As a magnificent ice-class expedition ship, National Geographic Explorer embodies the essence of the National Geographic brand, allowing its visitors to explore some of the world's most beautiful natural destinations. The 81 cabins on this cutting-edge ship, which has a capacity of 148 passengers, are entirely exterior-facing.
Onboard, you'll find a library, a spa, a gym, and lounges where you can relax and read a book. The food is produced focusing on regional flavors in each of the hotel's dining establishments. Climate control and either portholes or windows are standard features in each of the cabins.
When it comes to exploration technology, the Nat Geo Explorer has hydrophones, a zodiac boat, kayaks with HD underwater cameras, and a remote-operated vehicle (ROV). A video chronicler is on board, as well as an open bridge policy, so you can discover more about the intriguing locales this flagship ship explores. A cruise on the National Geographic Explorer combines education and exploration.
Veranda Deck Suite #101-102; Upper Deck Suite with Balcony #213.
Cat 7
Upper Deck Suite with Balcony. #215, 219, 230.
Cat SA
C Deck Solo - Cabins 309-312, 329-334. Single cabins with window.
Cat SB
Upper and Veranda Decks with Window. #105-106, 203, 208.
Deckplan
Dining aboard National Geographic Explorer
The National Geographic Explorer Ship dining experience is designed to be relaxed and informal. Menus focus on sustainable seafood, and meals are served in the dining room, bistro bar, or the observation lounge. A single seating and unassigned tables offer an informal atmosphere for easy mingling. Decks are open for expansive views of the ocean, and a Bistro Bar offers light fare at any time of day or night.
Onboard Amenities on the Nat Geo Explorer Ship
Public spaces include a lounge with a state-of-the-art presentation facility, an observation lounge, storage for expedition gear, and access to the ship's bridge to see the Captain as well as officers and the on-duty wildlife spotter. LEXspa treatment room and sauna are staffed by wellness experts in the glass-enclosed fitness center. A doctor, undersea specialist, qualified picture instructor, video chronicler, internet cafe, and laundry services are also available.
National Geographic Explorer Ship Specifications
Year Built: 1982
Last Refurbished: 2017
Flag: Bahamas
Built by: Ulstein Verft AS in Norway
Owner: Lindblad Expeditions Holdings Inc
Former Names: MS Midnatsol, MS Midnatsol 2, MS Lyngen,
Passengers: 148
Decks: 6
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen
TrustScore 4.8 | 174 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 174 reviews on
8 hours ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
1 day ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.