Thread: National Geographic Explorer

The newest addition to its fleet is the National Geographic Explorer, an ice-class polar expedition vessel that holds 148 guests in 81 outside cabins and sat sail in the summer of 2008. The ship, the Lyngen, purchased from the Norwegian company Hurtigruten, was renamed the National Geographic Explorer and was redesigned to provide travelers with the most innovative tools for exploring the undersea, the polar regions and key destinations around the globe. The ship is the seventh in the Lindblad fleet.
Built in 1982, Lindblad’s new ship had extensive renovations to become a state-of-the-art vessel, offering guests an intimate, educational environment. The new ship, like all Lindblad vessels, carries the name of National Geographic, showcasing the deepening relationship between the two organizations. In addition, the ship’s new name reflects the National Geographic Society’s century of exploration and the name of Lindblad Travel’s first ship, the Lindblad Explorer, which was commissioned in 1969 by Lars-Eric Lindblad, known to many as the ‘father of eco-tourism,’ as the world’s first purpose-built expedition ship. “Adding the National Geographic Explorer to our fleet of ships enables us to bring to life, in the fullest sense, the name of my father’s first ship, but with all of the best tools for exploring and the comfort of a 21st-century expedition ship,” said Sven Lindblad, founder and president of Lindblad Expeditions. “This vessel will not only explore the remote corners of the world, but with our partners at NGS, we hope to positively impact these regions through guest involvement in scientific research and conservation”.

The National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship accommodating 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. It is fully stabilized, enabling it to navigate polar passages while providing comfort. Building upon Lindblad Expedition’s spirit of exploration and discovery, the National Geographic Explorer houses technology for sea exploration, such as Zodiacs, kayaks, hydro-phones, underwater HD cameras and a Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV). Additional ship-enhancement includes the development of multiple dining venues, a lounge area designed specifically for educational presentations and a luxury wellness spa.
Registry: Bahamas
Public areas include two restaurants, a lounge and bar, library, observation lounge, spa, fitness center, and sauna. A mud room with lockers provides storage for guests’ expedition gear. Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with local flair.
Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes. Each has private facilities and climate controls.
Expedition Equipment: Hydrophone, kayaks, remotely operated vehicle (R.O.V.), snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, and Zodiac landing craft.
Services include a full-time doctor, Undersea Specialist, Wellness Specialist, LEXspa Therapist, and Video Chronicler. There is internet access for guests, a business center, and laundry. Our "Open Bridge" policy allows guests to learn about the art of navigation and state-of-the-art navigational equipment from our Captain and Officers.


VIEW THIS SHIP'S ITINERARIES
National Geographic Explorer Deck Plans


Lindblad Expeditions: Video

from the Lindblad Expeditions & National Geographic web site

I had no idea Nat'l Geographic was operating such amazing expedition based cruises.

The main site for the Linblad/NG cruises is really nice: Lindblad Expeditions: Adventure Travel, Vacations and Trips- Lindblad Expeditions

Thanks for this, Lars.



p.s. I may copy this over to eco-cruise, as well.

You welcome.

Lindblad Travel has been around since the late 1950s when he (Lars Eric Lindblad) organized his first expedition travels. Lindblad teamed up with National Geographic in 2004.

Lindblad Expeditions pretty much pioneered the Expedition Cruising concept.