Galápagos Aboard the National Geographic Endeavour

Transcription

1 Galápagos Aboard the National Geographic Endeavour An NGC Environmental Studies Refresher October 30-November 8, 2015 With an Optional Extension for Machu Picchu & Peru s Land of the Inca (Eligible for Gardening Studies and Landscape Design Refresher Credit) SPACE IS LIMITED AND BOOKS UP EARLY! Cabins are available on a first-come, first served basis. Book now for the best chance of getting the cabin you prefer. For more information or call: Mary Ann Bryant Boutique Tours, Inc. maryannbryant1@gmail.com

2 See Galápagos as Darwin did aboard an expedition ship equipped to give you the most engaging experience possible. You will sail from island to island to make fresh discoveries daily. Galápagos is famous for its endemic wildlife animals separated from their main population and adapted to their environment, eventually changing to become a new species. There are as many as 26 endemic species among the islands including Darwin s finches, Galápagos giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and Galápagos penguins. This transfigured relationship with animals is a marvelous thing to experience. The wildlife of Galápagos is legendary for its lack of an instinctive fear of humans. Sea lions loll on the beach next to us. Birds land on our camera lenses and stand in the middle of the trail ignoring us as we carefully walk around them. Explore the different landscapes, from lunar to lush, with a dedicated expedition team. And marvel as they reveal each island s different highlights for you, to make your expedition more engaging and more meaningful than any other form of travel. Like a floating safari camp, the ship will be your base for an unforgettable 10-day expedition immersing you in a movable feast, a panoramic experience of the Galápagos Islands. The ship will feel like home in no time, as you discover all the nooks and crannies and very welcoming, as the community camaraderie kindles. Crossing between islands most often takes place overnight to maximize time exploring. So you ll wake to fresh vistas outside your cabin window, and daily discoveries. You will experience all the endless magic of Galápagos diverse habitats: from lush green highlands to stark volcanic landscapes; pristine beaches to mangrove thickets; from arid terrain to black lava beaches adorned with emerald sea grass. There are daily activities for all ages. Zodiac cruises happen daily or you can choose to take a ride on the National Geographic Endeavour s glass bottom boat to for an undersea experience. Taking a long hike or a short, slower walk with your naturalist is a wonderful way to explore the unique wonders of each island. Stay aboard and read if you prefer. Or enjoy a wellness treatment on the floating massage pavilion anchored in its own zone

3 of serenity. The healthy diversity of specialties marine biology, evolutionary biology, ornithology, and more and personalities on the National Geographic Endeavour s team means you can gravitate to the naturalists whose interests and personalities most appeal to you on any given day for any given activity. You are never directed into groups or assigned. And the generous staff-to-guest ratio (12 to 1) means you have plenty of choices every day. Our ship-based Galápagos wildlife travel allows you to explore the undersea too. You ll have the chance to snorkel almost every day and sometimes twice a day. The ship carries complete snorkel gear, including wetsuits in every size yours for the duration, so no need to tote gear from home. Upwelling currents in the Galápagos archipelago bathe the region in nutrient-rich waters making it incredibly rich in marine life. If you d like to scuba dive, add a note to your Reservation Form, and arrangements will be made with a local outfitter for you. And everyone can visit the undersea, via video shot by an undersea specialist, in the lounge during the evening cocktail hour. The ship is outfitted with tandem and single kayaks that allow for personal, water-level exploration of the scenic coastlines. Shoreline cruises aboard Zodiacs are perfect for relaxed exploration with a naturalist s narration, and the ideal platform for Galápagos photography. Each evening at cocktail hour the entire expedition community gathers in the lounge for an expedition ritual called Recap. As you enjoy cocktails and hors d oeuvres, various naturalists give talks, the undersea specialist may show video, and your expedition leader will outline the following day s schedule. You may find, as many others have, that Recap remains as one of the fondest memories of your expedition experience. Talks by naturalists will be offered on some afternoons as well. And when the ship is underway, it s a wonderful time to stand on the bow with a naturalist or photo instructor and scan the horizon for whale spouts, visit the bridge, or go to the upper deck at night for a bit of stargazing. National Garden Club members may register separately to receive Environmental Studies Refresher credit. Those traveling on with the extension to Peru will be eligible to receive refresher credit for Gardening Studies School and/or Landscape Design School.

4 ITINERARY OCTOBER 31: Guayaquil / Galápagos / Embark After the hour flight to the Galápagos, we ll immediately board the ship. Over the course of the week, our exact routing depends on the National Park Service. (B, L, D) NOVEMBER1-7: Galápagos Islands The following is a representative sample of the islands we may visit during your week on board: (B,L,D) Bartolome This is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. Great walks and views abound, with a chance to snorkel with Galápagos penguins. Santiago Santiago offers close encounters with Galápagos fur seals along with an opportunity to study the inhabitants of the island s countless tide pools. Santa Cruz Look for blue-footed boobies, pelicans, sea lions and more. Enjoy walks in the highlands and encounter giant tortoises in the wild. Isabela A small black sand beach offers wonderful morning swimming. Enjoy a more challenging hike over rugged shoreline and a shorter walk within an iguana colony. Kayaking and deep water snorkeling opportunities are on offer. Fernandina This is the youngest island in the Galápagos and one of the most pristine tropical islands left on earth. Look forward to hikes over relatively recent lava flows, and spot marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and Sally Lightfoot crabs. Floreana Snorkel among sea lions in the clear waters off Champion Islet. We may also find flamingos, pintail ducks and various shorebirds. Hike to a pristine white-sand beach, a favorite nesting site for sea turtles. Española The exclusive home to waved albatross (seasonal) and a particularly colorful marine iguana, Española is also a paradise for Darwin s finches, sea lions galore, and the famous blue-footed boobies. Snorkel and stroll along the island s lovely beaches NOVEMBER 8: Galápagos / Disembark / Guayaquil Disembark and fly to Guayaquil. The late afternoon and evening are free to explore the city. Overnight Hotel Hilton Colón. (B) NOVEMBER 9: Guayaquil / Home This morning fly home. (B)

5 OPTIONAL POST-VOYAGE EXTENSION PERU S LAND OF THE INCA For one perfectly paced week, you will explore an extraordinary melting pot of Peruvian history and culture, firmly rooted in Amerindian and Spanish traditions, with influences from Africa, Asia, and Europe as well. You will see the architectural achievements of the Incan empire including Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, and the vast Sacsayhuamán Fortress. And you ll experience the decorative arts: pottery, textiles, jewelry, and sculpture that reveal the sophistication of their artisans. You ll discover firsthand how the past echoes through contemporary life. Our expert guides are personable, engaging travel companions. They introduce you to the art, music, and cuisine of this remarkable country. And each night your active days end at a succession of gracious and elegant hotels. Variety will characterize your days You will experience a variety of sites and activities on this expedition. There are opportunities for walks in the Sacred Valley of the Inca and leisurely jaunts through local food markets. We ll see the legendary sites, enjoy the vibrant local life, and absorb the arts and music of the culture. And experience the daily pleasure of savoring the unique flavors of the region with its diverse spices and produce. Our guides will gladly cater to your interests, ensuring you make the most of your journey. On most evenings before dinner, staff and guests gather in our hotels for a tradition called Recap. Relax with a cocktail while members of the expedition team give engaging, informative talks about the events of the day, review tomorrow s options. Recap furthers the bond between you and your fellow travelers, often becoming a fondly remembered part of the journey. HOTELS: Every effort has been made to select hotels that will ensure your comfort and immerse you in these beautiful, historic surroundings. Lindblad s expedition team will handle the transitions to make them effortless for you. Sol y Luna Lodge & Spa: During our first stay in the Sacred Valley, spend two nights at the charming Sol y Luna Lodge & Spa. Backed by the peaks of the Andes and surrounded by exotic flowers, you will immediately feel time slow down as the dramatic surroundings weave their spell. Attend a folkloric dance performance, or wander the lovely grounds. And as everywhere we go in Peru, you ll have the opportunity to savor internationally and regionally inspired dishes. Orient Express Sanctuary Lodge: While in Machu Picchu, our home for one night is the historic 31-room Orient Express Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel adjacent to this ancient citadel. Not only is it sumptuous and profoundly welcoming, the Lodge also offers exceptional access to the ruins. Unwind in the shadow of the Lost City, or relax in the hotel s airy, sunlit restaurant with its floor-to-ceiling windows. Much of the produce served is sustainably grown on-site. The chef prepares fresh international cuisine, with a choice of Andean specialties. The modern bar, adorned with stone and wood, offers a natural, harmonious ambiance.

6 Orient Express Monasterio Hotel: For two nights in Cusco, we stay at the Orient Express Monasterio Hotel, a charming property set high in the Andes with breathtaking rooftop vistas and beautiful inner courtyards. This former monastery and national monument dates from It s a great base to discover the Spanish and Inca treasures of Cusco. And the perfect setting for the Andean cuisine you ll enjoy during your stay. There s no denying the appeal of simply people watching during your journey getting a sense of the local customs and dress. Narrow cobbled streets, charming courtyards, and ancient stone walls are the backdrop for scenes of local life. Market sellers offer vibrant textiles, fresh regional produce, and traditional wares. Contemporary artists reflect their rich heritage. Musicians play indigenous instruments to keep the sounds of the past alive. Outside influences from foreign settlers are evident, broadening the scope of the cultural landscape. Needless to say, this is a paradise for photographers. Maybe it s the expression on a storied face at the market or sunset on a flower-lined footpath the photo ops are nonstop. EXTENSION ITINERARY NOVEMBER 8: Galápagos/Guayaquil/Lima, Peru Depart Galápagos this morning and fly to Lima, Peru. Overnight at the Ramada Costa del Sol Lima Airport Hotel. (B,D) NOVEMBER 9: Lima/Cusco/Sacred Valley of the Inca This morning fly from Lima to Cusco and drive to Awanacancha, a farm where South American llamas and alpacas are bred. Enjoy an afternoon lecture by Peter Frost. Check into the Sol y Luna Hotel. (B,L,D) NOVEMBER 10: Sacred Valley of the Inca Peter Frost will join us as we visit the massive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo. Then attend a traditional weaving demonstration by National Geographic grantee Nilda Callanaupa. Enjoy an outdoor lunch with a Paso horse demonstration. Visit to a local pottery studio, featuring ceramics made with ancient Peruvian techniques and designs. After dinner, enjoy a folkloric dance performance. (B,L,D) NOVEMBER 11: Sacred Valley/Machu Picchu At Machu Picchu, we'll have a guided visit to the site and then overnight at the historic 31-room Orient Express Sanctuary Lodge. (B,L,D) NOVEMBER 12: Machu Picchu/Cusco Early morning, hike to the Sun Gate, the ancient final checkpoint to Machu Picchu, and watch daybreak over the quiet ruins. The morning is free to explore. After a train and bus ride we arrive in Cusco in the later afternoon for two nights at the Orient Express Monasterio Hotel. (B,L,D) NOVEMBER 13: Cusco Explore the Inca Empire's capital city of Cusco and visit the vast Sacsayhuaman fortress. The afternoon is open to stroll around the city. Relax, shop or visit one of the museums or convents including the magnificent 17th century cathedral and convent of Koricancha. Dinner is on your own. This evening, experience the music of the Andes at a presentation of indigenous instruments. (B,L) NOVEMBER 14: Cusco/Lima This morning return to Lima and visit the Larco Herrera Museum and stroll the Plaza Mayor. Lunch is traditional Latin American style. Dinner is on your own. (B,L) NOVEMBER 15: Lima/Miami This morning fly home or anywhere else you might have decided to go. (B)

7 Cost Includes: Accommodations as indicated; meals as indicated; excursions; sightseeing and park fees; services of Lindblad Expeditions Leader, Naturalist staff, expert guides, and ship s doctor; use of kayaks snorkeling gear and wet suits; all port charges and service taxes. Peru Extension Includes: Seven hotel nights, meals indicated, transfers if traveling on group flights, sightseeing, porterage, services of local guide and tour escort, tips to local guides, drivers and tour escort, taxes and service charges. As a special concession to the National Garden Club, internal air to and from the Galápagos Islands, a $500 value, is included in the price. $500 discount extended to all guests under the age of 18 NOT Included: Ecuador departure tax; personal items such as alcoholic beverages, s, laundry voyage DVD, etc.; meals not indicated on itinerary; and discretionary tips to ship s crew. Peru Extension: Meals as indicated not included, alcoholic beverages, personal items. International Airfare between the US and Guayaquil (or optional return from Lima) is NOT INCLUDED in the price. Round trip airfare between Miami and Guayaquil is estimated at $700. Advance Payment: $750 per person for Galápagos only Advance Payment - Galápagos + Peru Extension: $1000 per person Final Payment: Due August 1, 2015 GALÁPAGOS 10 DAY / 9 NIGHTS EXPEDITION COST PER PERSON / DOUBLE OCCUPANCY CABIN CATEGORY: $ 6,290 $ 6,990 $ 7,650 $ 8,290 $ 10,280 COST PER PERSON SINGLE OCCUPANCY 1S 2S $ 7,860 $ 8,730 OPTIONAL PERU EXTENSION DOUBLE OCCUPANCY / SINGLE OCCUPANCY ADDITIONAL COST PER PERSON: $ 4,990 $ 6,290 CANCELLATION POLICY: #Days Prior to Expedition Start Per Person Cancellation Fee 120 or more days $ days Advance Payment days 25% of trip cost days 50% of trip cost 29-0 days No Refund TRAVEL INSURANCE IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Full Details of Coverage are Available from Boutique Tours, Inc. For more information or call: Mary Ann Bryant Boutique Tours, Inc. maryannbryant1@gmail.com

8 National Geographic Endeavour Capacity: 96 guests in 56 outside cabins. REGISTRY: Ecuador. Overall length: 295 feet. Public Areas: Ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered deck with chairs and tables; doctor s office; fitness center; LEXspa; global gallery; library; lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, and presentations; sauna and small swimming pool; and sun deck. Our Ecuadorian captain welcomes guests to the bridge in accordance with our open bridge policy. Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere. Menu is international with Ecuadorian flair. Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes. Each has private facilities and climate controls. Expedition Equipment: Kayaks, glass-bottom boat, snorkeling gear, underwater video camera, video microscope, wet suits, and Zodiac landing craft. Special Features: Guest internet access, laundry service, floating massage platform and wellness program. Ship s doctor and video chronicler are also on board. Category 1: Main Deck #202, 204, A Deck #352, 353 All cabins feature two lower single beds, a writing desk and a porthole. Category 2: Upper Deck # 122, 125; Main Deck #201, 203, 206, 208, , , 220 Cabins have two lower single beds and a writing desk. Upper Deck Cabins feature large windows & Main Deck cabins have two portholes. Category 3: Main Deck # 209; A Deck #300, 350, 351 These spacious cabins accommodate two or three people, all with two lower beds, a sitting chair, a writing desk and two portholes. Each has a separate sleeping and sitting area. Category 4: Upper Deck #102, , , 118, 120, 121, 123 Conveniently located cabins feature two lower single beds and a writing desk. Category 5: Upper Deck #117, 129 The finest accommodations on board. Suites have separate sleeping and sitting areas, a large view window and a convertible sofa to accommodate a third person. Category 1 SolO: Main Deck # 219, 222; A Deck # , , 318 Category 2 SolO: Upper Deck #124, 126, 127; Main Deck #205 Note: Sole Occupancy cabins are available in Categories 1 and 2 and have one lower single bed and one porthole. Shared Accommodations: We will make arrangements for shared accommodations at the double occupancy rate in Categories 1 and 2. Third person rates are available in designated cabins at one half the double occupancy rate. Insets clockwise from top: National Geographic Endeavour; Category 4 cabin; dining room. SUN DECK BRIDGE DECK POOL VERANDA DECK UPPER DECK MAIN DECK A DECK LEX spa SAUNA DOCTOR FITNESS CENTER LOUNGE LIBRARY SHOP Reception Purser Internet LEXsalon BRIDGE Zodiac Boarding OBSERVATION DECK DINING ROOM

9 RESERVATION FORM Galápagos Aboard National Geographic Endeavour And Peru s Land of the Inca Optional Post-Cruise Extension October 30-November 9, 2015 (voyage only dates) October 30-November 15, 2015 (with extension) Please reserve places aboard the National Geographic Endeavour. Passport Name: Date of Birth: Preferred Name for Name Badge: Passport Name: Date of Birth: Preferred Name for Name Badge: Address: (Street) (City/State) (Zip) Phone numbers: ( ) ( ) ( ) (Home) (Cell) Business or Day) Special Dietary Requirements: Accommodations: Double Single Twin share w/ friend (name): Cabin Category Preference: 1 st choice: 2 nd choice: I/We would like to register for the Galápagos + Optional Peru Post-Voyage Extension (deposit is $1,000 per person) Please contact me about arranging air travel Enclosed is my deposit check of $750 (or $1,000 with extension) per person Please send reservation form and check payable to Boutique Tours, Inc. to: Mary Ann Bryant, Boutique Tours, Inc., 112 Overlook Court Marble Hill, GA Maryannbryant1@gmail.com