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April 6, 2022

Lindblad Expeditions–National Geographic has unveiled the latest addition to its award-winning fleet, National Geographic Islander II. With just 48 guests and the spirit and soul of a private yacht, the all-suite ship will make her maiden voyage to the Galápagos on August 18, 2022 for year-round expeditions to the islands.

“I had the pleasure of being in the Galápagos for the first time last week and you can feel the legacy of Lindblad-National Geographic in these iconic islands, from the second generation Galápagos crew on board, to locally grown food to stories. on the role we have played in supporting conservation in the archipelago, ” said Dolf Berle, President and CEO of Lindblad Expeditions. “With the new National Geographic Islander II, we will be able to build on that legacy and offer an even greater connection with the Galápagos and its people.

Formerly the Crystal Esprit, the elegant National Geographic Islander II will elevate the guest experience to a whole new level. Travelers will find teak decks connecting indoor and outdoor spaces, a well-equipped observation deck, indoor and outdoor dining options, 26 bright suites, and new shipping facilities including a marina and Science Hub.

Elegantly furnished, each of the 26 suites features large windows, convertible king / twin beds, sofa, marble bathrooms with double vanities, stocked minibars, Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and large closets. The four Islander Suites have four windows, separate living rooms, and bathrooms with bathtubs and rain showers. Connecting suites are available, as well as four dedicated single suites and triple options. The Santa Cruz Islander Suite can be booked as a family suite with a connecting double suite.

The reinvented Cove Lounge will be the gathering place for pre-dinner summaries, cocktails and enriching presentations. Meals will be offered in the newly expanded open-air Patio Café and the sophisticated Yacht Club Restaurant.

The ship will celebrate Lindblad‘s deep connection with the islands, Ecuador and her people. From the carefully thought-out food and drink program that highlights Ecuador’s four regions with locally sourced ingredients, to artwork and decorations created by local artists and craftsmen, on National Geographic Islander II, guests will experience beauty and the wonder of Ecuador inside and outside the ship.

Designed for active exploration, National Geographic Islander II carries a fleet of kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, a custom glass-bottomed Zodiac, and a flotilla of versatile Mark V Zodiacs, so everyone can explore at the same time.

The new Science Hub, featuring an interactive video display, lab benches and seating, will connect guests to Lindblad-National Geographic‘s legacy in support of conservation and research.

Two Cabins for Conservation Suites, designated exclusively for Galápagos community members, local and international researchers, educators, storytellers and other experts, will provide guests with a deeper connection with the people and the place.

The ship will offer a 1-1 guest / crew ratio, expanding Lindblad‘s renowned onboard services; its celebrated expedition team will include an expedition leader and four naturalists, including an underwater specialist, a certified photography instructor, and trained field educators who run the acclaimed National Geographic Global Explorers family program.

National Geographic Islander II is also equipped with stabilizers for smooth sailing, while the ship’s refit for the Galápagos includes major environmental and fuel-efficient upgrades such as reduced exterior lighting, specialty paints and recycled water from the new air conditioning systems.

Don’t miss more Lindblad Expeditions updates, information and reviews on Cruising Journal with photos, videos and cruises on offer.

Giorgia Lombardo

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