National Geographic Islander II

Islander Suites are a notable 515 square feet and have a separate living area, table and chairs, four large windows, walk-in closets, a larger bathroom with both a bathtub and glassed-in rain shower, and commissioned art inspired by the island in each suite’s name.

Connecting staterooms are available and there are solo and triple options. The Santa Cruz Islander Suite can be reserved with a connecting double as a family suite.

Enjoy meals in the expanded al fresco Patio Café, sophisticated Yacht Club Restaurant on the Promenade Deck, or Grill on the Observation Deck, where there’s also a bar and ample seating to host events. Here, guests gather for wine tastings, chocolate tastings, and Bubble-Qs—BBQs made extra celebratory with Champagne. The convenient 24-hour beverage and snack stations in the Bar and Library are other welcome amenities. 

The Cove is a gathering spot for pre-dinner Recaps, camaraderie with like-minded travelers, and craft cocktails. Four flat-screen TVs are part of a state-of-the-art communications system for engaging and informative audiovisual presentations. A forward-facing viewing platform invites you to step outside to take in the beauty of the islands.

Outfitted with scientific equipment, the exciting new Science Hub continues the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions legacy of supporting conservation and research. Equipped for underway oceanography, interactive video presentations, and an enhanced photo experience, the Science Hub is also a place for young guests in the National Geographic Global Explorers Program to experience hands-on learning.

National Geographic Islander II carries a fleet of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, a glass-bottom boat, an expanded flotilla of versatile Zodiacs, complete snorkel gear for adults and children, video microscope, and Science Hub.

The newly refitted teak-appointed marina is spacious and climate-controlled, designed for guests to comfortably get in and out of expedition gear.

The Expedition Team, led by a veteran Expedition Leader, includes a five Naturalists, Undersea Specialist, Certified Photo Instructor, and Certified Field Educators who run our exclusive National Geographic Global Explorers Program for kids and teens.

The ship’s public spaces enhance the connection to the islands. Guests will find an open Bridge, surrounding teak decks, and a forward-viewing area. Two dining areas accommodate all guests in a single seating. The Cove, which has a bar, is the setting for daily Recaps. Other ship features include a Reception area with glass doors that lead to an open teak viewing deck, a plunge pool, a chart room, the Global Gallery, library, marina, swim platform, and Zodiac boarding area.

On July 29, 2022, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions celebrated the official blessing of the newest addition to the fleet, National Geographic Islander ll, in Salinas, Ecuador. Attendees included Ecuador’s Minister of Tourism, Niels Olsen; Gustavo Manrique, Minister of the Environment, Water and Ecological Transition; industry colleagues; local partners; and members of the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions crew. 

In this video Darrel Schoeling, Director of Expedition Development, and Ana Esteves, Vice President of Hotel Operations, provide a behind-the-scenes look at how the National Geographic Islander II was purposely outfitted to reduce impact, build community on board, and foster an authentic connection to the people and culture of Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands.

Our new ship for the Galápagos Islands, the National Geographic Islander II, celebrates the cultures of Ecuador and the islands themselves. Join Vice President of Hotel Operations Ana Esteves as she finds inspiration around the country—meeting acclaimed local artisans, chefs, and artists who showcase the beauty and wonder of Ecuador.