National Geographic Explorer is a 148-guest Lindblad Expeditions expedition ship, in service since 1982. This page lists 38 upcoming departures across 19 itineraries, day by day and port by port. Its live AIS position is plotted on the map below and refreshed through the day.
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A small expedition-size ship at 6,471 gross tons — #329 of 565 ships we track. 44 tons of ship per guest.
Position via AIS — updated periodically, not real-time.
National Geographic Explorer is a compact, ice-class expedition ship designed for polar and blue-water exploration. The 148-guest vessel combines a high staff-to-guest ratio with expedition tools including Zodiacs, kayaks, an open Bridge, observation spaces and a remotely operated underwater vehicle. Its 81 outside-facing cabins and informal public areas emphasize access to the environment rather than resort-style cruising. The ship operates in both Arctic and Antarctic regions, with naturalists, photographers and specialists supporting wildlife observation and educational programming.
The ship features an open Bridge, a Chart Room, observation areas, expedition gear storage and a fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks. Guests can participate in wildlife watching, shore landings and guided exploration supported by expedition specialists.
Dining is offered across three venues, including the main dining room, Bistro bar and Observation lounge. Lindblad describes the setting as single-seating and informal, with regionally inspired menus and sustainable choices where possible.
Onboard activities center on expedition presentations, natural-history interpretation and destination briefings. Public spaces include a library, lounge and bar, observation lounge, global gallery and presentation facilities.
The ship has 81 cabins, all with outside views, and includes updated suites with Scandinavian-inspired design elements. Cabin categories and layouts vary across the six guest decks.
Family-oriented programming can include expedition activities, wildlife interpretation and hands-on exploration, but the ship is primarily designed for small-group expedition travel rather than dedicated children’s facilities.
Wellness facilities include a fitness center, sauna and spa-related services. The ship also carries a wellness specialist.
The operator emphasizes low-impact expedition practices, sustainable menu choices where possible and educational programming focused on conservation and responsible exploration.
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| Antarctica | 1 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Northern Europe | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Canada & New England | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Other / multi-region | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
Jump from National Geographic Explorer sailings into the broader destination network with cruise line and region hub pages.
Ancient Isles: England, Ireland and Scotland
Ancient Isles: England, Ireland and Scotland
National Geographic Explorer is registered in Bahamas.
National Geographic Explorer carries about 148 guests with roughly 99 crew.
National Geographic Explorer entered service in 1982 and was last refurbished in 2008.
At 6,471 gross tons and 112 m long, National Geographic Explorer is a small expedition-size ship — larger than 41% of the 565 cruise ships cruises.to tracks.
