This week's photos from the field include shots from National Geographic Endurance in South Georgia Island, a pod of dolphins in the Galapagos, and landscapes in the Pacific Northwest.
This week's photos from the field included antics from sea lions in the Galápagos Islands, stunning panoramas on both coasts of Canada, and a beautiful view of Sea Cloud's riggings as she sails for the Croatian coast.
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Our first morning aboard National Geographic Resolution was truly breathtaking. As dawn broke, we sailed through the picturesque Estero Comau, a narrow fjord along the western edge of Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park. The stunning scenery set the perfect tone for the day. We gathered in the ice lounge to be introduced to our knowledgeable expedition team, including two visiting scientists and our National Geographic photographer. Gerardo, one of our local guides, enlightened us about the vital conservation efforts shaping Chilean Patagonia, highlighting the pioneering work of the Tompkins Conservation and rewilding foundations in both Chile and Argentina. After lunch, we disembarked in the small town of Chaitén, nestled at the foot of its namesake volcano. Memories of its dramatic 2008 eruption linger, but today we ventured into the lush embrace of Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park. Hiking through ancient temperate forests, we marveled at cascading waterfalls and the majestic alerces, some over 2,000 years old. Back onboard, we gathered for Captain Heidi's welcome cocktails and dinner. As the sun set, we caught the last glimpses of the stunning landscapes around us, filled with anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead.
We are fortunate to be one of the only vessels that overnights in the Panama Canal. This gives us a chance to explore the canal and see some of the fascinating wildlife and experience what it’s truly like to be in the canal. Our ship divided into three groups this morning. One group visited Borro Colorado Island where the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute is located to learn about some of the incredible research that is underway in the canal zone. Another group enjoyed a Zodiac cruise around the island, while a third group, my group, visited the Canal Discovery Center to look for wildlife.
Today, guests aboard National Geographic Orion explored the vibrant coastal city of Napier, renowned for its Art Deco charm and stunning landscapes. They had the option to immerse themselves in one of three captivating activities. Some strolled through the historic center, admiring the colorful facades and geometric patterns of the 1930s architecture. Others opted for a wine tasting excursion to Hawke’s Bay, sampling bold cabernet sauvignons and merlots. A third group journeyed to Cape Kidnappers where they observed the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. Each activity highlighted a unique facet of Napier’s rich culture and natural beauty.
Thirty years ago, almost to the day, I landed in the Falkland Islands on a flight from the UK and arrived in a place that felt very much like my childhood home. Pastoral, horticultural. The smell of peat fires as families here worked hard to heat their homes. Small allotments filled with rhubarb, potatoes, cabbages, daffodils. As it is early spring here, it is little unchanged apart from the lack of peat fires – the city here uses wind turbines to provide their homes with electricity and kerosene to heat their homes. Cleaner for sure, but perhaps less atmospheric. The city was given recognition by Queen Elizabeth II on her Golden Jubilee. While you might imagine that the islands are populated with settlers from the UK, there are indeed 69 different nationalities living here. A modern world in this remote corner of our planet.
Today our expedition started with a kayaking exploration of Post Office Bay, a unique location that has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. It served as an unofficial mail drop for whalers, who would leave letters for passing ships to deliver. Today, it remains a popular visitor site, symbolizing early communication and connection among seafarers, while also highlighting the unique maritime history of the Galápagos Islands. For the second part of the morning, we embarked on a snorkeling expedition at Champion Islet, which boasts a rich diversity of fish fauna. Snorkelers can encounter colorful species such as parrotfish, surgeonfish, and snapper, along with the endemic Galápagos damselfish. Our day culminated with a trek through the rugged terrain of Punta Cormorant, renowned for its diverse ecosystems and vibrant wildlife. The area features unique vegetation and is a prime habitat for various bird species, notably flamingos and blue-footed boobies.
