ocean Ship
National Geographic Islander II
by National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions
Built in
1989
Remodeled in
2022
Capacity
48
By
National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions
Discover the Galápagos Islands in refined comfort aboard the National Geographic Islander II, a luxurious all-suite expedition yacht designed to offer an intimate and immersive experience in one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations. Purpose-built for exploration and fully refurbished by Lindblad Expeditions, this 280-foot vessel combines elegance, sustainability, and cutting-edge expedition technology—making it one of the most advanced ships operating in the archipelago.
Accommodating just 48 guests in 26 spacious suites, the Islander II offers an atmosphere of understated luxury. Each suite features large windows, spa-inspired bathrooms, premium bedding, and thoughtfully curated design elements inspired by the natural surroundings of the Galápagos. Select suites offer private balconies and convertible sofa beds for families or traveling companions.
Onboard amenities are tailored to comfort and enrichment, including a library with panoramic views, a locally inspired dining program featuring fresh Ecuadorian cuisine, a wellness space with spa services and a gym, and ample open deck areas for wildlife viewing and stargazing. The ship also includes a science hub, where guests can engage with field researchers and participate in citizen science projects.
The Islander II carries a full suite of exploration tools, including Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, snorkeling equipment, and a glass-bottom Zodiac—ensuring safe, diverse, and up-close experiences with the region’s iconic wildlife. Daily excursions are led by an expert team of naturalists, marine biologists, and a National Geographic-certified photo instructor, all deeply knowledgeable about the unique ecosystems and conservation efforts of the Galápagos.
Balancing five-star service with a strong expedition ethos, the National Geographic Islander II delivers an unforgettable way to explore the Galápagos—with deep engagement, exceptional comfort, and privileged access to this living laboratory of evolution
Sailings on this ship
We'll email you the current itineraries we sell on National Geographic Islander II, plus the reasons travelers book with Small Ship Travel. Reply anytime to ask about specific cabins, dates, or itineraries.
Suites
sq. feet
-Bridge Deck: #303, 309 & Main Deck: #209, 218 — These 515 sq. ft. Islander Suites feature four panoramic windows, twin beds that can convert to a king, separate living area with sofa, table and chairs, two lounge chairs, espresso maker and larger bathroom with rain shower and soaking tub. Suite 303 can be reserved with connecting Stateroom 301 to create a family suite. Both suites are available for triple occupancy with the sofa converted into a bed. Guests receive complimentary laundry and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
sq. feet
-Bridge Deck: #315, 318 and Main Deck: #217, 222 — 280 sq. ft. with two panoramic windows, twin/king convertible beds, seating area with sofa, lounge chair, and marble double-sink bathrooms with rain shower; dedicated solo but otherwise identical to SU category.
sq. feet
-Bridge Deck: #301, 302, 306, 308, 310-312, 316 & Main Deck: #203, 205-208, 210-212, 215, 220 — 280 sq. ft. with two panoramic windows, twin/king convertible beds, seating area with sofa, lounge chair, and marble double-sink bathrooms with rain shower. Connecting Suites: #205/207, 301/303, 302/306
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.