Journey in the Sea of Cortez

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1 SAVE $750 per person Journey in the Sea of Cortez December 15 22, 2012 Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird Travel with National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, an awardwinning marine mammal photographer.

2 Cover: Encounter playful sea lions in the Sea of Cortez. Inside cover: The dramatic landscape of Isla Santa Catalina. Ship's Registry: United States

3 Dear Members and Friends, This winter imagine yourself escaping to a world teeming with wildlife, where the cacti are the tallest on Earth, the island beaches show no footprints except your own, and the setting sun seems to glow orange for hours. This is Baja California and the Sea of Cortez, a region so rich with wildlife that it is known as Mexico s Galápagos. Join us from December 15 22, 2012 on an exciting voyage in the Sea of Cortez, with warm weather, few people, and vistas that will make you feel a world away. Cruising aboard the 62-guest National Geographic Sea Bird, you ll find that this expedition is crafted with just the right balance of activity and leisure time. Unlike traditional getaways, you ll travel with a team of expert naturalists to gain the deepest appreciation of all that you ll see. There are tremendous kayaking opportunities along cliffs and off beaches in this clear sea. You can snorkel with playful sea lions, hike untouched shores full of wild cacti, head out in Zodiac landing craft in search of dolphins and sea lions, or simply take in your surroundings while relaxing on board. Plus, we ll explore the quiet seaside town of Loreto and venture into the mountains to see San Javier Mission to experience the culture and history of the welcoming locals. I hope you ll join us for this adventure that is both enriching and fun. You ll come away from your expedition renewed and with an appreciation of how much a week s time can change your perspective. Book now to receive $750 per person off the voyage rate. To reserve your place, please call or return the attached reservation form. Sincerely, Margaret M. Betchart President, Betchart Expeditions, Inc. For AAAS Travels, ACS & Sigma Xi Expeditions Ship s registry: United States 1

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5 Discover an Eco-playground of Pure Wildness With improbably inviting shorelines and crystal-clear waters, it s easy to call Baja California and the Sea of Cortez a beach destination. It is. But when you explore further, you ll find that the surprisingly varied habitats and rich, endemic wildlife place it in a class all by itself. You ll find the Sea of Cortez bursting with marine life, but virtually empty of humans. The ocean explodes with hundreds of dolphins racing to the ship, and the sea boils as boobies plunge in search of fish. The Sea of Cortez is one of the planet s richest seas of similar latitude, so it is well deserved that Jacques Cousteau named it the aquarium of the world. But this Baja offers much more than sea life. Venture to the seaside town of Loreto and into the Sierra de la Giganta mountains to visit San Javier Mission, the second oldest mission on the peninsula. Use the ship s kayaks to explore protected lagoons and observe rich and diverse birdlife along the shores. Disembark on a Zodiac with a naturalist and land on an otherwise inaccessible shoreline to explore a deserted island. Hike through an otherworldly forest of gigantic cacti that tower overhead. World Heritage Site It s no surprise that islands in the Sea of Cortez were 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): Binoculars help reveal the desert s varied plants and wildlife; kayaks enable guests to explore Baja s many hidden coves; wooden sculpture of San Javier in San Javier Mission; originally constructed in 1697, Loreto Mission was the first mission in Baja California; a royal tern takes off. 3

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7 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 landing 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 vibrantly colored undersea realm in these crystal-clear waters. All snorkeling equipment is provided. Underwater Camera: See the vibrant marine life without getting wet. An underwater camera can feed live images to the lounge, and often HD underwater videos shot during the day are played in the evening. Microscope: 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. 5

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9 The Thrill of Photography in Baja California Baja California is beautiful, so photography and our expeditions go hand-in-hand. The peerless light where the desert meets the sea offers photographic opportunities unlike any other place on Earth. To capture moments at the heart of your expedition, you ll travel with a Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Certified Photo Instructor a naturalist who s specially trained to help you with your camera s settings and ensure you go home with the photos of a lifetime. You ll learn tricks for shooting close-ups of flowering cacti, striking desert and sea landscapes from afar and capturing the action of rare birds flitting past your lens. Our Baja expeditions are perfect for every photographer, from point-and-shoot enthusiasts to burgeoning pros. Travel with and learn from National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, a renowned marine mammal photographer who was also named Photographer Of The Year for 2012 by the North American Nature Photography Association. Splendid Isolation Baja California is just a short flight from Los Angeles, and it offers a splendid, peaceful isolation in pure nature. We rarely see other boats while exploring here, save for the occasional fishing skiff piloted by a local. Find yourself immersed in the pure wildness of Baja California from the moment you set foot on the ship. Hike a forest of giant cacti pausing to shoot photos, relax on a secluded desert island beach, or paddle the azure sea. Unplug in this wild place and find your spirit recharged. Opposite page (clockwise from top): Guest with camera; naturalists share photo tips in small group and even one-on-one settings; photographer captures Baja s stunning sunset and landscape; guest photographing the varied plant life of Baja. 7

10 Journey in the Sea of Cortez Itinerary: 8 DAYS/7 NIGHTS Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird Discover an adventurous playground of pure wildness on an island-hopping, holiday expedition in the Sea of Cortez. You ll discover an azure sea that teems with dolphins, sea lions, seabirds, and extraordinary marine life. Sail among these seldom-visited islands, and enjoy many opportunities to kayak along dramatic soaring cliffs and sandy beaches. The moment you see the shimmering desert reflect in the blue sea, you ll realize why UNESCO named the islands in the Sea of Cortez a World Heritage site for their value in the unaltered, natural state. Pacific Ocean Sea of Cortez Baja California Mexico Loreto Isla Santa Catalina Isla San José Isla Espíritu Santo La Paz Los Cabos Airport If you are thinking of bringing the family, take advantage of special activities planned for families. Kids are led on scavenger hunts by naturalists, given Zodiac-driving lessons, and offered special point-and-shoot photo sessions with a certified photo instructor. A family adventure means sharing encounters with amazing wildlife in an unforgettable natural landscape and memories that will last a lifetime. On the islands, you ll hike through forests of giant cacti or search for birds and other wildlife that are found nowhere else in the world. Plus, visit the historic town of Loreto and stroll the streets with your photo instructor, and then visit the beautifully preserved 300-year-old San Javier Mission. Pod of long-beaked common dolphins swimming in the Sea of Cortez. A gray whale calf pokes its rostrum out of the water a few feet from guests. 13

11 You ll discover the richness of the Sea of Cortez s marine life all around the ship and with help from our undersea specialist, who shoots video of life beneath the sea. And you ll see it for yourself when you don snorkeling gear to dive in and swim with playful sea lions. Day 1: U.S./Los Cabos or La Paz, Mexico/ Embark La Paz Transfer from Los Cabos Airport or La Paz Airport to the ship in La Paz and embark. (D) Days 2-7: Exploring the Sea of Cortez Along with their designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the islands of the Sea of Cortez are a playground of exploration. Throughout your voyage, you will have a tremendous selection of activities from Zodiac cruising and snorkeling to kayaking and hiking. Or take part in yoga and stretching classes on deck. We ll put our 30 years of experience in the Sea of Cortez to work and, with many options in place, find the best possible opportunities each day. Track whales and bottlenose dolphins near Isla Danzante. Explore A Zodiac brings guests ashore on a pristine beach for a barbecue and campfire under a starry sky; a snorkeler islands such as Isla San José or Isla captures the rich marine life with an underwater camera. Santa Catalina, with its giant cacti and extraordinary bird and marine life. Take in a beach barbecue beneath a starry sky. Spend time searching for whales, dolphins, sea lions, and other wildlife amid the rich waters. Explore the seaside town of Loreto and journey into the Sierra de la Giganta mountains to visit San Javier Mission, the second oldest mission in the peninsula. Kayak along the cliff-lined coast of Isla Espíritu Santo, and swim and snorkel with sea lions at Los Islotes. (B,L,D) Day 8: La Paz/Disembark/Home Visit the serpentarium, stroll along the Malecón, and take in a music performance and local lunch. Fly from either La Paz or Los Cabos back to the U.S. (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 flavors. 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. TAKE $750 OFF THE PUBLISHED RATES BELOW. 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 Note Journey in the Sea of Cortez $4,250 $4,990 $5,890 $6,370 $7,480 $1,000 Sample Airfare: Round-trip Los Angeles/ La Paz/Los Angeles: Economy from $650. Subject to change. 10

13 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 SAVINGS: Take $750 off the voyage rate per person. (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 Costs Include: Accommodations aboard ship; 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; items of a personal nature such as alcoholic beverages, voyage DVD, , and laundry; gratuities to ship s crew at your discretion. Airfare: Airfare is an additional cost. Sample airfares are subject to change. Lindblad Expeditions will gladly assist in making your air arrangements. There will be a $50 per person service fee if you elect for Lindblad to handle your air arrangements. 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 no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel Protection Plan: Travel protection and medical insurance are available at extra cost. Information will be sent upon registration. 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. CANCELLATION POLICY Number of Days Prior to Expedition Start Per Person Cancellation Fee 90 or more days $ days Advance payment cost days 50% of trip cost 29 0 days No refund We strongly recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan. Itinerary and 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. 12

15 Reservation Form: Journey in the Sea of Cortez December 15 22, 2012 Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird 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: Home Phone: Business Phone: Cell Phone: Fax: Accommodations: Double Single Twin share w/friend _ Twin share (Roommate assigned by tour operator) Please return to: Betchart Expeditions, Inc Montebello Road Cupertino, CA Phone: (800) or (408) info@betchartexpeditions.com 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 #

16 Expedition Highlights Take a winter holiday in one of the world s most inspiring places. Travel aboard a 62-guest ship with an expert staff of naturalists, including an undersea specialist and photo instructor. Discover Baja California s abundant bird life, dolphins, sea lions, giant cardon cacti, and more. Kayak in turquoise waters, hike up desert canyons, and snorkel among sea lions. Explore historic Loreto and the oldest missions in Baja California. Printed on 20% recycled content paper with soy-based inks. We recommend that you pass this along for others to enjoy or recycle. GRP-BET-COR312 prsrt std U.S. Postage paid Lindblad Expeditions SAVE $750 per person