Exploring British Columbia and the San Juan Islands
Discover the pristine wilderness, First Nations history, and seaside communities of the Pacific Northwest. Trace the coast from Seattle to British Columbia to explore isolated coves and archipelagos by kayak and Zodiac, and venture ashore to hike through misty forests.
Expedition Gallery
Overview
Discover the pristine wilderness, First Nations history, and seaside communities of the Pacific Northwest. Trace the coast from Seattle to British Columbia to explore isolated coves and archipelagos by kayak and Zodiac, and venture ashore to hike through misty forests. Explore among lush Islands, keeping an eye out for marine mammals and bald eagles; visit picturesque coastal towns; and learn about the native cultures that call this region home.
Expedition Details
- Operator: Lindblad Expeditions
- Ships: National Geographic Quest,National Geographic Venture
- Region: PACIFIC NW
- Duration: 7 nights
- From AUD 7,230 per person
Places Visited
- Seattle / Embark Ship
- Victoria, British Columbia
- Desolation Sound
- Johnstone Strait / Alert Bay
- Exploring the Gulf Islands
- Friday Harbor
- +2 more
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Seattle / Embark Ship
Arrive in Seattle, Washington state's largest city, and embark National Geographic Quest or National Geographic Venture.Arrival time: Arrive by 2:00 p.m. local time.Arrival city: Seattle, WA
Day 1
Seattle / Embark Ship
Arrive in Seattle, Washington state's largest city, and embark National Geographic Quest or National Geographic Venture.Arrival time: Arrive by 2:00 p.m. local time.Arrival city: Seattle, WA
Day 2
Victoria, British Columbia
Clear into Canada in the charming city of Victoria and choose from several tailor-made options to explore based on your interests. Visit private gardens, bike along the waterfront, stroll through Old Town or peruse the collections at local art galleries. In the evening, enjoy a private reception at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria while taking in their wide-ranging collection.
Day 2
Victoria, British Columbia
Clear into Canada in the charming city of Victoria and choose from several tailor-made options to explore based on your interests. Visit private gardens, bike along the waterfront, stroll through Old Town or peruse the collections at local art galleries. In the evening, enjoy a private reception at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria while taking in their wide-ranging collection.
Day 3
Desolation Sound
Desolation Sound, on the north end of British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast, is a mecca for kayakers and small yachts. It’s easy to understand why, with its calm, sheltered waters and outstanding natural beauty. By kayak there are many isolated bays to poke into and islets that beckon for exploration. On land there are meadows and forest trails for hiking.
Day 3
Desolation Sound
Desolation Sound, on the north end of British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast, is a mecca for kayakers and small yachts. It’s easy to understand why, with its calm, sheltered waters and outstanding natural beauty. By kayak there are many isolated bays to poke into and islets that beckon for exploration. On land there are meadows and forest trails for hiking.
Day 4
Johnstone Strait / Alert Bay
Sail through Johnstone Strait, a waterway cut through a magnificently wild and scenic area of mountains and islands. These ocean waters are also home to extraordinary marine mammals and bird watching. Today, visit one of the oldest First Nations village sites in British Columbia. Alert Bay on Cormorant Island has been, and continues to be, the home of the Kwakwaka’wakw people and a center for the living culture found throughout the Northwest Coast. Visit the U’Mista Cultural Centre, which houses one of the northwest coast’s finest collections of elaborately carved potlatch masks, regalia and coppers. Then, visit the Big House a short distance away where the T’sasala Cultural Group continues the sharing of culture, “educating the world about their songs, dances, teachings and values.”
Day 4
Johnstone Strait / Alert Bay
Sail through Johnstone Strait, a waterway cut through a magnificently wild and scenic area of mountains and islands. These ocean waters are also home to extraordinary marine mammals and bird watching. Today, visit one of the oldest First Nations village sites in British Columbia. Alert Bay on Cormorant Island has been, and continues to be, the home of the Kwakwaka’wakw people and a center for the living culture found throughout the Northwest Coast. Visit the U’Mista Cultural Centre, which houses one of the northwest coast’s finest collections of elaborately carved potlatch masks, regalia and coppers. Then, visit the Big House a short distance away where the T’sasala Cultural Group continues the sharing of culture, “educating the world about their songs, dances, teachings and values.”
Day 5
Exploring the Gulf Islands
Wake this morning among the Gulf Islands, a rich archipelago in the Strait of Georgia, and a yachter’s paradise. Take your pick of perfect spots to hike and search for wildlife.
Day 5
Exploring the Gulf Islands
Wake this morning among the Gulf Islands, a rich archipelago in the Strait of Georgia, and a yachter’s paradise. Take your pick of perfect spots to hike and search for wildlife.
Day 6
Friday Harbor
Explore Friday Harbor, a picturesque town on San Juan Island. Visit the Whale Museum, with its fascinating collection of artifacts, artwork and whale skeletons. Stop in at small shops and galleries.
Day 6
Friday Harbor
Explore Friday Harbor, a picturesque town on San Juan Island. Visit the Whale Museum, with its fascinating collection of artifacts, artwork and whale skeletons. Stop in at small shops and galleries.
Day 7
Exploring the San Juan Islands
Visit the more remote of the San Juan Islands, an archipelago in northern Washington State perfect for kayaking, exploring by Zodiac and hiking. Walks with your expert staff will familiarize you with the natural and cultural history of the rugged northwest coast region. Tonight, enjoy the Captain’s farewell dinner.
Day 7
Exploring the San Juan Islands
Visit the more remote of the San Juan Islands, an archipelago in northern Washington State perfect for kayaking, exploring by Zodiac and hiking. Walks with your expert staff will familiarize you with the natural and cultural history of the rugged northwest coast region. Tonight, enjoy the Captain’s farewell dinner.
Day 8
Seattle / Disembark Ship
Disembark National Geographic Venture and transfer to the airport for flights home.Departure time: Depart after 11:30 a.m. local time.Departure city: Seattle, WA
Day 8
Seattle / Disembark Ship
Disembark National Geographic Venture and transfer to the airport for flights home.Departure time: Depart after 11:30 a.m. local time.Departure city: Seattle, WA
Ship & Suites
National Geographic Quest
Main Deck
Upper Deck
Lounge Deck
Observation Deck
01
Cabins feature two portholes; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; writing desk with chair; private bathroom; and a closet. Category 01 Cabin 305 and Category 02 Cabin 307 are interlocking with a connecting door. Category 01 Cabin 306 and Category 02 Cabin 308 are interlocking with a connecting door.
02
Cabins feature two portholes; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; writing desk with chair; private bathroom; and a closet. Category 02 Cabin 307 and Category 01 Cabin 305 are interlocking with a connecting door. Category 02 Cabin 308 and Category 01 Cabin 306 are interlocking with a connecting door.
03
Cabins feature two large windows; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; writing desk with chair; private bathroom; and a closet.
04
Cabins feature a private balcony; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; writing desk with chair; private bathroom; and a closet. Cabins 224/226 and 225/227 are interlocking with a connecting door.
05
Suites feature two large windows; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; sofa that converts to a single bed; writing desk with chair; espresso maker; two closets; and a spacious bathroom. Guests receive complimentary laundry and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
Mudroom
The mudroom features assigned lockers to store boots and other expedition equipment.
Dining Room
Meals are served in a single, unassigned seating for a relaxed and informal atmosphere.
Global Gallery
The Global Gallery offers a unique selection of handcrafted gifts, as well as expedition gear like hats, jackets and sunshirts.
Lounge
The lounge contains a full bar and state-of-the-art presentation facilities for talks, presentations, and evening Recaps.
Spa
Spa treatments are available by appointment in the LEXspa treatment room, staffed by wellness specialists.
Viewing Platform
Scan for wildlife and take in stunning views from the viewing platform.
Fitness Center
The fitness center offers cardio equipment, weights, and resistance bands.
Sun Deck
The expansive sun deck features an al fresco bar, comfortable couch, and lounge chairs.
Bridge
The fleet's open bridge policy allows guests to visit anytime to chat with the captain and crew, conditions permitting.
National Geographic Venture
Main Deck
Upper Deck
Lounge Deck
Observation Deck
01
Cabins feature two portholes; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; writing desk with chair; private bathroom; and a closet. Category 01 Cabin 305 and Category 02 Cabin 307 are interlocking with a connecting door. Category 01 Cabin 306 and Category 02 Cabin 308 are interlocking with a connecting door.
02
Cabins feature two portholes; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; writing desk with chair; private bathroom; and a closet. Category 02 Cabin 307 and Category 01 Cabin 305 are interlocking with a connecting door. Category 02 Cabin 308 and Category 01 Cabin 306 are interlocking with a connecting door.
03
Cabins feature two large windows; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; writing desk with chair; private bathroom; and a closet.
04
Cabins feature a private balcony; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; writing desk with chair; private bathroom; and a closet. Cabins 224/226 and 225/227 are interlocking with a connecting door.
05
Suites feature two large windows; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; sofa that converts to a single bed; writing desk with chair; espresso maker; two closets; and a spacious bathroom. Guests receive complimentary laundry and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
Mudroom
The mudroom features assigned lockers to store boots and other expedition equipment.
Dining Room
Meals are served in a single, unassigned seating for a relaxed and informal atmosphere.
Global Gallery
The Global Gallery offers a unique selection of handcrafted gifts, as well as expedition gear like hats, jackets and sunshirts.
Lounge
The lounge contains a full bar and state-of-the-art presentation facilities for talks, presentations, and evening Recap.
Spa
Spa treatments are available by appointment in the LEXspa treatment room, staffed by wellness specialists.
Viewing Platform
Scan for wildlife and take in stunning views from the viewing platform.
Fitness Center
The fitness center offers cardio equipment, weights, and resistance bands.
Sun Deck
The expansive sun deck features an al fresco bar, comfortable couch, and lounge chairs.
Bridge
The fleet's open bridge policy allows guests to visit anytime to chat with the captain and crew, conditions permitting.
Special Offers
SUITE EXCLUSIVES
Spacious living areas and incredible views immerse you in the beauty of your marine surroundings. Our new Suite Exclusives package helps make your voyage all the more memorable. Learn more
SAVE 5% TRAVELING AS A GROUP
Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more people. Valid for new bookings only on select departures, subject to availability, not applicable on extensions, and may not be combined with other offers. Call for details.
CELEBRATE LIFE'S MILESTONES
Celebrate a milestone with a group of eight or more and enjoy a special amenity package including: 5% savings on voyage fares, custom group photo, US$150 shipboard credit for the group, and other special gifts. Milestone celebration to be communicated at time of booking.
10% OFF BACK-TO-BACK VOYAGES
Save 10% on consecutive departures, applicable on voyage fares only and not valid on extensions or airfare. Valid for new bookings only, subject to availability, and may not be combined with other offers. Call for details.
COMBINING OFFERS
Certain offers may be combinable, up to two savings opportunities, except where noted otherwise. For example, travel with a group of 8 or more on back-to-back expeditions, and take advantage of both savings.
FFL-Eligible
For a limited time, guests who join a qualifying voyage booked by May 1, 2026, will automatically be enrolled in Friends for Life* upon disembarkation.
Departures & Pricing
Real-time pricing pulled directly from Lindblad Expeditions. Prices shown are per person in AUD.
What's Included
Costs Include
All accommodations aboard ships or in hotels per itinerary or similar, all meals and nonalcoholic beverages aboard ship, meals on land as indicated, air transportation where indicated as included, shore excursions, sightseeing and entrance fees, special access permits, transfers to and from group flights, use of snorkeling equipment and wet suits, use of kayaks (where available), tips (except to Egyptologists and ship’s crew), taxes and service charges, services of a ship physician on most voyages, and services of our expedition staff.
Not Included
Air transportation (except where shown as included), extensions, passport, visa, immigration fees, scuba diving (where available), meals not indicated, baggage/accident/travel protection plan, items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages, e-mail, laundry. Gratuities to Egyptologists and ship’s crew at your discretion.
Airfare
For all programs, airfare is an additional cost unless otherwise indicated. Sample airfares are based on 2007 fares and are subject to change. We will gladly assist in making your air arrangements.
Note
Complete pre-journey information, including suggestions on what to bring and recommended reading, will be sent after your reservation is confirmed 4-6 months prior to departure.
Terms & Conditions
Effective October 1, 2007, all Lindblad voyages departing from and returning to ports outside the United States will be operated by Lindblad Maritime Enterprises, Ltd., a subsidiary of Lindblad Expeditions, Inc.Reservations: To reserve your place, an advance payment for the program as outlined is required at the time of reservation and is payable by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover or check. The per person amount due is noted on each dates and rates screen.Final Payment: For expeditions of eight nights or less, final payment is due 60 days prior to departure. For expeditions of nine nights or more, final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.Travel Protection Plan: Travel protection and medical insurance are available at extra cost. Ask about our comprehensive guest travel protection plan for a worry-free expedition. Learn more about Lindblad Expeditions Travel Protection "Plus" Plan.Smoking: Smoking is allowed only in designated outdoor areas.Responsibility and Other Terms & Conditions: Certain other provisions concerning, among other things, limitations of Lindblad Expeditions’ and the National Geographic Society’s liability for loss of property, injury, illness or death during the voyage will be provided to all guests on the ship’s ticket sent prior to departure, and are also available where within this site or upon request. By registering for a trip, the guest agrees to all such terms and conditions.CANCELLATION POLICY:For Expeditions 8 Nights or Less:Number of Days to Expedition Start / Prior Per Person Cancellation Fee90 or more days / $150*89–60 days / Advance payment cost59–30 days / 50% of trip cost29–0 days / No refundFor Expeditions 9 Nights or More:Number of Days to Expedition Start / Prior Per Person Cancellation Fee120 or more days / $150*119–90 days / Advance payment cost89–60 days / 25% of trip cost59–30 days / 50% of trip cost29–0 days / No refund
Ready to explore?
Speak to a CruiseLiaise expert and secure your cabin.