Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive Small Ship Expeditions with Destinations from Pole to Pole

Smithsonian Journeys is teaming up with Lindblad Expeditions to offer travelers passage aboard eight exclusive Small Ship Expeditions with destinations from pole to pole beginning November 2008. Accompanied by expert study leaders and naturalists, the tours offered throughout the year will explore some of the most pristine, and often remote, habitats on the planet. Traveling on these small ships, participants will have the opportunity to get close to native wildlife while cruising in comfort and safety.

Beginning the year of expeditions is “Antarctica Aboard National Geographic Explorer,” one of six trips aboard state-of-the-art, specially appointed expeditionvessels in the Small Ship schedule. Travelers depart the United States on Nov. 11 and embark their ship in Ushuaia, Argentina. On their first day at sea, they will traverse the Drake Passage on the way to the Antarctic Circle’s outlying islands. Daily expeditions utilize the nearly 24 hours of daylight to explore Antarctica’s waters, bergs and creatures. Expert Michael Lang, Smithsonian’s Scientific Diving Officer, leads expeditions in Zodiacs and kayaks to observe penguins and whales or simply observe the breathtaking beauty of this faraway continent. On the cruise back to Cape Horn, passengers have time to relax in the onboard spa, catch-up with reading in the library and mingle with new friends made on this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

For those preferring warmer weather, Smithsonian Journey’s “Sailing the Caribbean” offers an unparalleled experience aboard the tall ship Sea Cloud II. Departing in December, this eight-day journey stops in six of the regions most picturesque islands. A flexible schedule allows participants multiple opportunities to snorkel in the Grenadines, hike through a Dominican rainforest with Smithsonian botanist, John Kress, and explore the charming French town of Iles des Saintes. Travelers will find their time aboard equally inspiring with the unique opportunity to watch the unfurling of the Sea Cloud II’s traditional hand-set sails.

About Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys, the educational travel program of the Smithsonian Institution, is dedicated to the life-enriching experiences of educational travel. More than 250 international itineraries are led by eminent study experts. For more information, call 1 (877) EDU-TOUR (338-8687) or visit www.smithsonianjourneys.org.

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SI-370-2008