National Geographic Endeavour II

National Geographic Endeavour II (former MS Via Australis) joined the Lindblad fleet in 2016. On December 31, 2015 Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic revealed its purchase of Via Australis for USD 18 million. After an USD 10 million refurbishment in late 2016, the cruise ship was redeployed to the Galapagos Islands with her new National Geographic name.

History - construction and ownership

The 2,716-ton, 96-passenger National Geographic Endeavour 2 is a fully stabilized and ice-strengthened expedition cruise vessel which allows smooth navigation regardless the itinerary (operational region). This ship is also equipped with exploration tools allowing for daily marine activities.

The National Geographic Endeavour 2 cruise ship is owned and operated by Lindblad Expeditions in cooperation with the National Geographic Society (aka NatGeo - an US non-profit institution for science and education). The partnership that Nat Geo has with Lindblad Expeditions line enables passengers to enjoy an expedition style small ship cruise vacation as active explorers. Lindblad cruise ships sail unique destinations to explore out-of-the-way inlets, making Zodiac landings and looking for wildlife.

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

Following an USD 10 million drydock refurbishment, the vessel was renamed to "National Geographic Endeavour II". The ship's 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 for quick open deck access in events of wildlife / nature sightings)
• improved main lounge
• additional forward lounge (with large windows and open decks access)
• improved top deck (for open-air gathering, al fresco dining and stargazing)
• upgraded fitness room and spa
• new modern audio-video system (for media presentations)
• adding a fleet of Zodiacs (large-capacity inflatable boats for landings) and seakayaks
• improved crew quarters

Cruise itinerary program

Nat Geo Endeavour 2 itinerary program is based on Galapagos Islands cruises departing from Baltra (pre- and post- cruise hotel stay in Guayaquil Ecuador).

Cabins

National Geographic Endeavour 2 has 5 passenger decks and 53 cabins (42 double and 11 solo), all of which Outside with portholes or windows. The cabin grades number is 8.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

The ship has one Main Dining Room which offers single seating with unassigned tables. The menu is international featuring an Ecuadorian flair. The Ecuadorian captain and officers welcome passengers to the bridge in accordance with line's “Open Bridge” policy.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

Ideally suited for the intriguing Galapagos expeditions, the cruise ship carries wet suits, snorkeling gear, underwater cameras, a glass-bottom boat, kayaks and a fleet of Zodiacs. Every voyage is accompanied by a full-time doctor, photo instructor, video chronicler, wellness and undersea specialists. Internet access is available shipwide.

Nat Geo Endeavour 2 public areas include an intimate covered deck with chairs, tables and hammocks; a fitness center; spa; global gallery; library; doctor’s office; lounge with bar and facilities for slide shows, presentations and films.

Among the best small Galapagos cruise ships, National Geographic Endeavour 2 (aka "Nat Geo Endeavour 2") is an expedition cruise vessel designed specially for operations in the remote polar regions. The ship is perfectly suited for Galapagos cruising expeditions, carrying wet suits, snorkeling gear, underwater cameras, sea kayaks, glass-bottom boat and a fleet of Zodiacs.

Every Nat Geo Endeavour 2 cruise is accompanied by full-time doctor, photo instructor, video chronicler, undersea and wellness specialists. Lindblad line's traditional "Open Bridge” policy allows the Ecuadorian officers and the ship's captain to welcome passengers to the navigation bridge.

Endeavour 2 cruise ship was previously owned and operated by Transportes Marítimos Geo Australis. On December 31, 2015, Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic advertised the company's purchase of the vessel (previously named "Via Australis"). The deal cost the company USD 18 million, with following USD 10 million extensive drydock refurbishment in late 2016.

The ship Via Australis was specifically designed to withstand the harsh weather conditions in South America's Chilean Fjords (Cape Horn region of Patagonia). This is a top-luxury, yacht-like vessel able to easily navigate in the South American fjords and the shallow bays at the very bottom of the continent. The ship's Zodiacs are used for landings on shore excursions and wildlife viewing tours (offered daily).

MV Via Australis ship had identification MMSI number 725003280, call-sign number CBVU, and was registered in Chile. The ship is equipped with the latest safety and navigation technology. Its navigation system features a radar, echo sounder, GPS and modern communication systems. The ship also has sprinkler fire suppression system. Among the changes done by Lindblad was reducing its capacity - Max Passengers (from 136 to 96, and Crew Capacity (from 45 to 64).