Sailing along The Galapagos with Lindblad Expeditions - National Geographic is  one "amazing encounter". Giant tortoises lumber along the roadside, grazing on scrub. They have no fear of humans. This allows some fantastic  photography and  free observance of  the wildlife  as they roam around the park.

Located some 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands is one of the first UNESCO World Heritage sites, designated in 1978. In 2017 Lindblad celebrates its 50th year exploring the Islands.

The 48-passenger National geographic Islander ensures an intimate experience with the surroundings. A combination of incredible close-up encounters with wildlife and Lindblad's experience in the Galapagos will hel to create lasting memories.

This cruise is all about exploration and discovery, and Lindblad's naturalists and guides are tru experts. Their knowledge about the Islands wildlife and history enhance every outing and activity. a photography expert on board offers daily instruction on how to better capture the special moments of each expedition.

Daily activities include walking, hiking, kayaking and snorkeling.

Experience swimming with playful ea lions, whitetip reef sharks, sea turtles and much more. Walk on olivine and white coralline beaches, hike on lava flows and kayak in crystalline waters among a bale of sea turtles. Beach strolls are often shared by sea lions and marine iguanas, nests of baby albatross and red-footed boobies.

Wetsuits, snorkels and fins are provided for the week aboard. Hiking sticks are available for those who like to use them.
 

Each Island offers an entryway into the world of wildlife. On Espanola Island snorkel among the sea lions. Floreana Island brings the nesting green turtles and sightings of Galapagos sharks and rays. On Santa Cruz Island, visit the giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Life on board Islander is an outside cabin with a window, and the eight cabins on the top level of the ship have private, glassed - in balconies.

The lounge serves as the general  meeting place and site of all briefings, photography lessons, talks and presentations.

Families and multi-generational groups enjoy this trip during school holidays, however, the average age range on most cruises is 55 to 75 years young.