Lindblad Expeditions strengthened its decades-long Galápagos presence this week by christening National Geographic Delfina and National Geographic Gemini during a fleet gathering in Academy Bay, Santa Cruz Island. The intimate ceremony underscored the line's community partnerships and its commitment to immersive, conservation-focused cruises. With the new vessels, Lindblad now operates four National Geographic-branded ships year-round in the archipelago, offering travelers more choice, capacity, and itinerary flexibility.
Key Points
- Why it matters: Adds 64 small-ship berths in a high-demand UNESCO site.
- Four National Geographic ships assembled for the first time.
- Ceremony honored local families, crew, and multigenerational residents.
- Delfina carries 16 guests; Gemini accommodates 48.
- Both ships were acquired from Celebrity Cruises in 2024 and refurbished.
Snapshot
National Geographic Delfina and National Geographic Gemini were officially named on July 10 2025 in a bottle-breaking rite attended by Lindblad leaders, dignitaries, and Galapagos community members. The ships joined sisters National Geographic Islander II and National Geographic Endeavour II in Academy Bay, creating a four-ship procession rarely seen in the protected waters. Delfina is a 98-foot luxury catamaran with eight staterooms-half featuring private balconies-ideal for family charters. Gemini, refitted for expedition cruising, offers 28 ocean-view cabins, a windowed fitness center, and a fleet of kayaks, paddleboards, and Zodiacs. Both vessels sail year-round, rotating among classic central and southern itineraries inside Galápagos National Park.
Background
Lindblad Expeditions pioneered civilian exploration of the Galápagos in 1967, forging scientific and community ties that support more than 100 environmental projects today. The company purchased Celebrity Xpedition and Celebrity Xploration in June 2024, then spent six months refitting them for expedition service and renaming them National Geographic Gemini and National Geographic Delfina. The additions double Lindblad's Galápagos capacity while keeping ship sizes small enough to meet the park's strict 100-passenger-per-site rules. Delfina launched commercially in February 2025; Gemini followed in March. Their arrival complements Islander II (2022) and Endeavour II (2016), ensuring year-round departures with naturalists, certified photo instructors, and locally sourced cuisine.
Latest Developments
Fleet Gathering in Academy Bay
For the first time, four National Geographic-flagged ships rendezvoused in a single anchorage. Captains Nathaly Alban (Gemini) and John Iturralde (Delfina) aligned bows while guests and crew lined the rails, cheering as ceremonial banners unfurled. The spectacle provided rare photo opportunities and reinforced Lindblad's leadership in small-ship expedition cruising.
Community at the Helm
Lindblad invited more than 25 Santa Cruz residents-teachers, artisans, and park staff-to stand alongside officers during the naming. CEO Natalya Leahy praised the "shared future" between the line and islanders, noting the company's scholarship funds and beach-cleaning initiatives. Children of crew members smashed biodegradable champagne bottles, a nod to park guidelines that prohibit glass shards.
Upgraded Guest Experience
Post-refit, both ships boast science-grade hydrophones, remote-operated underwater cameras, and new interpretation centers. Cabins received energy-efficient air-conditioning and water-reclamation systems that reduce freshwater imports by 30 percent. Dining now emphasizes Ecuadorian produce, including sustainably farmed cacao and Galápagos coffee. Itineraries remain seven or ten nights but now feature staggered departure days, easing port congestion.
Analysis
For travelers, the expanded fleet means improved availability during peak breeding seasons when giant tortoises nest and waved albatrosses court. Delfina's eight-cabin layout suits multigenerational charters seeking exclusive use, while Gemini's 48-guest capacity hits the sweet spot between intimacy and onboard amenities. Both ships carry snorkel gear, wet-suits, and clear-bottom kayaks at no extra cost, adding value versus larger vessels. Expedition leaders-all park-licensed naturalists-deliver daily briefings that deepen understanding of endemic species and conservation. Pricing remains premium, but Lindblad's all-inclusive fares bundle excursions, gratuities, and an open bar. Demand is brisk; early-2026 departures already show limited availability. Travelers should secure space 9-12 months ahead and consider shoulder-season sailings for quieter visitor sites. For a broader perspective on adventure cruising trends, see our overview of expedition cruises.
Final Thoughts
The christening of National Geographic Delfina and National Geographic Gemini signals Lindblad Expeditions' long-term investment in responsible tourism and local partnerships. With four purpose-built ships now rotating through the islands, travelers gain more flexibility, deeper programming, and continued assurance that environmental standards remain paramount. When planning a Galápagos voyage, prioritize small-ship operators committed to community engagement-following the example set by National Geographic Delfina and Gemini.