Cruise Review: National Geographic Venture

“Look over there! Now there! Off the bow! Off the stern! Port! Starboard!”

As humpback whales surrounded us, avid photographers — wielding everything from smartphones to “real cameras” with monstrous telephoto lenses — and casual observers alike jockeyed for position on the 100-passenger National Geographic Venture. The expedition ship’s 360-degree wraparound rail provided a wondrous sense of the whales’ enormous scale as they breached nearby and bobbed just off the hull in the Sea of Cortez. 

It is not every day that you get to enjoy an encounter with whales, but it’s a more regular occurrence onboard Lindblad Expeditions in partnership with National Geographic. The collaborative cruise brand, dating back to the 1960s, is a well-established veteran in the market with undeniable name recognition. As dozens of new expedition ships are slated to launch in the next few years, I was intrigued by the opportunity to see how Lindblad fits into the evolving segment.

My previous expedition cruises have been hosted on refreshed, but comparatively aging, vessels. The National Geographic Venture, on the other hand, was built in 2019, and it shows. Clients should not expect any razzle-dazzle in the way of grand theaters or multiple specialty restaurants, but all the creature comforts of home are in play — delicious cuisine included.

The dining room exhibits a refined but inviting aesthetic, carried throughout the ship, with full- or self-service meals from a buffet (although meal service is likely to change post-pandemic). Baked goods are always a highlight, and buttery cookies often made their way back to my room for seconds. 

Speaking of which, private cabins — measuring from 136 to 185 square feet — are perfectly configured. My category 4 stateroom funneled out from the entry door into a desk area and bank of drawers. An additional counter was divided by a roomy closet, all of which provided ample storage for a week’s vacation. Opposite were two beds with plush mattresses (electrical outlets and USB charging ports at both nightstands was a helpful touch) and a decently sized corner bathroom. A small balcony cantilevered off the stateroom was perfect for fully enjoying the natural surroundings.

One thing missing from cabins is a television. In its place is a handsome wall nook holding a National Geographic world atlas, appropriately encouraging active discovery over passive show binging. That philosophy extends to everything else Lindblad offers, both onboard and off. At the core of the Lindblad experience — and what is ultimately going to set the line apart from its growing competition — is its exceptional crew and expedition team. This is where its expertise and longevity truly shine.

In terms of onboard activities, the navigation bridge is marvelously open to visitors, and discussions with knowledgeable naturalists and lecturers include talks on scientific and cultural insight, as well as helpful National Geographic-inspired photography seminars. (Advisor tip: Make sure clients know about the ship’s B&H Photo gear loaner program. It allows them to try professional camera bodies and lenses before the chance to buy them at a discount.) 

The main lounge welcomes participants with the National Geographic Society seal inlaid in the floor. Seating is cleverly arranged around a central podium that is surrounded by windows and an outdoor-viewing platform, both of which provide guests with a range of stunning exterior views. 

At the back of the ship, a convenient mudroom and sheltered loading platform facilitate Zodiac outings, and exciting activities such as snorkeling and kayaking. Our Sea of Cortez sailing featured an abundance of humpback, sperm and gray whales, plus dolphins, sea lions, seabirds and plenty more flora and fauna. The main purpose of any expedition cruise is to get out and explore it all, and Lindblad does a fine job of delivering the world’s most remote destinations adventurously and educationally. 

Amid the current coronavirus pandemic, Lindblad has temporarily suspended operations, and the line has not yet set a restart date. Currently, canceled guests are being rescheduled or receiving their full fares back, plus a 25% travel certificate that can be applied to their own future bookings and upgrades, or toward a family member’s or friend’s use.

Also, should clients wish to cancel a new or existing 2020 departure up to 24 hours prior to sailing, they will receive a future cruise credit that is applicable to any 2020 or 2021 expedition. Or, for any new 2021 bookings made by Sept. 12, 2020, customers may cancel up to 14 days before sailing for a future cruise credit applicable to any 2021 or 2022 trip.

Certainly, many chances for more expedition cruising calls. Not content to rest on its laurels even during a downturn, the cruise line continues to look forward with a pair of next-generation polar vessels. The National Geographic Endurance (initially scheduled for 2020) and the National Geographic Resolution (initially scheduled for 2021) will soon enough showcase new X-Bow hulls for smoother rides in rough conditions.

Personally, I cannot wait to set out on my next Lindblad/Nat Geo adventure.

The Details
Lindblad Expeditions
www.expeditions.com