Lindblad’s National Geographic Gemini Enters Service in the Galapagos – Cruise Industry News

The new National Geographic Gemini is entering service for Lindblad-National Geographic Expeditions in the Galapagos.

Formerly operated by Celebrity Cruises as the Xpedition, the 100-guest vessel was acquired by the company in late 2024.

After undergoing a refurbishment in Panama earlier this year, the Gemini is now set to offer expeditions in the Ecuadorian archipelago on a year-round basis.

As part of a ten-night package that also includes overnight stays in mainland Ecuador, the ship offers itineraries that visit various islands in the Galapagos National Park, such as Española, Floreana, Santa Cruz and Bartolomé.

According to Lindblad-National Geographic, the itinerary allows guests to observe the wildlife in the Galapagos Marine Reserve while taking advantage of the vessel’s exploration equipment.

Activities set to be offered by the Gemini include paddleboarding, zodiac cruises, and tours on glass-bottomed boats.

Passengers can also combine the ten-day package with a six-day land expansion to Machu Picchu in Peru.

Sailing alongside the National Geographic Endeavour II, the National Geographic Islander II and the National Geographic Delfina, the Gemini became Lindblad’s fourth ship in the Galapagos.

According to Lindblad-National Geographic, the expansion in the region is part of a strategic move.

The company said that the increased capacity in the region are expected to “accelerate first-time travelers by upwards of 3,000 people a year.”

“Galapagos is a closed market for ships with a defined number of licenses, so the overall market is not increased,” the company’s then CEO, Sven Lindblad, said during an earnings call in mid-2024.

Acquired by the company along with the Gemini, the new National Geographic Delfina entered service in February.