In this short video, Unplastify co-founder Agustina Besada shares more about her ongoing mission to inspire teens to “unplastify” their lives and their local communities.
This week's photos from the field included spectacular images of lava flows on La Cumbre, an active volcano on Fernandina Island in the Galápagos Islands.
Guests aboard National Geographic Venture witnessed a rocket launch, while National Geographic Explorer explored South Africa and National Geographic Sea Bird cruised the Columbia River.
Today we continued our voyage west as we spent the day at sea, and this morning we were greeted by a lovely rainbow. We listened to several presentations, including one from our special guest speaker, Valerie Taylor. A pioneer in marine conservation, she talked about her first travels to the Asmat in the 1970’s, where we will be in two days. The amazing hotel staff made sure we were never hungry, and since it was a beautiful day, hosted lunch outside. Sailing west into the sunset, we ended this great day voyaging through this immense ocean, just as so many others have done before us.
As National Geographic Resolution came to Reine, excitement buzzed among the guests who were eager to explore the picturesque fishing village. With its colorful red wooden houses nestled amidst towering mountains, Reine seemed like a painting come to life. The island's modest population of 314 added to its charm, offering a glimpse into the intimate rhythms of coastal life. Stepping onto the cobbled streets, we wandered freely, soaking in the serene ambiance. A visit to the cultural center provided insights into the village's rich heritage and deep-rooted connection to the sea. Following a delightful lunch, we faced a delightful dilemma: long hikes, medium hikes, or Zodiac rides? Each option promised adventure, whether scaling rugged peaks or venturing deeper into the fjords. With hearts full of anticipation, we set off, ready to immerse ourselves in the untamed beauty of Norway's Lofoten Archipelago.
After our amazing day ashore yesterday, we transited today towards the Torres Strait. With light winds and following seas, it was a gorgeous day to be out on deck. Quite a few birds were spotted including many red-footed boobies. They were attracted to the ship, attempting to catch the abundant flying fish. In the afternoon, many of us congregated on the bow, enjoying the weather and wildlife. Attentive observers were rewarded with one of the greatest pelagic sightings-flying squid! At least 3 large groups of these poorly known critters were spotted, much to the delight of many, none more than me. Photo caption and credit : Tahiti petrel. Photo by Mike Greenfelder
At dawn, National Geographic Explorer slipped into the historic port of Malaga. First settled by Phoenician traders, it is one of the oldest continuously habited cities in Europe and was the base of our activities for the day. Those bound for the Caminito del Rey walkway soon found themselves on the mountain paths and suspended walkways in the dramatic El Chorro Canyon. Stretching for five miles, the pathway was constructed in the 1900s to provide access to a newly built dam, but by the 21st century had fallen into disrepair. After an extensive renovation, it was reopened as a heritage trail in 2015. Other guests headed for Rhonda, an even older town than Malaga. Perched on a high plateau, the old town is accessed by a stunning bridge that leads to one of Spain’s oldest bullrings and traditional Moorish buildings. Those opting to stay in Malaga were treated to a tour of the old town and its beautiful cathedral. After exploring its rich art collection and seeing the Roman ruins at the heart of the city, guests explored the Picasso Museum where some of the artist’s greatest works are displayed. Even after departing Malaga, the day wasn’t done. As we sailed west, the setting sun illuminated the historic rock of Gibraltar as we passed by and wished adiós to the Mediterranean.
This morning National Geographic Venture transited narrow channels, past seemingly countless tree-covered, uninhabited islands. Near the northeast corner of Baranof Island, we dropped anchor in Hanus Bay. All afternoon we explored Southeast Alaska’s lush, green, coastal temperate rainforest on the beautiful Lake Eva trail.