Lindblad Expeditions is set to expand its Galapagos operations with the acquisition of two vessels from Celebrity Cruises, enhancing its luxury expedition fleet.
The company announced on Wednesday its plans to purchase the 48-guest Celebrity Xpedition and the 16-guest Celebrity Xploration. These ships, specifically designed for the Galapagos, will join the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet following a multi-million dollar renovation post-sale, expected to finalize in January 2025.
Sven-Olof Lindblad, founder and CEO of Lindblad Expeditions, expressed the company’s commitment to the Galapagos. “We recognize and appreciate the immense privilege our company has to operate and grow our expedition cruise offerings in the Galápagos Islands,” he said. “By sourcing well-appointed vessels and onboarding the most experienced crew and staff who meet our exacting standards of responsible exploration, we’re able to transport guests from around the world to the iconic archipelago and help them understand the importance of protecting and preserving its wonders and wildlife, as a consequence of their personal experience.”
Travelers will be able to book the newly renovated ships later this month, coinciding with the announcement of their new names. The Celebrity Xpedition, currently featuring two dining venues and 24 cabins, including 13 balcony suites, and the eight-cabin catamaran Celebrity Xploration, ideal for family vacations and private charters, will be part of this fleet expansion.
Lindblad’s existing fleet includes 17 other expedition ships operating globally, from Antarctica to Egypt.
Meanwhile, Celebrity Cruises will continue its presence in the Galapagos with the Celebrity Flora, a purpose-built ship accommodating 100 guests, offering all-suite accommodations and unique experiences such as glamping under the stars on deck. Additionally, the Royal Caribbean Group will maintain a presence in the region with Silversea’s Silver Origin.
A Celebrity Cruises spokesperson confirmed the company’s ongoing commitment to Galapagos sailings despite the sale.