ocean Ship
National Geographic Explorer
by National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions
Venture to the planet’s most remote and awe-inspiring regions aboard the National Geographic Explorer, a true expedition classic that has set the global standard for immersive exploration. Originally built as a Norwegian ice-class research vessel and later transformed by Lindblad Expeditions into a world-class expedition ship, the Explorer combines rugged capability with refined comfort—making it an ideal platform for adventures from pole to pole.
At 367 feet in length, the Explorer accommodates just 148 guests in 81 outside-facing cabins and suites, many with large windows or balconies. Each cabin is tastefully appointed with modern conveniences, en-suite bathrooms, and thoughtful storage. Select suites offer additional space and amenities such as wraparound windows, lounge areas, and prime views of the surrounding landscapes.
The ship’s interiors feature Scandinavian-inspired design with a focus on functionality and warmth. Onboard amenities include a library with panoramic views, a wellness center with a gym and spa treatment rooms, a sauna, and a dining room serving locally inspired, sustainable cuisine. The Ice Lounge serves as the heart of the ship, where daily briefings, enrichment lectures, and social gatherings take place.
Engineered for true expedition travel, the Explorer carries a fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, and undersea exploration equipment including an ROV, hydrophones, and HD video technology. A National Geographic-certified photo instructor, along with a multidisciplinary team of naturalists, scientists, historians, and undersea specialists, leads every voyage—offering guests insider access to the wonders of the natural world.
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-#215, 219, 230 — These newly renovated suites feature a private balcony, two single beds that can be converted into a queen, and a sofa bed that can be converted into a triple. There is a seating area with a writing desk, coffee table with sitting chair, and a small table. Suites feature a double closet, TV, mini bar, and espresso maker. Bathrooms are generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.
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-Veranda Deck, #101-102 — These newly renovated suites feature two single beds that can be converted into a queen, a sofa-bed that can be converted into a triple, a writing desk, double closet, chairs, three large windows, TV, mini bar and espresso maker. Bathrooms are generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.
Upper Deck, #213 — This newly renovated suite features a private balcony with glass doors, two single beds that can be converted into a queen, a writing desk, double closet, armchairs, TV, mini bar and espresso maker. Bathrooms are generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.
Guests receive complimentary laundry and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
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-#209, 211, 214, 216, 218, 220-222, 224 — Cabins feature a balcony with sliding glass doors, one queen-sized bed, writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, private bathrooms with a glass-wall shower, and a TV. (Cabin 221 has two single beds that can convert to a queen.)
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-Veranda Deck: #103-104, 107-108 — Cabins feature two single beds than can convert into a queen. They have a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, sitting chair, private bathrooms with a glass-wall shower, and a TV.
Upper Deck: #201-202, 204-207, 210, 212, 217, 226, 228 — Cabins feature two single beds than can convert into a queen (cabins 217, 226 & 228 have a queen bed only). They have a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, sitting chair, private bathrooms with a glass-wall shower, and a TV.
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-#313-316, 321-328, 337-340, 342, 344-350 — Cabins feature two single beds (can be converted to a queen-sized bed), one large window, a sitting chair, a small table, ample storage, writing desk with chair, floor length mirror, reading lamps, TV, and well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower.
#341 & 343 — each L-shaped suite also has a sofa-bed that can be converted into a triple, double closet, espresso maker, and generously sized bathrooms.
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-#317-320, 335-336 — Cabins feature two single beds (some can convert to a queen-sized bed), and one large window. They offer a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, sitting chair, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
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-#301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Cabins #301, 302, and 307 have two twin beds. Cabins #304-306 feature one queen-sized bed. Cabin #308 features two twin beds that can be converted to a queen. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
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-Veranda Deck: #105-106 & Upper Deck: #203, 208 — These cabins feature one single bed and a large window, a writing desk, reading lamp, bathroom with a roomy glass-walled shower stall, and a TV.
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-#309-312, 329-334 — These cabins feature one single bed and a large window, a writing desk, reading lamp, bathroom with a roomy glass-wall shower stall, and a TV.
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-Cabins available on National Geographic Explorer
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-Public Spaces
National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions is a leader in small ship expedition travel, offering immersive and expertly guided journeys to some of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations. With a fleet of intimate expedition vessels, these voyages are designed for travelers seeking authentic adventure, in-depth discovery, and unparalleled access to nature and wildlife. Destinations range from Antarctica and the Arctic to the Galápagos Islands, the Amazon, Alaska, and beyond, each expedition carefully curated to provide deep cultural and ecological insights.
What sets National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions apart is its commitment to exploration, science, and sustainability. Every voyage is enriched by onboard naturalists, marine biologists, historians, and National Geographic-certified photographers, ensuring that guests gain a deeper understanding of their surroundings through expert guidance and hands-on experiences. Whether it’s navigating glacial fjords in a Zodiac, snorkeling alongside sea lions in the Galápagos, or witnessing the mesmerizing northern lights in the Arctic, these expeditions offer a rare opportunity to engage with the natural world in a meaningful way.
With a focus on small group travel, these ships provide an intimate and engaging atmosphere, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in their surroundings. The onboard experience blends comfort with education, featuring scientific briefings, photographic workshops, and regionally inspired cuisine. National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions also emphasizes sustainable travel, supporting conservation initiatives, local communities, and scientific research projects that help preserve the fragile ecosystems they explore.
At Small Ship Travel, we specialize in carefully selecting the world’s finest small ship expeditions, ensuring that each journey meets our high standards of luxury, authenticity, and responsible exploration. National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions has been meticulously vetted and chosen as a premier partner in our curated collection, reflecting our dedication to offering transformative and environmentally conscious travel experiences.
With a reputation for scientific expertise, cultural immersion, and conservation-driven travel, National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions aligns perfectly with Small Ship Travel’s mission to provide journeys that are educational, inspiring, and seamlessly executed. Our team works closely with Lindblad to create customized itineraries, ensuring every traveler experiences an expedition tailored to their interests and travel aspirations.
As experts in luxury small ship travel, Small Ship Travel offers exclusive access, expert recommendations, and concierge-level service to enhance your National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions journey. From selecting the ideal itinerary to coordinating pre- and post-cruise accommodations, private transfers, and specialized excursions, we ensure that every detail is taken care of.
Embark on a journey of discovery with National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions and Small Ship Travel—where adventure, education, and sustainability come together for an unforgettable exploration of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. Contact us today to begin planning your expedition.
Reach out to our travel concierges today to create your perfect journey.