Expedition Stories

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

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Daily Expedition Reports

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Daily Expedition Reports

10/14/2024

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National Geographic Orion

Lo Island, Vanuatu

The day began as the fresh Vanuatu breeze welcomed National Geographic Orion to Lo, a small island in the Torres group. We spent the morning honing our photography skills under Jeff’s expert guidance during his iPhone photography lesson. Following this, Tua delivered a moving presentation on the ancient practice of celestial navigation among the Polynesian people, emphasizing how this knowledge is preserved and passed on to the younger generation.   After lunch, we made our way ashore to a stunning landing in a shaded bay. Our hike through the pristine jungle was filled with wonder as we spotted flying foxes and young coconut crabs among the lush greenery. Reaching the far side of the island, we were warmly welcomed by the community in a picturesque clearing by the ocean. Dressed in traditional attire made from banana leaves and grass skirts, they entertained us with traditional dances, creating an atmosphere rich in culture. We enjoyed fresh fruit and coconuts, savoring the island's flavors while basking in the serene beauty of our surroundings. This immersive experience deepened our appreciation for the natural and cultural heritage of Lo.

Daily Expedition Reports

10/13/2024

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National Geographic Orion

Fenualoa, Solomon Islands

The island of Fenualoa is known for its stunning natural beauty, lush vegetation, sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. We spent the morning snorkeling around the beautiful, crystal blue waters, admiring clown fish, Napoleon wrasse, pipefish, and many other beautiful animals.   In the afternoon, we were able to visit the neighboring village where it seemed like everyone in town had gathered to welcome us in song and dance wearing ceremonial attire. We were served fresh coconuts, papaya, roasted fish, breadfruit, and more.

Daily Expedition Reports

10/13/2024

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National Geographic Endurance

King Haakon Bay and Elsehul

In the morning, we reached King Haakon Bay of South Georgia. All of our guests were very excited to see this remote and well known land. Right in front of the ship there were steep slopes covered by huge clumps of tussock grass. Among these slopes there was a tiny opening leading to a little cove with a gravel beach. This opening was so narrow that later during Zodiac cruising, only a single Zodiac could enter it at a time. Here, Shackleton with several of his crewmates came ashore after many days crossing the Southern Ocean in a small rowboat. Numerous sparkling white icebergs could be seen all around. Guests were offered Zodiac cruising, and although the wind was quite strong (sometimes gusting to 30 knots) everyone was eager to see this wonderland, and nobody skipped cruising.   In the afternoon, National Geographic Endurance turned the northwestern corner of South Georgia. We passed Bird Island with numerous species of birds in the air and on the ground. The island was surrounded by magnificent volcanic cliffs.   After an early lunch, the ship found a sheltered spot called Elsehul, and a second round of Zodiac cruising was offered. The shorelines were stuffed with elephant seals, southern fur seals, gentoo and king penguins, nesting albatrosses, and many other species of birds. Male elephant seals were fighting here and there and penguins were porpoising in water around Zodiacs. It was incredible!

Daily Expedition Reports

10/12/2024

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National Geographic Venture

San Juan Islands

Our day began with a spectacular sunrise and concluded with a sunset just as incredible. In between, we spent the final day of our voyage weaving through the San Juan Islands. Along the way we managed to find several different types of marine mammals, including harbor porpoises, Steller sea lions, and harbor seals. Our travels concluded at the horseshoe-shaped Sucia Island. Comprised mostly of sandstone, the island served as the perfect platform for an array of activities, including kayaking, Zodiac cruising, and hiking.   To cap it all off, National Geographic Venture ’s hotel staff treated us to a marvelous cocktail hour on the beach complete with s’mores and appetizers while the sun dipped beneath the Pacific and lit Mount Baker in a marvelous alpenglow.   It’s hard to believe that our voyage ends tomorrow. Our week has been filled with all the cultural and wild treasures of the Pacific Northwest, and we’ll depart from Seattle tomorrow with plenty of stories and memories.

Daily Expedition Reports

10/12/2024

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National Geographic Sea Lion

Astoria, Oregon

Today was a day of scenic beauty and historic wonder. Guests visited the Columbia Maritime Museum and Astoria Columbia, both celebrating the history of Astoria since Robert Gray sailed into the mouth of the Columbia River in 1792. Guests also traveled across the Astoria-Megler bridge into Washington State to visit Cape Disappointment and the famed Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. It was then that our guests had the opportunity to dip their toes into the Pacific Ocean, some for the first time.   Returning to National Geographic Sea Lion , guests had their final cocktail hour and recap, followed by the world premiere of the guest slide show by Photo Instructor, Chelsea Mayer.