2014-2015 National Geographic Small Ship Expeditions

EXPEDITIONS ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC–LINDBLAD FLEET | 2014–15

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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

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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

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“ 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

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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

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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


Miami and Buenos Aires on the November 8, 2014 departure.

See page 40 for the itinerary.

SOUTH GEORGIA AND THE FALKLANDS


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

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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

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“ 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.

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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.

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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

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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


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.

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ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION


» 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.


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

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An adult and juvenile brown capuchin monkey

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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


Category 2 $6,790


Category 3 $7,690


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

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ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA BIRD

AND THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION


» 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.


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

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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.


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

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ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ENDEAVOUR

AND THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ISLANDER


» 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.


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

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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.


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.

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ABOARD THE DELFIN II


» 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.


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).


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)


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

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ABOARD THE SEA CLOUD


» 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

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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


Category 3 $11,790

Located on the Captain’s Deck

Category 4 $12,490


Category 5 $13,880

Located on the Main Deck

Category 6 $14,750


Category 7 $16,880


See the Sea Cloud deck plan on page 64.



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

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» 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


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.

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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


Category 2 $13,150


Category 3 $15,890


Category 4 $16,710


Category B—Deluxe $18,180


Category A—Deluxe $19,690


Owner's Suites $22,190


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


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)


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

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ABOARD THE LORD OF THE GLENS


» 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


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.

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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

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ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER


» 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


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

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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


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)


EUROPE

“At every graceful turn this emerald world will steal your heart away.”

—Jennifer S. Holland, “Beneath Irish Isles,”

National Geographic magazine, March 2005

“

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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.

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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


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.

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30



» 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.


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


Category 2 $10,070


Category 3 $10,460


Category 4 $11,090

Located on Upper and Veranda Decks with

window

Category 5 $13,090


Category 6 $15,280

Located on Upper and Veranda Decks—suite

Category 7 $17,460





cabin, add $2,520 in Category 2 and


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

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» 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


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.

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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


Category 2 $15,990


Category 3 $16,820


Category 4 $18,120


window

Category 5 $20,690


Category 6 $24,150


Category 7 $27,750


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


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» 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


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.

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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


Category 2 $13,990


Category 3 $14,430


Category 4 $15,550


window

Category 5 $18,680


Category 6 $21,290


Category 7 $24,790


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


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.

creo

A CIRCUMNAVIGATION OF ICELANDABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER


» 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


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


Category 2 $10,290


Category 3 $10,620


Category 4 $11,560


window

Category 5 $13,680


Category 6 $16,370


Category 7 $18,880





cabin, add $2,540 in Category 2, and


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)


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

creo

ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER AND

THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION


» 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)


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.

creo

Getting up close and personal with one of South Georgia’s king penguin colonies is an incredible experience.

ABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER AND



» 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


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


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)


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:


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 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


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 )


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


“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.

creo


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


WILD ENCOUNTERS FROM BORNEO TO BALIABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION


» 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

creo

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


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.



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


creo


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


» 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

creo

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


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.


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


creo


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


» 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

creo

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


Category 2 $27,880


Category 3 $30,920


Category 4 $37,100


with window

Category 5 $42,500


balcony

Category 6 $49,480


with balcony



a single cabin, add $12,960 in Category 1 and


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

creo

VOYAGE TO WEST AFRICA: THE GOLD COAST TO MOROCCOABOARD THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER


» 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


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.

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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


TRIP DETAILS

DATES: 2015: Mar. 23–Apr. 11

EXPEDITION COST:

Category 1 $19,150


Category 2 $20,220


Category 3 $21,190


Category 4 $22,820

Located on Upper/Veranda Decks with window

Category 5 $25,990


Category 6 $30,440

Located on Upper/Veranda Decks—suite

Category 7 $34,970


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


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.

creo


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


» 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

creo

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


Category 2 $15,390


Category 3 $18,200


Category 4 $19,920


with window

Category 5 $29,710


balcony

Category 6 $27,420


with balcony





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.

creo


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


» 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

creo

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


Category 2 $23,090


Category 3 $27,290


Category 4 $29,870


with window

Category 5 $35,560


balcony

Category 6 $41,120


with balcony




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)


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

creo


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


» 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


Category 2 $24,370


Category 3 $28,810


Category 4 $31,530


with window

Category 5 $37,540


balcony

Category 6 $43,410


with balcony





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.

creo

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

creo


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

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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


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


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


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 |


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


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.


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


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

30

1

30

3

30

5

30

7

30

9

31

1

31

5

31

9

32

1

32

3

30

2

30

4

30

6

30

8

31

0

31

2

31

4

31

6

32

0

31

8

32

2

317

BRIDGE DECK

RESTAURANT MARINA PLATFORM

ELEVATOR

40

1

40

3

40

5

40

7

40

9

41

1

41

5

41

7

41

2

41

4

41

6

40

2

40

4

40

6

40

8

41

0

UPPER DECK

ELEVATOR

OUTDOOR CAFELOUNGE

LIBRARY

GLOBAL GALLERY

RECEPTION

41

94

18

50

2

50

1

50

3

50

5

509

50

7

51

1

51

5

50

4

50

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.

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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.

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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.


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.


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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.


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.


exercise equipment and outdoor stretching area.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ENDEAVOUR

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ISLANDER

351

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SHOP

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ZodiacBoarding

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A DECK

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CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-966-8687 63

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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

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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

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111


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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

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7

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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:

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OUR LOYALTY PROGRAMOnce you’ve traveled on three

National Geographic Expeditions,

you’ll qualify for enrollment

in our Lifelong Explorer loyalty

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entitled to discounts on any

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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

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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.

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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

Alaska

Amazon

Antarctica

Australia

Baja California

Borneo to Bali

Brazil

British and Irish Isles

Canadian Maritimes

Caribbean

Costa Rica

Greece to

Dalmatian Coast

Easter Island

Fiji

Galápagos

Greenland

Iceland

Madagascar

Maldives

Patagonia

Papua New Guinea

Scotland

Seychelles

South Georgia

Sri Lanka

Vietnam

Tahiti

and more!

4953-14

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Documents

2014-2015 National Geographic Small Ship Expeditions