4 Night Wild California Escape Channel Islands National Park Cruise from Los Angeles

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 Sea Lion. 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)

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 the Zodiacs to go ashore on East Anacapa. The goal is the Anacapa Lighthouse, built in 1932, 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. (B,L,D)

Kick-start your morning with a stretch class before breakfast. Weather permitting, go kayaking, hike one of the many trails, or simply relax ashore. With luck, we may catch a glimpse-or photo-of the elusive fox species endemic to the island. Join the naturalists for a more strenuous hike out to the base of the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, which contains what is considered one of the world's rarest pines and is one of only two naturally occurring groves in the world. End the day with a sunset cocktail party. (B,L,D)

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 a conservancy member to learn about their work on the island before heading out on the trail for spectacular views of the coastline and the Catalina backcountry. With luck, catch a glimpse of the elusive bison herd that have resided on Catalina Island since 1924. Head for the water to kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Return to the ship for a farewell dinner and a last evening at sea under the stars. (B,L,D)

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 onboard 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.