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

5/6/2025

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National Geographic Endeavour II

Isabela Island

Navigation brought us to the largest island in the Galapagos Archipelago, Isabela. Holding half of all land mass in the Galapagos, it has a diverse selection of ecosystems that we were able to visit.   Urvina Bay was geologically uplifted in the 1950’s, taking two square kilometers of seafloor that was thrust upward, in certain areas up to four meters out of the water. Intertidal species were stranded inland, and we walked upon this area. Galapagos giant tortoises and land iguanas were found on our trail, and we were surrounded by Darwin finches and Galapagos mockingbirds.   The afternoon brought us to Tagus Cove where we explored the surrounding waters, encountering Galapagos penguins and Pacific green sea turtles swimming among the kayakers and snorkelers. As the sun dipped below the horizon, adventurous hikers took a fast-paced hike to enjoy an incredible view of Darwin Lake and the immense island of Isabela.

Daily Expedition Reports

5/6/2025

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National Geographic Delfina

Isabela and Fernandina Islands

This morning, we anchored at Punta Vicente Roca, the mouth of the seahorse-shaped island, Isabela. The coastline holds a vast diversity of wildlife unique to the area, like the flightless cormorant.   Later we moved to Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island where we enjoyed the surprisingly warm water with sea lions, fish, and penguins.   To finish the day, we explored Fernandina and were amazed by the number of marine iguanas in the area. We ended the day with an extra bonus, a beautiful sunset.

Daily Expedition Reports

5/6/2025

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National Geographic Sea Bird

SGang Gwaay, Haida Gwaii, Canada

Today was filled with incredible experiences. SGang Gwaay is a strongly spiritual land full of important history and culture of the Haida people. The powerful story that unfolded on the island long ago is present on the shores and in the forest of SGang Gwaay.   We were able to take a Zodiac cruise to view wildlife. Humpback whales blew spouts in the distance and bald eagles perched in the trees on the horizon.   A highlight of our day was when the Haida watchmen led our group ashore to explain the mortuary poles and village. We are forever grateful to them for sharing this glimpse of their culture with us. It was a truly special day.

Daily Expedition Reports

5/6/2025

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National Geographic Gemini

Floreana Island

Our visit to Floreana was a magical and peaceful experience, from a pre breakfast Zodiac ride to kayaking and snorkeling before lunch.   In the evening, we enjoyed a sunset hike with flamingos and amazing colors in the sky. Floreana Island welcomed us with unforgettable experiences.   Photos by Ixora Berdonces and Walter Perez

Daily Expedition Reports

5/6/2025

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National Geographic Explorer

Calanais, Isle of Lewis

Today’s journey took us to one of the oldest stone monuments of the British Isles. Formed from some of the oldest rock in the world, the Standing Stones of Calanais is located on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. Our morning began with a thrilling presentation by National Geographic Photographer and Filmmaker David Wright who answered our questions about his career filming wildlife across the globe and told stories of awe-inspiring encounters with nature and his many gripping near-death experiences.   Following this, I gave an introduction to the history of Neolithic monuments and the significance of Calanais, helping us imagine the world of its builders some 5,000 years ago.   After lunch, we went ashore to walk among the iconic and towering stones themselves, which sparked lively discussion and reflection on the beliefs and practices of Neolithic peoples. Some guests ventured beyond the main circle to explore the broader ritual landscape of Calanais, hiking through the peat and heather to visit other nearby megaliths that dot the surrounding fields.   It was a moving day, one that connected us with our ancestors and the enduring mysteries of the ancient past.