Expedition Stories

Our fleet navigates the world in search of adventure. These are the stories they bring back…

World View

2/21/2019

5 Min Read

3 Reasons Wildlife Lovers Will Fall for the British Isles

For anyone who loves seeing legendary sites up close and walking around gorgeous landscapes, there’s a destination in the North Atlantic that has it all — actually, make that 6,000 destinations. The British and Irish Isles — which also include Scotland, Wales and the 6,000-plus islands around them — pack in endless fascination for travelers. For nature buffs, a trip to this Atlantic archipelago is an especially magical experience. It’s a chance to see spectacular animals and rare plants in the wild, all while hiking in beautiful surroundings dotted with archaeological ruins and local charm. A voyage around this part of the Atlantic brings unexpected daily discoveries along the cliffs, shores and hiking trails of the islands.

World View

8/27/2020

2 Min Read

Simplicity & Sea Life in Sweden's Weather Islands

Off the western coast of Sweden lies a small group of ice-scoured granitic islands. Väderöarna (or the Weather Islands, in English) is one of those places that seeps into your soul. A remote oasis in the middle of the ocean, it’s way off the beaten path, far from the noise and stressors of everyday life.

World View

6/1/2021

5 Min Read

The Dramatic Walled City of Saint-Malo

The medieval walled city of Saint-Malo has birthed explorers and privateers, and risen like a phoenix from the rubble of World War II to become a stunningly picturesque small city known for its authentic character.

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Daily Expedition Reports

Follow Along

Daily Expedition Reports

4/21/2024

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National Geographic Endeavour II

North Seymour and Rabida Islands

As this journey begins, National Geographic Endeavour II awakens at North Seymour Island, almost dead center in the archipelago. This low-lying, uplifted volcanic island does not appear to hold much, however it is brimming with wildlife as we land. Walking among great and magnificent frigatebirds, with males trying to attract mates, we encounter Galapagos land iguanas highly camouflaged against the rocky background with endemic lava lizards fleeting about. The bright cerulean color of the blue-footed boobies stands out as we explore this land before time.   The afternoon brings us to Rabida Island and its incredible contrast with its deep red, oxidized volcanic landscape, the only such island in the Galapagos. Exploration along the coast with kayaking or snorkeling, we encounter the ocean busy with wildlife, including Galapagos sea lions, whitetip reef sharks, and colorful reef fish. A sunset walk along the red sand beach allows us to get close to the sea lions as the sun dips below the horizon.

Daily Expedition Reports

4/21/2024

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National Geographic Orion

Apia, Samoa

Talofa! A very warm welcome to Samoa. National Geographic Orion arrived in Samoa after a long sea travel from Rarotonga. We were truly in the remote Pacific and ready for exploration.   The warmth from the Samoan people was intoxicating and we received special treatment today. We were shown around Robert Louis Stevenson’s house and the surrounding botanical garden, we had a Sunday feast cooked in an umu, we enjoyed a cultural performance, and then went snorkelling at Palolo Marine Reserve.

Daily Expedition Reports

4/21/2024

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National Geographic Endurance

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Entering the Spanish autonomous territory of the Canary Islands, we spent the day exploring Gran Canaria. One group went off hiking in the ravine of Los Cernicalos, taking in the native flora and fauna while wandering through the willow forest.   The rest of the guests had a full day starting at Los Berrazales Valley, tasting the rich ‘black gold’ coffee and the local wine and goat cheese. A few wished they hadn’t eaten quite so much for breakfast back on the ship! Then we visited the small town of Galdar which had a museum housing an excavation of an indigenous village, including a 13th century cave with paintings.   The temperature dropped about 15 degrees as we climbed up the mountains to our lunch destination with stunning views over the central mountains. The skill of our bus driver was tested with the curved roads and tiny villages.

Daily Expedition Reports

4/21/2024

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National Geographic Sea Lion

Cruising the Inside Passage of British Columbia

Today was another incredible day aboard National Geographic Sea Lion . In the morning we cruised through the narrow Princess Royal and Glenville Channels, enjoying the incredible misty mountains of the glacially-carved coastline. Along the way we got glimpses at numerous seabirds, as well as the occasional harbor seal and Steller sea lion. A real highlight of the day was a fantastic presentation by National Geographic photographer Chris Rainier, who spoke about his work documenting Indigenous peoples around the world. We’re excited to be arriving at Haida Gwaii overnight, and are looking forward to the rest of our time aboard National Geographic Sea Lion .

Daily Expedition Reports

4/20/2024

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National Geographic Islander II

Fernandina and Isabela Islands

With a volcanic eruption at 4:30 am, our day began, followed by a very relaxing hike in the morning at Fernandina. During our walk, we were able to spot a nice group of iguanas and a few snakes as well. Then we had the chance to go snorkeling to refresh ourselves.   In the afternoon, we wrapped up a beautiful week on board with a visit to Punta Vicente Roca where we took time to relax a little bit.