Lindblad Expeditions’ National Geographic Quest sets sail

Lindblad Expeditions’ National Geographic Quest, the line’s first purpose-built ship, has set sail on its maiden voyage. 

The 100-guest ship departed on an eight-day expedition exploring Southeast Alaska.

Sven Lindblad, CEO and president of Lindblad Expeditions, told his team: “You all must feel a deep sense of pride and accomplishment, you have all worked tirelessly to make this possible, and are a part of history having played an important role in the building and launch of the most sophisticated and beautiful ship built in the US in decades.” 

MORE: Interview with Sven Lindblad
MORE: Where to cruise for wildlife

The ship will operate on the Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness itinerary through until August 26, and will finish off the Alaska season with its Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska and British Columbia departure on September 2, 2017.

The ship will then remain in the Pacific Northwest for a series of new voyages between Seattle and Vancouver, with stops in the San Juan Islands, Victoria, Alert Bay, and stops in British Columbia’s channels and fjords.

Beginning in December 2017, it will reposition and operate expeditions in Costa Rica and Panama before kicking off a series of new voyages in Belize and Guatemala starting in February, 2018.

The delivery was a month late from Nichols Brothers, reportedly due to issues launching the vessel.

• For all the latest cruise news, including ship launches, fam trips, incentives and new hires, click here