FREE IN-TOUR CHARTER AIR Book Now! HOT SPRINGS & ICEBERGS ICELAND TO WEST GREENLAND SEPTEMBER 9-17, 2018 ABOARD NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER Travel with Dr. Laurie McHargue
Greenland is the perfect country to visit because in many ways it is still undiscovered. It has a fantastic story to tell in ice, nature and our environment. ALEQA HAMMOND, GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES GUEST SPEAKER AND FORMER PRIME MINISTER OF GREENLAND
DEAR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS, The unearthly beauty of the lands of fire and ice beckons! Join us for a thrilling introduction to Iceland and Greenland on this unique land, sea, and air adventure. Over the course of a week you ll encounter these island nations as an explorer not a tourist for a fresh perspective and deeper understanding of their exhilarating allure. Our experience begins in Reykjavík, the world s northernmost capital, where the rich array of options includes riding Icelandic horses across lava fields, warming up in outdoor thermal baths, or Zodiac cruising and kayaking past spectacular vistas. Unlock even more of Reykjavík at a traditional cooking class at the Salt Kitchen, on a biking tour of the city, or on a horseback ride through a lava field. Next, we ll take one of the world s most scenic flights across Greenland s ice cap (covering 80 percent of the country) on our way to the ship. The world s ultimate expedition ship, National Geographic Explorer provides an unparalleled base for discovery as we trace West Greenland s rugged coast in search of humpback, fin, and minke whales, before winding our way through the massive bergs populating the long fjords to call on the small communities and their hardy residents. To further enrich our experience, biologist Dr. Laurie McHargue (see below) and former Prime Minister of Greenland Aleqa Hammond will join us along with a veteran expedition team that includes an expedition leader; naturalists, several with geological expertise; cultural specialists; and an undersea specialist. Plus a National Geographic photographer and a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor will be aboard to help us capture the myriad photo opportunities, including the legendary Northern Lights. I hope you ll join us, September 9-17, 2018, to discover the best of this inspiring region. To make your reservation, please return the enclosed reservation form or call 800-252-4910. Sincerely, Margaret M. Betchart President, Betchart Expeditions, Inc., For AAAS Travels, ACS and Sigma Xi Expeditions www.betchartexpeditions.com FREE AIR! Book now and receive FREE ROUND-TRIP CHARTER AIRFARE between Reykjavík and Kangerlussuaq. Also your bar tab and tips for the crew are included. Representing AAAS, ACS, and Sigma Xi on the voyage will be Dr. Laurie McHargue. Laurie is a biologist who has divided her career among research, environmental regulatory work, and expedition travel that has taken her to over 50 countries worldwide. She has traveled to all seven continents by ship, across the breadth of Eurasia by train, and around the world three times. Laurie loves the vast Arctic landscapes, the tundra biome, and the remarkable human, plant, and animal adaptations to the region. Her Arctic experience includes Franz Josef Land, Svalbard, the Northeast Passage, and the Russian Far East including Wrangel and Herald islands, as well as six voyages to the North Pole. She looks forward to exploring Iceland and West Greenland with you! Cover photos: Blue Lagoon; Zodiac ride in Disko Bay, Greenland. Opposite: Guests walking along the tundra, Ilulissat, Greenland. Ship s Registry: Bahamas 1
EXPLORE THE LANDS OF FIRE & ICE For the adventure traveler, no destination today has anything close to the cool allure of those in Arctic latitudes. Iceland and Greenland with their unearthly beauty, fascinating Nordic heritage, and some of the most spectacular geology on Earth are beckoning seasoned and novice travelers alike. We invite you to join us for what so many travelers are now discovering landscapes beyond the familiar, an Earth of wondrous dynamism, and the remote habitations of a hardy people somehow at home in polar climes. Over the course of one week, you ll have the unique opportunity to explore by land, sea, and air as you study the extreme and geologically extraordinary contrasts of these lands, from Iceland s thermal baths to Greenland s gigantic glaciers, which can stretch over 100 miles. This active and engaging itinerary allows you to spend three days in Reykjavík and its environs. Then discover West Greenland s ragged and wild coastline, hiking the frozen tundra, Zodiac cruising among towering icebergs, and keeping a lookout for humpback and minke whales. Opposite page (clockwise from top): Guests approach an iceberg by Zodiac in Ilulissat, Greenland; soak in the Blue Lagoon's famous thermal baths; visit Kerid Crafter Lake, a nearly neon blue lake sitting in a volcano; join a biking tour of Reykjavík; be on the lookout for humpback whales; Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral. Above: Iceland's Geysir at the Golden Circle; photograph the quirky puffins; ride an Icelandic horse through the Hafnarfjörður lava field. 3
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THE PERFECT PLATFORM FOR EXPLORING THE FAR NORTH National Geographic Explorer is a genuine expedition ship, not a cruise ship masquerading as one. Therefore, she s uniquely equipped to connect each guest intimately with the destination, using a suite of state-of-the-art tools for exploration. Explorer enables the fullest expression of our expedition style of travel: an intimate, authentic, learning-oriented environment. Take in the scenery from the ship's panoramic windows. Explorer provides a welcoming home in the remote subarctic. She is a beautiful ship built with careful attention to details and comfort. Her 81 handsomely appointed cabins and suites, several with balconies, are inviting and relaxing. And her elegant public spaces with their expansive windows provide a constant connection with the sea and the scenery. ENJOY TOOLS FOR REAL EXPLORATION National Geographic Explorer is the bestequipped expedition ship in the world, featuring exceptional tools that make her an extraordinary base for exploration. A fleet of MK-5 Zodiacs, the finest expedition landing craft in the world, enables us to make landfall on wild shores with no docks, stairs, or infrastructure of any sort. ROV being lowered. A portable platform allows the expedition staff to deploy kayaks safely in the most remote coves and inlets. State-of-the-art undersea video technology offers a unique opportunity to see beneath the ocean s surface while staying dry, ensuring that you experience the region up close and personal. Opposite page (clockwise from top): Kayaks allow for personal exploration along Greenland's west coast; enjoy sweeping vistas from the ship's fitness center; there are opportunities to take in the Northern Lights in Iceland and Greenland; expansive decks invite you outdoors to relax; track the voyage route or scan for wildlife on the bridge; Zodiacs enable you to make landings on remote shores. 5
Meet the North Field correspondent and naturalist, Jennifer Kingsley, Ilulissat, Greenland.
TRAVEL WITH AN A+ EXPEDITION TEAM Discover Iceland and Greenland with a veteran expedition leader, an assistant expedition leader, and a team of seven naturalists/cultural specialists well-versed in the region s natural and human history. Joining you aboard to provide relevant perspective is former Prime Minister of Greenland Aleqa Hammond. She has extensive tourism experience and was the commissioner Global Perspectives guest speaker Aleqa Hammond. of the Inuit Circumpolar Council. An underwater specialist will share his expertise and passion for the incredible undersea, while expert photographers and a video chronicler aboard will ensure you go home with amazing shots and a DVD that captures the story of your voyage. A wellness specialist will help enhance the relaxing and revitalizing benefits of life aboard. CAPTURE THE ADVENTURE TAKE GREAT PHOTOS National Geographic Explorer is the only expedition ship exploring these northern latitudes with National Geographic photographers aboard. Accompanying you on this voyage will be Ronan Donovan, a biologist turned photographer and filmmaker who has been featured in many magazines, including National Geographic. He will be flanked by a Lindblad-National Geographic NG Photographer Ronan Donovan. certified photo instructor, a naturalist trained by National Geographic photographers, to assist you with your camera settings, the basics of composition, observation, and more to equip you with skills. Also, try-out the latest photography equipment with the onboard gear locker. Now, every guest from smartphone camera users to semi-pro shooters can stand side-by-side with top photographers, pick up tips in the field, and take great photos. Opposite page (clockwise from top): A naturalist-led Zodiac cruise past towering icebergs; guests are welcome on the bridge to meet the captain; veteran naturalist and expedition leader Tom Ritchie; National Geographic Explorer is at home in the remote subarctic; a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor is at your side in the field to offer tips; guest gets up-close photo of Icelandic horse. 7
HOT SPRINGS & ICEBERGS: ICELAND TO WEST GREENLAND 9 DAYS/7 NIGHTS ABOARD NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER Zodiac gets close to big ice in Ilulissat, Greenland. Discover a thrilling introduction to Iceland and West Greenland on this unique land, sea, and air itinerary. In the course of a week, feel the extreme contrasts of fire and ice, from Iceland's thermal baths to Greenland's glaciers. Get a spectacular view of this massive landscape on charter flights over Greenland's ice cap. Actively explore the deep fjords via Zodiac and kayak, opt to ride Icelandic horses, and enjoy opportunities to search for the legendary Northern Lights and their beautiful cascades of color. DAY 1 AND 2: U.S./KEFLAVÍK, ICELAND/REYKJAVÍK Fly overnight to Reykjavík, the world s northernmost capital. Choose an excursion to swim in the thermal baths of the Blue Lagoon or learn about the hot springs and volcanic activity at the geothermal power plant and experience an Icelandic horse show at the Eldhestar Farm and Riding Centre. (Day 2: L) Salt Kitchen cooking class. DAY 3: REYKJAVÍK Today either take a full day s excursion around the Golden Circle or choose one of three active options: go hiking across the rolling scrublands just outside the city, ride an Icelandic horse through the Hafnarfjörður lava field, or join a cooking class at the Salt Kitchen. Tonight, a special treat: an exclusive dinner and musical performance. (B,L,D) 8
Davis Strait Sisimiut Ilulissat/ Disko Bay Kangerlussuaq GREENLAND (KALAALLIT NUNAAT) ARCTIC CIRCLE Atlantic Ocean ICELAND Reykjavík DAY 4: REYKJAVÍK/KANGERLUSSUAQ, GREENLAND/EMBARK Choose a walking or biking tour of Reykjavík in the morning followed by a chartered flight to Greenland where you may take in stunning views over the Greenland ice cap. Embark National Geographic Explorer. (B,L,D) DAY 5: GREENLAND S WEST COAST & SISIMIUT Dozens of deep fjords carve into Greenland s west coast, many with glaciers fed by the ice cap that covers 80% of Students at the National School for Greenlandic Clothing. the country. Trace this ragged coastline, and search for humpback and minke whales. At Sisimiut, a former whaling port, visit the museum, wander amid a jumble of wooden 18th-century buildings, and welcome aboard students studying the art of making Greenlandic national clothing a cornerstone of the traditional culture. (B,L,D) DAY 6: DISKO BAY & ILULISSAT Sail into Disko Bay and set out to explore a tongue of the Greenland ice cap. Take an extraordinary Zodiac cruise among towering icebergs of the UNESCO World Heritage designated Ilulissat Icefjord. Visit the town of Ilulissat and walk to the archaeological site at Sermermiut Valley. (B,L,D) Exploring Eternity Fjord by kayak. DAY 7: EXPLORING GREENLAND S WEST COAST This is your final day in the scenic fjords to Zodiac cruise, kayak, and hike across the tundra. (B,L,D) DAY 8: KANGERLUSSUAQ/DISEMBARK/REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND Disembark in Kangerlussuaq, take a return charter flight over the Greenland ice cap to Reykjavík, and settle into your hotel. (B,L,D) DAY 9: REYKJAVÍK/ KEFLAVÍK/U.S. Have a guided tour of Reykjanes Peninsula, learn firsthand about the country s innovative approach to geothermal energy, or if you haven t yet experienced the Blue Lagoon, now s your chance! Transfer to Keflavík for flights home. (B,L) Guests take a dip in the Blue Lagoon. 9
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER CAPACITY: 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. REGISTRY: Bahamas. OVERALL LENGTH: 367 feet. National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship and the flagship of the Lindblad fleet. She is a fully stabilized ice-class vessel, which enables us to navigate remote places while providing exceptional comfort. She carries kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac landing craft. An undersea specialist operates a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) and sophisticated undersea video equipment, extending access to the underwater world. PUBLIC AREAS: Bistro bar; chart room; restaurant; Global Gallery; library; lounge with full-service bar and state-of-theart facilities for films, slideshows, and presentations; mud room with lockers for expedition gear, and an observation lounge. The open bridge provides guests an opportunity to meet the officers and captain and learn about navigation. MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with local flair. CABINS: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes, private facilities, and climate controls. Some cabins have balconies. EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: Zodiac landing craft, kayaks, Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), hydrophone, splashcam, underwater video camera, remote-controlled Crow s Nest camera, video microscope. SPECIAL FEATURES: A full-time doctor, undersea specialist, Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor, National Geographic photographer, Global Perspectives guest speaker, and video chronicler. Internet café and laundry. WELLNESS: The vessel is staffed by a wellness specialist and features a glass-enclosed fitness center, outdoor stretching area, a LEXspa treatment room, and sauna. Upper deck cabin with balcony; dining is completely casual with no assigned seating; the library is filled with reference guides and coffee table books. 10
CHART ROOM LOUNGE 101 102 DECK DECK 103 104 105-S 106-S 107 108 SUN DECK VERANDA DECK RESTAURANT BISTRO RECEPTION GALLEY 202 GLOBAL GALLERY 204 201 206 UPPER DECK 203-S 208-S 205 210 207 212 BAL. 209 214 BAL. BAL. 211 216 218 213 220 222 215 224 BAL. BAL. BAL. BAL. BAL. BAL. BAL. 226 217 228 219 221 230 BALCONY BAL. BALCONY 343-T 341-T 339 337 335 333-S 331-S 329-S 327 325 323 321 319 317 315 313 311-S 309-S 307 305 303 301 350 348 346 344 342 340 338 336 334-S 332-S 330-S 328 326 324 322 320 318 316 314 312-S 310-S 308 306 304 302 MAIN DECK Prices are per person, double occupancy unless indicated as solo. CATEGORY 1: $6,990 Main Deck with one or two portholes #301-308 CATEGORY 2: $7,590 Main Deck with window #317-320, 335-336 CATEGORY 3: $7,870 Main Deck with window #313-316, 321-328, 337-340, 342, 344, 346, 348, 350 CATEGORY 4: $8,540 Upper and Veranda Decks with window #103-104, 107-108, 201-202, 204-207, 210, 212, 217, 226, 228 CATEGORY 5: $10,090 Upper Deck with balcony #209, 211, 214, 216, 218, 220-222, 224 CATEGORY 6: $12,110 Veranda Deck Suite #101-102; Upper Deck-Suite with balcony #213 CATEGORY 7: $13,950 Upper Deck Suite with balcony #215, 219, 230 CATEGORY A SOLO: $9,490 Main Deck with window #309-312, 329-334 CATEGORY B SOLO: $9,840 Upper and Veranda Decks with window #105-106, 203, 208 CATEGORY 3 TRIPLE: * Main Deck with window #341, 343 SHARED ACCOMMODATIONS: Available in Categories 1 and 2. SOLE OCCUPANCY: Cabins available in Categories A and B. Note: Cabins #209, 211, 214, 216-218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228, 303-306 These cabins have one queen-sized bed. All other double cabins have two lower single beds; some can convert to a queen-sized bed. *Third person rates are available in the designated triple occupancy cabins at one-half the double occupancy rate. Cabins #341, 343, 101, 102, 215, 219 and 230 can accommodate a third person. 11
INCLUSIVE PRICING ABOARD SHIP Accommodations All meals & 24-hour coffee, tea & soda Beer, wine & cocktails Cappuccinos, lattes & complimentary refillable water bottle Hors d oeuvres & snacks during lounge recap Fully stocked library Sauna Fitness center The guidance & company of the expedition staff Crew gratuities SPECIAL OFFERS 12 ASHORE Three hotel nights in Reykjavík Meals as indicated in itinerary Special access permits, park fees, port taxes Transfers to & from group flights The expertise of the expedition staff ACTIVITIES All shore activities Zodiac & kayak explorations Lectures & presentations in the lounge Musical performances Photo instruction Morning stretch classes with wellness specialist FREE AIR: Book now to receive complimentary in-tour, round-trip charter airfare between Reykjavík and Kangerlussuaq. Also, travel on this voyage and we will cover your bar tab and tips for the crew. (Airfare must be ticketed by Lindblad Expeditions. Valid for new bookings only, subject to availability, and not combinable 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 COST INCLUDES: Accommodations aboard ship; three hotel nights in Reykjavík; all meals and beverages (nonalcoholic and alcoholic except premium brands) aboard ship; meals on land as indicated; charter air between Reykjavík/ Kangerlussuaq; transfers to/from airport if traveling on group flights; all shore excursions, sightseeing, and entrance fees; use of kayaks; taxes, service charges, and gratuities; services of a ship physician and Lindblad s expedition staff and local guides. NOT INCLUDED: Airfare unless otherwise indicated; meals not indicated; passport and visa fees; baggage/accident/ travel protection plan; voyage DVD; items of a personal nature such as premium alcoholic beverages, email, telephone calls, and laundry. SAMPLE AIRFARES: Airfare is an additional cost unless otherwise indicated. Round-trip Newark/Keflavik: Economy from $600; Business from $2,300; Round-trip charter airfare: $1,520 (Reykjavík/Kangerlussuaq). Fares subject to change. Lindblad Expeditions will assist in making your air arrangements for a $50 per person service fee (fee does not apply to charter fare). RESERVATIONS: To confirm your place, an advance payment of US$1,000 per person is required at the time of reservation and is payable by check. FINAL PAYMENT: Due 120 days prior to departure. CANCELLATION POLICY Number of Days Prior to Expedition Start Per Person Cancellation Fee 180 or more days $850 179-120 days Advance payment cost 119-90 days 25% of trip cost 89-60 days 50% of trip cost 59-0 days No refund We strongly recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan. TRAVEL PROTECTION PLAN: Travel protection and medical insurance are available at extra cost. Information will be sent upon registration. ENTRY AND VISA REQUIREMENTS: Guests are advised to verify travel documents (passport/transit visa/entry visa) for the country through which they are transiting and/or entering. Reliable and most current information regarding international travel can be found by contacting the consulate/embassy of the country(s) you are visiting or transiting through. We will not be responsible if you are denied entry or transit into a country, if you are unable to provide valid documents as per the country s requirement. SMOKING POLICY: Allowed only in designated outdoor areas. RESPONSIBILITY AND OTHER TERMS & CONDITIONS: Certain other provisions concerning, among other things, limitations of Lindblad Maritime Enterprises liability for loss of property, injury, illness, or death during the voyage will be provided to all guests on the ship s ticket sent prior to departure or upon request. By registering for a trip, the guest agrees to all such terms and conditions. Prices listed in this brochure are as of publication date, and are subject to change. Lindblad Maritime Enterprises reserves the right to impose surcharges based on increases in the actual cost of fuel. Photo Credits: Alamy, Sisse Brimberg & Cotton Coulson, Stewart Cohen Pictures, Eric Guth, Ralph Lee Hopkins, Sven-Olof Lindblad, Michael Luppino, Laurie McHargue, Michael S. Nolan, Marco Ricca, Vipula Samarakoon / Alamy Stock, Menno Schaefer/Shutterstock, David Vargas.
Please send reservation 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: HOT SPRINGS & ICEBERGS ABOARD NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER SEPTEMBER 9-17, 2018 Please reserve place(s). Name 1: (M/F): (As it appears on passport) Name 1: Date of Birth: (Preferred name for name badge) Name 2: (M/F): (As it appears on passport) Name 2: Date of Birth: (Preferred name for name badge) Street Address: City: State: Zip: Home Phone: Business Phone: Cell Phone: Fax: Email: Accommodations: Double Single Twin share w/friend Share with 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 $ ($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: Date: Signature: Date: Membership: AAAS Sigma Xi ACS #1513 13
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS» Join Dr. Laurie McHargue on a fascinating land, sea, and air journey to Iceland and Greenland.» Feel the contrasts of fire and ice from the Blue Lagoon's thermal baths to kayaking amid glacial ice.» Enjoy an exclusive private dinner in Reykjavík accompanied by acclaimed Icelandic musicians.» See the towering ice edge of Greenland up close and sail among massive icebergs.» Actively explore: hike, kayak, swim, horseback ride, and Zodiac cruise.» Meet Greenland s hardy inhabitants and learn about their way of life.» Look for the Northern Lights in both Iceland and Greenland. Printed on 10% recycled content paper with soy-based inks. We recommend that you pass this along for others to enjoy or recycle. EXPLORE ICELAND & GREENLAND WITH FREE IN-TOUR CHARTER AIR! SEPTEMBER 9-17, 2018 GRP-BET-IWGR18 PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS