An elegant expedition vessel with sleek designs and interiors adorned with local artwork, National Geographic Islander II boasts a sensational onboard experience while sailing to some of the world’s most spectacular destinations in South America – primarily, the remote Galapagos Islands. Designed to bring you as close to this remarkable region as possible, you’ll find an impressive observation deck and a whole host of expedition equipment onboard alongside a dedicated science hub and climate-controlled marina; and, with just 26 staterooms onboard, which can accommodate up to 48 guests, National Geographic Islander II unusually operates with a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio. So, you can expect exceptional attentive service throughout your experience onboard, whether you’re tucking into regional cuisines in the stylish restaurant venues onboard, grabbing a drink in the comfortable lounge area, or unwinding with a massage in the state-of-the-art spa. However you want to spend your voyage aboard this vessel, you’ll feel as though you’re on a private yacht sailing into the unknown – with all the modern comforts of a luxury cruise at your fingertips.
Top National Geographic Islander II Deals
The ship in numbers
What's onboard
Dining
The dining experience on National Geographic Islander II is delightful, and each menu you’ll encounter balanced classic dishes from around the world with regional flavours and foods to further connect you to the environment around you – while still giving you options when it comes to finding something you’ll enjoy eating.
Despite being a smaller expedition vessel, with the ability to accommodate up to 48 guests at any one time, National Geographic Islander II boasts several dining experiences for you to take advantage of when onboard.
On the Observation Deck, you’ll find a grill area; while not constantly in use, this gives National Geographic Islander II an al fresco option where everyone can enjoy something tasty on the top deck. Beyond this, you’ll find al fresco dining available in the Patio Cafe – which serves lighter meal options throughout the day – and a more traditional cruise dining experience available in the Yacht Club Restaurant. With both serving exceptional food that’s created using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, you can rest assured knowing that you’ll be enjoying what you eat wherever you choose to dine.
Entertainment
National Geographic Islander II doesn’t deliver a traditional cruise experience, so you won’t find dramatic Broadway-style stage productions and stand-up comedy shows onboard. However, that doesn’t mean you have to spend all of your downtime sitting in your stateroom – unless you want to, of course.
Throughout each voyage aboard this remarkable ship, you’ll find a unique entertainment programme available, something that is aimed at further immersing you in the region around you. While the specifics can change from itinerary to itinerary, the entertainment you’ll encounter onboard can include performances from local musicians, dancers, and artists, informative talks from knowledgeable speakers, and interactive educational experiences that will further prepare you for future adventures.
A lot of these events are hosted in The Cove, a comfortable lounge space which is the beating heart of this expedition ship – and the setting of the daily recaps you’ll encounter every day of your adventure. Beyond this, you’ll also find a bar area on the Observation Deck, a library area on the Main Deck, and plenty of places to sit and socialise with like-minded explorers – and to admire the breathtaking scenery surrounding you, of which there will always be something worth looking at.
Family
While National Geographic Islander II isn’t designed specifically to accommodate children, everyone is invited to share in the incredible discoveries here. So, children over the age of six months are welcome aboard National Geographic Islander II. It’s worth noting, though, that some of the experiences available during your voyage will feature additional age limitations. However, younger explorers with a curious nature about the environment around them will find themselves well catered-to on a National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions cruise; the crew will endeavour to make this experience as memorable as possible with interactive learning experiences and excitement at every turn.
Things to do
When cruising aboard National Geographic Islander II, the remote region you’re exploring is at the forefront of your adventure; so, your onboard experience is designed primarily to further connect you to the environment around you and enrich your expedition cruising experience. That means, when it comes to finding things to do while sailing, you’ll find a state-of-the-art science hub, a well-stocked library, the Global Gallery space, and an abundance of areas where you can sit and admire the passing scenery – or try and spot some of the local wildlife in its natural habitat.
You’ll also find National Geographic Islander II is equipped with an aft-facing Marina platform, a fleet of Zodiac watercraft, and more watersports equipment – such as kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and snorkel gear. Throughout your voyage, at select stops on your itinerary, you’ll have the chance to take advantage of all this equipment and further your connection to the environment around you.
Beyond this, this National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions ship also features state-of-the-art wellness facilities. Onboard, you’ll find a sumptuous spa area offering a variety of treatments and a well-equipped fitness studio with a variety of gym equipment to utilise. So, whether you’re looking to maintain a workout routine, or unwind ahead of your next adventure, National Geographic Islander II has you covered.
Useful Information
Suite Exclusives
When booking into a suite aboard National Geographic Islander II, you’ll have the chance to enjoy exclusive amenities throughout your voyage. These include:
- Priority booking for spa treatments (one appointment per departure)
- In-room espresso maker
- Complimentary laundry services
On this ship, this only applied to the Islander Suites, of which there are four: the San Cristobal Suite, the Santa Cruz Suite, the Floreana Suite, and the Isabela Suite.
