In the inland channels of the Salish Sea, marine life flourishes. In late summer through early fall, pods of sleek orcas cruise in search of salmon. Seals break the surface to watch us with bright eyes as we paddle kayaks alongside. Humpback whales breach into the air, landing with a mighty splash. Along this maze of protected sounds and fjords, thick forests blanket coastal mountains in deep evergreen. Bald eagles perch atop firs and cedars to survey the scattered islands, strewn like emeralds in the sapphire sea. Though an international boundary crosses it, the Salish Sea is a single ecosystem that includes Washington's San Juan Islands as well as Canada's Gulf Islands and the Strait of Georgia. Aboard our small expedition ship, journey into this wild realm that is the ancient home of the Coast Salish people who have lived in harmony with its natural bounty for millennia.
Trip Highlights
Explore a Maritime Wonderland on Active Adventures
Via kayak, hikes and expedition landing craft, discover rocky coastlines, secluded coves and sealife in the San Juans, Gulf Islands and Desolation Sound
Watch for Orcas & Other Marine Wildlife
Look for orcas in season in Johnstone Strait off Vancouver Island, and scout for humpback whales, seals, sea lions, porpoises, bald eagles and more
Experience Indigenous Culture & British Heritage
Complement your nature immersion with the art, stories and dance performances of First Nations peoples in Alert Bay, and enjoy the British flavor of delightful Victoria
Sail with the World Leader in Small-Ship Conservation-Focused Cruising
We’re proud to offer a worldwide slate of Adventure Cruises through our partner Lindblad Expeditions. Nat Hab joined forces with Lindblad in 2016 to expand our mutual collection of nature adventures. Founded in 1958 by Lars-Eric Lindblad, the company pioneered eco-conscious expeditions for “citizen explorers" and today is the world leader in conservation-focused small-ship cruises.
Small Ships for Closer Nature Encounters
Lindblad's expedition ships offer an intimate, up-close experience of the convoluted coastline and myriad islands of northwest Washington and southwest B.C. The smaller size of our National Geographic ships grants us access to narrow fjords and secluded bays that big cruise ships can’t reach, while full stabilization and state-of-the-art technology provide supremely safe passage. Guests also enjoy personal encounters with naturalists, guides and crew.Tap More than a Half-Century of Maritime Expertise
This adventure cruise offers an expedition-style experience with a crew and staff who are veterans of these waters. As pioneers in commercial expedition cruising, Lindblad draws upon more than 50 years of experience, assuring safety and a thorough immersion in the world’s wildest natural places. Aboard Lindblad's state-of-the-art ship, you'll sail with a seasoned Expedition Leader, assistant Expedition Leader and a team of naturalists with relevant specialties. A photo instructor certified by National Geographic is also on board to help you get outstanding photos of the matchless scenery and wildlife.Varied Off-Ship Activities Offer New Adventures Every Day
A slate of adventure options led by naturalist guides reveals the magnificent scenery and abundant wildlife of the Salish Sea region. Motorized Zodiacs provide access for shore landings, while a fleet of double kayaks provides an eye-level look at marine life including seals, otters and orcas. These sea kayaks are chosen for their quality and stability, and even beginners will find that maneuvering them is not difficult—and instruction is provided. Quest also offers stand-up paddleboards for a quiet experience of the calm coves and channels we poke in and out of. And, we go ashore on hikes and nature walks for inland investigations, too.Travel with Experts Who are Northwest Nature Specialists
Your voyage features a knowledgeable team of expert interpreters who will vastly enhance your appreciation for the natural and cultural history of this region that's so rich in both. Each voyage includes a senior Expedition Leader, a team of veteran naturalists, a National Geographic photographer, an undersea specialist, expert guest speakers, a video chronicler and a wellness specialist. You'll hear from a diverse slate of speakers including wildlife biologists, ornithologists, marine scientists and historians.We’re Committed to the Planet
Natural Habitat Adventures is a standard-setter in eco-conscious travel. We were the world’s first 100-percent carbon-neutral travel company. And we continue to break ground in adopting practices that help protect our global environment. Because of our concern for the environment, we are pleased to partner with Lindblad Expeditions for our Adventure Cruises, a company that shares our values and commitment to the planet.Natural Habitat Adventures is WWF's Travel Partner
Because of our environmental commitment and the outstanding quality of our adventures, World Wildlife Fund has chosen Natural Habitat Adventures as its worldwide travel partner, a designation we’re very proud of! When you book your Lindblad Expeditions cruise with us, a portion of your trip fee supports WWF.
