In Santa Cruz Island's Academy Bay, deep within the Galápagos archipelago, the brand National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions marked a significant moment as the fleet's newest expedition ships, National Geographic Delfina and National Geographic Gemini, were formally named.
The dual christening ceremony, held on July 10th, was rooted in community engagement, as shipboard team members and their children joined local dignitaries, multigenerational residents, and company leadership to witness the traditional bottle-breaking at sea—a gesture reflecting Lindblad’s enduring ties to the region and commitment to conservation.
Natalya Leahy, CEO of Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, emphasised that the ceremony symbolised the company’s ongoing dedication to the people and environment of the Galápagos. She described the event as a celebration of shared futures, grounded in a nearly 60-year history of partnership—spanning community collaboration, support for over a hundred environmental and social initiatives, and ongoing stewardship of the national park.
The smaller Delfina, a 98-ft luxury catamaran, accommodates 16 guests in 8 staterooms, half of which feature private balconies. Designed for intimate voyages, it offers an open-air Observation Deck, alfresco dining, and tools for exploration such as Zodiacs, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear.
The 48-passenger Gemini is an expedition ship with 28 outside cabins, including suites with private balconies. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a spa, fitness centre, whirlpool hot tub, and outdoor café, alongside a full complement of exploration equipment.
Both vessels entered service earlier this year, destined to enrich Lindblad’s fleet of five ships operating in the Galápagos. Staffed by seasoned Ecuadorian and Galapagueno crews, the ships uphold the rugged spirit of expedition cruising and the company’s legacy of immersive, environmentally conscious travel.
This naming ceremony reaffirms Lindblad’s position as a pioneer of modern expedition travel in this unique ecosystem, underscoring a profound sense of connection to the Galápagos, its people, and its conservation future.