National Geographic Sea Lion

The 1982-built National Geographic Sea Lion cruise ship was initially named “Great Rivers Explorer” (until 1989) and later sailed as “MS Sea Lion” until January 2008.

The vessel (IMO number 8966456) is currently USA-flagged (MMSI 366396000) and registered in Seattle.

NEWS: In December 2025, Lindblad announced a 3-year charter of the 2019-built Greg Mortimer for Alaska cruises starting in 2027 (through 2030). The SunStone Ships-owned vessel will replace NatGeo Sea Lion and NatGeo Sea Bird, both scheduled for retirement in 2026.

History – construction and ownership

The 60-passenger sisterships NatGeo Sea Lion and NatGeo Sea Bird can access remote destinations unreachable to larger vessels due to their shallow draft (2.7 m) and compact design. Each ship comfortably accommodates 62 guests in 31 staterooms, creating a private yacht-like atmosphere ideal for adventure travel. Both ships offer expansive observation areas and carry innovative exploration tools, including a hydrophone and SplashCam, allowing guests to listen and view beneath the surface.

National Geographic Sea Lion is owned and operated by Lindblad Expeditions in partnership with the National Geographic Society (NatGeo), a US nonprofit institution dedicated to science and education. This collaboration delivers authentic expedition-style travel, enabling guests to explore secluded inlets, make Zodiac landings, and search for wildlife in remote locations.

Decks and Cabins

National Geographic Sea Lion has 3 decks (all with cabins) and 31 Outside staterooms equipped with either portholes or picture windows.

The ship offers 3 cabin categories.

Shipboard facilities and amenities

Nat Geo Sea Lion features one Main Dining Room with unassigned seating. The restaurant serves international cuisine inspired by ports of call, with all meals offered in a single seating.

The NatGeo–Lindblad partnership provides guests with an immersive expedition experience. The ship sails to unique, hard-to-reach destinations, offering Zodiac landings and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.

National Geographic Sea Lion carries kayaks, Zodiacs, exercise equipment, snorkeling gear, and a range of high-quality cameras for observing and recording wildlife. Each voyage is staffed by a photo instructor, a video chronicler, a wellness specialist, and a full-time doctor. Internet access is available shipwide, and laundry service is provided on board.

Public areas include a dining room; an observation deck; a library; a lounge with full-service bar and facilities for slide shows, presentations, and films; a partially covered sun deck with tables and chairs; a LEX spa; gym equipment; and a gift shop.

Lindblad’s “Open Bridge” policy allows 24-hour guest access (weather permitting) to the Wheelhouse/Navigation Bridge to meet and interact with the ship’s officers and the Captain.

Itineraries

Nat Geo Sea Lion’s itinerary program includes Alaska cruises from Sitka and Juneau in summer; Columbia and Snake River voyages from Portland, Oregon in the fall; and Sea of Cortez itineraries from La Paz (Baja California, Mexico) in winter.

Former names of the ship were Great Rivers Explorer (until April 17, 1989) and Sea Lion (until January 2008). Other Lindblad vessels carrying the “National Geographic” name include Endeavour, Endeavour 2, Explorer, Islander, Orion, and Sea Bird (sistership).

Lindblad’s Sea Lion operates Alaska cruises during summer, Costa Rica and Panama itineraries in winter, and select fall voyages along the Columbia and Snake Rivers in the Pacific Northwest.

As a true expedition cruise ship, National Geographic Sea Lion carries specialized equipment, including kayaks, Zodiacs, wetsuits, snorkeling gear, a hydrophone, and an underwater camera. In line with Lindblad tradition, each voyage is accompanied by an expedition leader and expert staff (naturalists, historians, and a National Geographic–trained photographer), ensuring one of the most comprehensive expedition cruising experiences at sea.

NAT GEO Sea Lion is fitted with Fleet Xpress, the high-speed Internet service provided by Inmarsat. Fleet Xpress is fully integrated with the vessel’s PABX phone system and communication platforms.

Nat Geo Sea Lion has a maximum draft of 2.7 m (8 ft) and a diesel engine–based powerplant with a total output of 1206 kW. The vessel (yard/hull number S63) was constructed by Nichols Bros Boat Builders in Freeland, WA (USA).