Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc., identified by its NASDAQ ticker symbol LIND, a prominent figure in adventure tourism and a trailblazer in contemporary expedition voyages, has unveiled the incorporation of two specialized Galápagos expedition ships into its esteemed Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet.
“We recognize 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, as a consequence of their personal experience.”
He continued: “When my father, Lars-Eric Lindblad, led the first international citizen expedition to the Galápagos nearly 60 years ago, I don’t think he 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. 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.”
In the upcoming weeks, reservations will open for the sale of tickets, accompanied by the revelation of the names of these two vessels. The initial ship, formerly known as Celebrity Xpedition, will accommodate 48 guests and showcase two distinctive dining venues along with 24 outward-facing cabins, inclusive of 13 balcony suites. In contrast, the second vessel, formerly Celebrity Xploration, will offer a more intimate setting with a capacity of 16 guests and eight cabins, making it ideal for family getaways, affinity gatherings, and exclusive charters.
Upon the conclusion of the transaction in January 2025, both ships will undergo extensive revitalization efforts, involving multi-million-dollar investments. Once the refurbishments are finalized, the vessels will epitomize the essence of adventure and unparalleled comfort, reflecting the hallmark attributes of Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic. Moreover, they will pay homage to the Company’s profound ties to the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador, and its inhabitants.
“For decades, Lindblad Expeditions has set the standards for sustainable tourism in Galápagos and been an extraordinary friend and supporter to the Charles Darwin Foundation and the greater conservation community in the islands,” said Rakan Zahawi, Executive Director of the Charles Darwin Foundation. “Together with community leaders, farmers, scientists and researchers, as well as Ecuadorians from Galápagos and the continent, Lindblad Expeditions has helped to uplift local communities and safeguard the archipelago’s precious species and habitats. We are grateful for their continued commitment to protecting, promoting, and preserving our home, while showcasing its beauty to responsible travelers.”
Since spearheading the inaugural non-scientific international civilian expedition to the Galápagos in 1967, Lindblad Expeditions has stood as the forefront leader and trailblazer in modern expedition cruising within the region. Over the years, the Company has been at the helm of two vessels: the cutting-edge 96-guest National Geographic Endeavour II and the transformed former mega-yacht, now an expedition craft, the 48-guest National Geographic Islander II. Offering six immersive itineraries spanning more than 100 departures annually, Lindblad Expeditions has established itself as a cornerstone of Galápagos exploration.
With the introduction of the newly acquired 48-guest and 16-guest ships, the Company’s Galápagos fleet will undergo a significant expansion, doubling its current size and reinforcing Lindblad’s commitment to pioneering expedition experiences in the region.
Tags: cruise news, Sven-Olof Lindblad, Lindblad Expeditions, new Galápagos Ships, Rakan Zahawi, Charles Darwin Foundation
