National Geographic Explorer: A Closer Look at This Authentic Expedition Ship
With a storied history working in Norway’s famed Coastal Express, the 148-guest flagship National Geographic Explorer was completely rebuilt to sail up close in some of the world’s most remote and remarkable places. Every detail, from the welcoming chart room to the light-flooded observation deck, reveals a dedication to curiosity and wonder.
This extraordinary, fully stabilized ship truly lives up to her name and is equipped with a roster of expedition tools that include Zodiacs, kayaks and a remotely operated vehicle that provides unprecedented access to the underwater world. These tools, combined with other unique elements like an Open Bridge policy that lets you chat with the captain and ship’s officers, all help immerse you more deeply in your destination.
National Geographic Explorer also features well-appointed shared spaces as well as newly renovated suites complete with a sleek, Scandinavian design and a state-of-the-art Command Center filled with tech and tools that allow guests to keep exploring from the comfort of their cabin.
“These new stunning interior enhancements tie National Geographic Explorer together nicely with our other purpose-built ice-class ships, while still creating an air of unique distinction and highlighting what makes this ship such a staple in the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet,” says Ana Esteves, SVP of Hotel Operations for Lindblad Expeditions.
Whether she’s navigating the icy waters of the polar regions, sailing along Europe’s storied coastlines, or threading through wild channels in Patagonia, National Geographic Explorer delivers a comfortable, immersive and truly authentic experience. Take a closer look below and see why this ship represents the paradigm of an expedition vessel for so many of our guests and our staff.
All photos (unless otherwise noted): Douglas Scaletta
The lounge is the central gathering place for your expedition and you’ll convene there often for cocktails and hors d'oeuvres before dinner, daily Recaps with your expedition leader and engaging presentations from your naturalists.
The expansive observation lounge is drenched in light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows with 24/7 views of the passing, stunning landscapes. Choose a book from the well-stocked library and read up on a wide array of subjects from Antarctic wildlife to medieval European historyas you take in the panoramic vistas.
National Geographic Explorer offers the choice of two dining options: The main dining room on the upper deck where buffet breakfast and lunch and plated dinners are served and the bistro where you can grab a light lunch. Whichever you choose, you'll enjoy meals in a relaxed and casual atmosphere with no assigned seating.
Each meal carefully crafted by the culinary team features locally sourced ingredients and flavors inspired by your destination as well as an array of continental options. Depending on your voyage, you may dine on fresh-caught fish pulled from the surrounding waters or enjoy a traditional dessert created with fruits grown on a farm along your route.
Convene with fellow guests at the lively bar located in the lounge and enjoy bespoke cocktails made with locally distilled spirits, craft beers from nearby breweries, or coffee brewed with regionally grown beans.
A variety of cabin categories are available to fit the needs of every guest, from Category 5 cabins that feature a balcony to options for solo travelers. A large window or two portholes keep you connected to the wild wonders outside. (clockwise from top left: Category 1, Category 3, Solo cabin, Category 5.)
Newly renovated Category 6 (top left) and Category 7 suites (bottom left) are the largest cabins aboard ship, with spacious seating areas and luxurious comfort. Airy bathrooms with roomy glass-walled shower stalls are stocked with premier amenities, perfect for freshening up between active days exploring ashore and time spent relaxing on board.
With our Open Bridge policy, you can chat with your captain and the ship’s officers most any time of day about the complex art of navigation or join your naturalists to search for wildlife like humpback whales and leopard seals from this commanding vantage point. In the neighboring chart room, grab a coffee or hot cocoa as you peruse the maps and learn more about the route you’re sailing on.
The wellness program on board the ship is designed to rejuvenate you between daily adventures. Relax with a massage tailored to your needs from your wellness specialist, warm up in the sauna after braving the polar plunge, or workout in the fitness center with spectacular views.
The Global Gallery houses a unique selection of items perfect for gifting or as a special souvenir of your time aboard. Look for jewelry, mugs, pashminas, artwork and more all handmade by local artists supported by the Artisan Fund, along with expedition essentials like official National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions hats, fleece jackets and sunshirts.
The mudroom is where you’ll suit up for excursions, such as Zodiac cruising through towering fjords towering fjords, cross-country skiing on a frozen sea or hiking among penguins. Store your gear in your assigned locker throughout the voyage for easy access and to keep your cabin clean and dry.
Photo: Joseph Seif
From double kayaks and a fleet of quick-deploying Zodiacs to remotely operated vehicles for capturing undersea video, the exploration tools aboard National Geographic Explorer allow for up-close encounters with majestic wildlife and breathtaking landscapes in the rarest corners of the planet.