National Geographic Delfina: A Closer Look at Our New Catamaran in Galápagos
In early 2025, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions welcomed two new ships in Galápagos—National Geographic Delfina and National Geographic Gemini—doubling the size of the fleet in the islands and offering travelers a full spectrum of options for exploring the wonders of this iconic archipelago.
Hosting just 16 guests per voyage, National Geographic Delfina is the ultimate intimate expedition ship in the islands, making it ideal for private charters and multi-generational family vacations.
“As the smallest ship in the Galápagos fleet, National Geographic Delfina is designed to bring guests closer together and offer a more family-like experience both on board and on shore among the incredible wildlife and landscapes,” says Ana Esteves, SVP of Hotel Operations for Lindblad Expeditions.
“You’ll find all the same amenities of our other ships, from state-of-the-art exploration tools like Zodiacs, stand-up paddleboards and snorkeling gear to expertly crafted menus that utilize locally sourced ingredients. When you charter the National Geographic Delfina, you’ll have the unique opportunity to enjoy all of this and more to yourself,” adds Esteves.
This sleek and contemporary catamaran sails year-round in the archipelago where she’s perfectly suited to transport guests among the varied islands in style and stable comfort. Choose from the 10-day Galápagos by Catamaran: An Intimate Voyage or the 16-day Galápagos by Catamaran + Machu Picchu and Peru's Land of the Inca, which combines the wilds of the Galápagos and the wonders of Peru in one unforgettable expedition.
Your own private Galápagos adventure: Charter National Geographic Delfina for your closest friends and family or a group event. Learn more >
Photo: Doug Scaletta
The lounge with library offers a modern and airy respite in between the day's excursions and serves as your central meeting place. Here, you’ll convene for daily Recaps and talks from your expedition leader and your National Geographic certified photo instructor, chat with family or friends over a drink or curl up with a book on the evolution of Darwin's finches.
Photo: Doug Scaletta
Relax and enjoy meals with your fellow travelers in the intimate dining room which is awash in soothing neutral tones. Each meal served aboard is meticulously crafted in partnership with Ecuadorian chefs, featuring locally sourced ingredients and regional flavors that connect you more deeply to the destination.
Photos: Doug Scaletta
All of the eight spacious, air-conditioned staterooms in this well-appointed vessel are adorned with polished wood decor and inviting, colorful accents. Category 5 staterooms feature a private balcony with stunning vistas of this enchanted archipelago, perfect for sitting out and enjoying a coffee at sunrise.
Photos: Doug Scaletta
Category 4 staterooms are located on the Upper Deck, allowing for quick access to the bow to view whales, dolphins and the other dazzling marine life you'll encounter in the islands. Offering ample storage, these rooms can be set up with either a queen or two twin beds and can be reserved as interconnected port and starboard suites for your friends and family.
Photo: Doug Scaletta
Ensuite bathrooms in every cabin are stocked with premium amenities. After an invigorating hike or photo walk in the morning, you can freshen up for lunch and talks or change for afternoon kayaking or snorkeling outings in the Galápagos Marine Reserve.
Photo: Daniel Romagosa
On the wrap-around Upper Deck, you can dine al fresco at the outdoor café. Relish the spectacular island views as you savor bespoke omelets at breakfast or celebrate with an Ecuadorian feast at lunch, a delicious highlight of every voyage.
Photo: Doug Scaletta
National Geographic Delfina is stocked with all the tools you need to experience an up-close perspective of these legendary islands put on the map by Darwin. You can Zodiac cruise along rocky shorelines dotted with diminutive penguins, paddleboard in idyllic coves where frigatebirds and boobies fly overhead or glide among Galápagos sea turtles with provided snorkeling gear.
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