EXPEDiTioN highlights Discover the rich marine life and diverse islands of the Sea of Cortez aboard our intimate 62-guest ship. Kayak to remote coastlines, hike on uninhabited islands and snorkel with sea lions. Experience a thrilling ride aboard the historic Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad to the dramatic cliffs of the Copper Canyon. Travel with a knowledgeable and enthusiastic expedition team of Naturalists and local experts. printed on 20% recycled content paper with soy-based inks. We recommend that you pass this along for others to enjoy or recycle. Betchart Expeditions, inc. 17050 Montebello Road Cupertino, CA 95014 Grp-BET-Copr10 prsrt std U.s. postage paid LindbLad expeditions
Savings of 10% off Book now! Call for details. THE CoppEr Canyon and the Sea of Cortez January 2-10, 2010 aboard National Geographic Sea Bird
Dear AAAS and Sigma Xi Members and Friends, National Geographic called the Copper Canyon one of the last untrammeled wildernesses in Mexico. We call it one of the world s best-kept secrets. In this spirit, we d like to invite you to join us from January 2-10, 2010, on an extraordinary nine-day journey that combines the rich marine life of the Sea of Cortez with the spectacular scenery and dramatic cliffs of the Copper Canyon. First sail through Baja California s Sea of Cortez. With quiet coves, pristine beaches and sculpted formations of windswept rock, the Sea of Cortez offers a wealth of uninhabited islands. In this idyllic setting, you ll have the freedom to explore on your own or in the company of one of our knowledgeable and enthusiastic Naturalists. And these waters are nothing short of astonishing. Since they are frequented by several species of whales, playful dolphins and curious sea lions, we keep a constant lookout for marine life. Next experience the Copper Canyon. Virtually inaccessible until the latter half of the 20th century, it can now be enjoyed from the comfort of one of the world s most thrilling train rides. Travel aboard the historic Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad from the colonial town of El Fuerte high into the Sierra Madre Mountains. Encounter the reclusive Tarahumara Indians who have maintained their traditional culture and crafts. Your days in the canyon are spent at a charming lodge, located at the canyon s rim, providing stunning, never-to-be-forgotten views. Travel aboard National Geographic Sea Bird, scaled to cater to small groups and to be in harmony with the environments we explore. She carries a fleet of versatile Zodiac landing craft and sea kayaks to take us where larger ships cannot go for personal, up-close encounters with the wildness and beauty of the Sea of Cortez. Traveling with only 62 inquisitive fellow guests and a fine staff of Naturalists, you will experience a unique and exciting adventure. To make your reservation, please call toll free 800-252-4910 or return the attached reservation form. I hope you will join us! Sincerely, Margaret M. Betchart President, Betchart Expeditions, Inc. For AAAS Travels and Sigma Xi Expeditions P.S. Book now to receive 10% off your reservation. Cover: Much larger than the Grand Canyon, Copper Canyon is one of Mexico s natural and historic wonders (top); Our ship carries four Zodiac landing craft, which are quickly deployed for up-close encounters with wildlife (bottom). Back cover: Walk on pristine beaches in the Sea of Cortez, where yours are the only footprints. Ship s Registry: United States
The nimble ship can easily maneuver to take advantage of Baja s incomparable beauty. Discover two of North America s greatest natural treasures up close in the company of Naturalists and local experts. EXPEDiTioN highlights Explore the rich azure waters of the Sea of Cortez; then ride the rails to the heart of the extraordinary Copper Canyon. Hike on uninhabited islands, explore by Zodiac and kayak, and roam as widely as our collective imaginations can take us. Snorkel with sea lions at Isla Los Islotes in the Sea of Cortez. Paddle in kayaks along remote island shorelines and make your own personal discoveries. Discover the fascinating world below the waterline with the aid of our video microscope, bow camera and hydrophone. Experience the astounding climb from sea level to almost 8,000 feet, passing through more than 70 railroad tunnels and over 30 bridges, as you travel through the Copper Canyon. Witness the panorama from the rim of the Copper Canyon at the Posada Mirador, known for its breathtaking view of this dramatic landscape. Travel with a highly experienced staff: Expedition Leader, Naturalists, Undersea Specialist and historical experts. With a full program of educational talks, learn about the geology and wildlife of the region, plus the history of the Tarahumara people and the remarkable Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad.
The Copper Canyon and the Sea of Cortez > ITINERARY: 9 DAYS/8 NIGHTS ABOARD NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Sea Bird Day 1: U.S./Los Cabos, Mexico/ La Paz/Embark Arrive Los Cabos airport early afternoon. Enjoy a scenic drive to our ship in La Paz and set sail on the Sea of Cortez. (D) Day 2: Isla Santa Catalina This morning search for whales in the waters around Isla Danzante, an area which has proven to be one of the best for finding several species of whales, and often bottlenose and common dolphins. In the afternoon, visit lovely Isla Baja California Pacific Ocean Sea of Cortez Isla Santa Catalina La Paz Los Cabos Airport Chihuahua Mexico Los Mochis Isla Espiritu Santo Copper Canyon El Fuerte Santa Catalina to walk among huge cacti, swim, snorkel and observe the great diversity of bird life verdins, woodpeckers and Costa s hummingbirds. (B,L,D) Day 3: Exploring the Sea of Cortez Today is a day with the luxury of no specific plan. Explore a narrow desert canyon or a marine-rich tide pool on one of the many diverse islands or snorkel in the clear waters of an isolated cove. You should also be able to explore by kayak. (B,L,D) The ship carries 12 double and 8 single kayaks, which allow you to make your own personal discoveries.
Discover giant cacti on Naturalist-led walks. Bow-riding bottlenose dolphins are our constant companions. Day 4: Islas Los Islotes and Espiritu Santo At Isla Los Islotes, you have an opportunity for one of life s greatest pleasures snorkeling among playful sea lions. With deeply indented shorelines and dramatically eroded cliff faces, Isla Espiritu Santo is perhaps the most beautiful island in the Sea of Cortez. You have a leisurely afternoon for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, long walks and perhaps even a beach barbecue. (B,L,D) Day 5: La Paz/Disembark/El Fuerte This morning disembark in La Paz and fly via jet service to Los Mochis, then take a brief ride by motorcoach to the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains and the small town of El Fuerte. Founded in 1564, El Fuerte was for many years the frontier outpost where expeditions to California and New Mexico began. Today it is a place of quiet charm, with cobblestone streets lined with buildings from the colonial era and a lovely town square. In the afternoon, take a rafting excursion on the El Fuerte River. Overnight at a nearby lodge. (B,L,D) Day 6: Copper Canyon Travel in the comfort of the first-class service of the famous Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad to the top of the Copper Canyon. Your journey takes you from just above sea level to almost 8,000 feet in a little more than six hours, crossing deep ravines and passing through more than 70 tunnels before emerging onto a breathtaking scene of mountain ranges and canyons extending to the horizon. From your lodge, the Posada Mirador, there is time for walks along the rim and short hikes into the canyon itself. Or just relax and enjoy the view. (B,L,D) Day 7: Copper Canyon Today, accompanied by a local guide, explore more of the Copper Canyon, including a visit to a Tarahumara village located near the canyon s rim. Protected from the outside world by their rugged surroundings, the Tarahumara have kept many of their pre-columbian traditions. (B,L,D)
Take in the breathtaking panorama from your hotel, the Posada Mirador, situated on the canyon s rim. Day 8: Copper Canyon/Chihuahua After watching sunrise over the canyon, travel by motorcoach to Chihuahua, descending from the mountains into the broad San Antonio Valley. Along the way, see communities of Mennonites, the primary settlers of this fertile agricultural region. This evening we gather for our farewell dinner. Overnight at a comfortable hotel. (B,L,D) Day 9: Chihuahua/U.S. After breakfast, travel to the airport for flights back to the U.S. (B) Daily Expedition Report January 3, 2009 From National Geographic Sea Bird in the Sea of Cortez We donned our wetsuits, grabbed our fins and masks and made way to the moored Zodiac... Being in the water with any animal much larger than you is a grand experience Seeing a California sea lion twist and turn with effortless bursts of speed and agility highlights their standing near the top of the food chain. Their maneuverability is so great that it borders on unfathomable. The young sea lions are fantastic, but when we start seeing mature males swim by, it becomes powerful. Justin Hofman, Undersea Specialist
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION/SEA BIRD DECK plan Capacity: these twin ships each accommodate 62 guests in 31 outside cabins. SUN DECK LEXspa 106 105 103 104 101 CPTN. 102 100 BRIDGE GYM EQUIPMENT BRIDGE DECK 219 217 216 214 215 211 209 207 205 203 201 212 210 208 206 204 202 200 OBSERVATION DECK UPPER DECK 305 303 301 BAR DINING ROOM LOUNGE MAIN DECK 304 302 300 Costs are per person Double occupancy unless otherwise noted. Category 1: Main deck (#300-305) $3,990 sole occupancy $5,980 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: Upper deck (#200-212, 215) bridge deck (#100-104) $4,560 sole occupancy: all of the above $6,840 these well-located cabins include two lower single beds and a view window. Category 3: Upper deck (#214, 216, 217, 219) bridge deck (#105, 106) $5,140 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. Shares: if you wish to share accommodations, we will be glad to make arrangements at the double-occupancy rate in Categories 1 and 2 only. National Geographic Sea Lion, built in 1982, and National Geographic Sea Bird, built in 1981, and refurbished in 2005, are of U.s. registry and comply fully with U.s. Coast guard regulations. gross tonnage: 99; overall Length: 152 feet; draft: 8 feet; Cruising speed: 12 knots.
SPECIAL BOOKING OFFERs 10% savings: Book now and take 10% off cabin rates. (Excludes airfare. Valid for new bookings only. Certain other restrictions apply.) 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 Costs Include: All accommodations and meals as indicated; non-alcoholic beverages aboard ship; flight from La Paz to Los Mochis on Day 5; shore excursions, sightseeing and entrance fees; transfers to/from airport when using group flights; and tips (except to ship s crew), taxes and service charges. There s never an activities charge for Zodiacs, kayaks, snorkeling gear, wet suits, undersea exploring equipment, or the services of the ship physician and Lindblad s expedition staff. Not Included: Round-trip airfare between U.S. and Mexico; passport and visa fees; baggage/accident/travel protection plan; voyage DVD; personal items such as alcoholic beverages, e-mail, laundry, etc.; and discretionary gratuities to ship s crew. Sample Airfares: Los Angeles/Los Cabos, Chihuahua/Los Angeles: Economy: from $460; Business: from $1,460. Subject to change. Lindblad will gladly assist in making your air arrangements 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$1,000 per person is payable by check. Final Payment: Due 60 days prior to departure. Travel Protection Plan: A travel protection plan is available at extra cost. Upon receiving your reservation, we will send you information on this policy. This comprehensive guest protection plan covers trip cancellation for medical reasons, trip delay, medical expenses, accidental death, lost baggage and medical evacuation. Smoking Policy: Allowed only in designated outdoor areas. Responsibility: Certain other provisions concerning, among other things, limitations of the Companies 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 $250 89 60 days advance payment cost 59 30 days 50% of trip cost 29 0 days no refund This policy applies to expeditions and extensions. We strongly recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan.
Please return to: Betchart Expeditions, Inc. 17050 Montebello Road Cupertino, CA 95014 Phone: (800) 252-4910 or (408) 252-4910 E-mail: info@betchartexpeditions.com Reservation Form: The Copper Canyon and the Sea of Cortez Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird January 2-10, 2010 Please reserve place(s). Name 1 (As it appears on passport): Name 1 (Preferred name for name badge): Date of Birth: Name 2 (As it appears on passport): Name 2 (Preferred name for name badge): Date of Birth: Street Address: City: State: Zip: Day/Eve Phone: Business Phone: Fax: E-Mail: Accommodations: Double Single Twin share w/friend _ Twin share (Roommate assigned by tour operator) Please indicate choice of cabin category in order of preference: 1st choice: 2nd choice: Enclosed is my advance payment of $ (US$1,000 per person). Check made payable to Betchart Expeditions Inc. Trust Account. I/We have read the Terms and Conditions for the program and agree to them: Signature(s): Date: Signature(s): Date: Membership: AAAS Sigma Xi ACS # 1105