By
Laura Hyde |
Lindblad Expeditions is to expand its operations in the Galápagos Islands with the addition of two new purpose-built expedition ships to its Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet.
The first of the two new ships (formerly Celebrity Xpedition) accommodates 48 guests in 24 outward facing cabins, including 13 balcony suites. The second (formerly Celebrity Xploration) is a smaller catamaran with just eight cabins, accommodating 16 guests, making it an ideal vessel for private charters.
Both ships will undergo multi-million-dollar refurbishments before beginning operations in 2025. Their addition will double the size of the company’s Galápagos fleet, which currently includes the 96-guest National Geographic Endeavour II and the 48-guest former mega-yacht turned expedition vessel National Geographic Islander II.
The former Celebrity Xploration vessel has capacity for just 16 guests
“We recognise and appreciate the immense privilege our company has to operate and grow our expedition cruise offerings in the Galápagos Islands,” said Sven-Olof Lindblad, founder and CEO of Lindblad Expeditions. “By sourcing well-appointed vessels and onboarding the most experienced crew and staff who meet our exacting standards of responsible exploration, we’re able to transport guests from around the world to the iconic archipelago and help them understand the importance of protecting and preserving its wonders and wildlife.”
Lindblad Expeditions, under the helm of Lars-Eric Lindblad, led the first-ever non-scientific international civilian expedition to the region in 1967. “I don’t think [my father] ever could have dreamed it would serve as the foundation for ecotourism in the archipelago and would be the catalyst for meaningful, positively impactful connections,” said Sven-Olof. “We look forward to not only bringing more Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic guests to the islands with the growth of our fleet, but also to having a greater positive social impact supporting conservation, education and the creation of livelihoods.”