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Upcoming Trips
Egypt and the Nile Valley
March 6–19, 2020
Sold Out
Explore the storied land of pharaohs and kings with Dr. Laurance Doyle. See colossal pyramids, legendary tombs, and towering temples cascading across the terrain. The mighty Nile River welcomes you for an unhurried journey that reveals limitless vistas of seemingly infinite deserts contrasted with metropolitan cities. After four nights of touring in Cairo and two nights in Luxor, you’ll board a dahabiya just for your group in Esna for four nights sailing the Nile River. Following the cruise, enjoy two nights in Aswan before returning to Cairo for departure.
Southern Grandeur: Civil War Saga
March 23–31, 2020
Starting at $2,199
Enjoy seven nights aboard the American Queen steamboat, sailing on the Mississippi River from New Orleans, Louisiana, to Memphis, Tennessee, with Dr. John Glen. Step into the past to see compelling Civil War sites and learn about strategic battle locations. Onboard Riverlorians bring to life the echoes of America’s past through interesting lectures, while onshore memorials and museums make the journey of a nation tangible through statues and artifacts. Though it left many scars in its wake, the conclusion of the Civil War closed the chasm of a divided nation.
Galápagos Islands Cruise
July 8–15, 2020
Starting at $5,399
Join biology professor Dr. Scott Eckert and Philosophy Professor Chris Young to explore the Galápagos Islands. Marvel at the flora and fauna, and observe up close a diversity of species, including boobies, tortoises, and marine iguanas. Snorkel among colorful tropical fish and playful sea lions, and see Quito’s ornate Jesuit church and a curated collection of Pre-Columbian art.
Summer Sailing: The Rhône and Saône
(with an optional extension to Barcelona)
July 20–August 2, 2020
Starting at $4,695
In the south of France, the rivers Rhône and Saône take you to endless lavender fields and picturesque olive groves. Absorb the enchanting city highlights such as Lyon or Avignon that alternate with the sundrenched nature reserves of Provence and the Camargue and the beauty of the world famous regions of Burgundy and Beaujolais, and let French “savoir vivre” work its magic on you. Lifelong Learning faculty Madelon Maupin, Susie Ledbetter, and Dr. Brian Roberts will join you aboard along a delightful cruise while sharing talks on religious history, art history, and the European Union.
Trekking Bhutan
October 1–12, 2020
Starting at $4,999
Join former Principia College faculty member Dr. Mike Rechlin on the finest six-day trek in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Soak up classic views of the Himalayas, cross the high Nye La Mountain Pass, and camp below the sacred peak of Chomolhari. You’ll also experience the rich culture of Bhutan as you explore ancient fortresses and monasteries.
Astounding Antarctica
January 16–27, 2021
Starting at $8,899
Dr. Laurance Doyle will guide this expedition through dramatic ice landscapes, wildlife-rich channels, and the dynamic ecosystem of the seventh continent. Explore the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, a beautiful island chain filled with an impressive variety of wildlife. You'll benefit from expert guides, scientists, and lecturers while cruising aboard Ocean Victory, which can navigate the narrow channels and bays closed to larger ships. An optional pretour in Buenos Aires and a posttour to Iguazú Falls are available.
Japan in Bloom
April 10–21, 2021
Starting at $4,599
Set sail from Tokyo with Dr. Marie Jureit-Beamish. See Shimizu, with its serene woodlands and majestic Mount Fuji. Take in Kyoto's breathtaking shrines, and visit Hiroshima, a charming city not overshadowed by its history. You'll cruise the Kanmon Straits to Busan, the second largest city in South Korea; Nagasaki, a city of traditions; and see Kagoshima, which features one of Japan’s most active volcanoes. An optional pre-cruise program in Tokyo is available.
British Isles and Lowlands
June 12–23, 2021
Starting at $4,899
Enjoy cruising the Celtic shores of England, Ireland, and Northern Ireland with Principia College Theatre Professor John O’Hagan. Starting in London, you’ll take in a variety of locales: the Isle of Portland, Cork, the seaside village of Glengarriff, Galway, Londonderry, Belfast, and Dublin, the largest city in Ireland, where you can visit the 11th-century Christ Church Cathedral or just wander the quaint cobblestone streets.
Trekking Ireland
July 17–26, 2021
Starting at $2,999
This walking vacation, led by Chuck Wilcoxen, showcases an Ireland rich in culture and tradition—and worlds away from the fast pace of urban life. The local scenery includes a stunning coastline, lakes, mountains, Highland sheep, and numerous stone walls. In The Burren, you'll experience the area's exceptional rock formation and a micro-ecosystem of rare plants. Seeing archaeological and cultural artifacts is on the itinerary, too.
Polar Bears and Beluga Whales
July 27–August 2, 2021
Starting at $4,499
Head to Canada with Dr. Chrissy McAllister to discover Churchill, Manitoba, where the Hudson Bay hosts polar bears in the fall, some of whom are still visible in summer. The main stars at this time of year, however, are the 60,000+ beluga whales who feed, mate, and give birth in the area’s shallow waters. You'll also see a wide variety of other wildlife and meet the local people, whose pioneering spirits and welcoming smiles await you.
Panoramic Great Lakes
August 16–26, 2021
Enjoy a nine-night adventure aboard the M/V Victory II to discover the majesty of the Great Lakes as you sail on Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and Lake Erie. Your journey begins with a one-night stay in Toronto. From there, traverse the Welland Canal and witness the thunderous power of Niagara Falls. Explore the history, landmarks, and culture of Cleveland, Windsor, Detroit, Manitoulin Island, Saulte Ste. Marie, and Mackinac Island. The trip concludes with a day of scenic sailing on Lake Michigan and disembarking in Chicago. This outstanding voyage includes an ideal collection of expert-led shore excursions along with entertaining lectures to enrich your travel experience given by PLL faculty member Howie Bay (C’73).