Exploring the British Columbian Archipelago’s Most Remote Sacred Site By Marc Cappelletti I am walking in the footsteps of chiefs and carvers, warriors and weavers, shamans and slaves; people as connected to the land as the very trees from which they once made their homes. The ground is soft. It is sacred. And it lies at the edge of the world—Haida Gwaii, British Columbia. We are at the ancient village of SGang Gwaay Llnagaay, formerly known as Nan sdins or Ninstints, on the eastern edge of SGang Gwaay (Anthony Island).
When we, as Canadians, talk about our whole country, we say “from coast to coast to coast.” The three coasts feel very different underfoot. In the west, deep moss makes a trail that feels like walking over sofa cushions; in the east, long grasses swish and slap against your boots; and up north rocks and rivulets form tiled patterns over the permafrost. It was the west coast that convinced me to start working at sea.
Newfoundland’s Gros Morne National Park is one of the few places where you can walk on the Earth’s mantle and also cruise glacially carved freshwater fjords.
In this episode of Expedition Spotlight, join Cultural Specialist Susan Flanagan as she reveals what discoveries are in store on our Canadian Maritimes and Newfoundland expedition.
Baja is known for its sunsets and sunrises. Sailing north in the Pacific Ocean, the sky lit orange and the clouds red, as dawn broke. Gulls passed by with a stiff north wind as whales spouted around us. At the entrance to Magdelena Bay, National Geographic Venture steamed on, marking a new leg to our expedition. In the afternoon, we explored Sand Dollar Beach. This is a favorite location of ours, and it’s easy to see why. Rolling sand dunes leading to the massive Pacific, mangroves teeming with bird life, and a gentle bay-side beach all shine beautifully in the afternoon light. With another day celebrated, we look forward to what tomorrow holds.
We visited Coiba Island National Park today and had an unforgettable experience that blended nature and adventure. In the morning, guests embarked on a guided nature walk through the lush, untouched forests of the island where they encountered diverse wildlife and vibrant plant life. The air filled with the sounds of tropical birds, making the experience feel like a step into another world. After the walk, the crystal-clear waters surrounding Coiba offered the perfect setting for an exciting snorkeling session. As travelers glided through the water, they were welcomed by schools of colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs, often spotting sea turtles and even sharks along the way. In the afternoon, the adventure continued with kayaking and paddleboarding, allowing travelers to explore the pristine coastline from a new perspective. The gentle waves made these activities perfect for all skill levels. As the day ended, guests enjoyed a magical sunset on the sundeck overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The sky burst with vibrant colors and playful dolphins emerged, dancing alongside the ship, creating an awe-inspiring scene. Coiba offered a harmonious blend of relaxation and adventure. Photos by Fabian Barquero, Karson Winslow
Today aboard National Geographic Orion, we spent the day in Fatu Hiva in the Marquesas Islands. Guests were treated to a birding tour and a cultural performance, including dancing and a demonstration on the creation of tapa cloth. Then, in the afternoon, we explored the scenic Hanavave Bay by kayaks. What fun!
The Galapagos never ceases to amaze and today was no exception. We began our morning with a landing at Bartolome Island, where we climbed the iconic boardwalk to the summit. Along the way, we spotted lava lizards basking in the sun and took in the breathtaking views of Pinnacle Rock standing tall against the deep blue water. The highlight of the day came in the afternoon as we explored Chinese Hat, a small cinder cone with striking lava formations. A Zodiac exploration took us along the shoreline where we spotted three Galapagos penguins resting on the lava rocks. These unique seabirds, the only penguins found north of the equator, stood side by side, preening and occasionally glancing towards the water as if contemplating their next dive. Guests also enjoyed snorkeling in the turquoise waters where sea lions twisted playfully and whitetip reef sharks swam through the currents. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we reflected on another extraordinary day in one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet.
It was our last day on the ocean and National Geographic Endurance pushed through the waves of the Drake Passage with ease. Giant petrels, black-browed and wandering albatrosses joined us as we headed for Cape Horn and into the Beagle Channel. Captain Aaron Wood bid us farewell as we enjoyed one last evening in the Ice Lounge.
