In a deeply symbolic ceremony rooted in community, purpose, and pride, the two newest National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions ships in the Galápagos fleet were officially named today—National Geographic Delfina and National Geographic Gemini. Members of the shipboard teams and their children were honoured during the bottle-breaking ceremony, underscoring Lindblad Expeditions’ long-standing commitment to the local community and dedication to preserving and protecting the region for generations to come.
The dual naming ceremony took place in the heart of the Galápagos archipelago—Academy Bay—where members of the shipboard teams and their children, Lindblad Expeditions leadership, guests, local dignitaries, and multigenerational Galápagos community members gathered to witness the ceremonial christening of the ships.
During a twilight ceremony in Academy Bay, National Geographic Gemini Captain, Nathaly Alban and National Geographic Delfina Captain John Iturralde, were joined by Lindblad Expeditions CEO Natalya Leahy, Rear Admiral Keith Taylor, Interim Chief Maritime Officer, Ana Esteves, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations, and Isabella Lindblad, Director of Expedition Development, Ecuador and Peru, along with more than 25 multigenerational community members to christen the vessels officially.
“Having the multigenerational community join our team members and their families to help name National Geographic Gemini and National Geographic Delfina is far more than a ceremonial moment, it’s a celebration of our deep and lasting connection to this extraordinary place and its people,” said Natalya Leahy, CEO, Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc. “It symbolises our shared future and reflects our ongoing commitment and gratitude to the people of Galápagos. We’re humbled to explore this remarkable part of the world and proud to create experiences here that truly touch the lives of our guests.”
In 1967, Lindblad Expeditions led the first-ever non-scientific international civilian expedition to the Galápagos and has been partnering closely with the community and the National Park ever since. For nearly 60 years, this close connection with the local community and governing bodies has been integral to the Company’s story, which has supported more than 100 environmental- and community-focused projects in the region.
Doctor Jaime Chavez; Miguel Bermeo, Electrician; Victor Acurio, Chief Engineer; Jose Vergara, Third Officer; Nathaly Alban, Captain of National Geographic Gemini; Julian Puente, Second Officer; Pablo Peña, Eduardo, Technical Superintendent; Ana Esteves, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations; Natalya Leahy, Lindblad Expeditions CEO; Jhon Iturralde, Captain of National Geographic Delfina; and Victor Cruz, Second Engineer on the bow of National Geographic Gemini just moments before the bottle breaking ceremony.
National Geographic Delfina and National Geographic Gemini joined Lindblad Expeditions’ Galápagos fleet earlier this year, offering elevated and immersive expedition experiences in one of the world’s most extraordinary natural environments.
National Geographic Delfina is a sleek, contemporary 98-foot luxury catamaran designed for immersive, small-group exploration and perfect for families and affinity groups. Accommodating just 16 guests in eight well-appointed staterooms— half with private balconies —the ship offers an intimate, comfortable onboard experience. Guests can enjoy panoramic views from the open-air Observation Deck, dine al fresco, and take advantage of state-of-the-art exploration tools like Zodiacs, paddleboards, and snorkelling gear, while exploring the archipelago alongside veteran expedition staff.
National Geographic Gemini is a mission-built, 48-guest expedition ship designed for discovery. The vessel offers spacious accommodations tailored for comfort, featuring 28 ocean-facing cabins, including suites with private balconies. Guests can unwind in the windowed fitness centre and spa, enjoy panoramic views from the whirlpool hot tub, and dine alfresco at the outdoor café. Equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, snorkelling gear, and other tools for exploration, and featuring a dedicated Ecuadorian and Galapagueño crew, National Geographic Gemini delivers an authentic and enriching Galápagos experience nearly 60 years in the making.
To learn more about National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions’ offerings in the Galápagos and explore itineraries, visit www.expeditions.com/destinations/galapagos. Information about Lindblad Expeditions’ growing fleet of 23 owned and chartered expedition vessels can be found at www.expeditions.com/about/fleet.
