Before they built the National Geographic Venture and National Geographic Quest, U.S. shipbuilder Nichols Brothers built the twin ships National Geographic Sea Bird and National Geographic Sea Lion. Nimble, reliable and intimately scaled, they sail the waters of the west coast of North America and Central America.
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Ship Category
Capacity
62 Guests
30 Staff & Crew
Decks & Cabins
3 Decks
31 Cabins
Dimensions
Length: 152 feet
Beam: 31 feet
Highlights
American-flagged, she and her sister, National Geographic Sea Lion, are ideal for discovering domestic waters
National Geographic Sea Bird accommodates just 62 guests in 31 outside cabins. Her inviting public spaces foster a sense of shipboard life where everyone is integral to the adventure, engendering a rewarding sense of community.
With a shallow draft and small size, she can easily reach places inaccessible to larger ships. She can venture into fast-moving channels where whales come to feed, transit a series of locks in the Pacific Northwest, nose up to waterfalls in secluded coves, and sail into protected anchorages in small bays perfect for snorkeling and kayaking.
Explore the wild in a fleet of six Zodiacs and 16 kayaks, as well as stand-up paddleboards.
Final Season
Bidding Farewell to a Pioneering Vessel
Sailing its final season in 2026, this vessel’s pioneering legacy has helped define expedition travel for decades and continues to inspire how we explore the world. Discover more voyages in this ship's travel regions, available aboard National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture and the Greg Mortimer.
DECKS AND CABINS
View our deck maps to explore cabin options and the public spaces you'll enjoy onboard.
Explore the Ship
Public spaces include a library; lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slideshows, and presentations; observation deck; partially covered sun deck with chairs and tables. Our “open bridge” provides guests an opportunity to meet our officers and captain and learn about navigation. Meals are served in the dining room at a single seating with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menus feature sustainable choices, local where possible.
