After clearing customs and immigration in Darwin, National Geographic Orion turned northwest and began the long crossing of the Timor Sea. We didn’t make the journey alone and were escorted across the shining cerulean waters by flying fish, sea snakes, and the occasional dolphin. The day was peppered with opportunities to relax, learn, and explore. From talks about visual storytelling and the aboriginal Australian world, to behind-the-scenes tours of the culinary wizardry taking place in the galley, there was plenty to keep us all engaged. Midway through the trip, this was also a great opportunity for folks to recharge, enjoy a few cocktails, and prepare for our arrival in Indonesia.
- Daily Expedition Reports
- 27 Jul 2024
Timor Sea and Darwin, 7/27/2024, National Geographic Orion
- Aboard the National Geographic Orion
- Australia and New Zealand
Philip Chaon, Naturalist/Certified Photo Instructor
A life-long naturalist, Phil found an interest in birds while coping with the crushing reality there were not, and never would be, alligators in Cleveland. At 18 he left behind the power plants and gull flocks of his childhood and spent a year living...
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As the sun rose, we boarded our Zodiacs and made the short trip to the long-anticipated land of dragons. On a trip bookended by giant reptiles, a visit to Komodo National Park proved to be one of the highlights on a trip full of spectacular sights. Our onshore orientation was quickly interrupted by an appearance by one of the hulk lizards that make this park famous. As we strolled through the forest, we encountered multiple Komodo Dragons and learned a little more about their lives on the island with each encounter. The forest also brimmed with other wildlife from Timor deer to ornate sunbirds. In the afternoon we traded the wildlife above water for those below. Snorkeling off a gorgeous pink beach was an unforgettable experience. The reef teemed with life in abundance and variety that is truly hard to comprehend. It was a true privilege to experience a prime example of what the Coral Triangle has to offer.
7/30/2024
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National Geographic Orion
Sumba Island, Indonesia
This morning, we arrived at the beautiful beach of Puru Kambera on the north coast of Sumba Island. Guests were treated to some beautiful snorkeling among some relatively healthy coral and many schooling fish. It was also a great opportunity for us to take a walk along the beautiful sandy beach and up into the dry forest behind it to do some birdwatching. Over lunch, the ship repositioned into the port of Waingapu where we disembarked National Geographic Orion and boarded buses for an afternoon of culture. The people of the village were incredibly warm and welcoming and put on a great performance of song and dance. After the performance, we had an opportunity to do some shopping for souvenirs, as there were many beautiful Ikats on display for sale.