Ulstein Verft to build second polar vessel for Lindblad

US-based Lindblad Expeditions has signed an agreement with Norwegian shipbuilder Ulstein Verft to build a new vessel that will become the fourth ship in the National Geographic polar fleet.

Delivery of the vessel, which will be a sister to National Geographic Endurance, is scheduled for the third quarter of 2021.

It will be able to accommodate 126 passengers in 69 cabins and suites, around 75 per cent of which will have balconies for private viewing.

The complement of expedition tools will include kayaks, cross-country skis, a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), hydrophones, a video microscope, and underwater video cameras.