National Geographic Endurance

National Geographic Endurance is an expedition ship owned and operated by Lindblad Expeditions. Completed in March 2020, she carries 126 passengers on expedition cruises between April and September, making her a small ship and the first in Lindblad's purpose built polar fleet, a significant step beyond the line's earlier chartered and converted vessels.

She was named in honour of Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton and his vessel, Endurance. Her most distinctive design feature is an ice strengthened X-bow hull. Originally used on offshore industry vessels, the X-bow shape reduces wave impact on the hull, cutting noise and vibration and improving onboard comfort, while also reducing wave splash and the hazards of slippery or icy deck surfaces.

Space aboard is thoughtfully arranged for expedition travel. The ship holds 69 staterooms across 9 categories on 4 cabin decks, including 56 standard accommodations, 40 of which have private balconies, plus 13 dedicated balcony suites. Four restaurants, all with floor to ceiling windows, sit alongside bars, lounges, a library, a photo workshop, and wellness facilities with a spa and gym. Guests will also find seaview saunas, two infinity pools, and an aft marina platform with eight Zodiac speedboats.

The expedition mission shapes the whole layout. A full time doctor and dedicated expedition staff travel aboard, including an undersea specialist, National Geographic photographer, certified photo instructor, and video chronicler. An innovative Zodiac launching system runs from two loading stations, supported by a hydrophone, underwater video camera, two remotely operated vehicles, a video microscope, and a remote control helicopter fitted with a camera.

Endurance also features CHANGE, the first permanent at sea art installation, curated by American artist Zaria Forman, bringing together paintings, drawings, photographs, sculptures, and video works themed around the beauty and fragility of the polar regions. Lindblad's open bridge policy allows 24 hour access to the wheelhouse, weather permitting, so guests can meet the officers and captain directly.

National Geographic Endurance suits experienced travellers and couples after remote polar regions with expert naturalists and scientists close at hand, backed by purpose built equipment and modest but comfortable accommodation.

Visited the polar world aboard National Geographic Endurance? Log this expedition voyage on your account at The Cruise Globe to add it to your Passport and see your actual route!