ALUMNI & FRIENDS TRAVEL

THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS: 8 DAYS OF WONDER & AMAZEMENT
JANUARY 13 - 20, 2026

Join fellow alumni and friends as we explore the Galapagos Islands. Designated the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, the Galapagos Islands have been described as a “unique living museum and showcase of evolution.” They are home to a fascinating array of wildlife inhabiting an unspoiled ecosystem, living in harmony with their human visitors.

The Galapagos Islands: 8-days of Wonder and Amazement: The Northern Itinerary.  The itinerary has a Pre-tour to Mashpi Lodge and a Post-tour to Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley.

This exciting journey features a day of guided touring in Quito plus an intimate cruise through the archipelago with up-close access to endemic species. Expert naturalists guide you through the wonders of this national park, whale sanctuary, and marine reserve. Accommodations for this adventure are aboard the Isabela II, a 40-guest expedition vessel with spacious cabins, local cuisine, and a staff dedicated to ensuring both your comfort and maximum enjoyment of this truly extraordinary destination and its diverse inhabitants.

Cabin prices start at $5,795, per person, based on double occupancy. Explore the travel website.

• Trip Highlights
  • Visit must-see highlights of Quito during a full-day guided city tour including Old Town Quito, the colorful San Francisco Market, La Compañía de Jesús (the "Golden Church") and Casa del Alabado Archaeological Museum.
  • Experience unparalleled opportunities for immersive, up-close encounters with a myriad of wildlife. Walk among curious creatures on shore, snorkel beside sea lions and turtles in the clear waters of the world's second largest marine reserve and witness genuine interactions between species in the wild.
  • Benefit from knowledgeable naturalist guides who will provide insight on the origins of the unique flora and fauna endemic to the Galapagos Islands.
  • Choose from a variety of water activities, as Isabela II is well-equipped with snorkel gear and ocean kayaks. Guides will also lead numerous outings by panga and glass-bottom boat.
  • Enjoy exclusive access to many island locations. Isabela II has sailing privileges other vessels do not, so no other boats will be in sight during many moorings and shore landings.
  • Observe with excitement the diverse avian wildlife: flightless cormorants, Galapagos albatross, Nazca, red- and blue-footed boobies, and Darwin’s finches.

ITALY: TUSCANY, CINQUE TERRE & THE AMALFI COAST
mAY 18 - 26, 2026

Experience the best of the Italian Riviera on this remarkable seven-night cruise, round-trip Rome, aboard a deluxe small ship. Customize your Tuscany experience with included options to visit Florence or Lucca. Enjoy excursions to the cliffside villages of Cinque Terre, Corsica’s fortified town of Bonifacio and the UNESCO-inscribed ruins of Pompeii. Savor the splendor of Amalfi and the Isle of Capri on an incomparable journey that concludes with a visit to the Sicily-Rome American Cemetery and Memorial — led by Guest Speaker Dwight David Eisenhower II.

Cabin prices start at $6,995 per person, based on double occupancy. Explore the travel website.

• Trip Highlights
  • Exclusive journey to some of Italy's most iconic destinations, including Tuscany, Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast.
  • Created in our tradition of innovative programming and educational travel.
  • Access to ports unavailable to larger vessels and an included excursion in each port.
  • Specially arranged visit to the World War II Sicily-Rome American Cemetery and Memorial.
  • Distinguished guest speaker Dwight David Eisenhower II, grandson of late President Dwight D. Eisenhower will be with us for the entire program.
  • Four UNESCO World Heritage sites — the historic city center of Florence; the Cinque Terre villages of Porto Venere, Vernazza and Monterosso; and the ancient ruins of Pompeii — plus the fabled Amalfi Coast.
  • Rome Pre-Extension Option

peru explorer
july 13 – 20, 2026

A land of treasures archaeological, cultural, and natural, Peru draws those eager to learn about the distant past – and encounter a fascinating present.  As our group takes in some of the country’s highlights – Cuzco, Machu Picchu, – we marvel at the riches of an intriguing land somewhat off the beaten path. Starting in the gastronomic capital of Lima, sip Pisco Sours and admire colonial casas before heading to the rugged beauty of the Sacred Valley. Walk in the footsteps of the Incas as you admire one of the New Wonders of the World rising above the clouds, then finish your trip in ancient, cultural Cusco.

So remote and inaccessible that it was left untouched by the Spanish conquistadors, Machu Picchu was unknown to the outside world until Hiram Bingham rediscovered it in 1911. Join Stony Brook alumni, family & friends as we explore Peru, a land of archaeological, cultural and natural treasures. Explore the travel website.

• Trip Highlights
  • Customize your trip YOUR way with optional excursions in Lima and Cusco.
  • In Lima Explore the "City of the Kings" and see the Cathedral, Government Palace, Archbishop’s Palace, City Hall and visit San Francisco Monastery, famous for its catacombs.
  • Explore Machu Picchu—journey to the marvelous citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
  • In Cusco discover Sacsayhuaman, Coricancha and the famous San Pedro market and see the Temple of the Sun, the most important temple in the Inca Empire.
  • In the Sacred Valley, explore Ollantaytambo, a living town and site of massive Incan ruins that still inspire wonder today.

• What's included
  • All internal air included in the trip cost
  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • 6 breakfasts, 4 dinners, 2 lunches included
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries
  • City orientation tours
  • Variety of Optional Experiences

DISCOVER SOUTHEAST ALASKA
July 10 – 17, 2026

Enjoy the agility and flexibility of small-ship travel during this expedition cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage. Alongside expert naturalists and knowledgeable on-board crew, navigate narrow channels and waterways inaccessible by larger vessels. While exploring some of nature’s more secluded landscapes, encounter Alaska's abundant wildlife, breathtaking scenery and ice-blue glaciers of unfathomable proportions.

Cabin prices start at $5,995 per person, based on double occupancy. Explore the travel website.

• Trip Highlights
  • Delve into the rich history and diverse cultures of Alaska during visits to Sitka National Historical Park and the charming town of Petersburg.
  • Experience nature's grandeur as you witness glaciers calving, whales breaching and sea otters playing.
  • Discover Glacier Bay National Park, an icy sanctuary of untouched landscapes and dynamic wildlife.
  • Uncover Petersburg's fishing heritage amidst the lush scenery of historical Petersburg Creek Trail.
  • Trace the footsteps of explorers through numerous guided hikes and skiff excursions.

• What's included
  • 7 nights aboard the Chichagof Dream
  • All onboard hand-crafted meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners—including a special Captain’s Farewell Dinner, and complimentary wine and beer at dinner
  • An onboard lecture program and educational guidance of two naturalists plus an Orbridge Expedition Leader
  • Guided kayaking, hiking, walking, skiff excursions and wildlife viewing where humpback whales, orcas, brown bears, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, arctic terns, bald eagles and other populations are frequently spotted
  • Gratuities for Orbridge Expedition Leader, airport transfer drivers and drivers/guides on included land excursions.
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

• Ship Information: Chichagof Dream

  Accommodating 76 guests, the 207-foot Chichagof Dream features a well-appointed, intimate and unassuming style. Enjoy expansive viewing areas on the bow and aft outdoor promenade decks, a hull design optimized for supreme comfort in Alaskan waters, and forward-facing windows in the spacious lounge that extend from the deck to the ceiling offering panoramic views off the bow.

  Ship is owned by a Native American Family.  This not only funnels income to the local economy but also, because it is Native American owned, has special permits that enable it to access areas NOT OPEN to any other vessels.

THE GREEK ISLES AND EPHESUS SAILING THE AEGEAN SEA AND THE TURQUOISE COAST
SEPTEMBER 9 – 17, 2026

Journey to the cradle of Western civilization and the classical world on this Aegean voyage exploring the preserved treasures and mythical landscapes of Greece and Turkey. all on the islands of Volos, Delos, Mykonos, Patmos, Rhodes, and Santorini on this epic, eight-night voyage. Enjoy excursions to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delos’ classical ruins, including the Sanctuary of Apollo and the theater quarter; the archaeological site and ancient ruins of Ephesus; and Santorini, believed to be the legendary lost city of Atlantis. Discuss life on the islands with residents during the Island Life® forum.

Cabin Prices start at $6,295 per person, based on double occupancy. International air not included. Explore the travel website.

• Trip Highlights
  • Nine-day, eight-night, 5-star cruise round-trip Athens, Greece, on the Aegean Sea. And visit up to 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing the culture and architecture of ancient Greece and Turkey.
  • Call on islands steeped in myth and history—Delos, Mykonos, Patmos, Santorini, and Rhodes; Walk through legendary ruins of Ephesus, Turkey, and a specially arranged visit to Hydra, one of Greece's most beautiful, yet least-touristic, islands.
  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delos—the legendary birthplace of Artemis and Apollo—and walk along the Sacred Way to the Sanctuary of Apollo. Also see the legendary Terrace of the Lions, where hand-carved marble statues have guarded the island for nearly 2,600 years.
  • Arrive in Kusadasi, Turkey, and drive to Ephesus, a vast archaeological site of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ruins.
  • In Patmos, visit the Greek Orthodox Monastery of St. John and see the Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John the Apostle most likely wrote the Book of Revelation in A.D. 95. Dock in Rhodes at the wall of Rhodes Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Masters.

The Panama Canal and Costa Rica
Cruise from San José to Colón aboard the 74-cabin luxury 4-masted sailing ship
January 16 – 24, 2027

Sail aboard the elegant Wind Star on a nine-day journey that captures the best of Central America’s natural and cultural treasures. Begin in vibrant San José before embarking on a seven-night cruise from Costa Rica’s lush Pacific coast to Panama’s historic Caribbean gateway. Explore the pristine rainforests of the Osa Peninsula, encounter abundant wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park, and relax on the unspoiled beaches of Isla Parida. Experience an unforgettable daylight passage through the iconic Panama Canal — one of the world’s greatest engineering marvels — and explore the UNESCO-listed Historic District of Panamá. With luxurious accommodations, included excursions, and enriching local insights, this program offers a seamless blend of adventure, discovery, and comfort.

Cabin prices start at $7,895 per person, based on double occupancy. Explore the travel website.

• What's Included
  • 7-night cruise from Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica to Colón, Panama.
  • 1 night in San José, Costa Rica, at the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen.
  • Complimentary WIFI
  • Complimentary non-premium alcohol and wine throughout the cruise.
  • Pre-tour to Arenal and San José: 5 days, 4 nights | Cloud Forest | Hanging Bridges Tour | Local Villages

An Adventure in Costa Rica: From the Cloud Forests to the Coast
March 19 – 28, 2027

Experience Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” spirit on this immersive nature adventure through some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. Journey from the vibrant capital of San José to the remote waterways of Tortuguero National Park, where monkeys, toucans, and sloths thrive in lush rainforest. Visit a family-run heart-of-palm plantation and sample local delicacies, then walk amid the canopy of the Arenal Hanging Bridges with sweeping views of the iconic Arenal Volcano. Continue to the mist-shrouded Monteverde Cloud Forest, and discovering the unique biodiversity of this mystical region. Along the way, enjoy eco-friendly lodgings, authentic cultural experiences, and the warmth of Costa Rica’s people on an unforgettable journey from coast to cloud forest.

$3,795 per person, based on double occupancy. Trip Registration Information.

• Trip Highlights
  • Glide through the waterways of Tortuguero National Park, spotting monkeys, toucans, and sloths in their natural rainforest habitat.
  • Visit a family-run chocolate workshop to learn about cacao’s cultural and culinary heritage. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at a heart-of-palm plantation and meet local families dedicated to sustainable farming.
  • Walk the Arenal Hanging Bridges, suspended high above the rainforest with sweeping views of the Arenal Volcano.
  • Discover the misty wonder of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth.
  • Engage with descendants of Monteverde’s Quaker pioneers, gaining insight into their community’s remarkable history and conservation legacy.

Holland and Belgium: Along the Dutch Waterways
April 22 -30, 2027

Sail through the heart of the Low Countries on a 7-night deluxe river cruise showcasing the timeless beauty of Holland and Belgium. From Amsterdam’s iconic canals and Delft’s world-famous porcelain to Antwerp’s lively streets and the fairytale charm of Bruges, every stop immerses you in rich history and culture. Highlights include a private canal cruise, a special visit to the Kröller-Müller Museum — home to one of the world’s largest Van Gogh collections — and the vibrant springtime display at Keukenhof Gardens. Along the way, enjoy fine dining, elegant accommodations, and guided tours of UNESCO World Heritage sites that bring these destinations to life.

Cabin prices start at $4,495 per person, based on double occupancy. Explore the travel website.

Ship: 82-cabin MS Amadeus Amara 

• Trip Highlights
  • Exclusive 7-night cruise through the canals and rivers of the Netherlands and Belgium. 
  • Specially arranged excursion to the Kröller-Müller Museum, home to one of the world's largest collections of Vincent van Gogh's artwork. 
  • Private cruise through Amsterdam's iconic canals. 
  • Visit to the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens during springtime blooming season.
  • Four UNESCO World Heritage sites: 17th-Century Canal Ring Area of Amsterdam inside the Singelgracht and Mill Network at Kinderdijk-Elshout, Netherlands; and Historic Center of Bruges and Belfries of Belgium, Belgium.
  • Included meals | 2 receptions, 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners.
  • All beverages — liquor, wine, beer and nonalcoholic drinks and minibar — throughout the cruise.
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access (conditions permitting).
  • Amsterdam Pre-Tour Extension Option Available.

Village Life: French Alps
May 2027

Experience the charm and culture of the French Alps on this exclusive nine-day Village Life® journey based in the lakeside town of Annecy, often called the “Venice of the Alps.” Settle into the elegant Imperial Palace Hotel and explore a region where medieval towns, alpine panoramas, and centuries-old traditions come together. Cruise the crystal waters of Lake Annecy, visit the fairy-tale Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, and ascend by cable car in Chamonix for breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. Sample Savoie wines and regional specialties, meet local artisans in charming mountain villages, and learn about the area’s deep-rooted cultural heritage. With its blend of scenic beauty, historic treasures, and authentic French hospitality, this program offers an unforgettable immersion into the heart of the Alps.

$5,265 per person, based on double occupancy. Explore the travel website.

• Trip Highlights
  • Exclusive journey to the southeastern region of France, featuring first-class accommodations for 7 nights at the Imperial Palace Hotel.
  • Specially arranged boat cruise on Lake Annecy, ending in the picturesque town of Talloires. 
  • Private guided visit to the spectacular Château de Menthon‑Saint‑Bernard, one of the architectural jewels of Savoie, occupied by the same family for almost 1,000 years. 
  • Specially arranged cable-car ascent at Chamonix for unforgettable panoramic views of Mont Blanc. Test your mettle at “Step into the Void,” a glass-room attraction.
  • Visit the cellar of the fromagerie (cheese shop) Pierre Gay, awarded the "Meilleur Ouvrière de France" (Best Craftsman of France) for the past 10 years.
  • Travel to Sévrier for an exclusive VIP experience at the Paccard Bell Foundry. Enjoy a guided tour of the workshop and visit the museum.
  • Explore Annecy, known for its picturesque canals and medieval streets. Stroll through the Vieille Ville (Old Town), see the Palais de l'Isle, Chateau d'Annecy, Cathedrale Saint‑Pierre and Lover's Bridge.

THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS: 8 DAYS OF WONDER & AMAZEMENT
June 9 – 16, 2027

Join fellow alumni and friends as we explore the Galapagos Islands. Designated the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, the Galapagos Islands have been described as a “unique living museum and showcase of evolution.” They are home to a fascinating array of wildlife inhabiting an unspoiled ecosystem, living in harmony with their human visitors.

This exciting journey features a day of guided touring in Quito plus an intimate cruise through the archipelago with up-close access to endemic species. Expert naturalists guide you through the wonders of this national park, whale sanctuary, and marine reserve. Accommodations for this adventure are aboard the Isabela II, a 40-guest expedition vessel with spacious cabins, local cuisine, and a staff dedicated to ensuring both your comfort and maximum enjoyment of this truly extraordinary destination and its diverse inhabitants.

Cabin Prices start at $5,995 per person, based on double occupancy. Explore the travel website.

• Trip Highlights
  • Up-close wildlife encounters with giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, Galapagos penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions, and sea turtles — on land and in the water — guided by expert naturalists. 
  • Expedition cruising aboard the intimate Isabela II, a well-equipped vessel carrying just 40 guests, offering panga rides, glass-bottom boating, snorkeling, kayaking, and daily shore landings. 
  • Daily guided exploration of iconic islands and sites, including Bartolomé, Sullivan Bay, Dragon Hill, Buccaneer Cove, Isabela, and Fernandina—some of the most pristine ecosystems on the planet. 
  • Enriching time in historic Quito, featuring a guided city tour, UNESCO-listed Old Town landmarks, cultural sites, and a stay at a five-star boutique hotel before and after the cruise. 

Pacific Northwest Discovery: The San Jan Islands
Whales, Wildlife and Coastal Culture
August 9 – 14, 2027

Cruise through the pristine waters of Washington’s San Juan Islands on this immersive 6-day journey featuring exceptional wildlife viewing, dramatic coastal landscapes, and relaxed Pacific Northwest charm. Spot orcas and humpback whales from sea and shore, explore remote islands like fossil-rich Sucia Island and scenic Orcas Island, and experience iconic sites including Lime Kiln State Park and Deception Pass from both land and water. Along the way, enjoy locally sourced cuisine, expert naturalist guides, and thoughtfully paced days based in charming harbors such as Friday Harbor — all set against the rugged beauty of the Puget Sound region.

Cabin Prices start at $5,995 per person, based on double occupancy. Explore the travel website.

• Trip Highlights
  • Cruise through the serene San Juan Islands with endless opportunities to spot a multitude of wildlife including orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, porpoises and a dazzling array of seabirds.
  • Indulge in the region’s incredible locally sourced seafood and farm-to-table cuisine.
  • Explore remote island shores including the geologically stunning Sucia Island, where you’ll discover ancient fossils, sculpted sandstone formations and untouched landscapes.
  • Discover diverse landscapes including Orcas Island, the breathtaking panoramas atop Mount Constitution and the windswept coastline of Lime Kiln State Park, one of the best places in the world for land-based whale watching.
  • Experience Deception Pass from both land and sea. Cruise beneath its soaring bridge amidst the swirling currents, then step ashore to reach panoramic viewpoints overlooking the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Spectacular Seine River
September 21 – 28, 2027

Cruise round-trip from Paris through the heart of Normandy on an elegant 7-night Seine River voyage, blending art, history, and French culture. Discover Monet’s gardens in Giverny, stroll the charming harbor town of Honfleur, explore medieval Rouen, and gain powerful insight into history with a guided visit to the Normandy D-Day beaches alongside special guest speaker Dwight David Eisenhower II. With UNESCO World Heritage sites, refined onboard accommodations, and thoughtfully curated excursions, this journey offers a rich and immersive experience of France from Paris to the coast and back.

Cabin Prices start at $4,295 per person, based on double occupancy. Explore the travel website.

• Trip Highlights
  • Experience the natural splendor and beauty of Monet's home and gardens at Giverny.
  • Tour the magnificent Benedictine Jumièges Abbey, one of Western Europe's oldest monasteries.
  • Explore the picturesque port city of Honfleur, home to legendary Impressionists, and see the St. Catherine Church.
  • Join guest speaker Dwight David Eisenhower II to trace the footsteps of history across the Normandy battlefields and Pointe du Hoc, where the events of D-Day forever changed the course of World War II.
  • Visit these World Heritage sites:
    
    Rouen, where you will visit the Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral and see where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.
    
    The magnificent palace of Versailles.
    
    Banks of the iconic Seine River, which you will see in Paris

Spain: Andalucía in a Parador
September 23 – October 10, 2027

Discover the heart of southern Spain on this immersive journey through Andalucía, based for seven nights in the elegant Parador de Antequera. Travel through a region shaped by Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences as you explore Granada’s breathtaking Alhambra, Seville’s grand cathedral and Alcázar, Córdoba’s remarkable mosque-cathedral, and the dramatic cliffside town of Ronda. Along the way, enjoy a flamenco performance, savor regional wines and cuisine, visit four UNESCO World Heritage sites, and gain deeper insight through expert lectures and guided excursions — all thoughtfully paced for a rich and rewarding cultural experience.

$3,795 per person; No Single Supplement. Explore the travel website.

• Trip Highlights
  • Enjoy 7 nights in Antequera, Spain, at the first-class Parador de Antequera
  • Ponder the influence of the Moors as you explore the enchanting Alhambra. 
  • Clap to the rhythm of a soulful flamenco performance. 
  • Immerse yourself in charming Antequera, nestled in Andalucía’s picturesque heartland. 
  • Marvel at the breathtaking view of El Tajo Gorge in Ronda. 
  • Delight in the majestic architecture of the cathedral and Alcázar in Sevilla. 
  • Sip a glass of wine at a countryside bodega as you savor your adventure in Andalucía. 
  • Experience four UNESCO World Heritage sites:
    
    Antequera Dolmens Site
    
    Alhambra, Generalife, Granada
    
    Cathedral and Alcázar, Sevilla
    
    Historic Centre of Córdoba

Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires: Coastal Brazil, Uruguay & Argentina
October 23 – November 5, 2027

Experience the vibrant rhythms and coastal beauty of South America on a 14-day Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires journey. Begin with the iconic sights of Rio de Janeiro, from Copacabana Beach to Christ the Redeemer, before embarking on a 9-night cruise aboard the deluxe small ship World Navigator. Sail along Brazil’s sun-drenched coastline to charming Búzios, explore the lush island of Ilhabela de São Sebastião, and visit the culturally rich ports of São Francisco do Sul and Balneário Camboriú, where Brazilian and European influences intertwine. Continue south to Uruguay, discovering the seaside elegance of Punta del Este and the history of Montevideo, before concluding in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, Argentina’s passionate capital of tango, art, and architecture.

Cabin Prices Start at $5,999, per person, based on double occupancy. Explore the travel website.

Ship: 95-cabin World Navigator, an exclusively chartered, deluxe small ship.

• Trip Highlights
  • 9-night cruise from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to Buenos Aires, Argentina; 1 night stay in each deluxe hotel in Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires. 
  • Specially arranged visit to Ilhabela de São Sebastião Island, Brazil, a pristine, lush island with beaches, forests, and stunning waterfall hikes. 
  • Two UNESCO World Heritage sites — Volongo Wharf Archaeological Site and Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea (specifically Copacabana Beach), Brazil.
  • Tour the charming cobblestone streets of Buzios — a humble fishing village turned upscale beach destination. Visit local artisans and boutiques and stroll the famous beaches. 
  • In Uruguay's gateway to the Maldonado region, see the famous La Mano sculpture, explore the Casapueblo  museum featuring Carlos Páez Vilaró's art, and sample locally made wines.
  • All beverages — liquor, wine, beer and nonalcoholic drinks and minibar — throughout the cruise.
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access (conditions permitting).
  • Iguazú Falls Post-Tour Extension. (Available at additional cost.)