National Geographic Endeavour 2

The 2005-built National Geographic Endeavour 2 cruise ship (fka "MS Via Australis") joined the Lindblad fleet in 2016. On December 31, 2015, Lindblad Expeditions–National Geographic announced the purchase of Via Australis for USD 18 million. Following a USD 10 million drydock refurbishment in late 2016, the vessel was redeployed to the Galapagos Islands under its new NatGeo name.

The vessel (IMO number 9334088) is currently Ecuador-flagged (MMSI 735059655) and registered in Guayaquil.

History - construction and ownership

The 96-passenger Nat Geo Endeavour 2 is a fully stabilized and ice-strengthened expedition cruise vessel, allowing smooth navigation regardless of the itinerary or operational region. She is equipped with a wide range of exploration tools enabling daily marine activities.

The National Geographic Endeavour 2 is owned and operated by Lindblad Expeditions in cooperation with the National Geographic Society (NatGeo – a US non-profit institution for science and education). This partnership allows guests to experience expedition-style small-ship travel as active explorers. Lindblad vessels sail to unique destinations, navigating remote inlets, making Zodiac landings, and searching for wildlife.

National Geographic Endeavour 2 (2005-built as "Via Australis") was acquired by Lindblad Expeditions in 2016. The vessel was purchased for USD 18 million from Australis Cruises, a small expedition company operating in Patagonia (South America) on itineraries between Punta Arenas and Ushuaia.

Following a USD 10 million drydock refurbishment, the vessel was renamed "National Geographic Endeavour II". The refit and refurbishment project included:

• redesigning and upgrading 46 double-occupancy passenger cabins plus 4 single cabins
• redesigning all public spaces to improve outside views and provide quick open-deck access during wildlife or nature sightings
• an improved main lounge
• a new forward lounge with large windows and access to open decks
• an enhanced top deck for open-air gatherings, al fresco dining, and stargazing
• an upgraded fitness room and spa
• a new, modern audio-video system for media presentations
• a fleet of Zodiacs (large-capacity inflatable boats for landings) and sea kayaks
• improved crew quarters

Decks and Cabins

National Geographic Endeavour 2 has 5 decks (3 with cabins) and 53 staterooms.

All cabins (42 doubles and 11 studios) are Outside, featuring either portholes or picture windows.

The vessel offers 8 cabin categories.

Shipboard facilities and amenities

The ship has one Main Dining Room offering single-seating dining with unassigned tables. The menu is international with Ecuadorian influences.

Lindblad’s “Open Bridge” policy provides passengers with 24-hour access (weather permitting) to the Wheelhouse/Navigation Bridge to meet and converse with the officers on duty and the Captain.

Ideally suited for Galapagos expeditions, the vessel carries wetsuits, snorkeling gear, underwater cameras, a glass-bottom boat, kayaks, and a fleet of Zodiacs. Each voyage includes a full-time doctor, photo instructor, video chronicler, wellness specialist, and undersea specialist. Internet access is available throughout the ship.

Onboard public areas include a covered deck with chairs, tables, and hammocks; a fitness center; a spa; a global gallery; a library; a doctor’s office; and a lounge with a bar and facilities for slide shows, presentations, and films.

Itineraries

Nat Geo Endeavour 2’s itinerary program focuses on Galapagos Islands cruises departing from Baltra, with pre- and post-cruise hotel stays in Guayaquil, Ecuador.