This week's photos from the field included iconic bird species in the Galápagos Islands, a pod of dolphins in Baja California, and an underwater cave in the South Pacific.
Galápagos is like no other place on Earth, and being on expedition is unlike any other kind of travel. Here’s a look at the unique shape a given day might take.
Learn how guests aboard select voyages with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions can observe research and conservation in action through the Science at Sea program.
In this short film, learn more about the historic relationship between Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic and the way it shapes expeditions for guests.
Guests on board National Geographic Resolution awoke to a bright morning, with glorious sunshine glittering off the icebergs that surrounded us in the Weddell Sea. Near to the ship, juvenile emperor penguins warmed themselves and stared at the jagged cliffs of James Ross Island, indifferent to our presence. Sailing north, past Nordenskjold’s hut on Snow Hill Island, we approached Cockburn Island. Named after the First Lord of the Admiralty when it was discovered by James Ross during his 1839-1843 expedition, the island appears as a giant cliff rising out of the sea. Taking to our Zodiacs, we headed out among the ice floes surrounding the island, spotting emperor and Adélie penguins and admiring the icebergs intricately carved by the sea and wind. After a heartening BBQ lunch prepared by National Geographic Resolution’s outstanding crew, we maneuvered to a nearby patch of sea ice. At 14 meters thick, this patch was more than strong enough to support our guests, and we disembarked eager to explore these transient habitats. After we had our fill of the sea ice, we re-embarked the ship for dinner, but found Antarctica was not finished with us yet. Orcas popped up close to the ship, passively exploring the waters around James Ross Island, unperturbed as we glided by.
Day breaks as National Geographic Orion cuts a shimmering path east toward the Cook Islands. Vibrant turquoise waves cradle us while onboard experts regale us with stories of lustrous pearls, ancient Polynesian tattoo traditions, and the delicate symbiosis threading life together. The day ends with golden light dancing on the horizon, promising new discoveries and wonder just beyond tomorrow’s dawn.
We woke up this morning next to the largest iceberg that currently exists on the planet, A23a. It was a foggy morning, but as we approached the large tabular iceberg, the microclimate of this massive piece of ice lifted the fog enough for us to see the ice edge that kept going as far as the eye could see. This was the most momentous event of our day as we headed toward the South Orkney Islands, and the fog moved in and stuck around the ship for the rest of the day. Throughout the day, we had talks from our expedition team about the history of whaling, penguins of the Antarctic peninsula, and the science that occurs at South Georgia. We also had another biosecurity session to prepare our gear for Antarctica. The day came to an end with recap and a lovely meal prepared by the galley team. Tomorrow, we will reach the South Orkney Islands.
The hot season begs for an early morning start, in order to avoid the crushing heat of midday at the Equator. The first activity on today’s agenda was kayaking around North Plaza Island, followed by breakfast. Afterward we enjoyed a land walk at South Plaza Island where sea lions, yellow land iguanas, prickly pears, red sesuvium bushes, and swallow-tailed gulls combine to perfection. After departure and while motoring to our next destination, National Geographic Islander II was surrounded by hundreds of bottlenose and common dolphins. Upon arrival in Santa Fe, we went for a walk among friendly sea lions, pale land iguanas, and giant prickly pears. The rocky trail could not distract us from the beauty of the place. The day finished with a BBQ dinner on board. Photographers : Fernando Ortiz and Roberta Schiess
During our visit to Chau Doc, a charming town in southern Vietnam, we were captivated by its vibrant culture and scenic beauty. Our first stop was a colorful house / fish farm, where local fishermen raise tilapia. The fishermen shared insights into how they cultivate tilapia, making for an informative and eye-opening experience. Next, we explored Chau Doc’s bustling market, a lively and aromatic place where fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies are sold. The market was an experience in sensory overload with bright colors, exotic fruits, fish, meats, and vegetables everywhere. It was fascinating to see the local vendors interact, showcasing the town’s thriving community spirit. Chau Doc itself, nestled near the Cambodian border in An Giang Province, is a town rich in culture and history. Surrounded by lush landscapes, our visit left us with lasting memories of the warmth of the people and the vibrancy of the local culture.
