ABOARD NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION | DECEMBER 5-10, 2019

WILD COSTA RICA ESCAPE:

GUANACASTE'S CORAL REEFS &

VOLCANIC PEAKS

DEAR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS,

Costa Rica is known for its rainforest biodiversity, from exotic plants to brilliantly colored birds to exquisite aquatic species. But the northwest province of Guanacaste is home to one of Central America’s largest tropical dry forests, a rare ecosystem that contains substantially less water than a rainforest—yet still teems with flora and fauna. Experience this unique region up close and with all your senses.

On this six-day, action-packed voyage, you’ll explore Guanacaste your way, as you choose the activities you like best. Try canyoning for the first time, or zipline through the jungle canopy. Horseback ride near a volcano, and kayak or paddleboard in crystalline waters. Spend an afternoon enjoying Isla Tortuga’s palm-shaded beaches before a barbecue dinner on the sand. Visit the volcanic landscapes of Rincón de la Vieja National Park to soak in hot springs and search for exotic wildlife like tapirs, monkeys, and toucans. Go deeper into the authentic pura vida (pure life) of Costa Rica.

Traveling aboard the expedition ship National Geographic Sea Lion ensures you’ll have experiences you couldn’t otherwise have—discovering Guanacaste as an active explorer, not a tourist. The ship is equipped with expedition landing craft, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and snorkeling gear—all key to experiencing this unique region. A veteran expedition team aboard will help you spot the multitude of mammals, birds, and insects hidden in the dense forest canopy, while the Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor will help you capture your best shots ever.

Join us to experience the rare wildness of Costa Rica on this exceptional expedition. To make your reservation, please return the enclosed reservation form or call 800-252-4910.

Sincerely,

Margaret M. BetchartPresident, Betchart Expeditions, Inc.For AAAS Travels, ACS, and Sigma Xi Expeditionswww.betchartexpeditions.com

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Cover: White-faced Capuchin monkey. © David Vargas. Opposite page: Waterfall in Rincón de la Vieja National Park. © David Vargas.

Ship’s registry: United States

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GUANACASTE: NATURE & AUTHENTIC CULTUREUnique among the lush, rainforested regions of Costa Rica, Guanacaste is the focus of our expedition. This vibrant region, located in the northwest corner of the country, is known for its rare tropical dry forest—a fascinating ecosystem that teems with flora and fauna specially adapted to the arid surroundings. On this expedition, you’ll explore Guanacaste’s coastline by ship and on shore. Search for chattering monkeys, sloths, frogs, and brightly colored birds. Visit Costa Rica’s first private national wildlife reserve to discover hundreds of species—birds, mammals, and reptiles. Go horseback riding through a pristine meadow. Delve into the region’s history when you explore archaeological sites featuring ancient petroglyphs and tomb markers. These opportunities immerse you in the essence of Costa Rica’s national character.

MEET THE WORLD’S FRIENDLIEST PEOPLEIn 2017, National Geographic recognized Costa Rica as one of the happiest countries in the world. Discover the warmth of the people there, who affectionately call themselves Ticos, and revel in the spirit of pura vida through authentic connections and meaningful experiences in friendly surf towns like Tamarindo.

Opposite page (clockwise from top): Sunset over Tamarindo Beach; tropical dry rainforest diversity; Coco Beach; white-faced Capuchin monkey in the treetops; photographing wildlife in Rincón de la Vieja National Park; young girl in San José market. This page: Cowboy life at Hacienda Guachipelin; sunrise over Arenal Volcano; waitress serving colorful drinks in the central market in San José.

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Opposite page (clockwise from top): Kayaking off the beach; spiny-tail iguana; capturing beautiful memories on Tortuga Island; relaxing on Tamarindo Beach. This page: Exploring Tamarindo’s mangroves and estuaries; scarlet macaw in flight.

GUANACASTE: A REGION RICH IN WILDNESS, WILDLIFE & WONDERThis six-day, action-packed expedition includes visits to two amazing wildlife-rich destinations—Rincón de la Vieja National Park and Curú National Wildlife Refuge—where thrilling discoveries abound, and you’ll enjoy an array of adventurous activities.

The national park is not only ecologically diverse, but it also boasts a geologically active landscape which contains two of Costa Rica’s six active volcanoes. One of those, Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, stands 6,286 feet high with a caldera nine miles wide. In the park, hike through a dense, green woodland dotted with bubbling mud pots and nearby, stop to soak in the hot springs and mud baths. Discover the region’s geology from a different perspective when you pull on a harness and try canyoning for the first time.

The spectacular Curú Refuge is part of the Tempisque Conservation Area of tropical dry forest—a true biodiversity hotspot along the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula. As Costa Rica’s first private national wildlife reserve, it’s home to more than 232 species of birds, 78 species of mammals, 87 species of reptiles, and 500-plus

species of plants. Explore the park’s winding trails with a naturalist, who can point out howler monkeys, armadillos, and many other creatures that inhabit this thriving ecosystem.

If a serene beach is more your scene, remote Zapotal Beach is a great spot to explore the crystal-clear waters via snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard, or simply soak up some sun. On uninhabited Isla Tortuga, idyllic white-sand beaches shaded by swaying palms offer a peaceful place to reflect on all you’ve seen and done.

THE PERFECT PLATFORM FOR DISCOVERING PURA VIDAThe National Geographic Sea Lion is purpose built for exploring the wild heart of Guanacaste. Along with top amenities, the intimately scaled expedition ship is designed to allow us to navigate Costa Rica’s pristine coastline and nose up to waterfalls in secluded coves. The onboard tools allow for deeper exploration. A fleet of expedition landing craft ensures quick access for all aboard to shores untouched by tourist infrastructure. Single and tandem kayaks plus paddleboards are available for paddling through elaborate mangrove systems or along idyllic, jungle-framed beaches. Snorkeling equipment, a hydrophone, an ROV (remotely operated vehicle), a bow cam, splash-cam, and an underwater video camera let you see and hear the vibrant life beneath the waves. Accommodating 62 guests in 31 cabins, National Geographic Sea Lion fosters a life aboard where everyone is integral to the adventure, and a unique, rewarding esprit de corps is the hallmark.

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Opposite page: National Geographic Sea Lion; kayaking near the Grainto de Oro, Coiba National Park. This page: Kids learn how to observe the natural world from an expert; zooming in to take her best shot; forays to mangrove-lined beaches.

An exceptional expedition team is key to your in-depth Guanacaste experience. You’ll travel with a veteran expedition leader and several naturalists who know every aspect of this region, so you’ll see, do, and learn more. You can gravitate to those whose interests—birds, plants, photography, and more—mirror yours. Or sample and benefit from a great variety of expertise and engaging personalities, plus enjoy both personal attention and perfectly sized groups on activities—you’re never lost in a crowd.

A Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor will be on board to assist you with camera settings, composition basics, and useful tips. And because they are also naturalists, you’ll learn about the wildlife so you can anticipate behaviors that make for great photos. Whether

you’re a smartphone, point-and-shoot, or DSLR user, count on returning home with new skills and your best photos ever.

TRAVEL WITH AN AMAZING EXPEDITION TEAM

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WILD COSTA RICA ESCAPE: GUANACASTE’S CORAL REEFS & VOLCANIC PEAKS6 DAYS/5 NIGHTS–NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION

Set out on a compact, six-day voyage to discover the treasures of one of Costa Rica’s most intriguing provinces: Guanacaste. Snorkel and kayak among pristine corals and palm-lined beaches in the Guanacaste

Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Hike, horseback ride, and zipline amid mist-shrouded volcanic peaks in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where intriguing archaeological sites provide insight into Costa Rica’s ancient past. As you venture from uninhabited isles to wildlife-rich jungles and friendly surf towns, bask in the pura vida that infuses this ecologically rich region.

Bat Islands.

DAY 1: SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA/PUERTO CALDERA/EMBARK Arrive in San José, the capital of Costa Rica, and embark the National Geographic Sea Lion. Enjoy a sunset dinner on board as a course is charted for the Guanacaste province on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.

DAY 2: BAT ISLANDS/SANTA ROSA NATIONAL PARKWe set our sights on the Bat Islands in the World Heritage-designated Guanacaste Conservation Area. Weather permitting, don a snorkel and fins to discover Morpho butterfly.

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Tamarindo

To

San

José

Isla Tortuga

GUANACASTE

COSTA RICA

Caldera

Zapotal Beach

Curú National Wildlife Refuge

Santa Rosa National Park

Rincón de la Vieja National Park

Bat Islands

a rich underwater world, spotting rays, turtles, and tropical fish. Back on board, enjoy a delicious lunch as the ship glides into a secluded cove in Santa Rosa National Park. The first national park established in Costa Rica, Santa Rosa is home to countless bird species, including toucans, ospreys, and parrots. Venture out by kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the coastline, or relax on a white-sand beach.

DAY 3: RINCÓN DE LA VIEJA NATIONAL PARKAfter an optional morning yoga session, go ashore to explore Rincón de la Vieja National Park, encompass-ing more than 34,000 acres and two active volcanoes. Hike through a dense, green woodland dotted with bubbling mud pots, and keep an eye out for exotic and rare wildlife—monkeys, sloths, emerald toucanets, and the curious kinkajou. Soak in the Río Negro hot springs or choose between several exciting activities: horseback ride across lush meadows, harness up for a canyoning expedition, or soar through the canopy by zipline. If you wish, explore archaeological sites around Hotel Hacienda Guachipelín, featuring ancient petroglyphs and tomb markers. DAY 4: ZAPOTAL BEACH/TAMARINDODrop anchor off remote Zapotal Beach to spend the morning soaking up sun, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and exploring the coastline by kayak or paddleboard. Head off in search of local flora and fauna with the naturalists, then return to the ship for lunch. Cruise south to the surfing town of Tamarindo, and hop into expedition landing craft to explore a coastal maze of dense mangrove forests. Navigate a secluded estuary to catch glimpses of crocodiles and sloths. Or spend the day relaxing on the beach or strolling the streets of Tamarindo, lined with craft shops and cafés.

DAY 5: CURÚ NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE/ISLA TORTUGAAlong the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, delve into a hotspot of biodiversity at Curú National Wildlife Refuge, Costa Rica’s first private national wildlife reserve. Learn about the hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, and mammals that inhabit this thriving ecosystem while exploring the park’s winding trails. Later, enjoy lunch on board, then cruise to two offshore islets collectively called Isla Tortuga after one island’s turtle-like shape. Explore idyllic white-sand beaches shaded by swaying palms and tropical vegetation. Cap off the day with a sunset barbecue dinner on the beach. DAY 6: PUERTO CALDERA/DISEMBARK/SAN JOSÉDisembark in Puerto Caldera and transfer to the airport in San José for flights home.

Snorkeling with sea turtle.

White-faced Capuchin monkeys.

Pacific Ocean

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CAPACITY: 31 cabins accommodating 62 guests. REGISTRY: United States. OVERALL LENGTH: 152 feet. PUBLIC AREAS: The ship features a library; global market; lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows, and presentations; observation deck; partially covered sundeck with chairs and tables. The “open bridge” provides guests an opportunity to meet the officers and captain, and learn about navigation.MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Breakfast is a wide-selection buffet and lunch is often served family style. Menu emphasizes local flair. CABINS: All face outside with windows, private facilities, and climate controls. EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: Expedition landing craft, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, bow camera, hydro-phone, splash-cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, wet suits and snorkel gear.SPECIAL FEATURES: Guest internet access. An undersea specialist, Lindblad-National Geographic certified instructor, and a video chronicler.WELLNESS: The vessel is staffed by a wellness specialist and feature exercise equipment, LEXspa, and outdoor stretching area.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION

Clockwise from top: National Geographic Sea Lion can access hard-to-reach locations; twin beds can be pushed together to form a double bed in Category 3 cabins on the Upper Deck; a comfortable Category 2 cabin; the casual dining room accommodates all guests in a single seating.

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CATEGORY 1: Main Deck #300-305 — Conveniently positioned between the dining room and lounge, these cabins feature two lower single beds and a large view window.

CATEGORY 2: Bridge Deck #100-104; Upper Deck #200-212, 215 — These well-located cabins include two lower single beds and a window.

CATEGORY 3: Bridge Deck #105, 106; Upper Deck #214, 216, 217, 219 — These cabins feature a seating unit with table and two large view windows. Upper Deck cabins include two lower single beds which can convert to a double bed and a pull-out single bed for a third person; Bridge Deck cabins include two lower single beds only.

NOTE: Solo occupancy cabins are available in Categories 1 and 2 only. Third person rates are available in certain categories at one half the double occupancy rate.SHARED ACCOMMODATIONS: Shares can be arranged at the double occupancy rate in Categories 1 and 2 only.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION

Prices are per person, double occupancy unless indicated as solo.

ITINERARY CAT. 1 CAT. 2 CAT. 3 CAT. 1 SOLO

CAT. 2 SOLO

ADVANCE PAYMENT

SAMPLE AIRFARES

Wild Costa Rica Escape: Guanacaste’s Coral Reefs & Volcanic Peaks

$3,740 $4,370 $4,930 $5,620 $6,550 $1,000

Round-trip Miami/San José: Economy from $400; Business from $1,100. Subject to change.

LEXspa 106

105 103

104

101

102 100 SUNDECK

BRID

GE

GYM EQUIPMENT

BRIDGE DECK

219 217

216 214

215 211

212 210 208 206 204 202 200

201 203 205 207 209

UPPER DECK

MAIN DECK

LOUNGE

OBSERVATIONDECK

BAR

CPTN.

DINING ROOM

305 303 301

304 302 300

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INCLUSIVE PRICING

SPECIAL OFFERBRING THE KIDS: Sharing an expedition with your kids or grandkids is a life-enhancing experience. Take $500 off the double occupancy price for each person under 18.

CANCELLATION POLICYNumber of Days Prior to Expedition Start Per Person Cancellation Fee120 or more days $450119–90 days Advance payment cost89–60 days 25% of trip cost59–45 days 50% of trip cost44–0 days No refund It is strongly recommended that you purchase a travel protection plan.

COSTS INCLUDE: Accommodations aboard ship; all meals and nonalcoholic beverages aboard ship; shore excursions, sightseeing, and entrance fees; use of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards; optional activities indicated in itinerary: horseback riding; zip-lining, canyoning, etc., round-trip airport/ship transfers for guests on group flights; taxes, service charges, and tips (except to ship’s crew); services of expedition staff. Unused services or items included in this program are non-refundable. NOT INCLUDED: Airfare; optional extensions; individual transfers; travel protection plan; items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi access, voyage DVD,and laundry. Gratuities to ship’s crew are at your discretion.AIRFARE: Airfare is an additonal cost. Lindblad Expeditions will assist in making your air arrangements, if needed, for a $50 per person service fee.RESERVATIONS: To confirm your place, an advance payment of $1,000 per person is required at the time of reservation and is payable by check.FINAL PAYMENT: Due no later than 90 days prior to departure. TRAVEL PROTECTION PLAN: Travel protection and medical insurance are strongly recommended and are available at extra cost. ENTRY AND VISA REQUIREMENTS: Guests are advised to verify travel documents (passport/transit visa/entry visa) for the country through which they are transiting and/or entering.

Reliable and most current information regarding international travel can be found by contacting the consulate/embassy of the country(s) you are visiting or transiting through. We will not be responsible if you are denied entry or transit into a country, if you are unable to provide valid documents as per the country’s requirement.SMOKING POLICY: 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 or upon request. By registering for a trip, the guest agrees to all such terms and conditions.NOTE: Itinerary and prices listed in this brochure are as of publication date and are subject to change. Under normal conditions the total expedition price is guaranteed at the time of booking. However, the expedition pricing is determined far in advance of initial departure on the basis of then-existing projections of fuel and other costs. In the event of increases in those costs, including but not limited to increases in the price of fuel, currency fluctuations, increases in government taxes or levies, or increased security costs, the right is reserved to adjust the price of your expedition or add a surcharge to cover such unexpected increases. We will always provide an explanation of the reason for increase in costs.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

ABOARD SHIP All meals served in the dining room All nonalcoholic beverages including unlimited cappuccinos, lattes, coffee, tea & soda Hors d’oeuvres & snacks during nightly recap Environmentally friendly refillable water bottle Fully stocked library Mac computers for downloading your camera’s memory card Fitness center The guidance & company of the expedition staff Access to the Bridge to learn about navigation

ASHORE Special access permits, park fees, port taxes Transfers to & from group flights The expertise of the expedition staff ACTIVITIES All shore activities Expedition landing craft & kayak explorations Snorkeling & paddleboarding Lectures & presentations in the lounge Photo instruction Morning stretch class with wellness specialist

PHOTO CREDITS: Willy Alfaro, istock.com, Ralph Lee Hopkins, Sven-Olof Lindblad, Michael Nolan, Marco Ricca, Shutterstock, David Vargas.

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RESERVATION FORM: WILD COSTA RICA ESCAPE: GUANACASTE’S CORAL REEFS & VOLCANIC PEAKSABOARD NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION—DECEMBER 5-10, 2019

#1542

Please reserve ____________ place(s)

Name 1:________________________________________________________(M/F): _________ (As it appears on passport)

Name 1:____________________________________Date of Birth: _______________________ (Preferred name for name badge)

Name 2: _______________________________________________________(M/F): _________ (As it appears on passport)

Name 2: ___________________________________Date of Birth: _______________________ (Preferred name for name badge)

Street Address: ________________________________________________________________

City:_____________________________________ State: __________________Zip: _________

Home Phone: ______________________Business Phone: ___________________________

Cell Phone: ___________________________________Fax: ___________________________

Email: _______________________________________________________________________

Accommodations: Double Single Twin share w/friend

Share with roommate assigned by tour operator

Please indicate choice of cabin category in order of preference:

1st choice: __________________________2nd choice: _______________________________

Enclosed is my advance payment of _________________________ ($1,000 per person).

Check made payable to Betchart Expeditions Inc. Trust Account.

I/We have read the Terms and Conditions for the program and agree to them:

Signature: ______________________________________Date: _________________________

Signature: ______________________________________Date: _________________________

Membership: AAAS Sigma Xi ACS

Please send reservation to:Betchart Expeditions, Inc.17050 Montebello RoadCupertino, CA 95014Phone: (800) 252-4910 or(408) 252-4910E-mail: info@betchartexpeditions.com

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