With classic Los Angeles sunshine, guests embarked National Geographic Venture this morning to enjoy bloody maries, mimosas, and a pleasant sail across the Santa Barbara Channel to Catalina Island. Part of the Channel Island chain, William Wrigley Jr. purchased the island in 1919 and later donated 80 percent to the Catalina Island Conservancy. Upon arrival, guests went to shore to explore a small section of the island via hiking, kayaking, or Zodiac cruising. Since there is a high rate of endemism in both flora and fauna in the Channel Islands, they are commonly referred to as “the Galapagos Islands of North America.” The Catalina Island Conservancy works to protect these species, and guests had an opportunity to learn about the rare plants and animals – such as the island fox – that can be found only on these eight islands. After sunset cocktails on the sundeck, the natural history staff shared a recap on the history ecology of the island; during dinner, the ship sailed south for a view of the town of Avalon and its well-known casino.