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

5/8/2025

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National Geographic Explorer

The West Coast of Ireland

Today marked the day we entered Irish waters, and we were incredibly lucky to continue being graced with the most uncommon weather for the British and Irish Isles – calm seas and clear, sunny skies! These spectacular conditions made for a wonderful morning spent watching dolphins ride the bow of National Geographic Explorer. We enjoyed smooth sailing for our presentations, including a fantastic talk about Climate Justice and the Climate and Nature Crisis by the amazing Mary Robinson, the first female President of Ireland.   After lunch, we visited the Aran Island of Inishmore where we enjoyed wonderful hospitality on the small island of less than 800 people. We admired the spectacular views from the steep sea cliffs near Dun Aengus.   To round out a delightful first day exploring the coast of Ireland, we carried on cruising with calm sea conditions, the stunning cliffs of Moher on our port side, and a glowing sunset on our starboard side.

Daily Expedition Reports

5/8/2025

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National Geographic Resolution

Hornsund, Svalbard

The first day of the trip began with a few briefings to get familiar with National Geographic Resolution and its operations. In the afternoon the staff went ashore to scout a landing, and everyone was able to go ashore and hike through the snow. There was an old cabin with decades of history to explore.   After dinner there was a great opportunity to see a sleeping polar bear on the fast ice. What a day!

Daily Expedition Reports

5/7/2025

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National Geographic Gemini

Isabela Island

Isabela is the largest island in Galapagos and today we had the opportunity to explore Elizabeth Bay and Punta Moreno. These two visitor sites are very close but very different from one another. Elizabeth Bay is covered with black lava and a mangrove forest, which becomes a perfect shelter for many species. The bay is home to flamingos, brown pelicans, and white-cheeked pintail ducks. This combination is a good reflection of the colonization of flora and fauna of the Galapagos.

Daily Expedition Reports

5/7/2025

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National Geographic Delfina

Bahía Urbina and Tagus Cove, Isabela Island

As the sun rose, we headed to Urbina Bay, a visitor site found on Isabela Island at the slopes of the marvelous Alcedo Volcano. Isabela is home to a unique morphotype of dome-shelled tortoises and arguably the most pristine island of the Galapagos. We went for a short walk, and in addition to spotting the popular giants, we also observed the evidence of an uplift event which occurred in 1954.   In the afternoon, we navigated for an hour to the historical Tagus Cove, the same place where HMS Beagle once anchored. With elusive octopi, fast swimming penguins, funny looking cormorants, and breathtaking views, we finished another great day in this enchanted archipelago.

Daily Expedition Reports

5/7/2025

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National Geographic Venture

Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness

We began the day cruising into the breathtaking Tracy Arm Fjord surrounded by towering cliffs of rock and beautiful waterfalls. After breakfast, guests set out on two thrilling rounds of Zodiac tours, zipping through a maze of icebergs in all shapes and shades of blue—some small and delicate, others massive and glowing deep blue.   After a warming lunch, the bravest among us took the plunge—literally— into the icy fjord waters. Laughter, cheers, and wide-eyed shouts echoed across the deck as guests leapt in and emerged exhilarated.   In the afternoon, we made our way back out of Tracy Arm, and just when we thought the day couldn't get better, humpback whales appeared. We were treated to an incredible display of fluking dives and dramatic pectoral slaps, a powerful and graceful end to an unforgettable day in Alaska.