Expedition Stories

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

World View

2/22/2019

4 Min Read

60 Years of Science & Conservation in Galápagos

The mission of the Charles Darwin Foundation and its Research Station is to provide knowledge and assistance through scientific research and complementary action to ensure the conservation of the environment and biodiversity in the Galápagos Archipelago.

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Daily Expedition Reports

Follow Along

Daily Expedition Reports

11/21/2024

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National Geographic Explorer

At Sea to Antarctica

With a gentle following sea and our bow pointed south, we woke to the ocean pushing us towards Antarctica. Sunny, blue skies invited us to the outer decks where seabirds entertained us for hours. Five species of albatross glided by on long stiff wings, often coming impressively close and offering wonderful photographic opportunities. Many humpback and fin whales cruised by as we crossed the polar front and entered the Southern Ocean.   The Drake Passage journey was a delightful one, and we look forward to our arrival in Antarctica tomorrow.

Daily Expedition Reports

11/21/2024

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National Geographic Endeavour II

Santa Cruz Island

We are about to finish our expedition in the Galapagos Islands on board National Geographic Endeavor II and today we are visiting the heart of this unique archipelago. Santa Cruz Island is the most populated island and also holds one of the largest populations of giant tortoises.   In the morning, we visited the installation of the Charles Darwin Research Station where different conservation projects for many species of the Galapagos are undertaken. We also went to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center. In the afternoon we visited the highlands, home of the giant tortoises and the perfect place for spending time among these fascinating creatures.

Daily Expedition Reports

11/21/2024

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National Geographic Endurance

At Sea towards Ushuaia

After a memorable week exploring Antarctica, it was time to head back home towards Ushuaia. Our day in the Drake Passage was a pleasant one, with the seas staying relatively mild with the wind and swell from the northwest.   We were treated to numerous presentations throughout the day from our excellent expedition staff. Eric kicked things off after breakfast with stories about ice before Justin shared his amazing experiences filming under frozen lakes on the Antarctic Continent.   Following another wonderful lunch from the galley team, we enjoyed some birdlife outside and brief sightings of passing fin whales. Fi was next on the agenda, sharing some tips and tricks for sorting and editing our many photos from the trip.   Teatime was a delight today with Swedish pancakes on the menu, and after a good feed, we enjoyed Josh’s talk on the Belgian Antarctic Expedition.   Before we all retired to our cabins after dinner, there was one final lecture, with Captain Oliver sharing some tales about the construction of the ship and how it can navigate in these challenging, polar environments so comfortably and successfully.

Daily Expedition Reports

11/20/2024

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National Geographic Quest

Santa Elena Bay, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Santa Elena Bay, nestled within the stunning Santa Rosa National Park in Costa Rica, offers a breathtaking blend of unspoiled nature and serene ocean beauty. Approaching the bay from the sea is a captivating experience, as the turquoise waters meet rugged cliffs and lush greenery. Our journey begins with gentle waves lapping our pangas and Zodiacs with the calls of seabirds echoing in the distance.   As the bay unfolds, its pristine, crescent-shaped shoreline reveals a golden beach framed by dense tropical forests. The untouched wilderness is a sanctuary for wildlife, where howler monkeys can be heard in the canopy and deer sometimes wander near the shore.   Santa Rosa National Park, beyond the bay, boasts a rich biodiversity and a storied history as the site of Costa Rica’s legendary Battle of Santa Rosa. Exploring its trails offers glimpses of ancient trees, orchids, and panoramic views of the Pacific.   The visit to Santa Elena Bay is a harmonious blend of adventure and tranquility, a reminder of the raw beauty and ecological richness that Costa Rica proudly preserves. A place where nature reigns supreme.

Daily Expedition Reports

11/20/2024

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National Geographic Islander II

Isabela and Fernandina Islands

We started our day with a Zodiac ride around Punta Vicente Roca. We also had an amazing snorkel excursion among turtles and sea lions. In the afternoon, we topped off a lovely day with an amazing walk on lava at Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island, which happens to be an island so pristine that it doesn’t have feral mammals. What it does have is a lava field full of iguanas. This area started to erode, changing the entire topography of the island, making it perfect for these iguanas to find sedimentary areas to nest.