Wild California Escape: Channel Islands National Park (NG SeaBird & SeaLion)

Description

Welcome to a new kind of getaway
We’ve created a 5-day Wildness + Wellness adventure in the remote and remarkable Channel Islands. Board the National Geographic Sea Lion, National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Quest or National Geographic Venture, your floating base camp, in Los Angeles, and head for three of the five wildlife-rich islands which make up Channel Islands National Park, plus Catalina Island. Here, you’ll actively explore unmarred landscapes, revel in pure nature, and rejuvenate mind, body, and soul with our well-being programs.

Almost every national park in the U.S. is easy to get to, but the Channel Islands are separated from the mainland by miles of ocean. What we offer you is unique and effortless access—to wild beauty and pristine nature— for 5 days/4 nights, using our ship as a base camp.

And you can freely roam. Our ship is akin to a safari camp in Africa—comfortable, in the heart of things, yet mobile. Everything you want is aboard—paddleboards, kayaks, and expedition landing craft; a welcoming crew; smart naturalists; a wellness specialist; fitness instructors; and even a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor to help you up your photo game and capture all the unbelievable opportunities.

Expect the unexpected
Our itinerary is a plan, but flexibility and spontaneity are a big part of it. Our ace spotters are always ‘on it,’ and if they sight a blue whale, they’ll let you know—so you won’t miss a thing nature has to offer. If conditions cancel one option, a landing for example, our nimble team will have another. They might surprise you with a BBQ on deck or a dance party under stars. Your getaway might be compact, but it’s a genuine expedition, so there’s always room for magic. And choice—enjoy your getaway your way.

Trip Name

Wild California Escape: Channel Islands National Park (NG SeaBird & SeaLion)

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Comfortable Expedition Length: 52 metres Passenger Capacity: 62 (in twin cabins) Built: 1982 / Refurbished 2015 Twin Expedition ships, National Geographic Sea Bird & Sea Lion, can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to their small size, yet each can comfortably accommodate 62 guests. The feeling, is often compared to that of a large private yacht, with everyone integral to the adventure. Accessibility means freedom. Our captains have decades of sailing experience in the regions we explore. They know when and where to navigate so that you feel the places we visit are all ours. Full interior renovations have been completed on these twin 62-guest ships, National Geographic Sea Lion and National Geographic Sea Bird. The extensive renovation to guest cabins, the lounge and bar, dining room, public areas and spa has transformed the ships to provide the ultimate in expedition hospitality and comfort. Nothing has been left untouched, from the sleekly framed wall photos, to the fresh paint, and new carpets throughout the ships. - The lounge and bar have been completely redesigned and reconfigured to provide an open, enhanced environment with additional seating and better flow. The modern design features new tables and chairs, upholstery of settees, overhead ceiling panels, and LED dimmable lighting. The lounge also hosts a new food & beverage area, library, and Global Market. - The dining room’s upgrade features all new tables, chairs, ceiling panels, and LED dimmable lighting. The wine bar has been replaced and features a display showcasing selections from the regions explored. - Every cabin has been completely redone and all furnishings have been replaced. Modern aged cherry bed boxes, faux leather headboards, Lindblad signature bed linens, new windows, lighting, and additional USB outlets provide a dramatic makeover for a relaxing guest experience. Bathrooms now feature new shower doors and all new hardware. - Exterior renovations include new deck furniture and outdoor awning.

Itinerary

Day 1 - DAY 1: Los Angeles, CA/Embark

Arrive in Los Angeles, or toss your bag in your car if you live there, and head to the Port of Los Angeles in the afternoon to be welcomed aboard National Geographic Sea Lion. Familiarize yourself with the ship, stow your stuff, and take in the sights on the ship’s deck. We’ll embark in the early evening—for a short exhale presentation on mindfulness, cocktails and a sunset cruise (aka golden hour for photographers!) (D)

Day 2 - DAY 2: Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands, Channel Islands National Park

Day 3 - DAY 3: Santa Rosa Island, Channel Islands National Park

Wake to the ship at anchor off the rocky outcropping of East Anacapa Island. Join your fitness instructor on the sundeck for morning yoga, before heeding the call of the breakfast buffet. After breakfast, join naturalists aboard our expedition landing craft to go ashore on East Anacapa. The goal is the Anacapa Lighthouse, built in 1912, the last major light station to be built on the west coast. Soak in the views from Inspiration Point or, for a more relaxing option, explore Arch Rock via zodiac. After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring Santa Cruz island: leisurely walking, birding, or working with your certified photo instructor to capture the natural beauty. Or opt for a strenuous hike and make your FitBit proud. Grab a kayak and explore the impressive sea caves. Head back to the ship to refresh for cocktail hour and Recap before dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - DAY 4: Catalina Island

Spend the day discovering the colorful history and natural wonders of Catalina Island. Once a haunt of smugglers and gold-diggers, the island was transformed into a resort destination by chewing gum tycoon William Wrigley, Jr. in the 1920s. Some 50 years later, William’s heirs, Philip K. Wrigley and Dorothy Wrigley Offield, established the Catalina Island Conservancy, protecting nearly 90 percent of the island. After a morning workout on deck followed by breakfast, meet with a member of the Conservancy for a guided walk along the coastline and into the backcountry. With luck, we may catch a glimpse—or a photo—of the elusive fox species endemic to the island. Head for the water to kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or opt for another dive if you’re certified.After lunch, the ship drops anchor in Avalon Harbor, where you’ll have time to explore on your own. Ride a bike through Avalon, a town of less than 5,000, or hike up to Avalon Canyon for spectacular views and a visit to the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden--featuring Ada Wrigley's original desert exotica collection as well as a collection of Channel Island endemic plants--plus the spectacular tile and rockwork all from Catalina Island. Or step into an architectural gem: the art deco Catalina Casino, built by William Wrigley, Jr. in 1929. Return to the ship for sunset yoga on deck, a farewell dinner, and a last evening at sea. (B,L,D)

Day 5 - DAY 5: Los Angeles/Disembark

Awake dockside in the bustling Port of Los Angeles. (Early risers can catch the action in one of the world’s largest ports.) Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking and either transferring to the airport or heading to your car or Uber—refreshed by your getaway—to the clang and clamor of contemporary life.

Day 6 - Please note:

All day-by-day breakdowns are a sampling of the places we intend to visit, conditions permitting.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Exult in the pristine beauty of the islands and roam free in wide-open spaces
Take a leisurely trail walk with a naturalist, looking out for the astonishing number of endemic flora & fauna
Explore fascinating sea caves by kayak or paddleboard
Find your center with daily guided meditation sessions
Challenge body and mind with fitness classes
Stroll white-sand beaches or spend time exploring bustling tide pools
Take in panoramic views & spectacular landscapes on mindfulness hikes + post-hike assisted stretching sessions
Enjoy a sunset cocktail party on deck, then end the day with stargazing