Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, a global player in expedition cruises and adventure travel experiences, has celebrated the float out of National Geographic Endurance in Ulstein Verft, Norway.
The first polar newbuild for the line, the 126-guest vessel is fully stabilized with the highest ice class (PC5 Category A) of any purpose-built passenger vessel, according to a press release.
The vessel is scheduled for delivery in January 2020.
Read Maritime Reporter & Engineering News' feature on Sven Lindblad from earlier in 2019 here: https://www.marinelink.com/news/explorer-profile-sven-lindblad-463899
"Due to Polar Class 5 (PC5), the ship can venture far into polar areas. The X-BOW secures a comfortable transit for her 126 passengers across harsh stretches of sea," it said.
The National Geographic Endurance is the first of two vessels of the CX104 design from Ulstein for construction at Ulstein Verft, Norway. The yard is situated at 62 degrees north, just four degrees south of the Polar Circle, and at the edge of one of the world’s toughest oceans, the North Sea.
The maritime expertise in this region stretches back to the Viking era. The vessel’s patented X-BOW is key to its design; its powerful wave-slicing action provides a smooth ride in adverse conditions, and even reduces spray on deck, for superior observation. This makes the vessel perfectly suited for adventures to far-away places.
That’s one of the reasons why the vessel has been named after the polar hero, Ernest Shackleton’s, favorite vessel, the Endurance. The Endurance and her crew endured the toughest of polar expeditions.
The National Geographic Endurance comfortably accommodates 126 guests in 69 outside-facing cabins. Most cabins will feature small balconies with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that bring in the spectacular views and ample natural light.
Discover insights on the design of the Lindblad fleet here: https://www.marinelink.com/news/best-expedition-cruise-ship-ever-463977