Expedition Stories

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

World View

5/20/2021

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Polar Plunge

Plunging into the frigid ocean is a badge of honor for many polar travelers. Watch as brave guests take on our polar plunge into Icelandic waters.

World View

5/20/2021

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Puffin Encounter

Learn more about the clownlike puffins of Grimsey Island from naturalists Karen Vera and Javier Cotin.

World View

A volcanic gas cloud blooms over a river of lava in Iceland

7/1/2021

5 Min Read

What It's Like to Explore Iceland's Erupting Volcano

Can you imagine being close to an active volcano? Geologist Ralph Lee Hopkins just returned from several weeks in Iceland where he got up-close views and jaw-dropping photos. See what he had to say about this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

World View

7/22/2021

3 Min Read

Dispatches from National Geographic Endurance

A jubilant Lindblad Expeditions team welcomed National Geographic Endurance's first-ever guests and celebrated with time-honored ship christening traditions. Here’s a taste of what it felt like to be there.

World View

6/1/2022

3 Min Read

Wild Personalities: Atlantic Puffin

Small but mighty, puffins can dive to depths of 200 feet and fly as fast as 55 miles per hour. Get to know the unofficial bird of Iceland, everyone’s favorite “parrot of the sea.”

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Daily Expedition Reports

Follow Along

Daily Expedition Reports

11/20/2024

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National Geographic Endeavour II

Santiago Island

We are back among the center islands of Galapagos, and the day started with a pre-breakfast Zodiac ride where we had the chance to observe the seabirds of the area in action. We enjoyed several excursions throughout the day, always admiring the beauty of this part of the world.   We finished this wonderful day with a delicious open-air barbecue on the observation deck under the stars.

Daily Expedition Reports

11/20/2024

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National Geographic Resolution

Drake Passage / Beagle Channel

National Geographic Resolution, our trusty expedition vessel, continued its northward journey with ease, navigating the gentle "Drake Shake" effortlessly. Along the way, we were treated to numerous whale sightings, a true spectacle of nature's magnificence. In the afternoon, the first sight of land appeared on the horizon, marking a significant milestone in our voyage.   As we sailed into the Beagle Channel, we enjoyed the company of seabirds that joined us, soaring gracefully alongside the ship. It was a beautiful moment to watch these creatures in their natural habitat, a reminder of the remote and untamed beauty of this region.   The undersea team delivered insightful presentations, sharing the immense effort and challenges involved in diving in Antarctica's icy waters. Later, our captain himself gave a fascinating talk about the design and construction of National Geographic Resolution , offering a behind-the-scenes look at this remarkable vessel.   To cap off the day, we indulged in a delightful afternoon tea accompanied by a famous cheese and wine tasting, a true culinary treat after days of adventure. As the evening set in, we savored our last dinner aboard the ship, reflecting on the epic journey we had shared to the White Continent, now preparing to return to port and head home with memories that will last a lifetime.

Daily Expedition Reports

11/20/2024

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National Geographic Endurance

Cierva Cove and Spert Island, Antarctica

On our last day in Antarctica, we woke to an otherwordly view as National Geographic Endurance sailed through the waters of Cierva Cove. The first adventure of the day was a Zodiac cruise across this iceberg-filled bay. We were lucky to spot a crabeater seal on an iceberg along with several snow petrels, Antarctic terns, and skuas soaring above us. After the cruise, Captain Oliver expertly steered National Geographic Endurance closer to the Breguet Glacier, allowing us to have a closer look at this massive ice wall.   In the afternoon, we embarked on another Zodiac cruise around Spert Island. This time, we were impressed by the island’s unique geology shaped by glacial forces. The landscape was dominated by dramatic volcanic rock formations and colossal icebergs. The combination of natural beauty and the sheer scale of the surroundings left us in awe, marking a perfect end to our Antarctic adventure.

Daily Expedition Reports

11/19/2024

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National Geographic Endeavour II

Isabela Island

The western islands of the Galapagos Archipelago offer a very young, diverse environment, including our first visit of the day at Urbina Bay. In the early nineteen fifties approximately two square kilometers of sea floor were uplifted, in certain areas up to four meters out of the ocean. All that we encountered today was colonized after the fifties, including the Galapagos giant tortoises from the Alcedo Volcano population and the Galapagos land iguanas. It was also interesting walking among new vegetation including a forest of poison apple trees.   The afternoon brought us to Tagus Cove at Western Isabela Island. This is a famous anchorage for numerous vessels, including the HMS Beagle with the young Charles Darwin onboard in 1835.   We explored along the coast in kayaks, Zodiacs, and by snorkeling, which brought us close to Galapagos penguins, Pacific green sea turtles, and flightless cormorants. As the late afternoon was upon us, we were able to hike to Darwin Lake with an incredible view of the surrounding volcanic terrain, like a place at the beginning of time.

Daily Expedition Reports

11/19/2024

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National Geographic Resolution

Northward in the Drake Passage

After unforgettable days exploring Antarctica, it was time to head north across the Drake Passage. Known for its unpredictable conditions, we were lucky to experience a smooth crossing with mild winds and swells up to three meters. National Geographic Resolution , our sturdy expedition ship, handled the gentle “Drake Shake” effortlessly.   Onboard, the adventure continued. Naturalists and our photo instructor hosted fascinating presentations in the ice lounge, covering everything from Antarctica’s ecosystems to photography tips. These sessions were also broadcast to the cabins for those who preferred to watch from the comfort of their rooms.   A highlight of the day was a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s galley. It was amazing to see how the crew managed to prepare the amazing, several course meals for us in such a small space. The teamwork and dedication in the galley were impressive, and it was a treat to get a glimpse of the kitchen’s operation.   As we sailed north, we reflected on the incredible journey so far. While we looked ahead to new adventures, this peaceful crossing across the Drake Passage was a perfect way to transition from the awe of Antarctica to the next chapter of our expedition.