1. sports
2. diving

EXPEDITIONS
2014–2015 Catalog
Researchers approach a pod of killer whales
in Antarctica to install a tracking device.
© Roderic Mast
Dear Traveler,
As Oceanic Society’s newest leader, I am
thrilled to present to you our 2014–2015
catalog of expeditions.
The travel experiences described herein are
more than the average “eco-tourism” offerings.
Each expedition is selected, designed, and
guided by working field biologists, naturalists,
and conservationists with the intent to
deliver life-changing nature experiences to
our members and, ultimately, to create a more
oceanic society that will have a positive and
lasting impact on the oceans.
That is our mission—to conserve marine
wildlife and habitats by deepening the
connections between people and nature—a
purpose we have proudly pursued since 1969.
I hope you will join us on an expedition in
2014–2015. Together we can become the
agents of change that will build a healthy
future for the oceans.
Roderic Mast
President and CEO
Oceanic Society
CONTENTS
4
Our Travel Philosophy
6
Our Conservation Impact
8
From Ridge To Reef
Galápagos Islands
Micronesia: Ulithi, Yap, and Palau
Kenya: From Hyenas to Humpbacks
The Wilds of Suriname & Guyana
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Designed for Snorkelers
Honduras: Bay Islands
Belize Snorkeling & Coral Reef Ecology
Raja Ampat Archipelago by Liveaboard
Palau Islands by Motor Yacht
Palau: Snorkeling the Rock Islands
From Bali to Komodo by Boat
Whales of Raja Ampat: Megafauna & Snorkeling
Australia: Cruising the Great Barrier Reef
Raja Ampat & Spice Islands Cruise
26
Wildlife encounters
Florida: Manatees & Endangered Habitats
Baja: San Ignacio Lagoon & Sea of Cortez
Baja: Sea of Cortez Wildlife Voyage by Boat
Tonga: Snorkeling with Humpback Whales
Baja: Whales & Wildness in the Sea of Cortez
34
Polar Cruises
Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent
Arctic Norway: Land of the Ice Bears
38
Volunteer Vacations
The Oceanic Society Field Station
Belize: Studying Antillean Manatees
Belize: Coral Reef Monitoring (Snorkeling)
Belize: Bottlenose Dolphin Behavior
Belize: Family Week
Belize: Coral Reef Monitoring (Scuba)
Bahamas Dolphin Research
Ulithi Atoll: Sea Turtle Research
Ulithi Atoll: Coral Reef Research
Reservations: 1-800-326-7491 | oceanicsociety.org
46
48
Meet our trip leaders
Naturalists
Researchers & Belize Staff
Terms & conditions
General Terms & Conditions
Become a Member
Special trips planned with Dr.
Sylvia Earle in 2014—call for details!
What’s New IN 2014-2015?
• Expanded offerings in Raja
Ampat (p. 18, 25) & Baja
California (pp. 30-31, 33).
• Polar cruises in partnership with
Lindblad Expeditions (pp. 36-37).
• Exclusive family-friendly manatee
program in Florida (p. 28).
• New “Waves” membership
program (p. 49).
• Custom and VIP trips now
available—call us to discuss
your custom travel needs.
our travel philosopHy
Oceanic Society’s mission is to conserve marine wildlife and habitats by deepening the
connections between people and nature. We strive to facilitate meaningful, life-changing
experiences for our travelers—ones that will inspire them to become more intimately
involved in conservation long after the expedition is over.
And on the ground in the places we visit, our expeditions support conservation, research,
and community development efforts that serve to underpin long-term sustainable
relationships between people and the oceans.
By participating in an Oceanic Society expedition, you are more than just another traveler.
You are an active participant in our global effort to build a healthy future for the oceans.
Authentic
As a non-profit conservation organization with decades of global experience, our
extensive network of staff and conservation partners gives us access to special insights
and opportunities that are not available through other travel operators. Our trips are guided
by working field biologists, naturalists, and conservationists who are knowledgeable and
passionate, and we partner with local residents to enrich their lives as well as yours.
Educational
As lifelong students of nature, we believe that appreciation of the natural world is
enhanced through knowledge. Our trip leaders are trained to interpret nature in engaging
ways and to provide information that enhances your experience by explaining the science
behind the species and habitats you will observe. We also team up with local experts
whenever possible to give you opportunities to learn from the latest field research.
4
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Diane McTurk, giant otter expert, instructs
Oceanic Society travelers on otter rehabilitation
efforts in Guyana. © Wayne Sentman
Life-changing
We aim to do more than take you on an amazing trip. We want your travel experience
to positively impact your life and inspire you to become an active participant in building
a healthy future for the oceans. We select, design, and lead our expeditions around this
bold idea, and empower our travelers with the tools and knowledge they need to become
part of the growing “oceanic society.”
Impactful
Travelers with Oceanic Society can rest assured that their travel dollars are well spent.
We take great care to partner with travel operators, non-profit organizations, and
individuals who share our commitment to preserving the natural world and supporting
local community well-being. Moreover, your program fees help support Oceanic Society’s
global research, conservation, and outreach programs.
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
5
our conservation impact
The oceans are in trouble. Overfishing, climate change, acidification, pollution, and other
human-induced threats are taking their toll on life in the seas. Yet people need healthy
oceans to survive. Oceans absorb heat and regulate climate, they supply oxygen and
food and support human livelihoods, and they provide immeasurable aesthetic and
spiritual benefits.
Since 1969, Oceanic Society has been working globally to protect the health of ocean
ecosystems. Our unique approach combines field research and conservation, education
and outreach, and transformational travel programs to motivate and facilitate oceanfriendly actions by key audiences ranging from legislators, CEOs, and community leaders
to teenagers, parents, and retirees.
GLOBAL SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION
Oceanic Society is proud to manage the premiere global alliances for sea turtle
conservation—the IUCN Marine Turtle Specialist Group, and the State of the World’s Sea
Turtles Program. These programs are partnerships among hundreds of individuals and
institutions who combine their efforts to develop and provide tools and resources that
strengthen local sea turtle conservation efforts worldwide.
Conservation science in ULithi Atoll
Since 2004, Oceanic Society has been assisting the community on Falalop in Ulithi Atoll,
Micronesia in their effort to sustainably manage local marine resources. Our initial focus
was on sea turtle research and the development of a small eco-tourism program. More
recently, we have been working to assess the feasibility of establishing a locally-managed
marine area and to develop a marine resource management plan for the community.
6
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Hatchling olive ridley sea turtles. © Roderic Mast
biodiversity of turneffe atoll, belize
In 2001 Oceanic Society made a bold commitment to conservation of the Mesoamerican
reef ecosystem by purchasing land at Blackbird Caye in Turneffe Atoll, Belize and
establishing a research station. Since that time we have hosted dozens of field scientists
and thousands of visitors through research, eco-tourism, and volunteer programs, which
we are proud to continue today.
California’s marine mammals
Founded and based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Oceanic Society has a long-standing
commitment to the conservation of California’s marine resources. Since the early 1980s,
we have been leading educational whale watching programs that have allowed California
residents and visitors to see and learn about marine mammals, seabirds, and other wildlife
first hand. These trips are also used to support valuable research on marine mammals.
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
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From Ridge
to Reef
Since 1969, we have guided tens of
thousands of travelers on life-changing
journeys to explore the natural wonders
of the world. While the goal of these
travels has been to create a more oceanic
society, the connections between life on
land and life in the sea are inextricable.
Moreover, there are many land-based
natural wonders that would be a real
shame to miss!
The following expeditions combine
exploration on land and at sea to deliver
a life-changing nature experience
from ridge to reef. Each travel program
is crafted to provide first-hand
experiential learning opportunities
of real-world conservation issues,
facilitated by your expert guide. More
importantly, your participation directly
supports active preservation of marine
ecosystems.
8
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
An aerial view of Tayrona National Park on
the coastline of Colombia. © Roderic Mast
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
9
FROM RIDGE TO REEF | THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS
The Galápagos Islands
Darwin’s laboratory of evolution, and one of the most spectacular natural history destinations on Earth.
Galápagos sea lions. © Roderic Mast
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 11 DAYS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Unmatched wildlife viewing opportunities with the unique terrestrial
and marine life of the Galápagos Islands.
Day 1: Guayaquil | Day 2: San Cristóbal |
Day 3-9: Visit Española, Floreana, Isabela,
Bartolomé, Mosquera, Santa Cruz | Day
›› Comfortable island-hopping on one of three luxury yachts.
10: Guayaquil | Day 11: Fly home
›› Diverse daily activities include hiking, bird watching, beach snorkeling,
panga rides, and optional scuba diving.
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
The Galápagos Islands are one of the greatest natural history destinations on
Earth and have been a staple of our expedition offerings for more than 30 years.
This remote archipelago, 600 miles off Ecuador’s coast, provided the seeds for
Darwin’s theory of evolution. Its uniquely adapted flora and fauna provide
visitors with a living classroom of evolution and natural history.
The Galápagos offer intimate encounters with wildlife. On our trip you can
snorkel with penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas, and sea turtles, and walk
amid giant tortoises, iguanas, boobies, albatross, and many other species
found nowhere else. Our cruise partners have been carefully selected for their
sustainability practices and quality of service, and all trips are family-friendly.
© Ecoventura
10
© Wayne Sentman
From $4,240 / person
Group limit 20 (10 cabins)
PROGRAM DATES
Many dates available, please inquire.
All trips begin on Saturday in Guayaquil.
Family and SCUBA programs available
NATURALIST
Galápagos trained guides lead every trip.
© Roderic Mast
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Micronesia: ulithi, yap, and palau | FROM RIDGE TO REEF
Micronesia: Ulithi, Yap, and Palau
Snorkel Micronesia’s stunning reefs and experience vibrant local cultures on this multinational expedition.
A macro view of a pipefish in Palau. © Fish ‘n Fins
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 15 DAYS
Day 1-2: Honolulu - Koror | Day 3-7: Palau
| Day 8: Koror - Yap | Day 9: Yap - Ulithi |
Day 10-12: Ulithi Atoll | Day 13: Ulithi - Yap
| Day 14: Yap | Day 15: Yap - Honolulu
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
$4,995 / person
›› Miles of healthy coral reefs in crystal clear water showcasing a diverse
landscape of marine life including sea turtles, sharks, and manta rays.
›› Visits to the famous Jellyfish Lake and Rock Islands (Palau), a new
manta ray sanctuary (Yap), and sea turtle nesting beaches (Ulithi).
›› Our partnership with the people of Ulithi Atoll gives you special access.
Our multi-country exploration of the western Pacific will expose you to the
pristine reefs, clear waters, tropical landscapes, and vibrant cultural traditions that
have lured adventurers here for centuries.
Group limit 14
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
May 11-24
To be announced
NATURALIST
Rod Mast, Hannah Bernard, Jon Rulmal
© Fish ‘n Fins
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
We begin in Palau with a multi-day exploration of the protected Rock Islands,
including the famous Jellyfish Lake. Proceeding on to Yap, we snorkel in a manta
ray sanctuary and visit the stone money banks of the local villages. The next five
days are at Ulithi Atoll, a remote and rarely-visited set of tropical isles encircling a
turquoise lagoon. On Falalop Island, our partnership with the community provides
exclusive access to the pristine coral reef and island fauna of coconut crabs, seabird
colonies, and nesting sea turtles. A final day in Yap allows us one more snorkel.
© Wayne Sentman
© Wayne Sentman
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
11
FROM RIDGE TO REEF | KENYA : From Hyenas to Humpbacks
Kenya: From Hyenas to Humpbacks
The classic safari, reinvented. Exploring how art, recycling, and public health affect conservation in Kenya.
A lion cub at sunset. © Roderic Mast
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 15 DAYS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Combines visits to areas of the densest wildlife concentrations in East
Africa with snorkeling and whale watching along Kenya’s coast.
›› Interact with community conservation leaders and artists to learn
about modern conservation efforts in Kenya.
›› Timed to match the peak of wildebeest migration in the Mara.
An exciting new program that combines a top-quality nature experience with
an insider’s look at wildlife conservation in Kenya. Our itinerary combines
terrestrial and marine wildlife viewing, with visits to Kenya’s best national parks
during migration season, plus snorkeling and whale watching along the coastline.
Throughout the trip we have created opportunities for the traveler to engage
with and learn from local community conservation leaders and artists. This
program is designed to create a life-changing experience and allow the traveler
to come away with not just pretty pictures, but also firsthand exposure to how
local community needs and ingenuity play a role in modern day conservation of
predators and marine resources in Kenya.
© El Karama
12
© Wayne Sentman
Day 1: Nairobi | Day 2-4: Meru National
Park | Day 5-6: Laikipia | Day 7-8: Nakuru
National Park | Day 9-11: Masai Mara |
Day 12-14: Watamu | Day 15: Nairobi
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
$5,590 + $690 park fees / person
Single supplement $1,050
Group limit 12
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
July 18 - Aug 1
July (TBA)
NATURALIST
Wayne Sentman
© Wayne Sentman
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
THE WILDS OF SURINAME AND GUYANA | FROM RIDGE TO REEF
The Wilds of Suriname and Guyana
Abundant nesting sea turtles, large tracts of pristine rainforest, and vibrant indigenous cultures.
A giant anteater in Guyana. © Wayne Sentman
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 15 DAYS
Day 1: Georgetown | Day 2-5: Karanambu
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
8-9: Galibi | Day 10-13: Raleighvallen | Day
›› Explore the region’s vast, pristine wilderness stretching from the
Amazonian interior to the unspoiled Caribbean coast.
14: Paramaribo | Day 15: Fly home
›› Interact with diverse cultural groups and see the region in a new light.
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
›› Visit real-world conservation programs that protect sea turtles, river
otters, and much more.
| Day 6: Kaieteur | Day 7: Paramaribo | Day
To be announced - please call.
Suriname and Guyana are remarkable countries of pristine natural beauty and
diverse human cultures. They boast vast, undeveloped tropical wildernesses that
stretch from the Amazonian interior to the wild Caribbean coast.
Group limit 10
PROGRAM DATES
Our trip takes you to our favorite nature reserves and conservation centers
in the region, including Karanambu Ranch, where orphaned giant otters are
rehabilitated, spectacular Kaieteur Falls, which we view from the air and by foot,
Galibi Nature Reserve, with abundant nesting sea turtles, and Raleighvallen
Nature Reserve, home to diverse primates, birds including the spectacular Cockof-the-Rock, and much more. This is a wilderness and wildlife lover’s dream trip,
with a focus on close-up wildlife observation in pristine natural habitats.
2015
March (TBA)
NATURALIST
Wayne Sentman
© Roderic Mast
© Roderic Mast
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
© Wayne Sentman
13
Designed for
Snorkelers
As our travel programs show, we cater
to a community that loves snorkeling.
Snorkeling enables you, with minimal
gear, to comfortably explore the
underwater world for as long as you
desire. Our trips verify that some of
the world’s best underwater wildlife
viewing occurs within just a few feet
of the surface.
We’ve snorkeled at countless locations
around the world and have handpicked what we believe are the best
snorkeling destinations on Earth.
Each trip is guided by an expert
naturalist and is designed to immerse
our travelers in an aquatic experience
sure to result in a personal “sea change.”
14
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
A snorkeler photographs a green sea turtle
(Chelonia mydas). © Wayne Sentman
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
15
DESIGNED FOR SNORKELERS | HONDURAS: BAY ISLANDS
Honduras: Bay Islands
A secluded retreat just a short swim from one of the most diverse coral reefs in the Caribbean.
Aerial view of CoCo View Resort. © CoCo View Resort
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 8 DAYS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Shallow water access to an incredible coral reef wall less than 100
yards from your room.
›› Daily activities include beach snorkeling along the protected house
reef, boat snorkeling excursions, and night snorkeling opportunities.
›› Stay in over-the-water cabanas on a private peninsula of Roatan.
Join our naturalist for a secluded retreat on Roatan Island, and discover one of
the best snorkeling sites in Central America. The Bay Islands of Honduras are
home to one of the most complex and varied coral reef systems in the Caribbean,
with huge barrel sponges, gigantic gorgonians, abundant fish life, eagle rays, sea
turtles, and myriad invertebrates.
Our trip brings you to the top snorkeling sites in the Bay Islands, with six
days of beach snorkeling, boat snorkeling excursions, and bird watching. Your
naturalist will help identify the many fish and coral species, and will explain the
ecology of the reef and conservation concerns of the island. Travelers stay in
double-occupancy, over-the-water cabanas on a private peninsula of Roatan.
© Wayne Sentman
16
© Wayne Sentman
Day 1: Arrive Roatan City | Day 2-7: Daily
beach snorkeling, boat snorkeling, and
bird watching from our resort in Roatan |
Day 8: Transfer to Roatan City
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
$2,800 / person
Single supplement $400
Group limit 12
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
Nov 8-15
To be announced
NATURALIST
Bruce Stewart or Izzy Szczepaniak
© Wayne Sentman
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
BELIZE: SNORKELING & CORAL REEF ECOLOGY | DESIGNED FOR SNORKELERS
Belize: Snorkeling and Coral Reef Ecology
Guided snorkeling from our Blackbird Caye Field Station, with a trip to the world famous Great Blue Hole.
A vibrant coral garden at Turneffe Atoll. © Wayne Sentman
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 5 OR 8 DAYS
Day 1: Belize City - Blackbird Key | Day
2-4 or 2-7: Beach and boat snorkeling,
and natural history exploration | Day 5 or
8: Transfer to Belize City, fly home
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
8 days: $2,345 / person | 5 days: $1,975
Single supplement $290
Group limit 12
PROGRAM DATES
Many dates available throughout the year.
Please inquire.
NATURALIST
Various
© Nicole Duplaix
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Explore the largest and most biologically diverse coral atoll in the
Western Hemisphere, and visit the legendary Great Blue Hole.
›› Gain special insight into reef ecology and learn about our marine
research as you are guided by our expert naturalist.
›› Stay in beachfront cabanas on the private shores of our Field Station.
Explore the exquisite maze of coral reefs and turquoise waters of Turneffe
Atoll, and visit the world famous Great Blue Hole on this land-based snorkel
expedition. Benefit from our decades of experience guiding travel programs in
Belize, and gain special insight into the local ecology through the findings of our
long-term research efforts.
Travelers stay in simple cabanas on the private shores of our field research
station. Our naturalist will guide you on daily excursions to snorkel the amazing
coral reefs and mangroves of Turneffe Atoll. A day trip to Lighthouse Reef
features a snorkel at the Blue Hole and a visit to Half Moon Caye, home to
colony of 4,000+ Red-footed Boobies and one of Belize’s largest protected areas.
© Tony Rath / tonyrath.com
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
© Nicole Duplaix
17
DESIGNED FOR SNORKELERS | Raja ampat archipelago by Liveaboard
Raja Ampat Archipelago by Liveaboard
Dive in to the epicenter of global marine biodiversity aboard a traditional Indonesian schooner.
Dense jungle meets clear waters in Raja Ampat. © Wayne Sentman
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 9 DAYS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Raja Ampat is at the heart of the Coral Triangle and considered by
many to be the best marine destination on Earth.
›› Travel comfortably aboard a traditional Indonesian schooner with
spacious common areas and two tenders with sturdy dive ladders.
›› Explore fish-filled walls and soft coral gardens. Nudibranchs abound!
Located in Indonesia’s West Papua Province, the Raja Ampat Archipelago is at
the heart of the most biodiverse marine region on Earth—the Coral Triangle.
Largely unexplored by scientists until recently, new marine species are being
discovered here on a regular basis. Reefs here are not only the world’s most
biodiverse, but they are also some of the most pristine.
Our trip takes you on an exploration of this remote archipelago aboard 134foot motored schooner. Selecting ideal snorkeling sites daily, we will immerse
ourselves in diverse and unique marine habitats, exploring multiple islands.
Morning excursions will provide opportunities to see the equally diverse bird life,
including the magnificent Red Bird of Paradise, Kingfishers, and Sea Eagles.
© Wayne Sentman
18
© Wayne Sentman
Day 1: Jakarta - Sorong | Day 2-8:
Explore the islands of Batanta, Penemu,
Waigeo, Gam, Mansuar, and Kri | Day 9:
Sorong - Jakarta
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
$6,990 / person + park fee
Group limit 18
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
Nov 5-13
Nov 3-12
NATURALIST
Wayne Sentman
© Wayne Sentman
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
PALAU ISLANDS BY MOTOR YACHT | DESIGNED FOR SNORKELERS
Palau Islands by Motor Yacht
Explore Palau’s outstanding marine biodiversity aboard a comfortable liveaboard.
An aerial view of Palau’s stunning Rock Islands. © Fish ‘n Fins
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 10 DAYS
Day 1-2: Honolulu - Koror | Day 3: Board
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
scuba) in the Rock Islands | Day 9: Disem-
›› A liveaboard provides exclusive access to Palau’s world-class
snorkeling with a high level of comfort. Jump in and go!
bark, Koror | Day 10: Koror - Honolulu
›› Outstanding marine biodiversity, pristine reefs, and great visibility.
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
›› Your floating “home” enables dusk and dawn snorkeling. Witness the
“changing of the guard,” or the shift in species as day becomes night.
yacht, Koror | Day 4-8: Snorkeling (optional
Ideal for families and small groups.
Per person and charter rates available.
Call for info. Group limit 6 (3 cabins)
PROGRAM DATES
2015
May 4-13; Multiple departures available.
Custom snorkel & dive programs possible.
NATURALIST
Wayne Sentman or Hannah Bernard
© Wayne Sentman
Palau is a giant coral lagoon that harbors more marine species than any similarly
sized area in the world. The area’s exceptional biodiversity combined with calm,
clear, and shallow water makes for ideal snorkeling. Our liveaboard itinerary
takes you to all our favorite sites, including Jellyfish Lake. Itineraries to the outer
islands of Peleliu and Angaur can be facilitated.
The ship we’ve chosen for this trip was specifically built for divers and snorkelers
and offers a comfortable platform for exploration. Imagine enjoying a morning
snorkel and then immediately hopping into a shower before settling down to a
gourmet lunch. Fish ‘n Fins, our local travel partner for 15+ years, caters to our
every need and has a deep commitment to conserving Palau’s marine habitats.
© Fish ‘n Fins
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
© Wayne Sentman
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Partners in Shark Conservation
© Fish ‘n Fins
Shark populations worldwide face extinction due to overfishing, habitat loss, and demand for shark-fin
soup. Through our long-standing commitment to citizen science, we aim to make a difference for sharks. In
2014–2015, we will initiate a series of shark-focused travel programs to add to global shark sightings data
and create greater public awareness of the role sharks play in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.
Shark Savers: SharksCount
SharksCount works to improve protections for sharks. Increasing protections for sharks requires information about local populations. However,
often even basic information about sharks is absent or missing. Divers and
snorkelers see sharks the most regularly and are often familiar with local
trends, but they rarely have the training or tools to accurately and consistently record these valuable sightings in a way that can be useful to shark
conservation and advocacy.
SharksCount seeks to close these data gaps by enabling divers and snorkelers to act as “citizen scientists for sharks.” Over
time, logging these sightings can provide essential information about the status of sharks, locally, with the potential of improving protections.
Fish ‘n Fins and Micronesian Shark Foundation
Oceanic Society has partnered with Tova and Navot Bornovski of Fish ‘n Fins dive shop in Palau
for more than 15 years to bring our travelers unrivaled snorkeling experiences. In 2002, Tova and
Navot founded the Micronesian Shark Foundation (MSF), which started the first shark data
collection effort of its kind in Palau. MSF has since helped tag more than 40 sharks, has collected
DNA samples from sharks confiscated from illegal shark fishing vessels, and has developed and
implemented a shark education program over the last six years in Palauan elementary schools.
MSF continues to lead in shark research, education, and community outreach in Palau and Micronesia. Oceanic Society is proud to work with
MSF and support their efforts through our travel programs to Palau.
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Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Palau: SNORKELING THE ROCK ISLANDS | DESIGNED FOR SNORKELERS
Palau: Snorkeling the Rock Islands
An exploration of the reefs amid the breathtaking Rock Islands, and a visit to the famous Jellyfish Lake.
A diverse reef scene in Palau. © Wayne Sentman
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 10 DAYS
Day 1-2: Honolulu - Koror | Day 3-8: Full
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
a visit to Jellyfish Lake | Day 9: Half-day
›› Daily snorkeling expeditions on a private boat to the best sites in the
Rock Islands, such as Big Drop Off, Ulong Channel, and Turtle Wall.
cultural tour | Day 10: Koror - Honolulu
›› A visit to the surreal Jellyfish Lake to snorkel with non-stinging jellies.
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
›› Learn about Palau’s marine biodiversity, local conservation efforts, and
unique cultural history as you explore the islands.
day snorkeling Rock Islands sites, with
$3,200 / person
Lodging upgrades available.
Group limit 14
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
Feb 11-19; Apr 14-
Feb 12-20
22; Nov 4-12
Add’l dates TBA
NATURALIST
Wayne Sentman or Bruce Stewart
© Fish ‘n Fins
Palau’s Rock Islands are globally known for their stunning landscapes and
pristine marine habitats. Limestone ridges coated in tropical vegetation jut out
from the turquoise water to create a stunning backdrop. And the many isolated
white sand beaches give us the perfect place for a picnic lunch. Below the surface,
there is an outstanding diversity of corals and tropical fish. Palau, an early
adopter of marine conservation, has a uniquely robust shark population.
On this expedition, we stay comfortably in double-occupancy hotel rooms while
making day trips throughout the Rock Islands by private boat. Our naturalist
will be along to provide information on marine ecology, conservation, and the
natural and cultural history of Micronesia.
© Fish ‘n Fins
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
© Fish ‘n Fins
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DESIGNED FOR SNORKELERS | From BALI TO KOMODO BY BOAT
From Bali to Komodo by Boat
Cruise from Bali to Komodo National Park and enjoy excellent snorkeling along the way.
Komodo’s golden landscapes and turquoise waters. © Sea Safari Cruises
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 10 DAYS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› See the endemic Komodo dragon in its native habitat.
›› Explore Komodo National Park’s golden, savannah covered hills,
shrublands, white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and coral reefs.
›› Cruise comfortably on a traditional, hand-crafted Buginese schooner,
making stops to snorkel reefs and explore tropical forests on the way.
Komodo National Park is a collection of rugged volcanic islands located in
Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands. The area has been protected since 1980 and
is globally recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While Komodo
is known primarily for the endemic Komodo dragon, it also features excellent
marine diversity, and uniquely dry vegetation that gives the islands a golden hue.
Komodo is just one of the many wonderful stops on this 7-day liveaboard trip
that begins in Bali. From our comfortable 123-foot Buginese schooner, we stop
to snorkel colorful reefs, explore lush tropical forests, and visit important cultural
sites along the way. Our naturalist and local guides will be along to give added
insight into Indonesia’s amazing natural and cultural history throughout the trip.
© Jim Cote
22
© Sea Safari Cruises
Day 1: Bali - Nusa Lembongan | Day 2:
Lombok - Gili Is. | Day 3: Moyo Is. | Day
4: Satonda Is. | Day 5-6: Komodo | Day 7:
Darat | Day 8-9: Banta Is. | Day 10: Bali
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
$7,290 / person + park fee
*$500 discount when booked with Raja
Ampat program. Group limit 18.
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
Oct 25 - Nov 3
To be announced
NATURALIST
Wayne Sentman
© Wayne Sentman
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Whales of Raja Ampat: Megafauna and Snorkeling | DESIGNED FOR SNORKELERS
Whales of Raja Ampat: Megafauna & Snorkeling
Spend mornings alongside exotic whale species while snorkeling in the heart of the Coral Triangle.
A pod of pilot whales. © Franco Banfi / www.banfi.ch
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 12 DAYS
Day 1: Sorong, board Pindito | Day 2-11:
Expert facilitated cetacean observation in
AM, remainder of the day snorkeling | Day
12: Disembark, Sorong
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
$6,990 / person
Group limit 15
PROGRAM DATES
2015
2016
Feb 16-27
To be announced
NATURALIST
Wayne Sentman
© Franco Banfi / www.banfi.ch
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Join cetacean expert Benjamin Kahn using visual surveys and
hydrophones to find and possibly snorkel with a variety of whale species.
›› 10 full days for snorkeling in a variety of marine ecosystems, from
placid blue water mangroves, to fish and nudibranch-filled coral walls.
›› Travel in comfort on the Pindito with one of Raja Ampat’s best crews.
Oceanic Society travelers will gain 20+ years of local knowledge as we partner
with the experts of the Pindito, one of the original liveaboards of Raja Ampat.
This program is tailor made to offer our guests unrivaled opportunity to locate
and possibly snorkel with whales and dolphins including orcas, pilot whales, and
more. Benjamin Kahn, a marine ecologist specializing in cetaceans, will be on
board to maximize our chances of encountering as many species as possible.
Our itinerary takes us along the Dampier Strait, an area of known high density
for marine mammals (and frequently mantas as well). For avid snorkelers, our
flexible itinerary will be sure to have you in the water for multiple hours each day,
in a variety of habitats.
© Franco Banfi / www.banfi.ch
© Thomas Reich / www.scubavision.de
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
23
DESIGNED FOR SNORKELERS | Australia: cruising the great barrier reef
Australia: Cruising the Great Barrier Reef
Snorkel and scuba the Great Barrier Reef’s best sites, explore rainforest trails, and visit tropical islands.
Snorkelers explore the Great Barrier Reef from the Coral Princess II. © Coral Princess
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 8 DAYS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Explore the Great Barrier Reef’s best marine habitats from above and
below the surface, while guided by an onboard marine biologist.
›› Enjoy snorkeling and scuba, glass-bottom boat excursions, rainforest
walks, and tropical beaches, with many wildlife viewing opportunities.
›› Cruise comfortably aboard the Coral Princess II motor catamaran.
Join us for the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience on this 7-night cruise. As
we head south from Cairns to Pelorus Island and north to Lizard Island, we visit
the best parts of the reef, hike spectacular rainforest trails, and enjoy beautiful
tropical islands. The 115-foot ship is outfitted for snorkeling and scuba, and
carries a glass bottom boat for observing the reef from the water’s surface.
Highlights along our route include the pristine Ribbon Reefs, the colorful coral
gardens of Thetford and Nathan reefs, and a cruise through the mangrove-lined
Hinchinbrook Channel where dugongs and dolphins are often observed. We also
visit rainforest-covered Dunk Island, historic Cooktown where wild kangaroos
and wallabies are often seen, and even enjoy a traditional Aussie beach BBQ.
© Coral Princess
24
© Coral Princess
Day 1: Cairns | Day 2-7: Stops include
Hinchinbrook Channel, Pelorus Is., Dunk
Is., Nathan Reef, Fitzroy Is., Cooktown,
Lizard Is., Ribbon Reefs | Day 8: Cairns
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
From $3,200 / person (double occupancy)
Group limit 14 (ship capacity 44)
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
May 2-9
Please inquire
NATURALIST
To be announced
© Coral Princess
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Raja ampat & spice islands Cruise | DESIGNED FOR SNORKELERS
Raja Ampat and Spice Islands Cruise
A 13-day cruise from Australia to Indonesia (or reverse) featuring reefs, whale sharks, and rainforest.
A welcoming crew greets the Oceanic Discoverer in the Tanimbar Islands.
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 13 DAYS
Day 1: Biak, Indonesia | Day 2-12: Visit
many islands and reefs of West Papua,
Raja Ampat, and the Spice Islands | Day
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› 5-day snorkel or dive exploration of Raja Ampat, the epicenter of
tropical marine biodiversity and home to colorful Birds of Paradise.
13: Darwin, Australia (or vice versa)
›› Possibility to snorkel with whale sharks in Cenderwasih Bay.
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
›› Visits with many unique cultural groups throughout the trip, including
stops in the Maluku Islands from which nutmeg and mace originate.
From $10,800 / person (double occupancy)
+ $750 charter flight cost
Ship capacity 72
PROGRAM DATES
2015
Oct 1-13 (Australia to Indonesia)
Oct 13-25 (Indonesia to Australia)
NATURALIST
To be announced
© Wayne Sentman
An epic adventure from Darwin, Australia to West Papua, Indonesia (or vice
versa), this 13-day cruise provides ample time to explore the region’s unmatched
marine life, visit beautiful islands, and meet a staggering diversity of cultures.
The highlight of our expedition aboard the Oceanic Discoverer is a five-day tour
through Raja Ampat, an archipelago of more than 1,500 islands, cayes, and
shoals that harbors the greatest diversity of marine life on Earth. Here you will
have the opportunity to snorkel or scuba dazzling reefs and to search for whale
sharks in protected Cenderwasih Bay. We also visit traditional villages, meet local
artisans, tour spice markets, and enjoy guided rainforest hikes in search of Birds
of Paradise and other endemic tropical wildlife. This is a once-in-a-lifetime trip!
© Coral Princess
© Coral Princess
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
25
Wildlife
Encounters
Few experiences compare to the
power of an up-close, personal
encounter with wild animals. These
awe-inspiring moments renew our
connections to the natural world and
enrich our lives beyond compare.
While all of our travel programs
include outstanding experiences with
wildlife, our Wildlife Encounters are
built around these opportunities.
They are timed to coincide with
natural phenomena and targeted to
destinations where the presence of
marine wildlife is reliable.
On each program we prepare you with
the tools and expertise to enjoy these
experiences unencumbered, as nature
intended.
26
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
A snorkeler is approached by a curious
young manatee in Crystal River Springs.
© Ryan McClellan
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
27
Wildlife encountERS | Florida: Manatees & Endangered Habitats
Florida: Manatees & Endangered Habitats
Snorkel with manatees in crystal-clear springs and learn about local ecology and conservation.
GREAT FOR FAMILIES!
A snorkeler observes a resting manatee. © Ryan McClellan
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 5 DAYS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Snorkel alongside large groups of manatees in crystal-clear springs.
›› Stay on a historic, family-owned tree farm with 1,100 acres of
sustainably managed habitat that is home to abundant native wildlife.
›› Enjoy diverse activities including guided canoeing or airboat
excursions, and learn about local ecology and conservation.
Every winter, the largest herd of endangered Florida manatees congregates in
the warm waters of the Crystal River. Snorkeling alongside these gentle giants
will be the highlight of our trip. Guided by conservation biologist Samantha
Whitcraft, participants will explore a lesser-known side of Florida: its vanishing
wildlands and secret springs. Trip activities include canoeing, kayaking, or
sustainable airboat tours, nature walks, and educational presentations discussing
ecology, wildlife photography, and other facets of local conservation.
Participants stay in restored, historic houses on the private, family-owned
Espedeco tree farm, whose 1,100 acres protect disappearing habitats where many
native species are still found in abundance.
© Samantha Whitcraft
28
© Samantha Whitcraft
Day 1: Arrive Espedeco tree farm | Day
2-3: Morning manatee swim, afternoon
hiking | Day 4: Airboat tour, evening gala &
conservation seminar | Day 5: Fly home
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
$1,375 / person
Single supplement $350
Group limit 11
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
Jan 30 - Feb 3
Jan 29 - Feb 2
NATURALIST
Samantha Whitcraft
© Samantha Whitcraft
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Ocean Sole in Kenya creates colorful animals from flip-flops found discarded along the coast.
Addressing Plastic Pollution
In 1947, renowned explorer Thor Heyerdahl crossed 8,000 miles of seemingly pristine Pacific Ocean on the
raft Kon-Tiki. In 1969 he crossed the Atlantic Ocean in the raft Ra. In the introduction to a Special Oceanic
Society Edition of his book Kon-Tiki, Heyerdahl commented on the Ra crossings:
“…we saw plastic containers, bottles, cans, and other floating refuse every day. This was
a lesson better than the voyage itself, showing me that the ocean is not endless. It has
become a vulnerable part of a quickly shriveling planet. It is encouraging that Oceanic
Society is focusing public awareness on the plight of our ocean and the need to wisely
protect and manage it for coming generations.”
- Thor Heyerdahl, October 6, 1976
Oceanic Society’s founders were similarly moved to act by pollution impacts they had seen as lifelong
watermen in San Francisco. Marine pollution is now a global problem that threatens both marine wildlife
and humans. As today’s Oceanic Society travelers move about the world’s oceans, we see the extent to
which plastic pollution infiltrates all corners of the globe. Much of the plastic we encounter at sea and, more
frequently, find in the creatures we study originates from everyday items that we have thrown “away.”
To motivate behavior changes that will support larger-scale reductions in the consumption of “singleuse plastics,” Oceanic Society has reignited an educational effort directed at all of our travelers and our
growing online community. In 2014–2015 we will partner with ocean plastic artist Pam Longobardi, whose
art can serve as an interpretive tool when seeking to inspire solutions to reduce plastic pollution. Our safari to
Kenya will visit communities and artists with whom Oceanic Society has developed partnerships to support
plastic recycling efforts. And our first Oceanic Society Fellow, Amanda Gibson, works to address the issue of
plastic pollution on the leatherback turtle nesting beaches of Caribbean Panama in consort with Kuna Indians.
As Thor Heyerdahl and Oceanic Society’s founders foretold, the problem of marine pollution is daunting, but
together we can have a positive impact.
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
29
Wildlife encountERS | Baja: San Ignacio Lagoon and the Sea of Cortez
Baja: San Ignacio Lagoon and the Sea of Cortez
Up-close with friendly gray whales, plus snorkeling and whale watching in the Sea of Cortez.
Travelers interact with a friendly gray whale in San Ignacio Lagoon. © Roderic Mast
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 8 DAYS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Close encounters with the friendly gray whale cows and calves in San
Ignacio Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
›› Opportunities to see blue, fin, humpback, Bryde’s, sperm, and killer
whales in the Sea of Cortez, plus snorkeling with tropical fish.
›› Comfortable land-based accommodations in beautiful Baja California.
Baja California’s San Ignacio Lagoon is the primary calving ground for eastern
Pacific gray whales and part of Mexico’s El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve—the
largest wildlife refuge in Latin America. The large concentration of gray whales
that reside here each winter are extremely ‘friendly,’ and regularly approach our
small whale watching pangas, in a moving display that occurs nowhere else. The
whales are the focus of our trip, and we will have three full days to observe them.
On our final day we explore the Sea of Cortez, one of the most productive and
diverse seas on the planet. From our base in the quaint town of Loreto we will
make a private boat excursion to search for marine mammals, to snorkel, and to
enjoy the outstanding landscapes of the Gulf of California.
© Izzy Szczepaniak
30
© Roderic Mast
Day 1: Loreto | Day 2: San Ignacio | Day
3-5: Three full days to observe gray whales
from small Pangas | Day 6: Loreto | Day 7:
Sea of Cortez | Day 8: Fly home
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
$2,500 / person
Group limit 8 or 16
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
Feb 25 - Mar 4
To be announced
Mar 3-10
NATURALIST
Local naturalists
© Izzy Szczepaniak
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
BAJA: SEA OF CORTEZ WILDLIFE Voyage BY BOAT | WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
Baja: Sea of Cortez Wildlife Voyage by Boat
Exploring the islands and coast of the Sea of Cortez aboard an award-winning catamaran.
A curious California sea lion in the Sea of Cortez. © Pascal Kobeh
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 8 DAYS
Day 1: Loreto | Day 2-6: Cruising the Sea
of Cortez: Flexible daily itinerary to maximize natural history and wildlife opportunities. | Day 7: Loreto | Day 8: Fly home.
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
$2,990 / person
*Discount available for full charter
Group limit 8
PROGRAM DATES
2015
To be announced
(March or April)
NATURALIST
To be announced
© Izzy Szczepaniak
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Explore the outstanding biodiversity that makes the Sea of Cortez
Islands and Protected Areas a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
›› Look for magnificent blue and finback whales, diverse fish, spectacular
bird life, dolphins, sea lions, and countless invertebrate species.
›› Varied daily activities include snorkeling, hiking, birding, and more.
Explore the islands and coast between La Paz and Loreto as you cruise aboard
the comfortable Mechudo. Our goal is to observe and experience the diverse
and productive marine environment of the Sea of Cortez, the Earth’s youngest
and richest sea. The waters here teem with countless invertebrate species, and
are home to over 650 tropical and temperate fish (90 of them endemic) and
one-third of the world’s whale and dolphin species. On-land, an exceptional 695
vascular plant species are scattered among colorful and rugged desert landscapes.
Our ship is the Mechudo, an award-winning catamaran with four cabins, each
with a double bed and private bathroom. Our daily activities include snorkeling,
hiking, beach walks, birding, and whale watching from the ship’s spacious deck.
© Elizabeth Moreno
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
© Izzy Szczepaniak
31
Wildlife encountERS | TONGA: SNORKELING WITH HUMPBACK WHALES
Tonga: Snorkeling With Humpback Whales
Snorkeling with friendly humpback mothers and calves in Tonga’s clear, blue waters.
A curious humpback whale in clear, blue waters. © Wayne Sentman
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 10 DAYS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Six days spent snorkeling with multiple mother-calf pairs and exploring
coral gardens off the coast of Vava’u Tonga.
›› Observe unique whale behaviors from above and below the surface,
including courting adults and playful calves.
›› Explore Tonga and experience authentic Polynesian culture.
Tonga’s tropical waters are the mating and calving grounds for endangered
humpback whales who migrate here annually from their feeding grounds in
Antarctica. From July through November, the cows remain in Tonga to allow
their newborn calves to grow in strength and stamina in preparation for their
journey to summer feeding grounds in the south.
Off the island of Vava’u, we immerse ourselves in whale watching above and
below the water’s surface. From our comfortable beachfront accommodations
we make daily excursions by private boat to snorkel with and observe the whales
and other colorful marine life. This is an unforgettable and intimate experience
available in just a few places on Earth.
© Wayne Sentman
32
© Wayne Sentman
Day 1-3: Los Angeles - Fiji - Tonga | Day
4-9: Six full days of snorkeling and whale
watching, plus one land tour | Day 10:
Tonga - Fiji - Los Angeles
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
$4,990 / person
Group limit 10
*Optional Fiji extension available.
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
September (TBA)
September (TBA)
NATURALIST
Samantha Whitcraft
© Wayne Sentman
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Baja: Whales and Wildness in the Sea of Cortez | WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERs
Baja: Whales and Wildness in the Sea of Cortez
An 8-day cruise exploring the abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes of the upper Sea of Cortez.
A humpback whale shows its fluke in Loreto Bay Marine Park. © Ralph Lee Hopkins
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 8 DAYS
Day 1: Arrive La Paz, Embark | Day 2-7:
Exploring the Sea of Cortez with flexible
routing to maximize wildlife sightings | Day
8: Disembark La Paz, fly home
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
From $5,550
Ship capacity 62
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
April 14-21
April 13-20
NATURALIST
OS naturalist TBA + Lindblad naturalists
© Ralph Lee Hopkins
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Maximize wildlife sightings with a flexible cruise itinerary that includes
opportunities to explore by Zodiac, by kayak, or by foot.
›› Abundant marine mammals, seabirds, and other marine life are attracted
by the Sea of Cortez’s productive and diverse marine environment.
›› Explore otherworldly landscapes with unique plants, lizards, and birds.
We are excited to be partnering with Lindblad Expeditions to bring you this
wildlife-focused cruise through the upper Sea of Cortez aboard the 62-guest
National Geographic Sea Lion. The Sea of Cortez in spring is among the best
times and places to see a great variety of whales—humpback, blue, sperm,
fin, and Bryde’s—plus large aggregations of dolphins. On land, the many
uninhabited islands harbor unique plants, reptiles, and abundant birds.
Our flexible itinerary is designed to maximize wildlife sightings and includes
stops to explore several islands. A wide variety of activities are available
throughout the trip including snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, Zodiac rides, bird
watching, photography instruction, and more. Great for adventurers of all ages!
© Sven-Olof Lindblad
© Ralph Lee Hopkins
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
33
Polar Cruises
Earth’s climate is warming rapidly, and
nowhere is this change more evident than in
the polar regions. Shrinking sea ice, warming
seas, and changing weather patterns are already
impacting the highly-specialized species found
here, from polar bears to penguins to krill.
Now is the time to visit the poles. To
experience these magnificent environments
firsthand is to become a participant in assuring
their future. Join us on a polar cruise with
Lindblad Expeditions, and help assure a future
for life at the end of the Earth.
34
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
King penguins coming ashore at sunrise:
South Georgia Island, Antarctica.
© Ralph Lee Hopkins
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
35
Polar Cruises | Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent
Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent
A classic itinerary that delivers incredible scenery, penguins galore, and abundant marine mammals.
Exploring Antarctica and penguins via Zodiac. © Ralph Lee Hopkins
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 14 DAYS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Fully explore the Antarctic wilderness with the help of onboard tools
including 13 Zodiacs, 36 kayaks, and a hydrophone to listen to whales.
›› See Gentoo, Adelie, and chinstrap penguins by the thousands, plus
marine mammals including leopard seals and several whale species.
›› Benefit from Lindblad’s unmatched experience exploring Antarctica.
Venture to the spectacular, white wilderness of Antarctica for one of the most
exhilarating adventures on Earth. See abundant wildlife including penguins,
whales, and seals, and enjoy magnificent views of ice forms that defy description.
Our ship is the Lindblad National Geographic Explorer, simply the best ship
available for exploring this remote region. Luxurious, stable, and state-of-the-art,
Explorer carries many tools to enhance our experience. Activities include Zodiac
rides, kayaking, and hiking to see wildlife, explore icebergs, practice photography,
and more. While aboard, enjoy informative presentations on topics including
photography, history, and conservation, and relax in the ship’s outstanding
comfort. Book by Dec 31, 2013 for possible free roundtrip airfare from Miami!
© Michael S. Nolan
36
© Michael S. Nolan
Day 1-2: Buenos Aires | Day 3: Buenos Aires
- Ushuaia, Embark | Day 4: At sea | Day 5-10:
Antarctica | Day 11-12: At sea | Day 13-14:
Disembark, Ushuaia - Buenos Aires - Home
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
From $11,900 / person
Ship capacity 148
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
Dec 8-21
Please inquire
NATURALIST
Rod Mast & Lindblad naturalists
© Sven-Olof Lindblad
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Arctic Norway: Land of the Ice Bears | Polar Cruises
Arctic Norway: Land of the Ice Bears
Travel aboard Lindblad Expeditions’ National Geographic Explorer to the polar bear capital of the planet.
Known polar bears #13, 14, and 15 in Svalbard, Norway. © Ralph Lee Hopkins
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE • 11 DAYS
Day 1: Arrive Oslo | Day 2: Oslo | Day 3:
Oslo - Longyearbyen, Embark | Day 4-9:
Exploring Svalbard | Day 10: Disembark,
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
›› Visit the polar bear capital of the planet. Nowhere can the polar bear be
seen more reliably in its completely natural environment.
Longyearbyen - Oslo | Day 11: Fly home
›› Enjoy unmatched cruise quality and safety aboard the state-of-the-art,
ice-class Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Explorer.
TRIP COST & GROUP SIZE
›› Get photo tips from the on-board National Geographic photographer.
From $8,990 / person
Ship capacity 148
PROGRAM DATES
2014
2015
Jun 13-23
Please inquire
NATURALIST
Rod Mast & Lindblad naturalists
© Ralph Lee Hopkins
Join us for the ultimate Arctic expedition to Svalbard, Norway aboard the
National Geographic Explorer. Enjoy the full experience of viewing arctic wildlife
in its natural habitat including polar bears, walruses, reindeer, fur seals, Arctic
foxes, seabirds, and much more. Svalbard is the best place on Earth to see
polar bears in their native habitat—the sea ice—and on this cruise we have
opportunities to view all manner of behavior, from hunting to frolicking cubs.
Lindblad’s on-board staff are superb, and you will benefit from the presence
of expedition leaders, naturalists, a National Geographic photographer, guest
speakers, and more. Throughout the trip you will have a choice of activities such
as hiking, Zodiac cruises, and kayak expeditions. Inquire soon—space is limited!
© Stewart Cohen
© Ralph Lee Hopkins
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
37
Volunteer
Vacations
Oceanic Society was founded in 1969
by a small group of people who were
concerned about health of our oceans
and wanted to make a difference.
Among their earliest programs was
the volunteer Oceanic Society Patrol,
which enlisted boat owners as citizen
scientists to monitor ocean health.
Volunteers have continued to play an
important role throughout our history,
and we invite you to lend your hand as
a volunteer in one of our programs.
Our Volunteer Vacations offer handson opportunities for you to participate
in conservation-focused research
efforts that study a range of threatened
species and habitats.
38
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
A researcher dives to assess the coral reef in
Ulithi Atoll. © Nicole Crane
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
39
Volunteer
in
Belize
At The Oceanic Society Blackbird CAYE Field Station
Since 2001, the Oceanic Society field station at Blackbird Caye on
Turneffe Atoll, Belize has served as an active platform for exploration
of the Mesoamerican reef ecosystem. Hundreds of researchers, students,
travelers, and volunteers from around the world have come here to
enjoy, study, and protect the area’s outstanding biodiversity.
FIELD STATION FACTS
Blackbird Caye is on the eastern edge of Turneffe Atoll, the largest and
most biodiverse coral atoll in the Western Hemisphere. 25 miles east of
Belize City and surrounded by deep oceanic waters, Turneffe is home
to an array of unique and threatened species like sea turtles, manatees,
crocodiles, dolphins, tropical fish, and birds, and diverse habitats
that include coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, littoral forests, and
brackish lagoons.
›› Six simple beachfront
cabanas, each with a
porch and private bath.
As a volunteer with Oceanic Society, you will gain unique access and
insight into the local ecology. Your participation requires no prior
research experience, and all volunteers will be trained on-site to collect
research data. Enjoy this outstanding area while contributing to its
protection through our conservation-focused research. Our 2014 Belize
volunteer opportunities are described on the pages that follow.
© Nicole Duplaix
40
© Nicole Duplaix
›› 11.5 acres of protected
land, with one of the
healthiest reefs in Belize
just offshore.
›› Large thatch-roofed
palapa with dining and
lounge areas, plus a
classroom and library.
›› Three vessels for
transfers and local
excursions.
›› Knowledgeable and
caring Belizean staff.
›› Maximum group: 18
© Nataly Castelblanco-Martínez
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
An aerial view of the Oceanic Society field
station at Blackbird Caye in Turneffe Atoll,
Belize. © Tony Rath / tonyrath.com
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
41
Belize Volunteer Programs
Week-long volunteer vacations at our Blackbird Caye Field Station.
Studying Endangered Antillean Manatees
Help scientists learn more about the endangered Antillean manatee to ensure its protection in Belize.
Fewer than 2,500 adult Antillean manatees are thought to exist in the wild, and
the largest population is found in Belize. Little is known about the abundance,
distribution, and key habitats of these animals, yet this information is needed
to ensure their protection. Our research examines the manatees’ distribution,
habitat use, and behavioral ecology to help define areas in need of protection.
Volunteers will join the researcher on boat excursions to search for manatees
in probable areas of concentration and will assist in recording GPS locations,
identification characteristics, behaviors, and environmental data. Volunteers will
also have the option to assist with habitat sampling via snorkeling.
2014 DATES: To be announced - please inquire.
© Roderic Mast
TRIP COST: $2,275 / person
RESEARCHER: Nataly Castelblanco
Coral Reef Monitoring (Snorkeling)
Work side-by-side with researchers to monitor the health of Turneffe Atoll’s diverse coral reefs.
Belize boasts the largest and most biodiverse barrier reef in the Western
Hemisphere. While Belize’s reefs are relatively healthy, the worldwide decline
of reef ecosystems is of great concern. Our long-term reef research aims to
evaluate coral reef community population structure, health, and viability over
time to inform management efforts and serve as an early-warning system. As
a volunteer on this week-long program, you will work with our researchers to
collect reef data during daily, shallow-water snorkel excursions. Only snorkeling
experience is needed to participate; volunteers can choose from multiple tasks
and will be trained in the use of equipment and sampling techniques.
2014 DATES: Many dates available, please inquire.
© Wayne Sentman
42
TRIP COST: $2,275 / person
RESEARCHER: Garv Hoefler, Bruce Stewart, Nataly Castelblanco
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Understanding Bottlenose Dolphin Behavior
Join researchers studying the behavioral ecology of Turneffe Atoll’s bottlenose dolphins.
Since 1992 we have been studying the abundance, distribution, and behavioral
ecology of bottlenose dolphins in Belize. We have learned a tremendous amount
about the dolphins at Turneffe and know many of them individually. Our
current research examines dolphin behavior in the context of specific habitats.
As a research assistant, you will accompany the researcher to known dolphin
hotspots and help record behaviors, locations, and identities. When dolphin
sightings occur, you will assist in conducting habitat surveys (while snorkeling)
or collecting environmental data (from the boat). This week-long program is
suitable for participants ages 12 and older (accompanied by an adult).
2014 DATES: Jan 4-11 | Jan 18-24 | Jan 25-Feb 1 | Feb 1-8 | Feb 8-15 | Apr 5-12 | Apr 26-May 3 |
May 3-10 | May 10-17 | May 17-24 | May 24-31 | May 29-Jun 5 | Jul 29-Aug 5 | Aug 5-11
© Eric Ramos
TRIP COST: $1,990 / person
RESEARCHER: Eric Ramos or Nataly Castelblanco
Belize Family Week
Bring your family to Belize for a volunteer vacation studying dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and more.
Join us for a family-oriented field study of Belizean wildlife including dolphins,
manatees, sea turtles, and coral reefs. This exciting, educational program is
designed for families with children 10+. Activities include guided snorkeling
at outstanding coral reefs, participation in bottlenose dolphin and sea turtle
research, and manatee watching. The first five days are spent at our Blackbird Caye
field station, with daily excursions to explore and study a variety of species and
habitats while snorkeling, hiking, or cruising in our research boat. On the last day,
we return to the mainland to explore Belize’s barrier reef with local researchers
and search for sea turtles and manatees. A truly memorable family experience!
2014 DATES: May 24-31 | Jul 29-Aug 5
© Linda Searle
TRIP COST: $2,275 / adult; $950 / child
RESEARCHER: To be announced
Coral Reef Monitoring (Scuba)
Join our researchers for an in-depth scuba research program to monitor coral reef health.
In a collaborative program with Belizean agencies, Oceanic Society monitors the
health of coral reefs around Turneffe Atoll via scuba. Specifically, we monitor
the presence/absence and the age- and size-classes of indicator species as well
as algal cover on the reefs, and we gather baseline data on species composition.
Divers in this program assist the researcher in daily scuba dives to collect data
using non-destructive sampling techniques. Divers will receive on-site training
in sampling methods and will learn to identify local fish and invertebrates.
Participants must be scuba certified and be generally competent in buoyancy
control, but no other certifications or skills are required.
2014 DATES: June 9-15
© Michelle Paddack
TRIP COST: $2,275 / person
RESEARCHER: Michelle Paddack
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
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Global Volunteer Programs
International volunteer vacations to study globally important marine species.
Bahamas Dolphin Research
Contribute to our long-term research on spotted and bottlenose dolphins on this week-long liveaboard trip.
Spotted dolphins. © James Watt
Join this 7-day student-oriented program aboard an 86-foot motoryacht, and learn about wild dolphins while
contributing to long-term research efforts. Oceanic Society has been studying Bahamas’ dolphins since 1984, with
research topics ranging from behavioral ecology, communication, and social mechanisms to human impacts from vessel
traffic. Our research today focuses on the use of acoustic signals by spotted and bottlenose dolphins. Participants in this
program will visit study sites to assist in data collection from the ship and while snorkeling in warm, clear waters. The
researcher will also provide an in-depth introduction to dolphin biology and ecology, research, and conservation efforts
throughout the week. Enrolled college students may take this program as a for-credit course.
2014 DATES: August 2-8
TRIP COST: $2,300 / person. Group limit 12.
RESEARCHER: Daisy Kaplan
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Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Conservation Focused Research in Ulithi Atoll
Join scientists and community members for our sea turtle and coral reef research programs.
© Wayne Sentman
© Nicole Crane
SEA TURTLE RESEARCH
CORAL REEF RESEARCH
Work together with local community members to
study endangered sea turtles on Ulithi’s remote
beaches, plus snorkel the pristine reefs.
Join this exciting effort to generate research data
in support of the community’s goal to establish a
Locally Managed Marine Area.
Since 2004 we have been working with the community
of Falalop on Ulithi Atoll to study nesting green sea
turtles throughout the islands. Research has shown
that Ulithi is home to one of the largest populations of
nesting sea turtles in Micronesia, with approximately
1,000 turtles nesting annually. In this volunteer
program, you will accompany researchers to patrol the
beaches at night and in the early morning to assess sea
turtle nesting activity. Participants will also assist in
measuring turtles, checking for tags, and assuring that
hatchlings arrive safely to the sea.
In 2011, the community of Falalop in Ulithi Atoll declared
their intention to establish a locally-managed marine area,
and requested assistance from Oceanic Society to develop
scientific recommendations for management. Since then,
our senior conservation scientists Nicole Crane and
Michelle Paddack have led yearly expeditions to collect
coral reef and fish data needed to inform the community’s
conservation efforts. We invite you to participate in 2014!
For the first few days in Ulithi, we will stay at the
comfortable Ulithi Adventure Resort on Falalop Island
to enjoy snorkeling, island exploration, and to undergo
training in sea turtle data collection. We will then
spend 2-3 nights in the rugged tented camp on Loosiep
Island, during which we will conduct nightly sea turtle
monitoring activities. Working alongside community
members will allow ample time to learn about
traditional values and how modernization impacts
wildlife conservation. This unique field experience
allows full immersion into a community-managed
conservation effort that your participation will support.
Our program begins in Yap with a couple days of training
in the field before we travel to the research site. After our
briefing, we enjoy several snorkeling excursions in Yap to
test our equipment and begin learning to identify specific
fish and coral species. We also take the opportunity to
observe manta rays, for which Yap is globally renowned.
From Yap we fly to the remote coral atoll of Ulithi, where
we will stay at the comfortable Ulithi Adventure Resort.
From here we make daily snorkeling excursions by boat to
conduct research at a variety of study sites.
Ulithi Atoll has more than 200 miles of pristine coral reef,
and is one of the largest atolls in the world. This is a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to contribute to the protection
of this outstanding marine environment.
2014 DATES: May 24 - June 4
2014 DATES: June (Exact dates to be announced)
TRIP COST: To be announced
TRIP COST: To be announced
RESEARCHER: Jon Rulmal & Rod Mast
RESEARCHER: Nicole Crane & Michelle Paddack
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
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Meet our Trip Leaders
Our Naturalists
Wayne Sentman
An Oceanic Society naturalist since
1998, and our director of international
eco-tour programs, Wayne is an experienced guide with a diverse background
in marine mammal, seabird, and marine
debris research. Wayne also co-teaches
undergraduate field programs in Kenya
on human-wildlife conflict and the use
of social media and art to raise public
participation in conservation. He recently received his Master’s
in Environmental Management from Harvard University.
Samantha Whitcraft
Samantha is a conservation biologist
who has worked to protect the oceans
and its animals in the field, lab, and office. She is an experienced traveler and
an ardent supporter of eco-tourism that
emphasizes ocean advocacy and adventure. Samantha holds a master of Marine
Affairs and Policy from the University
of Miami, is Adjunct Faculty in Natural
Sciences at Miami-Dade College, and has worked with sharks,
dolphins, manatees, seabirds, seals, and other marine animals.
Garv Hoefler
Rod is Oceanic Society’s newly appointed
president and CEO. He is a lifelong conservationist, a marine biologist, and an
experienced travel guide who got his start
as a naturalist in the Galápagos Islands.
Rod is an expert in sea turtles, and is the
both the co-chair of the IUCN Marine
Turtle Specialist Group and the founder
of the State of the World’s Sea Turtles
Program, which is managed by Oceanic Society. Rod is also a passionate photographer, author, and public speaker.
Bruce Stewart
Bruce has been leading trips for Oceanic
Society for more than 20 years. His academic training includes a zoology degree
from UC Davis and graduate studies in
marine science at Moss Landing Marine
Laboratories. Bruce has served as program curator at Monterey Bay Aquarium,
education director at Texas State Aquarium, director of student and family programs at UC Berkeley’s Lawrence Hall of Science, and director of
programs and exhibits at the Birch Aquarium.
Hannah Bernard
Garv has a master’s in biology and has
led volunteer research and natural history expeditions on all the continents, in
nearly 50 countries, and in 7 U.S. states
covering sea birds, coral reefs, marine
mammals, sea turtles, land birds, humpback whales, snorkeling, gray whales,
hiking, and general explorations to discover local flora and fauna. Garv served
as Oceanic Society’s field program manager for several years, and
now works with Oceanic Society on a seasonal basis.
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Roderic Mast
Hannah is president and co-founder of
Hawai’i Wildlife Fund. She is a marine
biologist with 20 years of experience conducting research, education and community outreach programs on marine life.
She has received several accolades for her
work including the NOAA Environmental Hero Award in 1999, and the Coastal
Living Magazine Leadership Award in
2006. Hannah has worked as a seasonal naturalist for Oceanic
Society since the 1990s.
Isidore Szczepaniak
Dalton Ambat
Izzy holds a M.S. from San Francisco
State University and is a research associate at the California Academy of
Sciences. He has conducted research on
harbor porpoises in the Gulf of the Farallones for 35 years, and on humpback
whales in California and Costa Rica. He
has worked as a naturalist for Oceanic
Society since 1983.
Based in Manado, Sulawesi, Dalton has
helped to guide Oceanic Society’s Indonesia snorkel programs for the last 3
years. He is a PADI certified Master scuba dive trainer with over 10,000 dives and
has trained over 1,000 students. Dalton
has worked across the entire coral triangle
region and is an expert naturalist with a
keen eye for the macro critters
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Meet our trip leaders
Field Researchers
Nataly Castelblanco
Nataly is our director of field research
and a Colombian conservation biologist
with extensive experience with aquatic
mammals in South America and the
Caribbean. She holds a master in freshwater biology and fisheries and a Ph.D.
in ecology and sustainable development,
and is regional co-chair of the IUCN
Sirenian Specialist Group. Nataly’s work
has focused on the ecology, behavior, population dynamics, morphology and ethno-knowledge of aquatic mammals.
Nicole Crane
Nicole is a senior conservation scientist
with Oceanic Society and a faculty member in the Department of Biology at Cabrillo College. Nicole is co-director of our
reef monitoring programs, and project
leader for the Ulithi Marine Conservation Project. Nicole has 20+ years of experience developing and implementing reef
monitoring programs and working with
communities to address marine management and conservation issues. She has worked with Oceanic Society since 1988.
Daisy Kaplan
Daisy is a Ph.D. candidate at the Graduate Center at the City University of
New York. The Bahamas dolphin project
served as part of her M.S. thesis project on spotted dolphin social behavior.
For her doctoral work, she is looking at
acoustic communication in spotted and
bottlenose dolphins in the Bahamas.
She has also spent a number of years
working as a biologist at the University of Hawaii’s Kewalo Basin
Marine Mammal Laboratory.
Michelle Paddack
Michelle is a senior conservation scientist
with Oceanic Society and assistant professor at Santa Barbara City College. She is a
passionate marine researcher and educator
whose goal is to provide tangible inputs
toward sustainable management and conservation of marine ecosystems. Michelle
holds a Ph.D. from the University of Miami and has worked with Oceanic Society
since 1998. She is co-director of our reef monitoring programs, and
co-investigator of the Ulithi Marine Conservation Project.
Eric Ramos
Eric is a Ph.D. candidate in psychology
at the CUNY Graduate Center in New
York City in the area of animal behavior
and comparative psychology training.
He has been working as a field researcher and trip leader with Oceanic Society
since 2011, leading boat-based research
trips with volunteers and students to
gather data on the population of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) at Turneffe Atoll.
Belize Field Station Staff
Jon Jr. Rulmal
Jon is a native of Ulithi Atoll who holds a
bachelor of business administration from
Hawai’i Pacific University. He has studied and worked in the tourism industry
for many years, and is manager of Ulithi
Adventure Lodge on Falalop Island. Jon
is also project supervisor of the Ulithi
Marine Turtle Project, and is actively involved in advancing community-driven
marine resource conservation in Ulithi Atoll.
Alton Jeffords
Kent Leslie
Wanda Leslie
The dedicated staff at our Blackbird Caye Field Station
keep the station running, uphold our commitment to
conservation at Turneffe Atoll, and make the guest
experience outstanding. Alton is our assistant guest
manager and a snorkel trip leader, Kent is island manager
and chief maritime officer, and Wanda is chief cook
and head of housekeeping. With combined decades of
experience working with Oceanic Society, they ensure a
safe and comfortable stay for all of our guests.
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
47
General Terms & Conditions
Reservations are limited and on a firstcome, first-served basis. To reserve space on
an expedition, please contact our office by
telephone or email. To reserve a space you
must complete an application form and pay
a deposit of US$500 per person per trip.
A second payment of $500 per person per
trip is due 180 days (6 months) prior to
departure.
Full payment of the total price of the
expedition is due no later than 120 days (4
months) before departure.
We reserve the right to cancel if payment
is not made on time. In such cases, all payments are nonrefundable.
For deposits, Credit Cards (Visa, Master
Card, Discover, and American Express) are
accepted for the deposit only; see Travel
Protection Policy note below. All other
payments must be made by personal check,
money order, certified or cashier’s check, in
U.S. Dollars.
Late Bookings: A special handling fee of
$25 may apply to bookings received within
30 days of trip date.
to another six months prior to departure
at no charge. If you transfer less than six
months prior to departure, you are subject
to the stated cancellation fees.
Cancelled Trips: We reserve the right to
cancel any trip prior to scheduled departure due to under subscription or logistical
problems (vessel breakdown, strikes, etc.).
You may transfer to another expedition or
we will refund all payments made to Oceanic Society in full. In no event, however,
shall our liability exceed the obligation to
refund the amount you paid to us. Trip
cancellation due to under subscription normally occurs at a minimum of two months
prior to departure. Please refer to “Travel
Protection Policy” and “Budget Air Fare
Caution.”
unless otherwise indicated in the itinerary,
airport taxes, passport and visa fees, immunizations, insurance of any kind, alcoholic
120 to 179 days prior to departure: $100.00
beverages, soft drinks, laundry, gratuities,
90 to 119 days prior to departure: $1500.00 excess baggage, items of a personal nature,
or 50% of the trip fee (whichever is lower) medical costs, costs of hospitalization, additional expenses arising from the delay or
60 to 89 days prior to departure: 75% of
extension of a trip due to weather, political
expedition fee
disputes, illness, failure of transportation,
59 days or less prior to departure: 100% of or other causes beyond our control.
expedition fee (some costs are occasionally
Air and Land Cost Combined: On some
recoverable from the supplier)
of our expeditions, air fare and land cost
Note: For expeditions listed as a package
are combined. In order to offer you special
which includes airfare as part of the pack- low cost air fares, we work with specific
age, cancellation fees apply to the entire
carriers for group bookings.
expedition cost, including air and land cost.
Trip Cost: We reserve the right to raise
Transfers: You may transfer from one trip
48
Travel Protection Policy: We strongly
recommend you obtain Travelers and
Trip Cancellation/Interruption insurance
to protect yourself and your equipment.
Forms are available through our office or
your insurance broker. Travel insurance
may reimburse you for nonrefundable air
and expedition costs should you cancel or
interrupt your trip. To waive pre-existing
condition limitation, call Travelex (800228-9792) at the time you pay your
deposit.
Accommodations: Land accommodations are based on double occupancy, unless
Refunds: will not be given for unused
otherwise indicated in the trip description.
airline tickets, hotel rooms, meals, sightsee- Most vessel accommodations are double
ing trips or expedition arrangements for
but some are triple or quadruple occupancy.
any reason. Expedition costs are quoted as Cabins on charter vessels vary greatly in
a package; credits are not given for services size, amenity and privacy.
not used.
Single Travelers: Single travelers wishing
Trip Cost Includes: Accommodations,
some group flights and airport transfers
Cancellations: If you cancel your space, it as specified in the trip itinerary, excursions, most entrance fees, leadership, crew,
must be in writing and is effective the day
we receive it in our office. Your cancellation local guides, most permits and most meals,
unless otherwise indicated in the itinerary.
will entitle you to a refund of any deposit
Oceanic Society reserves the right to make
or payment made to us, less a cancellation
any changes in the itinerary or to substitute
fee, according to the following schedule
hotels, modes of transport, or guides, for
(please note: deposit terms for liveaboard
programs are provided separately, and have those mentioned in the literature.
stricter guidelines and higher penalty for
Trip Cost Does Not Include: The cost of
last minute cancellation):
international air to the tour starting point,
180 days or more prior to departure:
$50.00
the trip fee if there are exceptional cost
increases beyond our control. Liveaboard
programs occasionally add a fuel surcharge
that may result in an additional expense.
to share: if you are a single traveler wishing
to share accommodations, we will try to
match you with a roommate. If no roommate becomes available, you must pay the
Single Supplement Fee listed in the trip
description.
However, if you signed up for Belize and
paid in full more than 7 months before
departure and no roommate becomes available, Oceanic Society will waive the Single
Supplement Fee.
If you request a single, private room you
must pay the Single Supplement Fee listed
in the trip description regardless of sign-up
date. Please note that single accommodations are not always available.
Airline Clause: The airlines and/or travel
agencies concerned are not to be held
responsible for any act, omission or event
during the time the passengers are not
aboard the aircraft. The passenger tickets in
use by the airlines when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the airline
and the purchaser of these tickets or the
passenger. Money paid to Oceanic Society
Expeditions for air tickets is money paid in
trust to the airlines and Oceanic Society
Continued on next page...
Call us or visit our website for detailed trip information and reservations.
Make Waves. Become a Donor.
Help us create a more oceanic society by becoming a regular ($35) or
sustaining ($50) member of Oceanic Society with your tax-deductible
contribution, or by adopting a dolphin, whale, or atoll at our website to
support a more specific cause.
To have an even greater impact and gain access to exclusive Oceanic
Society opportunities, we invite you to join our 50th anniversary campaign.
The year of our founding (1969) witnessed the ecology movement take off in
America, plus Woodstock, man on the moon, and many other noteworthy
firsts. The 1969 Waves on a Healthy Ocean Campaign is a reminder of how
far we have come since that auspicious year of global change. Our goal is to
enroll 1,969 supporters we’re calling Waves, each making gifts of $1,969 by
our 50th birthday in 2019. These Waves will be our principle ambassadors
for healthy oceans and will form an exclusive community that will receive
invites to special events, VIP travel opportunities, travel discounts, and more.
Contact our offices for details and to learn more.
Oceanic Society donors are invited to
exclusive travel programs, like this trip to
Belize with our board member, Sylvia Earle.
Continued...
Expeditions can assume no responsibility
for fluctuations in price or scheduling, and
in the event of a default, clients must look
to the airline for refunds.
Budget Air Fare Caution: We recommend
against buying non-refundable airline
tickets until your trip departure has been
confirmed (usually a minimum of 90 days
before departure). Budget air tickets often
carry restrictions, and you risk penalties in
the event of itinerary or date changes, or
trip cancellation. Please call for departure
confirmation before buying a high-penalty
airline ticket.
Tier Pricing: If applicable, tier pricing will
be offered to permit a trip’s departure with
fewer than our minimum sign-ups.
Withdrawal: Oceanic Society Expeditions
reserves the right to require any participant
to withdraw from an expedition at any
time if the expedition director deems his/
her acts or conduct to be detrimental to or
incompatible with the interest, harmony,
comfort or welfare of the expedition. In
such cases no refund will be given.
Medical: Although Oceanic Society trips
are not physically demanding, you must be
in general good health to participate. It is
the passengers’ responsibility to judge the
appropriateness of their physical capabili-
ties to these travel activities. Anyone with
medical problems or restrictions must
make them known to us well in advance of
the trip and should have a personal supply
of any special medications they may need.
The trip leader has the right to disqualify
any member from the group at any time if
considered medically necessary; no refund
will be made under such circumstances.
Oceanic Society Expeditions and its affiliates take no responsibility for special
arrangements required by passengers physically unable to complete a trip and assume
no liability regarding provision of medical
care or medical evacuation.
Oceanic Society has partnered with Divers
Alert Network and encourages all participants to purchase a DAN Membership
which offers medical evacuation coverage
on any trip taken. Contact our office for
more information.
Tour Operator Release: On some expeditions you will need to sign an additional
tour operator release form.
Smoking: Participants may not smoke below decks on our chartered vessels, in buses
or cars. If rooming with a non-smoker,
smokers may not smoke in rooms.
Children on Trips: OS trips are adultoriented, but some may be suitable for
children, depending on the child’s age
and experience. With the exception of our
specialized high school programs, anyone
under age 18 must be accompanied by a
parent or guardian. Please call before sending a trip deposit for anyone under 18 years
of age.
Suppliers of Services: Oceanic Society
Expeditions is performing a non-profit service by informing potential participants of
worthwhile expeditions. However, Oceanic
Society Expeditions is acting independently and has no business association as partner or joint venture with any boat owner,
resort, hotel, carrier or other services. Any
and all claims for inadequate performance
or nonperformance of such services may be
made against the supplier of those services
but shall not be made against Oceanic
Society Expeditions.
Baggage: Weight limits and other restrictions imposed by air carriers vary considerably from trip to trip. Oceanic Society Expeditions cannot assume any responsibility
for loss or damage to baggage or personal
property (see “Insurance”) or charge for
excess baggage.
SCUBA: Certification through a nationally
recognized agency is required to participate
in scuba activities.
www.oceanicsociety.org | toll free: 1-800-326-7491 | email: [email protected]
49
P.O. Box 437
30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd.
Ross, CA 94957 USA
1.800.326.7491 | www.oceanicsociety.org