Baja California. Land & Sea Photography Retreat FREE AIR. January 4 11, 2013 Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird

Transcription

1 FREE AIR Los Angeles to Los Cabos NEW! Baja California Land & Sea Photography Retreat January 4 11, 2013 Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird Travel with National Geographic Photographers Bob Krist, Michael Melford & Ralph Lee Hopkins

2 Cover: guests ride alongside a dolphin in the Sea of Cortez. Inside cover: the dramatic landscape of Isla Santa Catalina. Ship's Registry: United States

3 Dear Audubon Member & Friend, I magine desert islands dotting a clear sea stretching to the horizon. A place where the sea roils with dolphins, plunge-diving pelicans, and blue-footed boobies. A place UNESCO designated a World Heritage site for its pristine islands that thrive in isolation and above all, a place with light and subjects perfect for photography. Join us January 4-11, 2013 for an unprecedented photographic opportunity. It s the chance to shoot with and learn from some of the best in the world National Geographic photographers. We ll spend three nights at a private, secluded beachfront resort, a former haunt of Hollywood elites like Bing Crosby and Desi Arnaz. In fact, between photo and editing workshops, we ve arranged tours of their former residences. We ll then embark the 62-guest expedition ship National Geographic Sea Bird, which will be our base for four nights while we explore the Sea of Cortez. We ll hike forests of giant cacti and sail past rose-hued cliffs while searching for endemic species, marine mammals, and sea birds. Although photography might be a powerful draw for this expedition, there s much more. You ll kayak along beautiful coastlines, snorkel with sea lions, see frigatebirds and petrels, and savor a twilight beach barbecue into the starry evening. Aboard the ship, you ll explore with an onboard staff of five naturalists, including an undersea specialist. I hope you ll join us for this incredible adventure that s sure to be enriching and much fun. You ll come away not only with great photos, but with skills that will last a lifetime. Plus, if you book by October 30th, we ll cover your round-trip airfare from Los Angeles to Los Cabos. To reserve your place, please return the enclosed reservation form or call (800) Sincerely, Sandy Pinto Director of Licensing & Travel, Audubon Ship s registry: United States 1

4 12

5 A Unique Photo Expedition in an Eco-playground of Pure Wildness Discover the splendid seclusion and pure wildness of Baja California. This one-of-a-kind photo expedition includes three nights at a private seaside resort and four nights aboard an intimate expedition ship exploring the desert islands dotting the azure Sea of Cortez. Your expedition begins at the secluded Rancho Las Cruces, a private resort set on five miles of beachfront and reserved exclusively for our group. Once frequented by Hollywood elites including Bing Crosby and Desi Arnaz, it retains the charm of their era and we ll enjoy a private tour of their former residences. Stroll beautiful white-sand beaches, hike the resort s trails, or spend an afternoon relaxing at the beach. National Geographic photographer-led photo workshops and editing sessions throughout are crafted to take your photography to the next level. Then, put your photo skills to the test while exploring the Sea of Cortez aboard National Geographic Sea Bird. Zodiac cruise among plunge-diving birds, kayak beautiful coastlines, and snorkel with sea lions in a region teeming with marine life. You ll explore with an onboard staff of five naturalists including at least one certified photo instructor. World Heritage Site On July 14, 2005, the Sea of Cortez was named a UNESCO World Heritage site, a status that proclaims the outstanding value the sea and islands have in their unaltered state. Explore Baja California with us, and we promise you will be inspired. And your stories and photos will inspire others, an integral part of keeping this beauty safe for future generations. Opposite page (clockwise from top): the splendid seclusion of Rancho Las Cruces, which will be exclusively ours during the expedition; pristine beach at Rancho Las Cruces; cardon cacti, one of Baja s many types of plant life; guitar-shaped swimming pool on the private property owned by Desi Arnaz s family at Rancho Las Cruces; National Geographic Sea Bird at sunset. Above: a royal tern takes off. 3

6

7 The Photo Op of a Lifetime With 360 photo ops, Baja California s peerless light, and National Geographic photographers Bob Krist, Michael Melford, and Ralph Lee Hopkins at your elbow feeding you shooting tips you re sure to get some of the best photos of your life. Early morning and dusk outings are planned to maximize the best light for shooting, and hikes will move at a photographer s pace. Take advantage of National Geographic photographer-led photo assignments and unique share and learn opportunities like clinics, one-to-one critiques, and inclusive laptop gallery events to see each other s shots. Learn Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom image editing techniques used by the pros. Two instructors from B&H Photo/Video will offer editing workshops, plus they ll bring the latest high-end photo gear for you to test in the field. Opposite page (clockwise from top): guest smiles between shots; kayaking and photographing the scenic Sea of Cortez; a guest captures Baja s stunning sunset; photographing the varied plant life of Baja. Above: shooting Baja s diverse landscapes. 5

8 8

9 Expedition vs. Cruise Since this is an expedition, not a cruise, flexibility is a hallmark. The itinerary draws on the extensive Sea of Cortez experience of the expedition team and captain to maximize viewing opportunities. If a pod of dolphins approaches us, the ship or Zodiacs will change course to take advantage of the encounter. The naturalists and expedition leader s experience in the region allows us to take advantage of the best landing sites for varying conditions and circumstances. Guests often compare the feeling of voyaging aboard National Geographic Sea Bird to that of a private yacht with an esprit de corps that can only be found on an expedition. Cool Tools for Exploration Zodiacs: These craft are perfect for viewing up close and photographing frolicking dolphins or the antics of sea lions. Zodiacs also land on pristine and otherwise inaccessible desert islands, dropping hikers to walk among plants and animals that are found nowhere else. Kayaks: Kayak along peaceful coastlines in one of the twelve double or eight single kayaks on board. Get a water-level look at stunning scenery. Snorkeling: Don a mask, flippers, and wetsuit, and explore the brilliantly colored undersea realm in these crystal-clear waters. All snorkeling equipment is provided. Underwater Cameras: See the vibrant marine life without getting wet. Underwater cameras can feed live images to the lounge, and often HD underwater videos shot during the day are played in the evening. Microscopes: A video microscope lets you examine the seldom seen and marvel at the intricacies of marine life in new ways. Hydrophone: Listen to the awe-inspiring sounds of dolphins in the surrounding waters. Opposite page (clockwise from top): a family jumps into the Sea of Cortez; quick-deploying Zodiacs let us capitalize on sudden sightings; undersea specialist captures a sea lion on video to share with guests in the ship s lounge; National Geographic Sea Bird can easily maneuver to follow playful dolphins; snorkeler; the staff is there to assist all levels of kayakers. 7

10 Baja California Land & Sea Photography Retreat Itinerary: 8 DAYS/7 NIGHTS Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird Venture to Baja California for a unique and immersive photo expedition. You ll stay at the secluded Rancho Las Cruces, once frequented by Hollywood elites including Bing Crosby and Desi Arnaz, and still full of the charm of their era. It will be exclusively ours for the expedition, and an idyllic escape for photo enthusiasts and their loved ones. Sea of Cortez Baja California La Paz Pacific Ocean Rancho Las Cruces Mexico Isla Santa Catalina Isla San José Isla Espíritu Santo Los Cabos Airport National Geographic photographers and a Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor will lead photography workshops, including image review-and-critique sessions crafted to enhance your skill level and ensure you go home with extraordinary photos. An editing specialist from B&H Photo/Video will teach Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom image-processing techniques used by the pros and share the latest high-end gear for you to test in the field. Then, four nights aboard National Geographic Sea Bird exploring the Sea of Cortez will put your skills to the test. Kayak beautiful coastlines, take photos from Zodiacs, and snorkel with sea lions in a sea teeming with marine life. DAY 1: LOS ANGELES/LOS CABOS/RANCHO LAS CRUCES Fly into Los Cabos and transfer to Rancho Las Cruces. (D) DAYS 2-3: RANCHO LAS CRUCES Begin your days with sunrise photography sessions followed by workshops designed A gray whale calf pokes its rostrum out of the water a few feet from guests. Once an escape for Hollywood elite in the golden age of film, Rancho Las Cruces is an exclusive hotel set 13on five miles of beachfront property and will be ours alone during the expedition.

11 Above: a guest captures Baja s dramatic landscapes; leaping dolphins in the Sea of Cortez. for what you ll encounter on the voyage composition, light, workflow, and editing. In the evenings, we ll practice long exposures and painting cacti with light to create unique shots. Kayak pristine waters, hike with a naturalist and see endemic flora, or horseback ride. Learn about regional art and artifacts of ancient civilizations from local expert Enrique Hambleton, as well as the incredible history of Rancho Las Cruces from the owners. With special permission, we ll tour the homes of Bing Crosby and Desi Arnaz, with its guitar-shaped pool, and the property s chapel. On our final night, enjoy a farewell dinner and performances from a local folk trio and dance troupe. (B,L,D) DAY 4: RANCHO LAS CRUCES/LA PAZ/EMBARK Start the day with specialized instruction to prepare for your photography and editing in the field. Then embark National Geographic Sea Bird and begin exploring the Sea of Cortez, with an afternoon hike or kayak at a nearby island. (B,L,D) DAY 5: ISLA SANTA CATALINA Search the waters south of Isla Carmen for whales, and bottlenose and common dolphins. Hike a forest of towering cacti, snorkel or swim at Isla Santa Catalina. (B,L,D) DAY 6: EXPLORING THE SEA OF CORTEZ With nature as our guide and cameras on hand, we ll explore the Bahía Loreto Marine Reserve, a rich area for whales and dolphins. We ll anchor at Isla San José or a nearby island with a dramatic shoreline to explore by kayak and snorkel in bays of turquoise waters. Enjoy a beach barbecue beneath a starry sky. (B,L,D) DAY 7: LOS ISLOTES/ISLA ESPÍRITU SANTO Experience the delight of snorkeling with curious sea lions at Los Islotes. An indented shoreline and dramatic cliffs make Isla Espíritu Santo among the Sea of Cortez s most beautiful islands, ideal for photography. Enjoy the views as you kayak, snorkel, or relax on deck at leisure. (B,L,D) DAY 8: LA PAZ/DISEMBARK/LOS CABOS/LOS ANGELES Disembark at La Paz and transfer to Los Cabos airport for flights home. (B) 9

12 National Geographic Sea Bird Capacity: 62 guests in 31 outside cabins. Registry: United States. Overall length: 152 feet. Public Areas: Ship features a library; global market; lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows, and presentations; observation deck; partially covered sun deck with chairs and tables. Our open bridge provides guests an opportunity to meet our officers and captain and learn about navigation. Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Breakfast is a wide selection buffet and lunch is often served family style. Menu emphasizes local flair. Cabins: All face outside with windows, private facilities, and climate controls. Expedition Equipment: Zodiac landing craft, kayaks, snorkeling gear, bow camera, hydrophone, Splash- Cam, underwater video camera, and video microscope. Special Features: Guest Internet access. A video chronicler, undersea specialist, and ship s doctor on board all voyages. Wellness: The vessel is staffed by a wellness specialist and features exercise equipment, LEXspa, and morning stretch classes on the sun deck. Prices are per person, double occupancy unless indicated as solo. Itinerary Cat. 1 Cat. 2 Cat. 3 Cat. 1 Solo Cat. 2 Solo Advance payment Baja California Land & Sea Photography Retreat $5,330 $5,860 $6,990 $7,990 $8,790 $550 10

13 Clockwise from left: National Geographic Sea Bird; guest cabin aboard the ship; guest room at Rancho Las Cruces. Category 1: Main Deck # Conveniently positioned between the dining room and lounge, these cabins feature two single lower beds, a writing desk, and a large view window. Category 2: Bridge Deck # ; Upper Deck # , 215 These well-located cabins include two lower single beds and a window. Category 3: Bridge Deck #105, 106; Upper Deck #214, 216, 217, 219 These cabins feature a seating unit with table and two large view windows. Upper Deck cabins include two lower single beds which can convert to a double bed and a pull-out single bed for a third person; Bridge Deck cabins include two lower single beds only. Note: Sole occupancy cabins are available in Categories 1 and 2 only. Third person rates are available in certain categories at one half the double occupancy rate. Shared Accommodations: Shares can be arranged at the double occupancy rate in Categories 1 and 2 only. SUN DECK LEXspa CPTN BRIDGE GYM EQUIPMENT BRIDGE DECK OBSERVATION DECK UPPER DECK BAR DINING ROOM LOUNGE MAIN DECK 11

14 Special Offers FREE AIR: Book by October 30, 2012 for free round-trip airfare from Los Angeles to Los Cabos. (Valid on new bookings only and may not be combined with other offers.) Bring the Kids: We believe sharing an expedition with your kids or grandkids is a life-enhancing experience. So, take $500 off the double-occupancy price for each person under 18. Terms and Conditions Expedition Costs Include: Accommodations aboard ship and in hotels as indicated; all meals as indicated; nonalcoholic beverages aboard ship; shore excursions, sightseeing, and entrance fees; transfers to/from airport if traveling on group flights; use of kayaks and snorkeling gear; taxes, service charges, and gratuities (except to ship s crew); services of Lindblad Expeditions natural history staff and a ship physician. Not Included: Airfare; passport and visa fees; baggage/accident/travel protection plan; voyage DVD; personal items such as alcoholic beverages, s, etc.; and discretionary gratuities to ship s crew. Airfare: Airfare is not included in the voyage cost. Lindblad Expeditions will gladly assist in making your air arrangements if needed, for a $50 per person service fee. Note: A complete packet of pre-departure information, including recommended reading list and packing suggestions, will be sent to you approximately four months prior to your departure. Reservations: To confirm your place, an advance payment of US$550 per person is payable by check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover. Final Payment: Due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Insurance: Trip cancellation/interruption insurance is highly recommended by Audubon Nature Odysseys and should be considered for your financial protection. Also important, especially if you are traveling internationally, is medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation coverage. A comprehensive package will be made available to you upon receipt of your initial deposit. Early purchase may provide coverage of preexisting medical problems. Smoking Policy: Allowed only in designated outdoor areas. Responsibility: Certain other provisions concerning, among other things, limitations of the Company s (Lindblad Expeditions) liability for loss of property, injury, illness or death during the voyage will be provided to all guests prior to final payment, and to prospective guests upon request. Prices listed in this brochure are as of publication date, and are subject to change. The Company reserves the right to impose surcharges based on increases in the Company s actual cost of fuel. CANCELLATION POLICY Number of Days Prior to Expedition Start Per Person Cancellation Fee 90 or more days $ days Deposit days 50% of trip cost 29 0 days No refund This policy applies to expeditions and may differ for extensions. We strongly recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan. 12

15 Reservation Form: Baja California Land & Sea Photography Retreat January 4-11, 2013 Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird Please reserve place(s) Name 1: (As it appears on passport) Date of Birth: (Preferred name for name badge) Name 2: (As it appears on passport) Date of Birth: (Preferred name for name badge) Street Address: City: State: Zip: Home Phone: Alternate Phone: Fax: Accommodations: Double Single Twin share w/friend _ Share with roommate assigned by tour operator Please return to: Audubon Nature Odysseys Attn: Yng-Ru Chen 225 Varick Street, 7th Floor New York, NY Phone: (800) or (212) Fax: (212) travel@audubon.org Please indicate choice of cabin category in order of preference: 1st choice: 2nd choice: Enclosed is my advance payment of $ (US$550 per person). Check made payable to Lindblad Maritime Enterprises, Ltd. Charge my advance payment of $ (US$550 per person). to my Visa MasterCard American Express or Discover. Account Number: Expires: Cardholder Signature: Date: Our trips are designed for Audubon members. If you are not a member, please send the National Audubon Society a separate check for the special introductory rate of $20. Please tell us how interested you are in birding: Interested Not Interested Very Interested 13

16 Expedition Highlights Shoot with and learn from the best in the world National Geographic photographers. Spend three days at a private resort, once host to Hollywood elite during the golden age of film. Sail four nights aboard National Geographic Sea Bird exploring the Sea of Cortez. Get the shots of a lifetime and go home a better, more confident photographer. Plus kayak, snorkel, and swim with sea lions in an eco-playground of pure wildness. Printed on 20% recycled content paper with soy-based inks. We recommend that you pass this along for others to enjoy or recycle. Audubon Nature Odysseys 225 Varick Street 7th Floor New York, NY GRP-NAS-BLAS13 prsrt std U.S. Postage paid Lindblad Expeditions FREE AIR Los Angeles to Los Cabos