galapagos go - betchart expeditionscruise aboard the comfortable 96-guest national geographic...
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Get some nature on an expedition voyage to where the wild things are!
GalapagosWITH AN EXTENSION TO PERU
December 9–18, 2011Aboard National Geographic Endeavour
GO Take $500 off
Your Galáp
agos Voyag
e!
“The most surprising characteristic of Galápagos fauna is its complete innocence: these species have evolved without predation and as such have lost all ‘fear or flight’ response,
including towards us! It is unforgettable to pass through their world as though we were invisible — whilst they continue with
their lives, blissfully unconcerned with our presence.” — Emma Ridley, Expedition Leader
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Cover Photo: Blue-footed boobies.Opposite page: Observing animals up close is one of the highlights of being in Galápagos.
Ship’s Registry: Bahamas
Dear AAAS and Sigma Xi Members and Friends,Most people know Galápagos is special. Why? The standard answers
reference Darwin, beautiful landscapes and endearing animals. But these
answers just skim the surface. Beyond that, Galápagos is like nowhere else
on Earth — a place of peaceful coexistence rarely seen in our modern world.
Join us for an exploration of the islands, December 9-18, 2011.
Experience the unexpected delight of being so close to wildlife which is
oblivious to our presence, the fascination of seeing a male and female booby
feeding their little chicks, and the exhilaration of snorkeling with penguins and
sea lions.
Cruise aboard the comfortable 96-guest National Geographic Endeavour,
noted for its excellent personal service, intrepid fleet of Zodiac landing craft
and sturdy kayaks. Complimentary wet suits and snorkeling gear are provided.
An experienced, hand-picked team of naturalists, many of whom have
worked extensively in the archipelago, is at your side during every outing.
Their knowledge adds insight to all that you see and do.
We invite you to explore Galápagos with all your senses — on land and
under the sea. Our underwater video equipment sharpens your understanding
of the vibrant undersea world available to all. And National Geographic
Endeavour also carries a glass-bottom boat.
We invite you on our optional extension to Peru, December 4-9, 2011. For
details on this optional extension, which explores archaeological wonders in
Peru, including Machu Picchu, Cusco and Lima, please phone 800-252-4910
for a brochure and more information.
So join us on the adventure of a lifetime, one that combines the expertise
of naturalists, a flexible itinerary and the opportunity to explore by Zodiac,
kayak, snorkeling and hiking. Book now to receive $500 off your Galápagos
voyage rate listed on page 12. To make your reservation, please call toll free
at 800-252-4910 or return the attached reservation form.
Sincerely,
Margaret M. Betchart
President, Betchart Expeditions, Inc.
For AAAS Travels and Sigma Xi Expeditions
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The sheer amount of wildlife here is astounding. Tortoises — including
legendary Lonesome George, the last of his species on Earth.
Blue-footed boobies. The famous finches. Beach masters, harems and
doe-eyed sea lion pups that are more than willing to swim with you.
Skies filled with wheeling, courting, red-throated frigate birds. Lava rocks
piled high with motionless marine iguanas. A mind-boggling plethora of
creatures, untainted by fear, living in a paradise of azure waters, white
beaches and cool mangrove stands. Animal life varies from island to
island, and with an experienced staff of naturalists, you encounter
wildlife that is so plentiful you may have to watch your footing to avoid
disturbing the nap of a resting sea lion or a passing iguana. It is simply
a privilege to see these creatures in
this place, manifesting these precise
behaviors. This natural abundance
makes Galápagos one of the most
impressive places on Earth.
Opposite page (clockwise from top): Observe giant tortoises in the highlands; diverse bird life includes Nazca boobies and blue-footed boobies; marine iguanas and flamingos are other wildlife we’ll see during our visit; Zodiacs give us the freedom to explore up close.
Discover Galápagos: Nature in its purest form.
Carlos Romero, one of the expert naturalists, will travel on many expeditions throughout the year.
“For me, Galápagos looms large in
importance, not only as inspiration
for Charles Darwin’s observations
and work, but also as an example of
how an almost untouched environ-
ment could give science and visitors
an untarnished look into nature in its
purest form and can evoke in them
inspiration and love for our planet.”
—Carlos Romero
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The world beneath the sea is as spectacular and diverse as the
wonders you’ll find on land in Galápagos. Whether you’re an avid
snorkeler or prefer to explore the ocean while remaining dry, we’ve
found a number of creative ways that allows travelers of all abilities and
inclinations to encounter the treasures under the surface.
We draw from the example of one of the heroes of marine exploration, the
extraordinary Jacques Cousteau, using nimble Zodiacs to make landfall
on the most remote beaches and to explore pristine stretches of the
shore that are unreachable overland.
On board National Geographic Endeavour, you can take to the bays in a glass-
bottom boat and peruse the ocean floor without setting foot in the water.
For those who snorkel, Galápagos offers pure magic. Thanks to our decades
of experience in Galápagos, we’ve made it easy for virtually everyone to
enjoy the unmitigated pleasure of swimming amid shimmering fish, sea
turtles and playful sea lions.
Our team of naturalists is also
equipped with a wide selection
of underwater video equipment
and still cameras. They’ll display
the images they capture below
the waves while you’re winding
down in the ship’s comfortable
lounge during each evening’s
daily recap.
Opposite page (clockwise from left): We make snorkeling easy for people of all ages; sea lion and undersea expert; snorkeler and mola mola; sea turtle; a curious sea lion; Galápagos penguin.
Swim, Snorkel and Explore the Remarkable Undersea.
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O ne of the most important aspects of our Galápagos expedition is the personalized
experience we offer based on the desires and interests of our travelers.
Flexibility is key for us — the ability to give our travelers choices. Typically,
start your day with a 7am wake-up call from your expedition leader. Then choose
from an array of exploration options.
Choice of Activities: You can explore in a
variety of ways: Naturalist-guided hikes, slow-
paced walks for photographers, Zodiac rides,
snorkeling, kayaking and glass-bottom boating
or simply sitting on the beach next to a group
of sea lions.
You will be in the habitat of the local
wildlife, giving you a chance to actually live
the best nature documentary you’ve ever
seen!
Watch marine iguanas resting on their
lava perch, frigate birds with their robust
inflated pouches, Galápagos penguins searching for food and giant tortoises
stoically roaming the highlands. Every evening, we gather in the lounge for an
informal briefing to talk about what we saw during that day.
When we’re not out exploring, our casual expedition ship provides inspiring
spaces — a cozy lounge, gracious dining room and well-stocked library. It also
offers an array of daily spa and wellness options.
Our shipboard chefs use fresh, local ingredients whenever possible, including
locally grown produce, sustainably caught fish, and other local and indigenous
products.
During our week together, new friendships and a lifelong love of this
enchanting place will touch everyone.
Opposite page (clockwise): Kayaking is a great way to explore on your own; there is time for photography on our daily outings; snorkeling reaps big rewards; catch up on your reading; Head Chef Luis Lasluiza presents Spanish-inspired paella using sustainable seafood; a deserted shoreline is the perfect place to rejuvenate.
A Typical Day in the Enchanted Galápagos Islands
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Day 1: U.S./Guayaquil, EcuadorDepart U.S. and arrive Guayaquil
by late evening; it’s a short drive to
Hotel Hilton Colón, where we spend
the night.
Day 2: Guayaquil/Galápagos/EmbarkAfter the 1½-hour flight to
Galápagos, we’ll immediately board
the ship. During lunch, sail to North
Seymour Island for a magnificent
introduction to the wildlife. Walk
the island’s shoreline looking for
land iguanas, sea lions and unusual
birds. (B,L,D)
Days 3 – 8: Galápagos Islands
In keeping with the nature of an expedition, our itinerary is flexible, allowing you
to fully immerse yourself in this wildlife sanctuary. Enjoy nature walks with local
naturalists; swim, snorkel or explore the waters by kayak or Zodiac. (B,L,D)
Listed below are some of the islands we may visit during our expedition.*
Bartolomé: This is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden
sand converge. Enjoy great walks, panoramic views and a chance, perhaps, to
snorkel with penguins — a tropical oxymoron.
Santiago: On Santiago, see the Galápagos fur seal, and take a lovely coastal
hike where shorebirds, marine iguanas and Sally Lightfoot crabs abound.
Santa Cruz: At the Charles Darwin Research Station, learn about its vital
preservation work. Head up into the highlands to
roam the moss-draped landscape where wild giant
tortoises forage.
Galápagos land iguana, Santa Cruz.
*Routing is always subject to Galápagos National Park approval.
Isabela
FloreanaEspañola
EQUATOR
Pacific Ocean
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
BaltraSeymour
Bartolomé
Santiago
ITINERARY: 10 DAYS/9 NIGHTS
Galápagos
*Actual routing subject to the Galápagos National Park.
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Isabela: Explore northern Isabela’s caves and shorelines; search for dolphins,
whales and sea turtles. Anchor off the picturesque port of Puerto Villamil. Walk
the streets of this small town, visit the nearby saltwater lagoons, home to
flamingos, or stroll along a beautiful beach.
Fernandina: Investigate Punta Espinoza on
Fernandina Island — the youngest island in
Galápagos. It is marine iguana heaven, with
Isabela’s volcanoes as a dramatic backdrop.
Floreana: Champion Islet is a fabulous snorkel site
and home to a large colony of sea lions. There is
nothing more delightful than an hour spent in the
clear waters with these creatures! We may find
flamingos, pintail ducks and various shorebirds. Hike to a lovely white-sand beach,
a favorite nesting site for sea turtles.
Española: See blue-footed and Nazca boobies, sea lions galore, Española marine
iguanas which develop particularly vivid coloration, and the most inquisitive
mockingbirds in the islands. Snorkel, kayak and stroll the island’s lovely beaches.
Day 9: Galápagos/Disembark/GuayaquilDisembark and fly to Guayaquil. The late afternoon and evening are free to
explore the city. Overnight at Hotel Hilton Colón. (B)
Day 10: Guayaquil/HomeThis morning fly home. (B)
OPTIONAL 2-NIGHT EXTENSION TO QUITO: Inquire about return via Quito with half- and full-day tours.
Guests enjoy kayaking off Santiago Island.
Sally Lightfoot crab.
*Routing is always subject to Galápagos National Park approval.
Pacific Ocean
National Geographic EndeavourCAPACITy: 96 guests in 56 outside cabins. REGISTRy: Bahamas
OvERALL LENGTH: 295 feet.
PuBLIC AREAS: Ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered
deck with chairs and tables; Doctor’s Office; Fitness
Center; LEXspa; Global Market; Library; Lounge with
full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows
and presentations; sauna and small swimming pool;
and Observation Deck. The Ecuadorian captain and
officers welcome guests to the Bridge in accordance
with the “Open Bridge” policy.
MEALS: Served in single seatings with
unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere
and easy mingling. Menu is international with
Ecuadorian flair.
CABINS: All cabins face outside with windows
or portholes. Each has private facilities and
climate controls.
EXPEDITION EquIPMENT: Zodiac landing craft,
kayaks, glass-bottom boat, snorkeling gear,
Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video
microscope and wet suits.
SPECIAL FEATuRES: Guest internet access,
laundry service, floating massage platform and
Wellness Program. Ship’s doctor and video
chronicler are also on board.
Right: Category 4 cabin; suite; Fitness Center.
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BRIDGELEXspa
351
350
224
222
220
218
216
214
212
210
208
206
204
202
221
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
LOUNGEPOOL
LIBRARYFITNESSCENTER
DOCTORSAUNASUN DECK
ZodiacBoarding
Reception
Purs
erIn
tern
et
LEXs
alon
A DECK
MAIN DECK
UPPER DECK
VERANDA DECK
BRIDGE DECK OBSERVATION DECK
Costs are per person double occupancy unless otherwise noted. GALáPAGOS
Category 1: $5,230Category 1: Main Deck #202, 204, 221, 224 — All cabins feature two lower single beds, a writing desk and a porthole.
Category 2: $5,980Upper Deck #122, 125; Main Deck #201, 203, 206, 208, 210-212, 214-218, 220 — Cabins have two lower single beds and a writing desk. Upper Deck Cabins feature large windows & Main Deck cabins have two portholes.
Category 3: $6,590Main Deck #209; A Deck #300, 350, 351 — These spacious cabins comfortably accommodate two or three people if desired, all with at least two lower beds and two portholes. Each has a separate sleeping and sitting area.
Category 4: $6,990Upper Deck #102, 104-112, 114-116, 118, 120, 121, 123 — Conveniently located cabins feature two lower single beds and a writing desk.
Category 5: $8,450Upper Deck #117, 129 — These are the finest accommodations on board. Suites have separate sleeping and sitting areas, a large view window and a convertible sofa to accommodate a third person.
Category 1 Solo: $6,530Main Deck #219, 222; A Deck #309-312, 314-316, 318
Category 2 Solo: $7,440Upper Deck #124, 126, 127; Main Deck #205Note: Sole-occupancy cabins are available in Categories 1 and 2, and have one lower single bed and at least one porthole. Shared Accommodations: We will make arrangements for shared accommodations at the double-occupancy rate in Categories 1 and 2. Third-person rates are available in designated cabins at one half the double-occupancy rate.
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Take $500 off the rates listed below.
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Cost Includes: Seven nights accommodations aboard ship in Galápagos; two nights accommoda-tions at fine hotels in Guayaquil; meals as indicat-ed; non-alcoholic beverages aboard ship; transfers to/from airport if traveling on group flights; shore excursions, sightseeing and Galápagos National Park entry fee; taxes, service charges and gra-tuities to local guides. There’s never a charge for Zodiacs, kayaks, snorkeling gear, wet suits and services of the ship physician, Lindblad’s expedi-tion staff and local guides.
Not Included: Airfare U.S./Guayaquil/Galápagos/Guayaquil/U.S.; meals not indicated as included; optional extensions; Ecuador departure tax; passport expenses; baggage/accident/cancellation insurance; voyage DVD; items of a personal nature such as alcoholic beverages, laundry and emails and discretionary gratuities to naturalist staff and crew.
Sample Airfares: Airfare to/from Galápagos is an additional cost. Lindblad Expeditions will gladly as-sist in making your international air arrangements for a $50 per person service fee. International routing: Miami/Guayaquil/Miami, economy from $660; business from $1,600. Internal Ecuador routing: Guayaquil/Galápagos/Guayaquil, adult from $420; children (under 12) from $210. Fares subject to change. International and internal Ecuador air tickets must be issued separately.
Note: A complete packet of pre-departure informa-tion, including recommended reading list and suggestions on what to bring, will be sent to you approximately four months before departure.
Reservations: To confirm your place, an advance payment of $1,000 per person on Galápagos pay-able by check.
Final Payment: Due 90 days prior to departure.
Travel Protection Plan: A travel protection plan is available at extra cost. Upon receiving your reser-vation, we will send you information on the policy. This comprehensive guest protection plan covers trip cancellation for medical reasons, trip delay, medical expenses, accidental death, lost baggage and medical evacuation.
Smoking Policy: Allowed only in designated outdoor areas.
Responsibility: Certain other provisions concerning, among other things, limitations of the Company’s liability for loss of property, injury, illness or death during the voyage will be provided to all guests prior to final payment, and to prospective guests upon request.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Number of Days Prior to Expedition Start Per Person Cancellation Fee120 or more days $250
119-90 days Advance payment cost
89–60 days 25% of trip cost
59–30 days 50% of trip cost
29–0 days No refund
This policy applies to expeditions and extensions. We strongly recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan.
Special Offers
Terms and Conditions
Prices listed in this brochure are as of publication date, and are subject to change.
Photographers have front-row seats when observing wildlife, such as these male frigate birds working to attract a mate.
SAVINGS: Take $500 off cabin rate on Galápagos voyage. (Excludes airfare and extensions.)BRING THE KIDS: We believe sharing an expedition with your kids or grandkids is a life-enhancing experience. Take $500 off the double-occupancy price for each person under 18.
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Reservation Form: Galápagos Aboard National Geographic Endeavour — December 9-18, 2011
Please return to:
Betchart Expeditions, Inc.
17050 Montebello Road
Cupertino, CA 95014
Phone: (800) 252-4910 or (408) 252-4910
E-mail: [email protected]
#1217
Please reserve _______________________ place(s)
Name 1: _____________________________________________________________ (As it appears on passport)
Name 1: ______________________________ Date of Birth: ____________________ (Preferred name for name badge)
Name 2: _____________________________________________________________ (As it appears on passport)
Name 2: ______________________________ Date of Birth: ____________________ (Preferred name for name badge)
Street Address: ________________________________________________________
City: ________________________________ State: _______________ Zip: ________
Home Phone:__________________________________________________________
Business Phone: _______________________________________________________
Fax: ________________________________________________________________
Email: _______________________________________________________________
Accommodations: Double Single Twin share w/friend Share with roommate assigned by tour operator
Please indicate choice of cabin category in order of preference: 1st choice: _____________________ 2nd choice: ___________________________
Please send me more information on the optional extension to Peru.
Enclosed is my advance payment of $ ___________________(US$1,000 per person).
Check made payable to Betchart Expeditions, Inc. Trust Account.
I/We have read the Terms and Conditions for the program and agree to them:
Signature(s): _______________________________ Date: ______________________
Signature(s): _______________________________ Date: ______________________
Membership: AAAS Sigma Xi ACS
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