4 Night Cruise sailing from Los Angeles roundtrip aboard National Geographic Quest.

DAY 1: Los Angeles, CA/Embark
Arrive in Los Angeles, or toss your bag in your car if you live there, and head to the Port of Los Angeles in the afternoon to be welcomed aboard National Geographic Quest. Familiarize yourself with the ship, stow your stuff, and take in the sights on the ship’s deck. We’ll embark in the early evening—for a short exhale presentation on mindfulness, cocktails and a sunset cruise (aka golden hour for photographers!) (D)

DAY 2: Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands, Channel Islands National Park
Wake to the ship at anchor off the rocky outcropping of East Anacapa Island. Join your fitness instructor on the sundeck for morning yoga, before heeding the call of the breakfast buffet. After breakfast, join naturalists aboard our expedition landing craft to go ashore on East Anacapa. The goal is the Anacapa Lighthouse, built in 1912, the last major light station to be built on the west coast. Soak in the views from Inspiration Point or, for a more relaxing option, explore Arch Rock via zodiac.

DAY 3: Santa Rosa Island, Channel Islands National Park
Wake to the ship at anchor off the rocky outcropping of East Anacapa Island. Join your fitness instructor on the sundeck for morning yoga, before heeding the call of the breakfast buffet. After breakfast, join naturalists aboard our expedition landing craft to go ashore on East Anacapa. The goal is the Anacapa Lighthouse, built in 1912, the last major light station to be built on the west coast. Soak in the views from Inspiration Point or, for a more relaxing option, explore Arch Rock via zodiac.

After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring Santa Cruz island: leisurely walking, birding, or working with your certified photo instructor to capture the natural beauty. Or opt for a strenuous hike and make your FitBit proud. Grab a kayak and explore the impressive sea caves. Head back to the ship to refresh for cocktail hour and Recap before dinner. (B,L,D)

DAY 4: Catalina Island
Spend the day discovering the colorful history and natural wonders of Catalina Island. Once a haunt of smugglers and gold-diggers, the island was transformed into a resort destination by chewing gum tycoon William Wrigley, Jr. in the 1920s. Some 50 years later, William’s heirs, Philip K. Wrigley and Dorothy Wrigley Offield, established the Catalina Island Conservancy, protecting nearly 90 percent of the island. After a morning workout on deck followed by breakfast, meet with a member of the Conservancy for a guided walk along the coastline and into the backcountry. With luck, we may catch a glimpse—or a photo—of the elusive fox species endemic to the island. Head for the water to kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or opt for another dive if you’re certified.

After lunch, the ship drops anchor in Avalon Harbor, where you’ll have time to explore on your own. Ride a bike through Avalon, a town of less than 5,000, or hike up to Avalon Canyon for spectacular views and a visit to the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden--featuring Ada Wrigley's original desert exotica collection as well as a collection of Channel Island endemic plants--plus the spectacular tile and rockwork all from Catalina Island. Or step into an architectural gem: the art deco Catalina Casino, built by William Wrigley, Jr. in 1929. Return to the ship for sunset yoga on deck, a farewell dinner, and a last evening at sea. (B,L,D)

DAY 5: Los Angeles/Disembark
Awake dockside in the bustling Port of Los Angeles. (Early risers can catch the action in one of the world’s largest ports.) Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking and either transferring to the airport or heading to your car or Uber—refreshed by your getaway—to the clang and clamor of contemporary life.