Crystal Cruises’ former exploration ship Crystal Esprit is now in service for Lindblad Expeditions with a new name and new look.
National Geographic Islander II has been renovated into a 48-passenger, all-suite vessel for cruising around the Galapagos Islands that features its own Science Hub.
There are 18 suites, four solo suites, and four larger Islander Suites, all with large windows, convertible king/twin beds with 600-thread count bedding, ample closets, sofa, and marble double-sink bathrooms. A collection of organic amenities has been crafted exclusively for Lindblad Expeditions.
The ship has five decks. The Observation Deck features a pool, sauna, fitness studio and grill. On the Promenade Deck, a viewing area adjoins The Cove, a lounge with a set of large video screens for presentations.
A Marina Deck features a room for getting suited up with gear before heading to the Marina, which has a fleet of Zodiacs for landings on the islands. With only 26 suites and accommodating just 48 guests, she sails with a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio.
The main Yacht Club Restaurant is midship and a casual indoor-outdoor Patio Cafe is aft.
A seven-day round Galapagos itinerary can be extended with a three day Peru package that includes a trip to Machu Pichu on Inca Rail.
Built by a German shipyard and floated out as Lady Diana, the ship started service in 1991 as the Aurora 1. Purchased by Star Cruises in 1994, the name was changed to Megastar Taurus. In 2015, she joined the Crystal Cruises fleet as the exploration ship Crystal Esprit, which was sold in the aftermath of Crystal’s bankruptcy to Lindblad Expeditions.
The ship replaces a previous ship named National Geographic Islander that was about the same size.
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