Since 1984, Thoreson has traveled nationally and internationally, shot for the U.S. National Park Service, bicycled 10,000 miles solo, sailed 65,000 miles around the planet, including both polar regions. In June 2010, David completed a 28,000 mile circumnavigation by sail of North and South America. David was selected in 2005 as one of the top three explorers from the state of Iowa.

He completed the historic Northwest Passage by sail during the summers of 2007 and 2009 becoming the first American sailor in history to transit the fabled passage in both directions. David premiered his new documentary in 2008, "Arctic Journey in a Changing World," on PBS. He is speaking nationally on issues of exploration and climate change including the first 2008 World Science Festival in NYC.

David's work has been featured at the Smithsonian Institute, numerous publications, books, and award-winning Public Television documentaries. He is currently touring nationally with a new exhibit and speaking presentations. Besides speaking and exhibits, Thoreson's Blue Water Studios offers original and stock photography, fine art prints, and updates on his adventures.