in archaeology, Asian
art history, and Chinese history. She speaks
fi ve languages, including Mandarin, and she
has published several books and numerous
articles on the art and architecture of Asian
cultures. Paula has enjoyed introducing
visitors to Asian culture and history for more
than 25 years and she will join a diverse team
of experts on the January 6, 2015 departure.
VIETNAM AND CAMBODIA: ALONG THE MEKONG RIVERABOARD THE JAHAN
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Sail the Mekong River on a seven-night cruise aboard the elegant
riverboat Jahan.
» Watch the sun rise at Angkor Wat, and spend two full days immersed
in the splendor of Angkor’s temples and palaces.
» Explore the vibrant cities of Phnom Penh and Saigon, and experience
rural life on visits to floating homes, farms, and traditional villages.
» Witness the revitalization of Cambodian arts with an apsara dance
and a visit to a local craft workshop.
Draped in bright saff ron robes, two monks gaze at Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. 44
ASIA
ITINERARY: 14 DAYS
DAYS 1 AND 2: U.S./SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA
Depart for Siem Reap and arrive the following
evening. Settle into our Khmer-style hotel on
the banks of the Siem Reap River.
La Résidence D'Angkor
DAYS 3 AND 4: ANGKOR
Rise early to watch the sunrise over Angkor
Wat. This 12th-century Khmer temple, one of
the world’s largest religious monuments, is
adorned with elaborate bas-reliefs and
sculptures. Ride a tuk-tuk, or motorized
rickshaw, to the walled city of Angkor Thom,
and discover the shrines of Ta Prohm and the
Bayon Temple. Visit a workshop where local
youth are trained in age-old Khmer arts.
(B, L, D; B, D)
DAY 5: KAMPONG CHAM
Drive to the bustling town of Kampong Cham,
and embark the Jahan, our home for the next
seven nights. (B, L, D)
DAY 6: WAT HANCHEY/ANGKOR BAN
At Wat Hanchey, see a variety of temples,
including an eighth-century temple from the pre-
Angkor Chenla period. Continue to the village
of Angkor Ban, and encounter its traditional
houses and friendly residents. (B, L, D)
DAY 7: KAMPONG CHHNANG/KAMPONG
TRALACH
Visit a village where artisans make traditional
pottery, and board local boats to see the clus-
tered houses and shops that fl oat in midstream.
At Kampong Tralach, take an oxcart ride through
rice paddies to a Buddhist temple. (B, L, D)
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: Jan. 6–19, Jan. 14–27*,
Jan. 20–Feb. 2, Jan. 28–Feb. 10*, Feb. 3–16,
Feb. 25–Mar. 10*, Mar. 3–16
*These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order, from Saigon to Siem Reap.
EXPEDITION COST: 2015
Category 1 $9,870
Located on Main Deck
Category 2 $10,590
Located on Upper Deck
Category 3 $12,350
Located on Main and Upper Decks
Category 4 $14,800
Located on Upper Deck–suite
See Jahan photo and deck plan on page 64.
Prices are per person, double occupancy.
For a single cabin in Category 1, add $4,920.
International airfare from Los Angeles to
Saigon and return from Siem Reap is not
included in the expedition cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
VIETNAM: FROM HOI AN TO HALONG BAY
(8 DAYS)
2015: Jan. 6–15, Jan. 19–27, Jan. 20–29,
Feb. 2–10, Feb. 16–24, Feb. 17–26,
Mar. 16–24
Venture further into Vietnam on an optional
extension. Discover Hoi An’s Old Town, explore
the Forbidden Purple City in Hue, encounter
traditional water puppets in Hanoi, and sail
amid the limestone pinnacles of Halong Bay.
The Jan. 6-15, Jan. 20-29 and Feb. 17-26 are
pre-trip. The Jan. 19-27, Feb. 2-10, Feb. 16-24
and Mar. 16-24 are post-trip. Visit our website
or call for a detailed itinerary and pricing.
DAY 8: PHNOM PENH
Explore the Cambodian capital by cyclo (bi-
cycle taxi), and visit the Royal Palace and the
National Museum of Cambodia. Learn about
the reign of the Khmer Rouge on a visit to the
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. This evening,
enjoy a dance performance. (B, L, D)
DAY 9: CRUISING THE MEKONG
Take in views of everyday life along the river,
attend talks by our experts, and join our chefs
to learn how to cook regional dishes. Cross
the border into Vietnam. (B, L, D)
DAY 10: CHAU DOC, VIETNAM
Explore the colorful markets of Chau Doc, and
stop at a fl oating village to watch traditional
fi sh farming methods. Cruise through the nar-
row Tan Chau Canal that connects the lower
and upper Mekong River branches. (B, L, D)
DAY 11: SA DEC/CAI BE
Take a local boat to experience rural life in
the Mekong Delta. See the fl oating market of
Cai Be, step into a rice “factory” to watch rice-
based candies being made, and cruise among
fl oating markets and fi sh farms. (B, L, D)
DAY 12: MY THO/SAIGON
Disembark in My Tho and visit the Vinh Trang
Pagoda. Then journey to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh
City) and check into the Park Hyatt Saigon.
This afternoon, meet with a local expert on
Vietnam’s modern history. (B, L, D)
DAY 13 AND 14: SAIGON/U.S.
Embark on a tour of Saigon’s landmarks,
including the Reunifi cation Palace,
headquarters of the South Vietnamese
government during the Vietnam War. This
evening, connect with your return fl ight
home, arriving the next day. (B)
AAASSIAAASIA
Extend your expedition and visit Halong Bay.
The elegant riverboat Jahan
RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM 45
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
A National Geographic
Society Explorer, Chris
Rainier was the co-founder
of National Geographic's All
Roads Photography Program
and a co-director of National
Geographic's Enduring
Voices Project which sets out to preserve
endangered languages and cultures through
audio recordings, photography, and storytelling.
He also serves as a contributing editor for
National Geographic Traveler. Chris currently
directs the Last Mile Technology Program,
which empowers endangered cultures to
save their ancient traditions through the use
of modern technology. He has won numerous
awards for his photography, including the
Lowell Thomas Award, given by the Explorers
Club for his work documenting little-known
cultures. Chris will join a diverse team of
experts and naturalists on this expedition.
WILDLIFE & CULTURES OF SOUTH AFRICA, MOZAMBIQUE, & MADAGASCARABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Spot the “big five” in Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, one of
South Africa’s finest wildlife parks and home to the world’s largest
white rhino population.
» Visit a Zulu village and soak up the rhythmic energy of a traditional
performance.
» In Mozambique, search for the gentle giants of the deep—whale
sharks—and perhaps have a chance to snorkel with them.
» Explore the incredible biodiversity of Madagascar, from fascinating
lemurs to towering baobab trees.
A ring-tailed lemur in Madagascar.
46
ASIA
ITINERARY: 23 DAYS
MAR. 20-22: U.S./CAPE TOWN, SOUTH
AFRICA
Fly overnight to Cape Town, and gather for a wel-
come dinner at our hotel. The next day, ascend
Table Mountain by cable car (weather permitting)
and visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.
Enjoy a musical performance by one of South
Africa’s leading groups before we embark the
National Geographic Orion. Table Bay Hotel; National Geographic Orion (D; B, L, D)
MAR. 23 AND 24: HERMANUS/MOSSELBAAI/
KNYSNA
Flanked by dramatic cliff s, the coastal town of
Hermanus is our base for a choice of activities.
Walk through the fynbos (fi ne bush) in Fernkloof
Nature Reserve, or travel to Gansbaai for
an adrenaline-packed encounter with great
white sharks from the safety of an underwater
cage (conditions permitting). At Knysna, in the
heart of the Garden Route, explore the private
Featherbed Nature Reserve’s sandstone cliff s,
sea caves, and birds. (B, L, D Daily)
MAR. 25-27: AT SEA/DURBAN/ESHOWE
Durban, the largest city of KwaZulu-Natal
province, is known for its Indian population
and rich Zulu culture. Journey north to Eshowe,
the oldest European settlement in Zululand.
Spot wildlife from an aerial boardwalk in Dlinza
Forest; experience a traditional Zulu dancing
and drumming performance; and visit the
Zululand Historical Museum. (B, L, D Daily)
MAR. 28 AND 29: RICHARDS BAY/
HLUHLUWE-UMFOLOZI GAME RESERVE/
ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK
Established during the Anglo-Zulu war of 1879,
Richards Bay is our gateway to one of South
Africa’s premier wildlife sanctuaries, Hluhluwe-
Umfolozi Game Reserve, home to the
legendary “big fi ve” and renowned for its rhino
conservation. Embark on an afternoon game
drive to search for leopards, lions, elephants,
zebras, and more. After a night on Lake Saint
Lucia, spend a day exploring the wildlife of
South Africa’s fi rst UNESCO World Heritage
site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park—a wonderland
of wetlands, savannahs, forests, beaches, and
reefs. (B, L, D Daily)
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: Mar. 20–Apr. 11
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $25,940
Located on Main Deck with large oval windows
Category 2 $27,880
Located on Main Deck with large oval windows
Category 3 $30,920
Located on the Upper Deck–suite with window
Category 4 $37,100
Located on the Bridge Deck–deluxe suite
with window
Category 5 $42,500
Located on the Bridge Deck–suite with
balcony
Category 6 $49,480
Located on the Bridge Deck–owner's suite
with balcony
See Orion photos and deck plan on page 60.
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For
a single cabin, add $12,960 in Category 1 and
$15,440 in Category 3. International airfare
from New York to Cape Town and return
from Dar es Salaam is not included in the
expedition cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Add a two-day pre-trip extension to Cape
Town and a fi ve-day post-trip extension
to Northern Tanzania. In Cape Town, see
African penguins, world-class wineries,
Nelson Mandela's last prison stop, and
more. In Northern Tanzania, see a profusion
of iconic safari wildlife and explore diverse
habitats, from the Crater Highlands to the
Serengeti Plain. Visit our website or call for
details.
MAR. 30-APR. 1: MAPUTO, MOZAMBIQUE/
INHAMBANE
Embraced by the Mozambique Channel
to the east, Mozambique is graced with
idyllic beaches and world-class coral reefs.
Explore the capital of Maputo and the historic
Inhambane region, settled by the Portuguese
in the early 1500s. Board local boats in search
of bottlenose dolphins, rays, turtles, and whale
sharks, which can reach lengths of 40 feet.
Conditions permitting, we’ll snorkel in the area
with these gentle giants. (B, L, D Daily)
APR. 2-7: AT SEA/EXPLORING MADAGASCAR
Cross Mozambique Channel to Madagascar,
often referred to as the “eighth continent” for
its endemic species, 80 to 90 percent of which
are found nowhere else on Earth. Venture into
the sandstone canyons of Isalo National Park,
inhabited by ring-tailed and red-fronted lemurs,
and Verreaux's sifaka. Visit the towering trees of
the Avenue du Baobab near Morondava, and sail
north to the pristine Anjajavy peninsula to search
for Coquerel’s sifaka and brown lemurs, fi sh
eagles, ibises, and more on a specially arranged
private visit. (B, L, D Daily)
APR. 8: MAYOTTE, COMOROS
Spend a day exploring the French colonial ar-
chitecture and distinctive culture of Mayotte, the
southernmost isle of the Comoros archipelago.
Search for lemurs and snorkel at M’Bouzi Island.
(B, L, D)
APR. 9-11: AT SEA/DAR ES SALAAM,
TANZANIA/U.S.
Enjoy a farewell dinner during a fi nal day at sea.
The following morning, disembark and transfer
to the airport in the afternoon for your overnight
fl ight home. (B, L, D; B, L)
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 47
ASIAAASSIAAAASSIAAAFRICA
Baobab trees in Madagascar
VOYAGE TO WEST AFRICA: THE GOLD COAST TO MOROCCOABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Trace the coast of West Africa from Benin to Morocco, encountering
a dazzling array of cultures, people, scenery, and wildlife in ten
different countries.
» Explore a village built on stilts in Benin’s Lake Nokoué, meet an Ewe
chief in his village, and experience local music and handicrafts.
» Step back in time at Ghana’s Cape Coast Castle and Senegal’s
Gorée Island, once centers of the transatlantic slave trade and now
UNESCO World Heritage sites.
» Encounter rare landscapes and wildlife, from Ghana’s rain forests
and the chimpanzees of Sierra Leone to the lush mountains of the
Canary Islands and the Saharan dunes.
Dugout canoe on Lake Nokoué, Benin
48
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
Photographers Sisse
Brimberg and Cotton
Coulson have collectively
photographed more than
50 stories for National Geographic and National Geographic Traveler magazines. Both Sisse and Cotton have
been awarded prizes by Pictures of the
Year International, the National Press
Photographers Association, and the White
House Press Photographers Association.
They will join a diverse team of experts and
naturalists on this departure.
ASIA
ITINERARY: 20 DAYS
MAR. 23 AND 24: U.S./ACCRA, GHANA
Depart on an overnight fl ight to Accra, Ghana’s
capital, and check into our hotel upon arrival.
Labadi Beach Hotel (D)
MAR. 25: ACCRA
Visit the National Museum and a local art gal-
lery, and stop in at a workshop where caskets
are custom-made to represent their owners’
interests—from giant fi sh to beer bottles and
cars. Embark our ship this afternoon. National Geographic Explorer (B, L, D)
MAR. 26: OUIDAH, BENIN
Sail east to Cotonou and drive to Ouidah,
a center of the animist vodun, or "voodoo,"
religion. Later, ride local boats across Lake
Nokoué to Ganvié, a fi shing village built on
stilts in the lake. (B, L, D)
MAR. 27: LOMÉ, TOGO
The Ewe people are known for ancestor
veneration and hand-woven kente cloth. Meet
an Ewe chief, and stroll around his village to
visit with the local residents. (B, L, D)
MAR. 28: ACCRA, GHANA
Encounter native fl ora and fauna in the Shai
Hills Resource Reserve and the Aburi Botanic
Garden. Or stroll the old part of Accra; visit the
mausoleum of Ghana’s fi rst president, Kwame
Nkrumah; and attend a dance and drumming
performance. (B, L, D)
MAR. 29 AND 30: CAPE COAST/AT SEA
Wander through the evocative Cape Coast
slave castle, which saw many thousands of
slaves dispatched through the “Door of No
Return.” Explore the canopy walkways of
Kakum National Park. (B, L, D)
MAR. 31: MONROVIA, LIBERIA
Meet with Liberian offi cials to hear about
promising initiatives that are helping Liberia
rebuild after its civil war. Visit the National
Museum of Liberia, a school, and Liberia’s
oldest church; and take in the view from Ducor
Hill. (B, L, D)
APR. 1 AND 2: AT SEA/FREETOWN, SIERRA
LEONE
A day at sea brings us to Sierra Leone. After
a city tour of Freetown, visit the Tacugama
Chimpanzee Sanctuary or swim and snorkel on
Sierra Leone’s picture-perfect beaches. (B, L, D)
APR. 3 AND 4: AT SEA/BANJUL, GAMBIA
Dock in the capital of Banjul and head to the
Abuko Nature Reserve to observe birdlife and
monkeys. Glide through the Tanbi Wetlands
National Park in a local boat, and later, visit a
batik workshop and a local market. (B, L, D)
APR. 5-7: DAKAR, SENEGAL/AT SEA
Take the ferry to Gorée Island, once a notori-
ous hub for the slave trade, now a poignant
World Heritage site. Later, go birding, or see
fi ne West African art at the Théodore Monod
African Art Museum, or browse the masks and
fabrics of a local market. This evening, hear
live Senegalese music at a local club. (B, L, D)
APR. 8: AD DAKHLA, WESTERN SAHARA
Dock in Ad Dakhla, a quiet town set where the
Sahara meets the sea. Venture by 4x4 vehicle
to the white dune, passing through beautiful
desert vistas. Enjoy a swim in the bay before a
lunch of Moroccan specialties served beneath
Berber tents. (B, L, D)
APR. 9 AND 10: TENERIFE, CANARY ISLANDS/
AT SEA
On the beautiful island of Tenerife, explore the
mountains of Anaga and the Mercedes forest,
go for a walk through a colonial town, or relax
on one of the island's pristine beaches. (B, L, D)
APR. 11: CASABLANCA, MOROCCO/U.S.
After breakfast, disembark in Casablanca and
transfer to the airport for your fl ight home. (B)
ASIAAASSIAAAASSIAAAFRICA
RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM 49
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: Mar. 23–Apr. 11
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $19,150
Located on Main Deck with porthole
Category 2 $20,220
Located on Main Deck with window
Category 3 $21,190
Located on Main Deck with window
Category 4 $22,820
Located on Upper/Veranda Decks with window
Category 5 $25,990
Located on Upper Deck with balcony
Category 6 $30,440
Located on Upper/Veranda Decks—suite
Category 7 $34,970
Located on Upper Deck—suite with balcony
See National Geographic Explorer deck
plan on page 61. Prices are per person,
double occupancy. For a single cabin,
add $5,060 in Category 2 and $5,300 in
Category 3. International airfare from New
York to Accra and return from Casablanca is
not included in the expedition cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Extend your stay in Morocco for our optional
extension to its imperial cities.
Vervet monkeys
Woman looking at a colorful fresco in Dakar.
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
National Geographic
photographer Bob Krist
has shot several articles
for National Geographic magazine and more than
30 articles for National Geographic Traveler, where he is a contributing editor. His many
assignments have taken him to all seven
continents and his images have won awards
in the Pictures of the Year, Communication
Arts, and World Press Photo competitions.
His latest book on travel photography, Travel Photography: Documenting the World's People and Places, was recently published in
the Digital Masters series. Bob and a diverse
team of experts will be on hand to help you
photograph the stunning scenery and vibrant
cultures we will encounter throughout the
expedition.
TREASURES OF THE INDIAN OCEAN: ZANZIBAR AND THE SEYCHELLESABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Discover the history of Zanzibar’s spice and slave trades in its
labyrinthine Stone Town.
» Swim, snorkel, and dive at the coral islands and powder-white beaches
of the Seychelles.
» Explore Aldabra atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage site that teems with
tropical fish, rare birds, and the world’s largest population of giant
tortoises.
» Spot an array of endemic species, from the vast seabird colonies of
Aride to the legendary coco-de-mer palms of Praslin.
Dhows along the shorleine.
50
ASIA
ITINERARY: 15 DAYS
APR. 8-10: U.S./DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA
Fly overnight to Dar es Salaam and transfer to
our hotel. The following day, explore the city’s
waterfront and visit Tanzania's National Museum
and House of Culture, which displays some of the
earliest fossils discovered by the Leakey family.
Set sail in the afternoon. Hyatt Regency Dar' es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro; National Geographic Orion (D; B, L, D)
APR. 11 AND 12: ZANZIBAR/AT SEA
Once a center for the spice and slave trades,
the palm-fringed isle of Zanzibar is infused with
African, Arabic, Indian, and European infl uences.
Explore the labyrinthine alleyways of Stone Town,
where the architectural mélange of cathedrals,
mosques, and minarets refl ects the island’s
complex history; and delve into Swahili culture.
(B, L, D Daily)
APR. 13: ASSUMPTION ISLAND, SEYCHELLES
A powder-white crescent ringed by sapphire
waters, Assumption embodies the quintessential
beauty of the Seychelles. Stroll through coconut
groves to discover traces of the island’s former
guano mining, and snorkel or dive at coral reefs
teeming with lionfi sh, surgeonfi sh, blue ribbon
eels, and steephead parrotfi sh. (B, L, D)
APR. 14-16: ALDABRA ISLAND/ASTOVE
ISLAND
One of the largest atolls on the planet and a
UNESCO World Heritage site, Aldabra encom-
passes four coral islands encircling an enormous
inner lagoon. This pristine paradise is home to
endemic species, including the world’s largest
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: Apr. 8–22
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $13,290
Located on Main Deck with large oval windows
Category 2 $15,390
Located on Main Deck with large oval windows
Category 3 $18,200
Located on the Upper Deck–suite with window
Category 4 $19,920
Located on the Bridge Deck–deluxe suite
with window
Category 5 $29,710
Located on the Bridge Deck–suite with
balcony
Category 6 $27,420
Located on the Bridge Deck–owner's suite
with balcony
See Orion photos and deck plan on page 60.
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For
a single cabin, add $6,640 in Category 1 and
$9,090 in Category 3. International airfare
from New York to Dar es Salaam and return
from Mahé is not included in the expedition
cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Add a fi ve-day pre-trip extension to northern
Tanzania. See a profusion of iconic safari
wildlife and explore diverse habitats, from
the Ngoronogoro Crater to the Serengeti
Plain. Visit our website or call for details.
Scuba Diving Requirement: Divers must be certifi ed by an
internationally recognized dive association prior to the voyage,
and certifi cation cards and logbooks should be brought on
board. Divers need to have logged 25 dives in total, and have
made a dive within the 12 months preceding the voyage.
population of giant tortoises, and fantastic, tide-
sculpted formations called champignon. Venture
ashore to observe Aldabra giant tortoises and
terrestrial coconut crabs; and snorkel in crystal-
line waters that shimmer with exotic fi sh. Divers
may also enjoy a thrilling drift dive, spotting reef
sharks, rays, and turtles. Our next landfall is the
deserted island of Astove, formerly inhabited
by African slaves. Go snorkeling or diving, and
launch Zodiacs to look for hawksbill turtles and
Abbott’s sunbirds. (B, L, D Daily)
APR. 17 AND 18: AT SEA/AMIRANTE ISLES
Named after Portuguese admiral Vasco da Gama,
who sighted them in 1502, the Amirantes off er
spectacular snorkeling and diving. At Poivre,
swim among colorful clouds of fi sh; go hiking
and beachcombing; and visit one of the oldest
coconut plantations in the Seychelles. Then
explore the sandy cays of Saint Joseph Atoll,
home to large populations of rays, giant blue mud
crabs, and nesting shearwaters. (B, L, D Daily)
APR. 19: ARIDE ISLAND
Aride is an important breeding site for roseate
and sooty terns, shearwaters, redtailed tropic-
birds, and lesser noddies. Hike to a hilltop for
spectacular views of the resident seabirds—more
than a million of which breed here annually.
(B, L, D)
APR. 20: PRASLIN ISLAND/LA DIGUE ISLAND
Explore Praslin’s Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a
UNESCO World Heritage site where all six of the
Seychelles’ native palm species—including the
giant coco-de-mer—can be found. Sail east to La
Digue, where granite boulders tower over the
pink sands of Anse Source d’Argent, named by
National Geographic's The 10 Best of Everything as the world’s best beach. Explore the island by
bicycle or ox-drawn cart; swim in its warm waters;
and venture to Veuve Nature to search for the
endangered Seychelles paradise fl ycatcher.
(B, L, D)
APR. 21 AND 22: MAHÉ/U.S.
Disembark at Mahé, and transfer to the airport for
your overnight fl ight home. (APR. 21: B)
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 51
ASIAASSIAASSIAINDIAN OCEAN
A proboscis monkey
"One of the most photographed beaches in the world, the pale pink sands of Anse Source d'Argent unfurl across the island of La Digue."
Nathaniel Lande and Andrew Lande, "Ten Best Beaches,"
National Geographic's The 10 Best of Everything
"A
See the Aldabra giant tortoise in the Seychelles.
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
A National Geographic
staff photographer since
1990, Mark Thiessen
has published numerous
feature stories and covers
for National Geographic
magazine. Mark recently
documented fi lm director and National
Geographic Explorer-in-Residence James
Cameron's dive to the ocean's deepest location
at the bottom of the Mariana Trench. Mark also
directs the National Geographic photo studio,
and was featured in Out There, a series that
aired on the National Geographic Channel.
Mark will join a diverse team of naturalists and
experts on this expedition.
INDIAN OCEAN ODYSSEY: SEYCHELLES, MALDIVES, AND SRI LANKAABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Discover the rare wildlife and botanical treasures of the Seychelles,
including giant tortoises, towering coco-de-mer palms, and the
endangered paradise-flycatcher.
» Snorkel and dive the reefs of Baa Atoll, part of a UNESCO Biosphere
Reserve with hundreds of species of fish including manta rays and
whale sharks.
» Walk the ramparts of Sri Lanka’s historic fortified city of Galle, a
UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in Dutch and British colonial
history.
» Search for blue whales, year-round residents of north Indian Ocean
waters near the Maldives and Sri Lanka.
Anse Source d'Argent, the most famous beach in the Seychelles.
52
ITINERARY: 21 DAYS
APR. 18-21: U.S./MAHÉ, SEYCHELLES
Depart for the Seychelles, crossing the inter-
national date line, and arrive in the capital of
Victoria on the main island of Mahé. Embark our
ship the following day. Le Méridien Fisherman’s Cove; National Geographic Orion (D; B, L, D)
APR. 22: SILHOUETTE/CURIEUSE
The third largest island of the Seychelles,
Silhouette’s jungle-clad slopes harbor many
endemic species, including the endangered
sheath-tailed bat. On a walk or longer hike with
our naturalists, discover carnivorous pitcher
plants, exotic orchids, and incense trees. Then
sail to Curieuse Island, a protected marine park
where giant tortoises roam beneath coco-de-
mer trees. Go snorkeling and diving, and kayak
in lagoons framed by granite cliff s. (B, L, D)
APR. 23: PRASLIN/LA DIGUE
A former haunt of pirates and Arab traders,
Praslin is a palm-fringed paradise of ivory
beaches and lush mountains. Explore Vallée
de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World
Heritage site where all six of the Seychelles’
indigenous palm species can be found. At
idyllic La Digue, encounter the blush-pink
sands of Anse Source d’Argent. Explore by
bicycle or ox cart, and search for rare species
including the endangered paradise fl ycatcher.
(B, L, D)
APR. 24: ARIDE
Tiny Aride is one of the Indian Ocean’s most
important seabird nesting grounds, with large
populations of shearwaters, lesser noddies,
roseate terns, and tropicbirds. Hike to a hilltop
that aff ords spectacular views of the resident
seabirds, more than a million of which breed
here annually. (B, L, D)
APR. 25-27: AT SEA
As we voyage northward, attend talks by our
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: Apr. 18–May 8
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $19,930
Located on Main Deck with large oval windows
Category 2 $23,090
Located on Main Deck with large oval windows
Category 3 $27,290
Located on the Upper Deck–suite with window
Category 4 $29,870
Located on the Bridge Deck–deluxe suite
with window
Category 5 $35,560
Located on the Bridge Deck–suite with
balcony
Category 6 $41,120
Located on the Bridge Deck–owner's suite
with balcony
See Orion photos and deck plan on page 60.
Prices are per person, double occupancy.
For a single cabin, add $9,960 in Category
1 and $13,650 in Category 3. International
airfare from New York to Mahé and return
from Colombo is not included in the
expedition cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Add a fi ve-day post-trip extension to Sri
Lanka. Visit our website or call for details.
experts and learn about the natural wonders
that await us in the Maldives. (B, L, D Daily)
APR. 28: ADDU ATOLL, MALDIVES
At the Maldives’ southernmost atoll, visit the
former British Royal Air Force base on Gan
Island—a staging post during World War II and
into the Cold War. Then head into the water
to swim and snorkel amid colorful corals
shimmering with tropical fi sh, sea turtles, and
other marine life. (B, L, D)
APR. 29-MAY 3: AT SEA/MALEÉ ATOLL/
NORTHERN ATOLLS
A day at sea brings us to the capital of Maale,
steeped in the history of the royal sultans
and European powers who vied for control of
these islands. Continue to the remote northern
atolls, birthplace of national hero Mohamed
Thakurufaanu, who liberated the Maldives from
Portuguese rule in the 16th century. Explore
some of the richest reefs in the Maldives,
including the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of
Baa Atoll, home to whale sharks, manta rays,
and an array of seabirds. (B, L, D Daily)
MAY 4-6: LACCADIVE SEA/GALLE, SRI LANKA
We sail east across the Laccadive Sea, on the
lookout for marine mammals including the
mighty blue whale, the largest animal on Earth,
whose geyser-like exhalations can be seen from
a half-mile away. Our next landfall is the ancient
seaport of Galle on Sri Lanka’s southwestern
coast. Pass below the ramparts of its 350-year-
old fortifi cations on our approach to the harbor,
where we’ll set out to explore an intriguing
fusion of European colonial architecture and
South Asian traditions. (B, L, D Daily)
MAY 7-8: COLOMBO/U.S.
Disembark and tour Sri Lanka’s colorful capital
before transferring to our hotel. Depart on
fl ights home, arriving the following day.
(B, L, D; B)
RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM 53
INDIAN OCEAN
"The 1,102 islands that make up the Maldives form 26 atolls. The soft air enveloping the archipelago blends into a beautifully palm-fringed haze."
Nathaniel Lande and Andrew Lande, "Ten Best Beaches,"
National Geographic's The 10 Best of Everything
"e
Colorful powder blue surgeonfi sh
EXPEDITION TEAM & EXPERTS
Pulitzer Prize-winning
photographer Jay
Dickman has worked in
photojournalism for more
than 35 years. In addition to
more than 25 assignments
for the National Geographic
Society, he has also published fi ve books and
numerous articles for National Geographic Traveler, LIFE, Condé Nast Traveler, Time, Sports Illustrated, and Forbes. Jay will join a
diverse team of experts and naturalists on this
departure.
WILD ISLANDS OF SRI LANKA, BORNEO, AND THE ANDAMAN SEAABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
» Explore remote cultures and rare wildlife on a voyage from Sri Lanka to
the Andaman Islands, Sumatra, and Indonesian Borneo.
» Head out on game drives to see elephants, leopards, and abundant
birdlife in southern Sri Lanka’s national parks, and go snorkeling or
diving amid the incredible reefs of Pulau We.
» Venture into the UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle Fort, Sri Lanka,
and get to know the indigenous peoples of Sumatra’s remote interior.
» Meet Dr. Biruté Galdikas to learn about her seminal work with
orangutans in Borneo’s Tanjung Puting National Park.
See elephants on a game drive in Sri Lanka.
54
ASIA
ITINERARY: 22 DAYS
MAY 4- 7: U.S./ COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
Depart the U.S. for Colombo, Sri Lanka’s
capital city, and arrive the next day. Transfer
to our hotel for an evening at leisure. After a
tour of the city the following morning, embark
National Geographic Orion. (May 7: B, L, D)
MAY 8: GALLE
Pass under the ramparts of Galle Fort, a World
Heritage site built in the 16th and 17th centu-
ries. Explore the fort and the charming streets
within, and opt for a wildlife river cruise or an
excursion to a tea plantation. (B, L, D)
MAY 9: HAMBANTOTA
The district of Hambantota is home to
wetlands, gorgeous beaches, and teeming
wildlife. Set out on a safari of your choice,
searching for elephants, leopards, and prolifi c
birdlife. (B, L, D)
MAY 10 AND 11: AT SEA
As we cross the Indian Ocean, take advantage
of the ship’s amenities and listen to talks by
our expedition team. (B, L, D Daily)
MAY 12 AND 13: ANDAMAN ISLANDS, INDIA
A string of isles that split the Bay of Bengal
from the Andaman Sea, the little-known
Andaman Islands are blanketed by tropical
forests and ringed by unspoiled coral reefs.
After visiting the city of Port Blair, once home
to the notorious Cellular Jail, we’ll make our
way to one of the outer islands to explore both
above and below the water. (B, L, D Daily)
MAY 14 AND 15: AT SEA/ PULAU WE,
INDONESIA
After a day at sea, arrive at Pulau We, a rocky
TRIP DETAILS
DATES: 2015: May 4–25
EXPEDITION COST:
Category 1 $21,040
Located on Main Deck with large oval windows
Category 2 $24,370
Located on Main Deck with large oval windows
Category 3 $28,810
Located on the Upper Deck–suite with window
Category 4 $31,530
Located on the Bridge Deck–deluxe suite
with window
Category 5 $37,540
Located on the Bridge Deck–suite with
balcony
Category 6 $43,410
Located on the Bridge Deck–owner's suite
with balcony
See Orion photos and deck plan on page 60.
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For
a single cabin, add $10,520 in Category 1 and
$14,400 in Category 3. International airfare
from Los Angeles to Colombo and return from
Bali is not included in the expedition cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Add a fi ve-day pre-trip extension to Sri
Lanka. Visit our website or call for details.
island at the western tip of the Indonesian
archipelago. Walk among steaming fumaroles
and stroll the friendly colonial town of Sabang.
Then snorkel or dive over rainbow-colored
coral fans on one of the reefs off shore.
(B, L, D Daily)
MAY 16 AND 17: AT SEA/SUMATRA
Follow the coast of Sumatra to the port city of
Medan. From here, we head into the hinter-
lands on one of two excursions. Encounter
Sumatran orangutans and other wildlife in
Bukit Lawang, a reserve in Gunung Leuser
National Park, or get to know the traditions of
the Batak Karo people in the highlands near
Berastagi. (B, L, D Daily)
MAY 18 AND 19: AT SEA/SINGAPORE
Spend the day in the incomparable city-state
of Singapore. Explore Chinatown, see rare
orchids at the Singapore Botanic Garden, and
ride a bumboat on the Singapore River.
(B, L, D Daily)
MAY 20 AND 21: AT SEA
Spend time visiting with the National
Geographic photographer on board and relax-
ing on the ship's viewing deck. (B, L, D Daily)
MAY 22 AND 23: TANJUNG PUTING
NATIONAL PARK, KALIMANTAN
Board local boats for a full-day excursion into
Tanjung Puting National Park in Indonesian
Borneo, looking for orangutans, hornbills,
crocodiles, and perhaps the unusual proboscis
monkey. Join National Geographic grantee
and primatologist Dr. Biruté Galdikas at Camp
Leakey, an Orangutan Foundation International
(OFI) research station she established in 1971.
Venture to feeding stations in the forest to
observe these creatures at close range and
visit the OFI’s wildlife rehabilitation center to
learn how captive and orphaned orangutans
are rescued and rehabilitated. (B,L, D Daily)
MAY 24 & 25: AT SEA / DENPASAR, BALI
Cross the Java Sea to Bali. Disembark the
following morning and transfer to the airport
for your fl ight home. (MAY 24: B, L, D; MAY
25: B)
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 55
ASIAAAASSIAAAAASSIAAINDIAN OCEAN
Orangutan at Camp Leakey.
Singapore’s Chinatown bustles with color and culture.
EXPLORE THE SOUTH SEAS ON OUR NEWEST SHIP,
ITINERARY | 20 DAYSITINERARY | 18 DAYS ITINERARY | 16 DAYS
INDONESIAN ODYSSEY:
BALI TO AUSTRALIA’S
GREAT BARRIER REEFSet sail from Bali to discover Indonesia’s rich
tapestry of cultures and stunning tropical
islands. Spot rare Komodo dragons in the wild.
Explore the fascinating culture and landscape
of the Asmat people, and cap off your journey
on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
• Encounter Indonesia’s vibrant cultures
during exuberant welcome ceremonies in
remote island villages.
• Track the rare Komodo dragon with park
rangers in Komodo National Park.
• Discover the unique culture and exquisite
art of the Asmat people while exploring their
stilt villages by Zodiac.
• Swim, snorkel, and dive at spectacular reefs,
isolated atolls, and ivory beaches from eastern
Indonesia to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
AUSTRALIA'S WILD
NORTHWEST WITH THE
SPICE ISLANDSExperience Australia's dramatic Kimberley
coast and the tropical isles that edge the
Banda and the Flores Seas. Explore natural
wonders from the reefs of Rowley Shoals and
the red rocks of the Kimberley to the pink
coral beaches of Komodo. Spot crocodiles
in the Kimberley, look for humpbacks as we
pass through breeding areas, and observe the
Komodo dragon in the wild.
• Explore King George River, Gwion Gwion
rock art, and the ghost town of Camden
Harbor in the Kimberley.
• Snorkel or dive the unspoiled coral reefs of
Rowley Shoals.
• Search for Komodo dragons with park
rangers in Indonesia's Komodo National Park.
• Soak up colorful traditions and stroll
through colonial towns on Indonesia's
lesser-known isles.
EXPLORING THE CORAL
SEA: PAPUA NEW GUIN-
EA TO FIJI Trace the edge of the Coral Sea from Papua
New Guinea to the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu,
and Fiji, snorkeling and diving pristine reefs
and World War II shipwrecks along the way.
Learn the history of the Battle of the Coral Sea
and the legends of the ancient Melanesians,
and get to know the region’s diverse cultures.
• Snorkel and dive in Papua New Guinea’s
Louisiade Archipelago and meet the
islands’ potters and boat builders.
• Explore Kasolo Island, also called Kennedy
Island, where young John F. Kennedy swam
when his boat PT-109 was sunk during World
War II.
• See ancient cave art in Vanuatu, and visit
the burial site of Chief Roi Mata, part of a
UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Watch the fi rewalkers of Fiji make their
way across white-hot stones.
56
� SPECIAL AIR OFFER: See page 7 for details.
� OPTIONAL TWO-DAY BALI EXTENSION:
Visit our website or call for details
THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION
Left to right: Komodo dragon; a traditional Indonesian dancer; a green sea turtle swims
above numerous species of butterfl yfi sh in the Coral Sea; an islander in Fiji silhouetted
against the setting sun; enigmatic moai statues line the shores of Easter Island.
ITINERARY | 20 DAYS ITINERARY | 20 DAYS INFORMATION
REEFS, LAGOONS,
AND VOLCANIC ISLES:
FIJI TO TAHITISPECIAL AIR OFFER – SEE PAGE 7 FOR DETAILS
Voyage from the sparkling white shores of Fiji
to Tahiti’s lush volcanic crags and discover a
breathtaking array of geological formations, bird
species, and marine life. Dive or snorkel among
underwater canyons and tunnels formed from
lava; meet island communities; and explore
far-fl ung reefs of Kiribati that have been chosen
as part of National Geographic’s Pristine Seas
project.
• Snorkel and dive the Southern Line Is-
lands, designated one of the world’s most
unspoiled reefs by National Geographic
Explorer-in-Residence Enric Sala.
• Spot rare birds and fl owers in the rain
forests of Samoa.
• Witness a traditional kava ceremony in Tonga.
• Sail into the massive lagoon at Rangiroa,
French Polynesia, and immerse yourself in
its underwater wonders.
LEGENDS OF THE SOUTH
PACIFIC: TAHITI TO
EASTER ISLANDThe tropical seas that stretch from French
Polynesia to Easter Island have seen mission-
aries and mutineers, explorers and enigmatic
cultures pass their way. Discover Bora Bora’s
dramatic volcanic formations and the uplifted
atoll of Henderson Island. Hear tales of the Kon-Tiki, and encounter the moai of Easter Island.
• Dive or snorkel the reefs of Fakarava, a
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and the
Pitcairn Islands, one of National Geographic
Explorer-in-Residence Enric Sala’s Pristine
Seas preservation areas.
• Trace the legend of the H.M.S. Bounty
on Pitcairn Island, where descendants of
its mutineers still live today.
• Explore the unusual geology of Henderson
Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Delve into the lost culture of Easter Island
with an archaeologist.
Expedition Dates and Cost:
Australia's Wild Northwest
with the Spice Islands
2014: Aug. 8–25 from $11,490
2015: Aug. 14–31 from $12,640
Indonesian Odyssey:
Bali to the Great Barrier Reef
2014: Oct. 18–Nov. 6 from $16,620
Exploring the Coral Sea:
Papua New Guinea to Fiji
2014: Nov. 3–18 from $12,940
Reefs, Lagoons, and Volcanic Isles:
Fiji to Tahiti
2014: Nov. 16–Dec. 5 from $18,990
Legends of the South Pacifi c:
Tahiti to Easter Island
2014: Dec. 3–22 from $17,930
See National Geographic Orion deck plan
on page 60. Prices are per person, double
occupancy. Airfare is not included in the
expedition cost.
See our website at nationalgeographicexpeditions.com for detailed
itineraries, scuba requirements, and pricing.
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 57
OCEANIA
MORE TRIPS WITH
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPEDITIONSTHE CANADIAN MARITIMESITINERARY: 8 DAYS
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORERTrace the footsteps of Vikings, European explorers, and inventors on a special
voyage with Chairman Emeritus of the Board of Governors of the National
Geographic Society Gil Grosvenor. Aboard our fl agship, the National Geographic Explorer, discover the Acadian culture of the Îles-de-la Madeleine, and visit the
French island of Saint-Pierre. Dock at coastal fi shing villages and small islands along
the rugged coast of Newfoundland. Venture into the ancient Viking settlement of
l'Anse aux Meadows and join a geology expert in Gros Morne National Park, both
UNESCO World Heritage sites. Explore the Fortress of Louisbourg on Cape Breton
Island, and visit the home of Alexander Graham Bell, the second president of the
Society and Gil's great-grandfather.
DATES: 2014: Sep. 11–18 2015: Sep. 11–18
EXPEDITION COSTS: FROM $7,320
PATAGONIA: ARGENTINA AND THE CHILEAN FJORDSITINERARY: 20 DAYS
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER
Experience Patagonia at close range aboard the National Geographic Explorer. Set off from Buenos Aires, tracing the east coast of
Argentina to Tierra del Fuego. Search for Southern right whales at
their renowned gathering spot off the Peninsula Valdés. Venture
through the Strait of Magellan, deep into Chile’s maze of glorious
fj ords, past incandescent icebergs and massive glaciers. Explore
Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and
view "land’s end" rounding Cape Horn.
� See photos of a whale encounter taken on this expedition by NG-Lindblad
naturalist Justin Hofman at nationalgeographic.com/NG News
DATES: 2014: Oct. 23–Nov. 11 2015: Oct. 22–Nov. 10
EXPEDITION COSTS: FROM $15,950
Call 1-888-966-8687 or visit NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM to see detailed itineraries, reserve online, and fi nd many more trips.
AUSTRALIA'S WILD NORTHWEST ITINERARY: 14 DAYS
ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION
Stretching along Australia’s northwest coast, the Kimberley Plateau is a vast
and beautiful landscape of plunging waterfalls, wild sandstone formations,
and deep river gorges. Experience the raw majesty of the Kimberley, explor-
ing from the fully equipped National Geographic Orion. In the company of
our naturalists, get acquainted with local mythology and culture, encounter
a wide array of wildlife, and navigate the stunning coast in Zodiacs. King
George Falls is fl owing forcefully in May and June, while humpback whales
begin to arrive in June and are most abundant in August.
DATES: 2015: Jun. 15-28, Jun. 25-Jul. 8, Jul. 5-18, Jul. 15-28,
Jul. 25-Aug. 7, Aug. 4-17
EXPEDITION COSTS: FROM $8,210
58
COLUMBIA AND SNAKE RIVERS JOURNEYITINERARY: 7 DAYS | ABOARD THE
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA BIRD/SEA LION
Retrace the Pacifi c Northwest portion of Lewis
and Clark’s epic 19th-century expedition. Cruise
through the lush landscapes of the Columbia
River Gorge, the mountains of the Cascade
Range, and the historical lands of the Native
American tribes the intrepid duo encountered.
Dine on locally-sourced cuisine, and sample the
region’s famed wines and microbrews.
DATES: 2014: Sep. 22–28, Sep. 23–29, Sep.
29–Oct. 5, Oct. 4–10, Oct.
5–11, Oct. 10–16, Oct. 16–22
EXPEDITION COSTS FROM $4,490
SAILING THE CARIBBEAN ISLANDS ON THE SEA CLOUDITINERARY: 8 DAYS |
ABOARD THE SEA CLOUD
Set sail aboard the magnifi cent four-masted
Sea Cloud, and explore the lush islands and
vibrant cultures of the Lesser Antilles. Hike the
rain forests of Dominica, explore a volcanic
crater in Saint Lucia, and glide on a catamaran
in the Grenadines. Enjoy opportunities to swim
and snorkel at coral reefs and white-sand
beaches, and discover the hidden corners of the
Caribbean Sea.
DATES: 2015: Feb. 26–Mar. 5, Mar. 5–12
Mar. 12–19
EXPEDITION COSTS FROM $7,990
59
Travelers take in a sweeping vista of Machu Picchu, Peru’s lost Inca citadel.
PERU: LAND OF THE INCAITINERARY: 8 DAYS
Experience incomparable Machu Picchu and encounter a wealth of ancient
Inca temples, Spanish colonial cathedrals, and the charming villages of the
Sacred Valley of the Inca. Visit Lima’s renowned Larco Herrera Museum,
and immerse yourself in the ancient capital of Cusco. Then spend the
night among the ruins of Machu Picchu, rediscovered and excavated
by Hiram Bingham with funding from National Geographic
more than 100 years ago.
DATES: 2014 & 2015: Expeditions depart
every Saturday and Sunday.
See our website for more details.
EXPEDITION COSTS: FROM $4,990
EXPLORING THE LOW COUNTRIES: HOLLAND AND BELGIUMITINERARY: 9 DAYS | ABOARD THE
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER
Voyage from Germany to the Netherlands
and Belgium, exploring the seaside village of
Harlingen and the dune-capped West Frisian
Islands, and take in a dazzling view of tulip fi elds
of North Holland. In Amsterdam and Antwerp,
experience the incredible artistic heritage of the
Dutch Golden Age and the Flemish Primitives.
Stroll the canal-carved medieval towns of
Brugge and Gent, and revel in the rich culinary
and musical traditions of the region.
DATES: 2015: Apr. 29–May 7
EXPEDITION COSTS FROM $7,690
60 RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM
CAPACITY: 102 guests in 53 outside cabins.
REGISTRY: Bahamas. OVERALL LENGTH: 338 feet.
National Geographic Orion is a state-of-the-art expedition ship, and the
newest addition to the National Geographic/Lindblad fl eet. It is a fully
stabilized, ice-class vessel with an ice reinforced hull, enabling it to
navigate polar ice as well as small harbors in the South Pacifi c.
PUBLIC AREAS: Outdoor café, lounge and cocktail bar perfect for briefi ngs
and entertainment, restaurant, sun deck, reception desk, state-of-the-art
lecture theater, library, global gallery, marina platform and mud room. Guests
are welcome on the “open bridge” to meet the captain and offi cers and learn
about navigation.
MEALS: Served in a single seating with unassigned tables. Exceptional cuisine
features tastes of the regions we visit and special signature menus designed
by Sydney’s Serge Dansereau of the The Bathers' Pavilion restaurant.
CABINS: All cabins off er ocean views, private facilities, and climate controls.
Some cabins have balconies. Cabins off er Internet access, a fl at screen TV
and DVD/CD player. Single cabins in Category 1 and Category 3 include cabins
#301, 322, 323, and 512, and are highlighted in bright pink or bright blue.
EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: Zodiac landing craft, a hydrophone, underwater
video cameras, a video microscope, and a crow's nest camera in the
Kimberley. Plus kayaks, snorkeling gear for all guests, scuba gear for 24
guests, a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), and a glass-bottom boat on
voyages where snorkeling and scuba diving are off ered.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION
Photos (from top): Category 5 balcony suite; the spacious lounge; the whirlpool hot tub is a perfect place to end a day of exploration.
OBSERVATION DECK
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1
30
3
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5
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1
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2
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2
317
BRIDGE DECK
RESTAURANT MARINA PLATFORM
ELEVATOR
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UPPER DECK
ELEVATOR
OUTDOOR CAFELOUNGE
LIBRARY
GLOBAL GALLERY
RECEPTION
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6
50
8
51
0
512
MAIN DECK
ELEVATOR
BR
IDG
E
ROOM
SPECIAL FEATURES: Laundry, a full-time doctor, video chronicler, National
Geographic photographer, and a Lindblad-National Geographic certifi ed
photo instructor, plus undersea specialists and divemasters on voyages
where snorkeling and scuba diving are off ered.
WELLNESS: Spa features a unisex dry sauna, gymnasium with
LifeFitness equipment, and LEXspa massage treatment room. A
whirlpool hot tub is available on the Observation Deck, which doubles
as a plunge pool in warmer temperatures.
Scuba Diving Requirement: Divers must be certifi ed by an internationally
recognized dive association prior to the voyage, and certifi cation cards and
logbooks must be brought on board. Divers should have logged 25 dives in total,
and have made a dive within the 12 months preceding the voyage.
CAPACITY: 148 guests in 81 outside cabins.
REGISTRY: Bahamas. OVERALL LENGTH: 367 feet.
National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship, and the
fl agship of the National Geographic/Lindblad fl eet. It is a fully stabilized,
ice-class vessel with an ice 1A rating on the forward hull, enabling it to
navigate polar environments while providing exceptional comfort. It car-
ries 36 double kayaks and a fl eet of 13 Zodiac landing craft. An undersea
specialist operates a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and sophisticated
undersea video equipment, extending access to the underwater world.
PUBLIC AREAS: bistro bar, chart room, restaurant, gift shop, library, and
lounge with full service bar and state-of-the-art facilities for fi lms, slide
shows and presentations, mud room with lockers for expedition gear,
and observation lounge. Our “open bridge” provides guests an op-
portunity to meet our offi cers and captain and learn about navigation.
MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal
atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international.
CABINS: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes, private
facilities, and climate controls. Some cabins have balconies. Single
cabins in Category 2 include cabin numbers 309–312 and 329–334 and
are highlighted in bright blue. Single cabins in Category 3 include cabin
numbers 105, 106, 203 and 208 and are highlighted in bright pink.
EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: Zodiac landing crafts, kayaks, Remotely
Operated Vehicle (ROV), hydrophone, SplashCam, underwater video
camera, crow’s nest remote-controlled camera, video microscope.
SPECIAL FEATURES: A full-time doctor, undersea specialist, photo
specialist and video chronicler, National Geographic photographer,
Internet café, and laundry.
WELLNESS: The vessel is staff ed by a wellness specialist and features
a glass-enclosed fi tness center, outdoor stretching area, two spa
treatment rooms, and a sauna.
WELLNESS DECK
VERANDA DECK
UPPER DECK
BISTRO
GALLEY
GLOBALGALLERY
RECEPTIONRESTAURANT
CHARTROOM
SUN DECK
MAIN DECK
BAL. BAL. BAL. BAL. BAL. BAL.
BAL.BAL. BAL.BAL.
BAL.BALCONY
BALCONY
106-S
108107
103
101102
105-S
104
224 226
228217213
211
209
215
221230
219
222
220
218
216
214212
210
206
204
202
208-S
207
205
201
203-S
350
348343-T
341-T
339
337
335
327
325
323
321
319
317
315
313
346
344
342
340
338
336
328
326
324
322
320
318
316
314
308
306
304
302
307
305303
301
334-S
332-S
330-S
333-S
331-S
329-S
312-S
310-S
311-S
309-S
DECK
DECK
LOUNGE
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 61
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER
Photos (from top): The National Geographic Explorer; Chart room; an Upper Deck cabin with balcony; the fi tness center off ers panoramic views.
CAPACITY: 62 guests in 31 outside cabins.
REGISTRY: United States. OVERALL LENGTH: 152 feet.
PUBLIC AREAS: Our twin sister ships feature a library; lounge with
full service bar and facilities for fi lms, slide shows and presentations;
observation deck; partially covered sun deck with chairs and tables,
and spa. Our “open bridge” provides guests an opportunity to meet our
offi cers and captain and learn about navigation.
MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal
atmosphere and easy mingling. Breakfast is a wide selection buff et and
lunch is often served family style. Menu emphasizes regional fare.
CABINS: All face outside with windows, private facilities, and climate
controls.
EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: Bow camera, hydrophone, kayaks, snorkeling
gear, SplashCam, underwater video camera, video microscope, wet
suits in Baja, and expedition landing craft.
SPECIAL FEATURES: Guest Internet access. A certifi ed photo instructor
and video chronicler on board all voyages. A ship’s doctor is on board
in Baja and Costa Rica/Panama. An undersea specialist is on board in
Baja and Alaska.
WELLNESS: The vessel is staff ed by a wellness specialist and features
exercise equipment, spa, and outdoor stretching area.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA BIRD AND NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION
LEXspa 106
105 103
104
101
102 100 SUNDECK
BRID
GE
GYM EQUIPMENT
BRIDGE DECK
219 217
216 214
215 211
212 210 208 206 204 202 200
201 203 205 207 209
UPPER DECK
MAIN DECK
LOUNGE
OBSERVATIONDECK
BAR
CPTN.
DINING ROOM
305 303 301
304 302 300
Photos (from top): The National Geographic Sea Lion; cocktail hour recaps are informative and always social; the sundeck is a great place for a morning stretch with our wellness specialist; a comfortable category 2 cabin.
62 RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM
CAPACITY: 96 guests in 56 outside cabins.
REGISTRY: Ecuador. OVERALL LENGTH: 295 feet.
PUBLIC AREAS: Ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered deck with chairs
and tables; doctor’s offi ce; fi tness center; spa; gift shop; library; lounge
with full-service bar and facilities for fi lms, slide shows and presenta-
tions; sauna and small swimming pool; and sun deck. Our Ecuadorian
captain and offi cers welcome guests to the bridge in accordance with
our “open bridge” policy.
MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an
informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with
Ecuadorian fl air.
CABINS: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes. Each has
private facilities and climate controls. Single cabins in Category 1
include cabin numbers 219, 222, 309–312, 314–316, and 318 and are
highlighted in bright blue. Single cabins in Category 2 include cabin
numbers 124, 126, 127, and 205 and are highlighted in bright pink.
EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: Kayaks, glass-bottom boat, snorkeling gear,
underwater video camera, video microscope, wet suits, and Zodiac
landing craft.
SPECIAL FEATURES: Guest Internet access, laundry service, fl oating
massage platform, and wellness program. A certifi ed photo instructor,
ship’s doctor, and video chronicler are also on board.
CAPACITY: 48 guests in 24 outside cabins.
REGISTRY: Ecuador. OVERALL LENGTH: 164 feet.
PUBLIC AREAS: Ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered deck with hammocks,
chairs and tables; doctor’s offi ce; fi tness center; gift shop; spa; library;
lounge with full-service bar and facilities for fi lms, slide shows and pre-
sentations; and sky deck. Our Ecuadorian captain and offi cers welcome
guests to the bridge in accordance with our “open bridge” policy.
MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables, meals are
informal for easy mingling. Menu is international with an Ecuadorian fl air.
CABINS: All cabins have a window with an outside view, private facilities
and climate controls.
EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: Kayaks, snorkeling gear, underwater video
camera, video microscope, wet suits, Zodiac landing craft.
SPECIAL FEATURES: Guest Internet access and laundry service.
A ship’s doctor and video chronicler are also on board.
WELLNESS: The vessel is staff ed by a wellness specialist and features
exercise equipment and outdoor stretching area.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ENDEAVOUR
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ISLANDER
351
353
352 35
0
222
220
218
216
214
212
210
208
206
204
202
219
217
215
211
209 20
520
320
1
318
316
314
312
310
311
315
300 30
9
107
105
104
106
102
11712
112
312
5
127
129 11
110
9
112
115
114
118
120
122
124
126
110
108
116
SHOP
DININGROOM
ZodiacBoarding
Reception
Purs
erIn
tern
et
LEXs
alon
A DECK
MAIN DECK
UPPER DECK
408 406
407 405
404
403
402
401
LOUNGE306
305
304
303
302
301
DINING ROOM
LIBRARY
INTERNET
FITNESSCENTER
210
209
208
207
206
205
204
203
202
201
RECE
PTIO
N
BRID
GE
LEXs
paDO
CTOR
UPPER DECK
BRIDGE DECK
MAIN DECK
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 63
SEA CLOUD
CAPACITY: 58 guests in 30 cabins including two Owner’s Suites.
REGISTRY: Malta. OVERALL LENGTH: 360 feet.
PUBLIC AREAS: The Sea Cloud was commissioned in 1931 by Wall Street
businessman E.F. Hutton for his wife, Marjorie Merriweather Post.
Public areas are incomparably furnished and immensely comfortable.
The covered lido bar is a superb place to congregate and enjoy the
outdoors. The open-air “Blue Lagoon” is a wonderful place to relax. The
sumptuous lounge is a superb gathering point. Guests are welcome on
the “open bridge” to learn how the Sea Cloud is navigated and sailed.
MEALS: Served in a single seating, exceptional cuisine features tastes of
the regions we visit along with Continental fare. Fine house wines are
included with lunch and dinner.
CABINS: Décor is in keeping with the ship’s storied traditions, and
cabins have antique and period-style furniture. The main deck has
the ship’s original cabins, including the Owner’s Suites originally
occupied by E.F. Hutton and Marjorie Merriweather Post. Cabins on the
promenade and captain’s decks have antique furnishings. There is a
tasteful elegance throughout the ship. All cabins have private facilities,
individual climate controls, and a hair dryer.
SPECIAL FEATURES: There is no ship afl oat that can compare to Sea Cloud for grace, fi ne service, and the sheer joy of sailing. Sails are
raised by hand by a spirited crew. The ship carries 30 sails measuring a
total of 32,000 square feet, and guests have the chance to learn about
their design, deployment and function during the course of the voyage.
Although the ship is elegant, she is also friendly and informal. Dress
aboard ship is relaxed and casual. A certifi ed photo instructor will be on
board all departures.
CAPTAIN’S AND LIDO DECK
PROMENADE DECK
MAIN DECK
1 3
4
18
30 32 34 36
31 33 35 37
20 22 2428
19
16
17 21 23 2529
6 810
5 79
2
LOUNGE
RESTAURANT LOUNGE
BR
IDG
E
CAPACITY: 48 guests in 24 outside cabins.
REGISTRY: Vietnam. OVERALL LENGTH: 230 feet.
PUBLIC AREAS: The ship is fully air-conditioned. Outdoor areas include
the pool deck, with both covered and open-air spaces, a Jacuzzi, and
a bar. The lounge has a library, and facilities for fi lms, slide shows and
presentations. Guests are welcome on the “open bridge” to meet the
captain and offi cers and learn about navigation.
MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables. The menu
is international, with a focus on the outstanding Vietnamese and
Cambodian cuisines.
CABINS: All face outside with glass doors and private balconies. There
is a mix of twin-bed and queen-size bed cabins. Each has private facili-
ties and hair dryer, individual climate control, music entertainment
system, and a mini bar.
SPECIAL FEATURES: Spa, with choice of massage treatments, gymna-
sium with exercise equipment, boutique with selection of local artwork;
morning Tai Chi classes. DVD and iPod® players are available on request.
A certifi ed photo instructor will be on board all departures.
JAHAN
TERRACE DECK
UPPER DECK
MAIN DECK
201
BAR LOUNGE
RESTAURANT
203 205 207 209 211
202 204 206 208 210 212
103 105 107 109 113
104 106 108 110 112 114
111
64 RESERVE ONLINE AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHICEXPEDITIONS.COM
CAPACITY: 48 guests in 26 outside cabins.
REGISTRY: Great Britain. OVERALL LENGTH: 150 feet.
PUBLIC AREAS: With exterior teak decks, hardwood fi nished interiors
and fi ne fabrics, the Lord of the Glens off ers 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
well-stocked library.
MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables, meals focus
on healthy cuisine, including fresh Scottish poultry, salmon, trout, and
other options.
CABINS: All cabins have outside views. Facilities include a private
bathroom with shower, individually controlled air-conditioning and
heating, satellite television, music system, hair dryer, telephone, safety
deposit box, bathrobes, and toiletries.
SPECIAL FEATURES: Bicycles are on board and a kayaking excursion
is off ered at Loch Ness. There is complimentary Internet access at a
computer in the reception area. Lord of the Glens is the only ship of its
kind able both to navigate the locks of the Caledonian Canal and sail
among the islands of the Inner Hebrides. A certifi ed photo instructor
will be on board all departures.
LORD OF THE GLENS DELFIN II
202204206208210212214216218*
201203205
302304306
301
ALEXANDER GRAHAM BELL DECK
DAVID ROBERTS DECK
JAMES WATT DECK
303305
207209211217219*
105
104*106*
ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON
RESTAURANT
RECEPTION
CAPACITY: 28 guests in 14 outside suites.
REGISTRY: Peru. OVERALL LENGTH: 120 feet.
PUBLIC AREAS: The comfortable, enclosed and air conditioned top deck
invites you to linger, unwind or enjoy drinks at the bar. The natural history
staff will give their presentations here. There is a small reference library
and the bridge, where you are welcome to meet the captain and offi cers.
MEALS: Meals are served in a single seating with unassigned tables;
large windows provide panoramic views. Often special dishes will
include sustainable products of the rain forest and sauces made with
exotic regional fruits.
SUITES: Elegant, air-conditioned guest suites on the main and upper
decks all off er exceptional vistas. Each spacious suite has a minimalist
décor with a luxurious overtone.
EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: 10-person skiff s with individual seat cushions
and plenty of leg room. Fleet of comfortable, safe kayaks. Onboard rain
ponchos and rubber boots are distributed if needed.
SPECIAL FEATURES: Guests may swim directly from the skiff s using
the convenient swim ladder, weather permitting. A certifi ed photo
instructor will be on board all departures.
TOP DECK
UPPER DECK
MAIN DECK
LOUNGE BAR
DININGROOM
HAMMOCKS
2
121416
151113
1
4
3
6
5
8
7
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 65
PAGE
NO. O
F DA
YS
SHIP
DEPARTURE DATES
JULY AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JULY AUG SEP
NORTH AMERICA
Baja California and the Sea of Cortez: Among the Great Whales 10 8 Sea Bird 17, 24, 31 7, 14, 21, 28
7, 14
Costa Rica and the Panama Canal 12 8 Sea Lion 13, 20, 273, 10, 17,
24, 317, 14, 21, 28
7, 14
Alaska's Inside Passage 14 8Sea Bird/Sea Lion*
16, 17*, 23, 24*, 30, 31*
6, 7*, 13, 14*, 20,21*,
27, 28*
4, 5*, 11, 12*, 18,19*,
25, 26*
1, 2*, 8, 9*, 15, 16*, 22, 23*, 29, 30*
Canadian Maritimes 58 8 Explorer 11 11
Columbia and Snake River 59 7Sea Bird/Sea Lion*
22,23*, 29*
4, 5*, 10, 16
21
Sailing the Caribbean 59 8 Sea Cloud 26 5, 12
SOUTH AMERICA
Galápagos 16 10Endeavour/Islander*
4, 5*, 11, 12*, 18, 19*,
25, 26*
1, 2*, 8, 9*, 15, 16*, 22,
23*, 295, 12, 19, 26
3, 10, 17, 18*, 24, 31
1*, 7, 8*, 14, 15*, 21, 29*
5, 6*, 12, 13*, 19, 20*,
26, 27*
2, 3*, 9, 10*, 16, 17*,
23, 24*, 30, 31*
6, 7*, 13, 14*, 20, 21*,
27, 28*
6, 7*, 13, 14*, 20, 21*,
27, 28*
3, 4*, 10, 11*, 17, 18*,
24, 25*
1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 30*
5, 6*, 12, 13*, 19, 20*,
26, 27*
3, 4*, 10, 11*, 17, 18*, 24, 25*, 31
1*, 7, 8*, 14, 15*, 21, 22*,
28, 29*
4, 5*, 11, 12*, 18, 19*,
25, 26*
Upper Amazon 18 10 Delfi n II 5, 12, 19 16, 23, 30 6 22, 29 6 317, 14, 21, 28
7, 142, 9,
16, 234, 11, 18, 25
22, 29 5, 12, 19
Patagonia: Argentina and the Chilean Fjords 58 20 Explorer 23
South America: Buenos Aires, Rio, and Brazil's Wild Coast Web 18 Explorer 10
Peru: Land of the Inca 59 8 Land-based 12, 20, 263, 9,
23, 316, 13, 20, 27
4, 18, 261, 9, 15, 23, 29
7, 13, 21, 27
4, 10, 18, 24
1, 7, 15, 211, 7, 15, 21, 29
4, 12, 18, 26
2, 9, 16, 23, 30
7, 13, 21, 27
5, 11, 19, 25
2, 8, 16, 22, 30
5, 13, 19, 27
EUROPE
Under Sail: Greece and the Dalmatian Coast 20 12 Sea Cloud 31 10 23 2
Sailing the Greek Isles 22 9 Sea Cloud 24 4 12, 19
Scotland's Highlands and Islands 24 9Lord of the
Glens26
2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Exploring the British and Irish Isles 26 15 Explorer 6
Exploring the Low Countries: Holland and Belgium 59 9 Explorer 29
POLAR
Along the Viking Trail: Iceland to Greenland 29 12 Explorer 19
Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland's East Coast 29 17 Exporer 22
Land of the Polar Bears 30 11 Explorer 1, 8, 15
Norway's Fjords and Arctic Svalbard 32 17 Explorer 24
Exploring Greenland and the Canadian High Arctic 34 13 Explorer 28 7, 17, 27
A Circumnavigation of Iceland 36 10 Explorer 7
Journey to Antarctica 38 14 Explorer 28 18, 28 7, 17, 27 6
Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falklands 40 24Explorer/
Orion*8 14*, 16
ASIA
Wild Encounters from Borneo to Bali 42 13 Orion 22 2 28 7
Vietnam and Cambodia: Along the Mekong River 44 14 Jahan 6, 14, 20, 28
3, 25 3
AFRICA
Wildlife & Cultures of South Africa, Mozambique, & Madagascar 46 23 Orion 20
Voyage to West Africa: Gold Coast to Morocco 48 20 Explorer 23
INDIAN OCEAN AND OCEANIA
Treasures of the Indian Ocean: Zanzibar to the Seychelles 50 15 Orion 8
Indian Ocean Odyssey: Seychelles, Maldives, and Sri Lanka 52 21 Orion 18
Wild Islands of Sri Lanka, Borneo, and the Andaman Sea 54 22 Orion 4
Indonesian Odyssey: Bali to Australia's Great Barrier Reef 56 20 Orion 18
Exploring the Coral Sea: Papua New Guinea to Fiji 56 16 Orion 3
Reefs, Lagoons and Volcanic Isles: Fiji to Tahiti 56 20 Orion 16
Legends of the South Pacifi c: Tahiti to Easter Island 56 20 Orion 3
AUSTRALIA
Australia's Wild Northwest with the Spice Islands 56 18 Orion 8 14
Australia's Wild Northwest 58 14 Orion 15, 25 5, 15, 25 4
66
2014 2015EXPEDITION CALENDAR:
OUR LOYALTY PROGRAMOnce you’ve traveled on three
National Geographic Expeditions,
you’ll qualify for enrollment
in our Lifelong Explorer loyalty
program. Lifelong Explorers are
entitled to discounts on any
National Geographic Expedition
as well as a host of other
benefi ts.
To learn about the Lifelong Explorer program, visit nationalgeographicexpeditions.com/lifelongexplorer.
RESPONSIBILITY
National Geographic Society will provide educational enrichment for
National Geographic Expeditions as outlined in its catalog and on its
website (www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com) as a sponsoring
organization and has licensed qualifi ed professional tour operators to
organize and administer National Geographic Expeditions. The desig-
nated tour operator, in turn, acts only as an agent for any transportation
carrier, hotel, ground operator, or other suppliers of services connected
with specifi c National Geographic 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 shall
constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the passenger; the
carriers are not responsible for any act, omission, or event during the
time participants are not aboard their conveyances.
National Geographic Society its employees, subsidiaries, affi liates,
offi cers, directors, successors, representatives, assigns (collectively
“National Geographic”) and its designated tour operator shall 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 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, fi re, fl ood, 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 its designated tour operator for any such loss,
damage, injury, or death.
By registering for a National Geographic Expedition, the participant
certifi es that he/she does not have any mental, physical, or other
condition or disability that would create a hazard for him/herself or
other participants. National Geographic and its designated tour operator
reserve the right in their sole discretion to accept, decline to accept, or
remove any participant on a National Geographic Expedition. National
Geographic 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 participants.
Neither National Geographic, nor its designated tour operator, shall be
liable for any air carrier's cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Basis of Rates: All prices are based on two persons sharing a room
or cabin. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars. The rates are
based on tariff s, 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 notifi cation will be given at
the time of fi nal invoicing.
Eligibility: Participation in a National Geographic Expedition is a benefi t
of membership in the National Geographic Society. Membership dues
for 2014 are $39. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or
guardian for the entire journey.
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 fl ights
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 fl ights to/from the expedition. Internal airfare is
included on some international expeditions as indicated in the itinerary.
Not Included: 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 immuniza-
tions; baggage/accident/cancellation insurance; personal expenses, such
as laundry, telephone calls, and alcoholic beverages; and any other items
not specifi cally noted as included.
Single/Shared Accommodations: A limited number of single rooms/
cabins are available at an extra cost on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis.
We will assist persons requesting a roommate. Participants will be
notifi ed if a suitable roommate is not available, in which case the single
rate will be charged.
Payments, Cancellations, and Refunds: To reserve space on a National
Geographic Expedition, a $500 per-person deposit is required for
expeditions that are nine days or less, and a $750 per-person deposit
is required for expeditions that are ten 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 de-
parture date, full payment is required when the reservation is accepted.
All cancellation notices must be received in writing and will become
eff ective 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 reserves the right to cancel any
expedition because of inadequate 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
participants with a full refund of monies paid to the tour operator; except
in the event that the cancellation is due to a signifi cant event that makes
it infeasible to operate the expedition as planned, in which case the tour
operator will provide participants with a refund and/or credit toward a
future National Geographic Expedition equivalent to monies paid to the
tour operator. If National Geographic cancels the expedition in progress,
participants will receive a prorated refund based on the number of
days not completed on the expedition. Except as outlined above when
National Geographic cancels and expedition, National Geographic and its
designated tour operator has no responsibility for any expenses, includ-
ing any non-refundable expenses, incurred by participants in preparing
for a cancelled expedition or for any additional arrangements should
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 www.nationalgeographicexpedi-
tions.com.
Itinerary Changes: The itineraries and staff presented in the catalog
or on the website are subject to modifi cation and change by National
Geographic or its designated tour operator. Every reasonable eff ort will
be made to operate programs as planned, but alterations may still occur
after fi nal itineraries are sent.
Documentation: Participants are responsible for obtaining any docu-
ments required for their participation in the expedition such as a valid
passport, all visas, vaccination certifi cates, 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 encourages participants to consult a doctor
for specifi c 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 participant becomes
suffi ciently 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 is unable or does not have time to contact
participant’s emergency contact, the participant, by registering and
paying a deposit for a National Geographic 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 specifi c 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 certifi es that they have medical insurance which
will cover personal accidents, medical expenses, medical evacuation,
air ambulance, loss of eff ects, repatriation costs and all other expenses
which might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconve-
nience 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.
Photography: National Geographic and its designated tour operator and
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 a National Geographic 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 us in writing
prior to departure of the expedition.
Copyright in all photographs, video, and related materials created by the
participant (“Expedition Materials”) shall 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.
Dispute Resolution: Dispute Resolution policy and process is available at
www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com/information/terms
Other: Additional Terms and Conditions may apply to some expeditions
and will be provided with pre-expedition mailings.
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.
See more at: http://www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com/information/terms
By registering for a National Geographic Expedition, the participant
agrees to the Responsibility statement and the Terms and Conditions
published in the catalog and on the website.
KEY: T=TOP, C=CENTER, B=BOTTOM, L=LEFT, R=RIGHT:
PHOTO CREDITS: Kim Larson (3br), AllCanadaPhotos.com (4), J. Boyer
(49br), Sisse Brimberg & Cotton Coulson (38), Stewart Cohen (8), Derek
Croucher (26), Alexandra C. Daley-Clark (63tl), Jay Dickman (11b), Holger
Ehlers (12), Michele Falzone (52), Mick Fogg (2t), Renato Granieri (46),
Andrzej Grzegorczyk (51b), Robert Harding Picture Library Ltd (58t),
Tobias Helbig (53b), Ralph Lee Hopkins (front cover, 6-7, 11, 19b, 28-29,
30, 31t, 32, 33c, 35c, 39b, 58bl, 59b, 61tl), Michio Hoshino (16), Jeff
Hunter (57r), Russell Hunter (49bl), Frans Lanting (42), Pius Lee (57l)
Holger Leue (36), Sven-Olof Lindblad (5c, 34), Stefan Lundgren (29cr),
Richard Maack (19t, 65tr), Thomas Marent 43b), Erik Mandre (37b), Flip
Nicklin (40), Paul Nicklen (31b, 35b), Michael S. Nolan (3t, 5t, 9b, 17b,
back cover), Pinnacle Pictures (56c), Nick Rains (55b, 56-57, 58br, 60tl),
Lily Smith (5b), Rikki Swenson (62l), Phil Seale (25c), Susan Seubert (10),
Kevin Schafer (14), Chris Schmid (58b), Hugh Sitton (44), Keren Su/China
Span (18), Jack Swenson (3b), Rikki Swenson (62tl), David Vargas (13,
59tc), Adrian Van Zandbergen (50)
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 67
Back cover: Guests on a Zodiac launched from the National Geographic Explorer enjoy the icebergs of Antarctica.
a nonrefundable ticket to or from the participant's National Geographic
Expedition departure city. Baggage and personal eff ects are at all times
the sole responsibility of the participant.
1145 17th Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036
EMBARK ON A SMALL SHIP EXPEDITION TO ONE OF THESE SPECTACULAR DESTINATIONS WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC:
To reserve your space today, call toll-free 1-888-966-8687. Or reserve online at nationalgeographicexpeditions.com
Africa
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Dalmatian Coast
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4953-14