ocean Ship
Nat. Geo - Aqua Blu
by National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions
Built in
1968
Remodeled in
2019
Capacity
28
By
National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions
Step aboard the privately chartered National Geographic Aqua Blu for an exclusive expedition through the remote island chains of East Indonesia—Raja Ampat, the Spice Islands, and Komodo. Reserved solely for Lindblad Expeditions guests, this former British naval explorer yacht has been transformed into a sophisticated, ocean-ready vessel designed for luxurious discovery in some of the world’s most biodiverse marine regions.
With only 15 suites accommodating a maximum of 30 guests, the ship offers an atmosphere of refined intimacy. Each suite features elegant furnishings, king or queen beds, en-suite bathrooms, and large windows or portholes that frame sweeping ocean views. The ship’s design blends naval heritage with contemporary comfort, offering a unique sense of place both onboard and ashore.
Guests can unwind in beautifully designed indoor and outdoor social areas, including a panoramic observation lounge, a library, a sun deck with a Jacuzzi, and an al fresco bar. Dining onboard is a highlight, with regionally inspired, chef-prepared meals that celebrate Indonesia’s rich culinary traditions using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
As a private charter, the Aqua Blu offers a tailored experience with flexible itineraries and exclusive access to remote islands, coral reefs, and cultural sites. Daily excursions—led by Lindblad’s expert team of naturalists, marine biologists, and certified photo instructors—include snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding, hiking, and visits to traditional villages. A full suite of water sports gear, including snorkeling equipment and dive gear, is available for guest use.
Sailings on this ship
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National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions is a leader in small-ship expedition travel, running expertly guided voyages to some of the most remote places on earth. Its expedition vessels are built for travellers who want authentic adventure, in-depth discovery, and close access to nature and wildlife. Destinations reach from Antarctica and the Arctic to the Galapagos Islands, the Amazon, and Alaska, and each voyage is planned to give real cultural and ecological context.
What sets National Geographic Lindblad apart is its commitment to exploration, science, and conservation. Every voyage carries onboard naturalists, marine biologists, historians, and National Geographic-certified photographers, so guests understand what they are seeing through expert guidance and hands-on time in the field. A Zodiac, the inflatable landing craft used to reach shore, opens up close encounters. On a single voyage you might cross a glacial fjord, snorkel near sea lions in the Galapagos, or watch the northern lights in the Arctic. Each one puts you in direct contact with the natural world.
Small group sizes keep the atmosphere intimate and let guests stay close to their surroundings. The onboard experience pairs comfort with learning, with scientific briefings, photography workshops, and regional cuisine. National Geographic Lindblad also backs sustainable travel, supporting conservation work, local communities, and research projects that help protect the fragile places it visits.
At Small Ship Travel, we focus on the strongest small-ship expeditions, choosing the ones that meet our standards for quality, authenticity, and responsible travel. National Geographic Lindblad has been carefully vetted and chosen as a partner in our collection, which reflects how much we value transformative, conservation-minded voyages.
With its record of scientific depth, cultural access, and conservation-driven travel, National Geographic Lindblad fits how we like to plan expeditions: educational, genuinely inspiring, and well run. We work directly with Lindblad to build itineraries around what each traveller wants to see and do.
As specialists in small-ship travel, Small Ship Travel offers advisor access, considered recommendations, and concierge-level support to round out your National Geographic Lindblad voyage. From choosing the right itinerary to arranging pre- and post-cruise stays, private transfers, and specialised excursions, we take care of the detail.
Plan a voyage of discovery with National Geographic Lindblad and Small Ship Travel, where adventure, learning, and conservation come together across some of the most remarkable places on earth. Contact us to start planning your expedition.
consultation
Reach out to our travel concierges today to create your perfect journey.