Lot 31
Survival of the Biddest

Ten (10) day, nine (9) night expedition to the Galápagos Islands for two (2) couples, hosted by Lindblad Expeditions
Accommodations in the only two (2) Category 5 cabins aboard the National Geographic Islander
Direct, round-trip business class airfare from Miami, Florida to Guayaquil, Ecuador
One (1) night accommodations at the Hilton Colón in Quito, Ecuador
Air transfer from Guayaquil, Ecuador to Baltra in the Galápagos Islands
Two (2) Leica C-LUX 2 Digital Cameras

The most famous visitor to the volcanic archipelago of natural wonders we call the Galápagos Islands is Charles Darwin. Darwin’s studies of the native wildlife, including the islands’ birds and giant tortoises, spawned his ideas of natural selection—and ultimately, modern evolutionary theory. The Galápagos Islands, located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, provide a natural habitat for some of the world’s most unusual animals. Your remarkable journey will bring you face to face with the extraordinary inhabitants of this sanctuary. Guided by an experienced staff of naturalists, you’ll encounter wildlife so abundant, you may have to sidestep resting sea lions or passing iguanas. This profusion of flora and fauna makes the Galápagos one of the most impressive places on earth.

After a short bus transfer to Santa Cruz, you’ll embark the National Geographic Islander for a voyage that also takes you to the islands of Bartolomé, Santiago, Isabela, Fernandina and Floreana. Animal life varies from island to island, but likely encounters include sea lions frolicking in the water, blue-footed boobies performing a courtship “dance” ritual and male frigatebirds ballooning their crimson chest pouches to attract females. Pack your swim trunks! Each island will provide unique opportunities to swim alongside some of the locals—you can snorkel with sea lions, penguins, tortoises and an incredible variety of fish. See the sights at water level by kayak. Hike to saltwater lagoons to find flamingos, pintail ducks and shorebirds. On Santa Cruz, tour the Charles Darwin Research Center. And on Isabela, stroll the quaint town of Puerto Villamil, visit the tortoise breeding center and explore the caves and shoreline for whales, dolphins, sea turtles and the elusive mola-mola.

While the luxury of Darwin’s accommodations on the H.M.S. Beagle is doubtful, you’ll enjoy the comforts of the only Category 5 cabins aboard the National Geographic Islander. These cabins are located on the upper deck and feature wrap around windows, a desk, chairs, table and glassed-in terraces with seating. A smaller sized vessel, the National Geographic Islander can reach inlets and other places inaccessible to larger ships. Aboard are cruise-ship style appointments along with expedition gear including underwater video equipment, Splash-Cams, kayaks, snorkeling gear, landing craft and more to make your trip even more incredible. Don’t forget to use your Leica C-LUX 2 as much as possible! The Leica C-LUX 2 is the lightest and smallest digital compact camera in Leica’s collection. The sleek metallic body houses a 7.5 mega-pixel sensor combined with a 28mm-100mm retractable glass Leica lens through which the user can capture images and even video.

Naturally, only the strongest bidders will be able to select this highly evolved voyage of discovery!

Insider’s Info: Lot does not include trip cancellation, accident or baggage insurance, souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, passport expenses, extension trips to Quito or gratuities. Children are welcome and can travel in the same cabin for an additional charge. Category 5 cabins are currently on hold for this trip to be taken December 13-20, 2008. Alternate travel dates may be available upon special request but additional restrictions will apply and cabin category may vary. Final departure date is based on availability by Lindblad Expeditions. Restrictions apply, subject to change and availability.

DONOR: Lindblad Expeditions and Leica Camera
Airfare provided by an anonymous donor