Have you ever dreamed of exploring an incredibly well-preserved place, rich in unique flora and fauna, and teeming with wildlife found nowhere else on Earth? Imagine doing all of this while sailing with an expedition cruise line affiliated with National Geographic—sounds like a dream, right? Well, keep reading!

I recently had the unforgettable experience of journeying through the Galápagos Islands aboard Lindblad Expeditions’ Islander II, and it was everything I imagined. This trip is perfect for the active traveler, like myself, who enjoys hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking—none of it too strenuous—and has a thirst for knowledge.

A Journey with National Geographic Naturalists
One of the most fascinating aspects of this adventure was the team of expert naturalists onboard. These are individuals who truly live and breathe the Galápagos. Each day, they guided us through the islands, sharing their deep knowledge of the region’s geology, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Their passion was contagious! With every hike or snorkel, we learned something new—about the curious marine iguanas sunbathing on the rocks or the playful sea lions that joined us for a swim. It really felt like I was part of something bigger, like I was stepping into a living laboratory.

A Carefully Planned Experience
If you’re someone who enjoys a good schedule, you’re in luck. The days on the Islander II are quite structured, with a full roster of activities from the moment the sun rises. Whether it was a morning hike up volcanic terrain, a mid-day snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or an afternoon kayaking adventure along the coastlines, there was always something to do. The best part? None of it was too difficult! You don’t need to be an extreme adventurer to enjoy it; it’s about connecting with nature and soaking up the beauty around you.

While there’s plenty of scheduled activity, there’s also some downtime to relax and take in your surroundings. Whether you wanted to catch up on a book, join a lecture by one of the naturalists, or simply sit on the deck and watch the birds fly by, the ship offered a nice balance of structure and freedom.

Adventure for the Knowledge-Seeker
For those with a thirst for knowledge, this trip delivers in spades. Each excursion felt like a discovery, and every moment was an opportunity to learn something new. Hiking across lava fields or observing the courtship rituals of blue-footed boobies, I was constantly in awe of the natural wonders the Galápagos has to offer. It’s not just about seeing the wildlife—it’s about understanding it.

Snorkeling brought us up close to vibrant underwater life, from schools of colorful fish to graceful sea turtles gliding through the water. Kayaking allowed us to explore hidden coves, and hiking gave us stunning views of the islands’ unique landscapes. Everywhere we turned, there was something fascinating to observe, always with the guidance of our knowledgeable naturalists.

The Perfect Blend of Adventure and Insight
In the end, this expedition isn’t just a trip—it’s an enriching, once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s for the traveler who wants a balance of adventure and insight, who seeks not just to see the world but to understand it. Whether you’re hiking the trails or snorkeling among sea lions, every moment brings you closer to the magic of the Galápagos.

So, if you’ve been dreaming of a destination that combines exploration, wildlife, and a bit of luxury aboard an expedition ship, consider Lindblad Expeditions. It’s the perfect journey for the curious, active traveler who loves nature and wants to connect with one of the most extraordinary places on the planet.

There will be a Facebook Live I will be co-hosting with Cara, a rep from Lindblad and it will be all about The Galapagos Islands. Tuesday November 5 @ 6:00pm. Make sure to follow me on my facebook page.

All photos are my own!