Cruise: Lindblad Orders Another Polar Ship

Lindblad Expeditions Holdings signed an agreement with Norway's Ulstein to build a new polar vessel, expanding the line’s National Geographic polar fleet to four ships. 

The ship is the next phase of Lindblad’s fleet expansion following the launches of new builds National Geographic Quest in July 2017, National Geographic Venture in December 2018 and the scheduled delivery of National Geographic Endurance in Q1 2020.

The new ship is scheduled for delivery in Q3 2021. Sister ship to National Geographic Endurance, the polar vessel will be fully stabilized with the highest ice class (PC5 Category A) of any purpose-built passenger vessel, and will feature Ulstein’s signature X-BOW, a unique design that affords the smoothest, most comfortable ride imaginable, in all sea behavior, which results in greater fuel efficiency and fewer emissions, for reduced environmental impact.

Like its sister ship, the new vessel will accommodate 126 passengers in 69 spacious guest cabins and suites and is being designed to connect guests to their environment and be the ultimate platform for exploration. With 75 percent of the cabins featuring balconies for private viewing, multiple observation decks inside and outside, and “observation wings,” the surrounding environs will always be accessible.  Off-ship exploring will be greatly enhanced with an innovative Zodiac loading system that will allow everyone to get ashore quickly and safely, ensuring quick access to every destination. The ship’s complement of expedition tools for exploration will include kayaks, cross-country skis, a remotely operated vehicle, hydrophones, a video microscope, underwater video cameras and more to be announced in the coming months.

“We are extremely excited to announce this next phase in our growth strategy," said Sven Lindblad, president and chief executive officer of Lindblad. 

Lindblad, the man and his company, will be profiled in the March 2019 "Cruise Shipping" edition of Maritime Reporter & Engineering News.