Lindblad Expeditions is set to expand its Galapagos fleet with two former Celebrity Cruises ships, enhancing its offerings in the region.
- The vessels, originally used by Celebrity Cruises, are being integrated into Lindblad’s operations to double their fleet size next year.
- With renovations planned, these ships will soon offer a blend of luxury and exploration, tailored for the unique Galapagos environment.
- These newly added ships will complement Lindblad’s existing Galapagos operations, which include the National Geographic Endeavour II and National Geographic Islander II.
- Sven-Olof Lindblad acknowledges the ongoing mission to promote ecotourism and conservation in the Galapagos Islands.
Lindblad Expeditions, renowned for its ecotourism efforts, is poised to enhance its presence in the Galapagos Islands with the acquisition of two former Celebrity Cruises ships. The addition of these vessels is a strategic move to double the size of their current fleet in the region, promising a significant boost to their operational capacity.
The two ships, formerly known as Celebrity Xpedition and Celebrity Xploration, are purpose-built for exploring the Galapagos. Lindblad plans to resume operations with these ships after extensive multi-million-dollar refurbishments set to be completed following the transaction closure in January 2025. This refurbishment will ensure that the ships meet the high standards expected by Lindblad’s discerning guests.
The Celebrity Xpedition accommodates 48 passengers with 24 outward-facing cabins, including 13 balcony suites offering expansive views. Meanwhile, Celebrity Xploration, an eight-cabin catamaran, is anticipated to provide intimate private charters, appealing to smaller groups seeking exclusive experiences. These ships will further enable Lindblad to offer tailored adventures, immersing guests in the pristine environment of the Galapagos.
Existing operations in the Galapagos are robust, with Lindblad already running two vessels, the National Geographic Endeavour II and Islander II, that together offer 100 departures annually across six itineraries. This existing schedule facilitates year-round exploration of this unique ecosystem. The introduction of the new ships promises to expand these offerings, enhancing guest experiences and promoting deeper ecological engagement.
Sven-Olof Lindblad, reflecting on the legacy of exploration and conservation championed by his father, expressed his vision for the expanded fleet. He emphasised the importance of their expeditions in fostering understanding and protection of the Galapagos’ unique biodiversity. Lindblad also highlighted the positive social impact, including education and livelihood opportunities, that would stem from the company’s growth in the region.
Lindblad Expeditions’ expansion with these new ships signifies a promising step towards broadening ecotourism and conservation in the Galapagos.
