National Geographic Islander 2

National Geographic Islander II is operated by Lindblad Expeditions. This small superyacht carries a maximum of 48 passengers across five decks, marking a sharp turn toward intimate, expedition style travel. Lindblad acquired the vessel in September 2021, formerly known as Crystal Esprit. Built by Flender Werft in Lubeck, Germany, she was laid down in 1988 and completed in December 1991. Before joining Lindblad, she lived several lives as a working yacht and luxury cruise ship, but arrived in her current role with substantial reinvention, including a 22 day drydock refit in March 2022, during which cabins were reduced from 31 to 26 and outdoor decks received new teak flooring.

The ship is built for close exploration of remote coastlines, designed for near coastal cruising that reaches small ports, harbours, rivers, islands, and cays inaccessible to larger ships. Passengers will find encircling teak decks, an observation deck, indoor and outdoor dining, and a Science Hub lounge. All accommodation is suite based and outside facing, with king size beds convertible to twins, sofas, marble bathrooms with double sink vanities, spacious wardrobes, fully stocked minibars, HDTV, USB ports, and Wi-Fi throughout. The four Islander Suites go further still, with separate living rooms, four windows, and bathrooms fitted with a rain shower and tub.

Dining balances formality with ease, served in the alfresco Patio Cafe and the Yacht Club Restaurant. An aft marina supports a genuinely broad watersports program, with complimentary equipment including two types of sea kayaks, water skis, jet skis, wakeboards, scuba and snorkeling gear, two Zodiacs for ship to shore transportation, and a three seat submarine for underwater exploration. A small fitness room on deck five sits alongside a swimming pool, two jacuzzis, and a sundeck.

The food and beverage program highlights Ecuador's four regions through locally sourced ingredients, while decor and artwork throughout come from local artists and artisans. Passengers also travel alongside National Geographic's oceanographers, photographers, and scientists.

National Geographic Islander II suits travellers after remote islands and pristine coastlines in close-knit, all-suite comfort, backed by serious expedition credentials.

Have you been on expeditions aboard National Geographic Islander II? Log this voyage on your account at The Cruise Globe to add it to your Passport and see your actual route!