Expedition line grows Galapagos fleet with the two former Celebrity vessels
Ilaria Grasso MacolaLindblad Expeditions has taken on two former Celebrity Cruises ships, which will be based and operated in the Galapagos Islands.
The first is a 48-passenger passenger ship, previously known as Celebrity Xpedition, which features two dining venues and 24 outward-facing cabins, including 13 balcony suites.
The second, previously known as Celebrity Xploration, is a 16-guest, eight cabin catamaran.
Upon completion of the transaction, expected in January 2025, the ships – whose new names will be revealed later this month – will undergo a multi-million-dollar renovation before welcoming guests onboard.
“We recognise and appreciate the immense privilege our company has to operate and grow our expedition cruise offerings in the Galapagos Islands,” said the line’s founder and chief executive Sven-Olof Lindblad.
"By sourcing well-appointed vessels and onboarding the most experienced crew and staff who meet our exacting standards of responsible exploration, we’re able to transport guests from around the world to the iconic archipelago and help them understand the importance of protecting and preserving its wonders and wildlife, as a consequence of their personal experience."
Lindblad said the two vessels embodied the line’s responsible tourism ethos, which has over the past 57 years seen the company focus on promoting sustainable travel to the archipelago, famed for its wildlife.
"Together with community leaders, farmers, scientists and researchers, as well as Ecuadorians from Galapagos and the continent, Lindblad Expeditions has helped to uplift local communities and safeguard the archipelago’s precious species and habitats,” Lindblad added.
“We are grateful for their continued commitment to protecting, promoting, and preserving our home, while showcasing its beauty to responsible travellers."
The addition of the two vessels will double the size of Lindblad’s fleet; the line currently operates two ships in collaboration with National Geographic – the 96-guest mega yacht National Geographic Endeavour II and the 48-guest exploration vessel National Geographic Islander II.
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Ilaria Grasso Macola
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Place of registration: England and Wales.
Company number 08723341.
Registered address: 6th Floor, 2 London Wall Place, London EC2Y 5AU
