We have great pleasure in welcoming you to our conference experience Galápagos 2025: Anaesthesia: evolving and adapting to a changing world. Charles Darwin once wrote: “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, not the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.” It is this adaptability to change that is the main theme of our conference.
This conference was originally planned for 2020, but nature had different ideas, gifting us with a global pandemic. However, in 2025, we will immerse ourselves in a more benevolent form of nature, the pristine and spectacular Galápagos archipelago, as we enjoy a first-class conference program.
We would like to extend a special welcome to our invited speakers, anaesthesiologists Professor Steven Shafer, Dr Pamela Flood and psychiatrist Professor Pat McGorry. In what we believe is a first in anaesthetic conferencing, this event will explore the overlap of psychiatry with anaesthesia, and how we can enhance and protect our own mental health.
Finally, we would like to thank you, the delegates, many of whom are presenting lectures and workshops at this conference. Thank you for believing in us, for supporting us and for participating with us in a what will be a truly memorable and profound conference experience.
Scientific program.
CONFERENCE CONVENORS: DR ANTHONY PADLEY, RN JIAN YING WANG, AND DR DAVID ELLIOTT
The scientific conference program will include a number of internationally invited speakers in addition to delegates themselves contributing to the program.
The conference program is currently being finalised.
Once registered, delegates are invited to contribute to the program by emailing the convenors via Mark Cunich at mark@unconventional.com.au
A 10-day expedition focused on exploring the legendary Galápagos islands, aboard the National Geographic Endeavour II, our newest and most flexible expedition ship, uniquely equipped for actively experiencing the island’s wildlife and wonders.
“A little world within itself,” as Darwin described it, where life-altering encounters with animals—curious, or sublimely indifferent to our presence–happen like nowhere else on earth. Each island is diversely fascinating and magical. You’ll discover the islands and habitats of this legendary volcanic archipelago aboard our intimate expedition ship, the 96 guest National Geographic Endeavour II, waking each day to fresh adventures. We’ll use our onboard fleet of nimble Zodiacs and kayaks to explore natural wonders up-close. Gain remarkable insights from our knowledgeable team. Hike among the wildlife; investigate the vibrant sea—snorkel, stand-up paddleboard, and swim daily with sea lions, sea turtles, and penguins; and capture these moments in your best photos ever with the guidance of our certified photo instructor.
We have fully chartered the 96 passenger National Geographic Endeavour II. Purpose-built in 2005 for expedition cruising in the waters of Tierra del Fuego, the National Geographic Endeavour II underwent a major refit for Galápagos service in 2016 with an all-new forward lounge, library, gym & spa along with new fixtures and furniture in cabins, new suites and other amenities throughout. Sophisticated and energy-efficient lighting, air-conditioning, water-making and other technical features were also installed or replaced for year-round operation in equatorial waters. The ship, which previously carried 136 passengers, accommodates 96 guests in 52 thoughtfully appointed cabins. She is exceptionally nimble and maneuverable, with a shallow draft to get up close, great viewing from all public spaces, an expansive open-air observation deck, large windows in cabins and suites, and state-of-the-art tools for exploration. National Geographic Endeavour II replaced the much loved National Geographic Endeavour in December 2016.
Airlines generally release flights 12 months in advance.
Unconventional Conventions will email you with our recommended flight options once the fights become available. You can book these through Unconventional Conventions or directly yourself.
You will have the opportunity to snorkel, kayak or paddleboard on most days throughout the program. These optional extras can be arranged onboard.
DIVING
Unfortunately, the standard program will not include any scuba diving. If you are an advanced diver, please express your interest when registering. We will be able to assist in organising an extra couple of days in the Galapagos for a dedicated diving program. You will need to have advanced certification, more than 30 logged dives, and have been diving in the past 3 years.