Travel with National Geographic Expeditions and one gets the opportunity to go to some of the most incredible places on earth. These are places that very few people will ever get to visit. however, National Geographic Expeditions take guests there and they are also now doing it aboard the new National Geographic Islander II. This new vessel is 280 feet long, and 46 feet wide, and is also equipped with stabilizers for smooth sailing. It can accommodate 48 passengers and sails year-round in the island. It has 26 large and airy suites for guests to stay in, indoor-outdoor dining options, an observation deck, a Science Hub, and beautiful teak decks that connect both the indoor and outdoor space. The ship is designed for active exploration and carries a fleet of kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, a custom-built glass-bottom Zodiac, and also a flotilla of Mark V Zodiacs that are incredibly versatile and allow for plenty of options for adventure and exploration.
Aboard the National Geographic Island II, guests will be able to experience the Galapagos Islands as they sail with experts in expedition cruising. There are five expedition staff members aboard. This includes the expedition leader, undersea specialist, certified photo instructor, and trained field educators who run the National Geographic Explorers family program.
National Geographic has released a video tour and photos of this ship that was launched in August 2022.
Aboard expedition cruises to Alaska, Antarctica, Baja California, or the Galapagos Islands, young travelers can also experience the National Geographic Global Explorers Program. This program was developed by National Geographic Education. It is a hands-on, interactive program that inspires kids to embrace their inner explorers. It also teaches them to develop the attitudes, skills, and knowledge of an explorer through its various activities.
There are several different expeditions to experience around the Galapagos Islands. Here are itineraries for the area:
Official Description of National Geographic Islander II:
Launched in the Galápagos in August 2022, the sleek National Geographic Islander II sails year-round in the islands. From encircling teak decks to the Observation Deck, marina, 26 light and airy suites and newly expanded al fresco Patio Café, this gracious expedition ship connects guests to the wonders of the Galápagos.
With a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio and just 48 guests, National Geographic Islander II has the spirit and soul of a private yacht. A genuine feeling of community quickly develops between guests, crew, and staff. Names are quickly learned, and personal preferences remembered. National Geographic Islander II expands on the renowned shipboard services of the much-beloved National Geographic Islander, which arrived in the Galápagos in 2004.
The new Science Hub—outfitted with an interactive video display, lab benches and seating—connects guests to the Lindblad-National Geographic legacy of supporting conservation and research. Two suites, dubbed Cabins for Conservation Galápagos—exclusively reserved for invited Galápagos community members, local and international researchers, educators, storytellers and other invited guests—offer a further connection to place.
Each of the 26 suites is a sanctuary, featuring large windows, king/twin convertible beds, sofa and comfortable chair, desk, and marble baths. The four Islander Suites have four large windows, separate living rooms and bathrooms outfitted with a tub in addition to a glassed-in rain shower. Suites are available as connecting, with dedicated solo and triple options. The Santa Cruz Islander Suite can be reserved as a Family Suite with a connecting double suite.
Designed for active exploration, National Geographic Islander II carries a fleet of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, a custom-built glass bottom Zodiac and flotilla of versatile Mark V Zodiacs—so that everyone can be out exploring at once. The ship carries five expedition staff, among them the expedition leader, undersea specialist, certified photo instructor, and trained field educators who run the National Geographic Explorers family program.
The National Geographic Islander II is a true ocean-going vessel: 280 feet long, 46 feet wide, and equipped with stabilizers for smooth sailing. The refit for the Galápagos included environmental features like reduced outdoor lighting, and recycled water from new air conditioning systems,.
National Geographic Expeditions
What do you think of the National Geographic Islander II? Will you be cruising on an expedition aboard her? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
