Lindblad Expeditions Adds the Greg Mortimer to Its Alaska Fleet Beginning in 2027
The three-year charter expands the company’s capacity and route options across coastal Alaska.
Photo: Anna Rozwadowska / Unsplash
National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions will expand its Alaska program in 2027 with a three-year charter of the Greg Mortimer, increasing capacity and allowing for new itineraries as the long-serving National Geographic Sea Bird and National Geographic Sea Lion approach retirement in 2026. The company confirmed the update today, outlining how the additional vessel strengthens its operational footprint in one of its most in-demand regions.
“I am incredibly proud of the exceptional, unique, and intimate Alaska experience that our ships and our expert expedition team deliver,” Natalya Leahy, CEO of Lindblad Expeditions, said in a statement. “Demand for our Alaska voyages continues to grow, and I’m thrilled that with the introduction of a new ship to our Alaska fleet, we can welcome even more explorers and also offer exciting new itineraries to our collection.”
The Greg Mortimer, built for remote and environmentally sensitive regions, brings capabilities that broaden the company’s reach along Alaska’s coastline. The ship features the Ulstein X-BOW, designed for stability and comfort in open water, along with dynamic positioning to reduce impact on seafloors during wildlife viewing or Zodiac operations. Multiple loading platforms support rapid off-ship excursions, and large observation areas are designed to accommodate the wildlife-focused program for which Lindblad is known.
The vessel accommodates 154 guests in cabins that include a high proportion of private balconies and features onboard learning and wellness spaces aligned with the company’s expedition model. With the additional ship in rotation, the Alaska portfolio will expand in 2027 to include more routes and longer times in remote areas.
The upcoming Alaska season will continue to include marquee stops such as the Hubbard Glacier, the Inside Passage via Grenville and Princess Royal Channels, and established expedition days across areas including the Inian Islands, Misty Fjords, Endicott Arm, and Tracy Arm. Zodiac and kayak access will remain core to the program as the company builds new itineraries around the Greg Mortimer‘s capabilities.
The Sea Bird and Sea Lion, which have been central to the Alaska program for decades, will operate their final season in 2026 before retiring. Beyond that transition, the company’s next defined milestone is the start of the expanded Alaska program in 2027, when the Greg Mortimer begins service under the three-year charter.
