Lindblad’s fourth polar ship

LINDBLAD Expeditions overnight confirmed a firm order for a new polar expedition ship, to be delivered in 2021.

Details of the new ship haven’t been made public at this stage, but it’s expected to be a sister vessel to the National Geographic Endurance ( pictured) which is currently under construction and scheduled for a 2020 debut.

“As demand for high quality and authentic expedition travel continues to accelerate, both through market expansion as well as from sustained investment in their marketing and sales infrastructure, Lindblad is committed to expanding capacity to provide a growing audience with the opportunity to explore the world’s most unique and remote locations,” the firm said.

The company’s ceo Sven-Olof Lindblad said the order was the next stage in a long term growth strategy for Lindblad Expeditions.

“By marrying additional capacity with a dedicated and growing loyal customer base and fifty years of experience, we will be able to build upon our proven track record of delivering unparalleled expeditions to the world’s most remarkable destinations,” he said.

The newbuild will become Lindblad’s fourth polar vessel, alongside the existing National Geographic Explorer and National Geographic Orion (acquired along with Australia’s Orion Expedition Cruises) as well as National Geographic Endurance.