By
Laura Hyde |
National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions is to charter expedition cruise ship Greg Mortimer from 2027 for a three-year period to meet surging customer demand for its Alaska itineraries.
The charter from SunStone Maritime Group will enable the expedition cruise line to offer new itineraries after its current Alaska ships, National Geographic Sea Bird and National Geographic Sea Lion, are retired in 2026.
Greg Mortimer was purpose-built by China Merchants Heavy Industry for sailing remote environments allowing National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions to create new routes designed to “deepen guests’ connection” to Alaska. The 154-guest ship features the Ulstein X-BOW for enhanced stability and comfort, as well as multiple Zodiac loading platforms for easy off-ship exploration. The ship also includes dedicated learning and wellness spaces which National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions will use to complement its immersive expeditions.
The 2027 Alaska season will include a sailing through the Inside Passage via the Grenville and Princess Royal Channels, as well as a visit to Hubbard Glacier, North America's largest tidewater glacier. Here, guests will be able to participate in Zodiac and kayaking experiences. Greg Mortimer’s itineraries will also provide ample wildlife-spotting opportunities, as well as the chance to explore the Inian Islands, Misty Fjords, Endicott Arm and Tracy Arm, and more destinations in Southeast Alaska.
“I am incredibly proud of the exceptional, unique and intimate Alaska experience that our ships and our expert expedition team deliver,” said Natalya Leahy, CEO of Lindblad Expeditions. “Demand for our Alaska voyages continues to grow, and I'm thrilled that with the introduction of a new ship to our Alaska fleet, we can welcome even more explorers and also offer exciting new itineraries to our collection.”