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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This week, our field staff sent back a number of beautiful wildlife shots such as bears in Alaska, birds in Galápagos, and musk oxen and arctic hares in the Canadian Arctic.
Kia Orana Everyone! Today, we had the privilege of visiting the island of Samarai, overwhelmed by its beauty, culture, and the warmth of the people. The moment we stepped ashore, we were greeted with vibrant smiles, warrior chants and the rhythmic sounds of the local music, setting the tone for the entire experience. The islanders had set up small stalls, proudly displaying intricately carved wooden sculptures, each piece telling a story. It was amazing to see the craftsmanship and the effort that went into each item. Following this, we returned to National Geographic Orion for lunch before embarking on another exciting afternoon. Highlights included a hands-on weaving workshop with Kura, and for those in a competitive spirit, the day concluded with a fun and lively “Big Fat Pub Quiz,” testing our knowledge and teamwork. This was accompanied by a festive cocktail hour. It was an amazing day that left us with a deep admiration for the island and its people! Photo caption and credit: Paola trying on a mask on the island of Samarai. Photo by Kura Happ
Today was the first full day of our voyage and our first day in Canada. We spent the whole day exploring the city of Victoria. There were many tour options led by local experts. Guests were able to choose from garden tours, foodie tours, historical walking tours, and a bike tour. Some guests also took the opportunity to explore Victoria on their own. With such a beautiful and historic city, there are no bad options. In the evening, we went to the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria for appetizers and a special look at the amazing local art. We returned to National Geographic Venture for dinner after a full and fun day in Victoria.
The first day of our expedition began at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers. This morning, we boarded jet boats and continued up the Snake River over 50 miles to the confluence of the Snake and Salmon Rivers. The wildlife viewing was extraordinary throughout the expedition into Hells Canyon. We paused our exploration for a wonderful lunch at a quaint river lodge on the west bank of the Snake River. The wildlife and river history provided an eye-opening perspective of the canyon, including ancient petroglyphs dating back at least 7,100 years. We also visited the only vineyard in the canyon which is on the same site as a small root cellar equipped with winemaking carboys. Upon return to National Geographic Sea Lion , we were treated to colorful stories by Nez Pierce storyteller, J.R. Spencer. This was followed by a scrumptious dinner paired with extraordinary wines from the region.
Our expedition started on board National Geographic Islander and the things we discovered today were amazing. We visited the most populated island of the Galapagos, Santa Cruz Island, and we learned that in the Galapagos, humans and nature can coexist in harmony. The journey began in the morning as we arrived at El Trapiche, a sugarcane plant built in 1950 and an historical destination owned by Mr. Adriano, one of the first Ecuadorians that came to the island. Our guests learned how moonshine is produced in an artisanal way out of sugarcane juice and also how coffee beans are harvested, dried, and processed in order to produce delicious coffee. We continued our journey toward the highlands of Santa Cruz, to Los Gemelos, two stunning volcanic sinkholes formed by the collapse of volcanic chambers and an area where you can walk through lush vegetation and the unique Scalesia pedunculata forest. The panoramic view was breathtaking. At mid-day we reached our lunch destination, the spectacular Manzanillo Farm. After enjoying a delicious lunch we were ready for the most wonderful adventure, we walked beside Galapagos giant tortoises! Roaming with these fantastic reptiles in their natural habitat offered us the opportunity to take amazing pictures. The best way of ending this incredible day was a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Galapagos National Park Facilities to learn how the giant tortoise breeding program works and how this endangered species was recovered.
Our first full day on the Columbia River started in Astoria, Oregon. The skies were dry, and it was a perfect day for exploring and being outside. We investigated the trails and exhibits at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. Two garter snakes were found crossing our pathway as Pacific tree frogs chirped and Pacific wrens sang in the dense forest canopy. Up at the Astoria Column, two gentlemen were making large, magnificent bubbles. Yes, bubbles! The calm breeze sailed their ephemeral creations across the landscape. We ended our day back onboard sharing drinks and stories on the deck with a warming late afternoon sun. It was a lovely ending to our day of exploration.
