MS National Geographic Explorer

National Geographic Explorer is a small ice-strengthened passenger vessel in the Lindblad Expeditions fleet. She can accommodate 148 guests. She was previously operated by Hurtigruten.

Cruise ship National Geographic Explorer in fast ice, Antarctica
History
Name	Midnatsol (1982–2003) Midnatsol II (2003–2005) Lyngen (2005-2008) National Geographic Explorer (2008–)
Operator	Lindblad Expeditions
Port of registry	Nassau,  Bahamas
Route	Antarctic, Arctic
Ordered	12/1982
Builder	Ulstein Verft AS, Norway
Launched	22 May 1982
Identification	Call sign: C6WR2 IMO number: 8019356 MMSI number: 309336000
Status	In service
General characteristics
Type	Cruise ship
Tonnage	6,471 GT 1,942 NT
Length	112 m (367 ft 5 in)
Beam	16.51 m (54 ft 2 in)
Draft	4.74 m (15 ft 7 in)
Decks	3
Ice class	1A
Installed power	2 × BMV KVM-16 (2 × 3200 hp)
Speed	15.4 knots (28.5 km/h; 17.7 mph)
Capacity	148 passengers

The ship frequently follows routes in the Antarctic, Arctic, Norway, Greenland, and Canadian Highlands.^[1]

History

For some time since May 3, 2020 the ship was anchored outside of Frederikshavn due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on cruise ships.^[2]

Facilities

The ship has educational and entertainment facilities, including a chart room, library, observation lounge, a fleet of 36 kayaks, a remote operated vehicle capable of diving to 1000 feet depth, a fleet of 14 zodiacs, lounge and fitness center.

Accommodation

National Geographic Explorer offers 81 cabins and suites which are all outside facing.