Antarctica & Patagonia: Legendary Ice & Epic Fjords

The National Geographic Explorer is a polar expedition vessel that holds 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. Her design and equipment is the result of almost 200 years of collective expedition experience. She is equipped with an ice-strengthened hull and advanced navigation equipment for polar expeditions and is perfectly maneuverable for polar passages while providing exceptional comfort. She carries kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac landing crafts. And an undersea specialist operates a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and sophisticated video equipment, extending access to the underwater world.

National Geographic Explorer - In Detail:
Our Review
Common Areas & Amenities
Activities Aboard
Dining & Cuisine
Cabins & Suites & Deck Plan

National Geographic Explorer Review

AdventureSmith Explorations’ National Geographic Explorer review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our experts have sailed aboard the National Geographic Explorer firsthand in Antarctica. Please read our National Geographic Explorer review below then contact our small cruise ship experts to compare the National Geographic Explorer with other Antarctica ships and polar expedition ships and yachts.

The National Geographic Explorer is one of the finest expedition ships in the world operating Antarctica cruises, Antarctica air cruise itineraries, Greenland cruises, Patagonia cruises, Arctic cruises, Iceland cruises, small ship cruises in Northern Europe and Canada small ship cruises. She is equipped for true expeditions to the farthest reaches of our planet in safety and comfort. At 148 guests and 356 feet, she is larger than many other expeditions ships but her size adds stability and endurance for longer voyages. She is still small enough to access remote locations favored by small ship expeditions. 

Choose the National Geographic Explorer if you are an active and inquisitive traveler seeking one of the finest ships combined with the best onboard experts from National Geographic. The expert guides and equipment on board this next-generation ship provide the finest intellectual and educational experience of any expedition cruise. If you are seeking an upscale expedition ship, with top guides synonymous with Nat Geo cruises, the National Geographic Explorer is the right expedition ship for you.

Common Areas & Amenities Aboard Nat Geo Explorer

Guests aboard the Explorer enjoy a Bistro Bar; forward-located Chart Room; restaurant; Global Gallery featuring practical items, regional handicrafts and art; library; lounge with full-service bar and state-of-the-art facilities for films, slideshows and presentations; mud room with lockers for expedition gear; and an observation lounge. An "Open Bridge" provides guests an opportunity to meet Explorer's officers and captain and learn about navigation.

A full-time doctor, Internet cafe and laundry are also available. The vessel is staffed by two Wellness Specialists and features a glass-enclosed Fitness Center, outdoor stretching area, two LEXSpa treatment rooms and Swedish sauna, perfect for quick warm-ups after polar plunges or as a relaxing way to end the day. The fitness center with its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and 180-degree vista offers a “million-dollar view” along with exercise bikes, elliptical machines and treadmills, free weights, yoga mats and exercise balls. From early-morning yoga or stretching on deck or in the lounge to massages and face, hand or body treatments inspired by the location, the onboard wellness specialists help guests achieve a more relaxed and revitalized state of being, great for days spent at sea.

Nat Geo Explorer also offers internet access (one device at a time) via three tiers: time-limited complimentary "basic" internet, for app messaging, email and simple social media; time-limited "enhanced" internet, adding general web browsing and video conferencing capabilities; and "premium" internet, for unlimited access to all features under the "enhanced" plan. Please note: WiFi is satellite based and may be compromised by inclement weather or remote locations.

Activities Aboard National Geographic Explorer

National Geographic Explorer carries a full fleet of 15 Zodiac landing crafts, allowing guides to get the entire expedition community off ship and engaged in activities quickly, comfortably and safely. Widely regarded as the most robust watercraft available, these Zodiacs can push through pack ice and run up on sandy shores. Also on board are 36 two-person AIRE inflatable kayaks, a fleet large enough to ensure everyone who wants to can paddle at every opportunity. Specifically chosen because of their inherent stability and suitability for polar waters, AIREs are virtually untippable. Consequently, prior kayaking experience is not necessary; many guests aboard National Geographic Explorer have had their first kayaking experience in extraordinary locations. Kayakers are usually free to explore where they want within boundaries set by the undersea specialist and officer of the watch.

Unique in-ship Zodiac boarding stations, designed by VP-Marine Operations Captain Leif Skog, allow guests to step into Zodiacs and kayaks safely—and dry—from a secure platform inside the ship rather than a ladder dangling outside. With two possible embarkation gates, the Explorer unloads her guests into Zodiacs more quickly, meaning you’ll have more time ashore and less time waiting. Adjacent these boarding stations is the mudroom and lockers for guests, where expedition gear can be stored separate from cabins. On warm-weather itineraries where there will be snorkeling, a mask, snorkel, fins and wetsuit are provided for the duration of the expedition. On select cold-weather itineraries, cross-country ski gear may be available.

Additional tools for exploration aboard National Geographic Explorer include:

Underwater Camera

An undersea specialist will dive almost every day of Explorer’s expeditions, even in Antarctica or the Arctic, with almost 200 pounds of gear, to shoot high-definition, Cousteau-like footage of the deep. Colorful nudibranchs, plant-like crinoids and mysterious fish with antifreeze blood that thrive in the frigid sea will give you an entirely new appreciation of the marine environment.

Remotely Operated Vehicle

Capable of reaching 1,000 feet, far beyond the range of any scuba diver, the ROV allows guests to literally view parts of the undersea that are as unexplored as the moon. By sharing videos of potentially new species with scientists, such as a large worm an onboard specialist captured in the Weddell Sea, each expedition actively contributes to science and may fundamentally change how the ocean is viewed.

Video Microscope

Naturalists will use the video microscope to help explain all elements of the environment, including tiny organisms that are the building block of the marine ecosystem. Spellbinding images of a krill’s body, at 80x magnification, fills the plasma screens in the lounge with vivid detail, and fills every onlooker with a sense of wonder at the importance of an otherwise unobservable creature.

Crow’s Nest Camera

Perched high atop the vessel on the ship’s mast, this camera provides a continual view on the outside world that can be seen on in-room cabin TVs. From zooming in on a distant polar bear to simply watching the bow crush through ice flows, each guest gets a unique perspective of their surroundings. The extra height from the camera also aids the captain by allowing him to peer at ice conditions farther ahead.

Hydrophones

These underwater microphones are deployed to listen to the vocalizations of marine mammals. Real-time transmissions of their eerie, haunting sounds can be broadcast through the ship or recorded for later playback.

Dining Aboard National Geographic Explorer

Meals are served in the ship's elegant dining room and the adjacent, more intimate Bistro Bar. Seating is open, allowing you to choose where to dine, and table sizes range from 2 to 12. The style is relaxed and casual—there’s never a need to dress up, and there will be opportunities to chat with the onboard naturalists and guest speakers over a meal. Each evening, a ship’s officer, National Geographic staff or a naturalist hosts small tables in the chart room.

All food prepared aboard National Geographic Explorer is sourced locally whenever possible from sustainable providers, with special attention to all seafood being sustainably caught or raised. Breakfast is usually served buffet-style in the dining room and consists of a selection of fruit, eggs to order, cereal, yogurts, cheese and cold meats, plus specially prepared daily dishes, fresh coffee and tea. An early-riser continental breakfast is served in the bistro as well, and many guests choose to take their coffee and morning pastries to the bridge or out on deck. Lunch is also served buffet-style in the dining room and Bistro Bar, with salads and both hot and cold buffet choices available. Most days a light-lunch option is held in the observation lounge at the very top of the ship. When weather conditions permit, the light-lunch is held outdoors on the aft sundeck, offering a stunning backdrop. Depending on the day’s activities, an afternoon tea with cookies, or occasionally, cakes and pastries, is served buffet-style in the Bistro Bar. Dinners are served in the dining room and bistro and feature plated service.

Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard National Geographic Explorer

Soothingly decorated in quiet earth tones, National Geographic Explorer’s 81 spacious cabins each offer a large desk, ample drawer space, signature feather duvets, crisp cotton sheets and generously sized bathrooms with roomy glass-walled shower stalls, hair dryers, bathrobes and botanically-inspired shampoo, shower gel and lotion, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit. Most cabins offer a comfortable armchair for reading, as well as individual reading lamps above the bed. 

Cabins also feature individual climate control for heating and air-conditioning; National Geographic Atlas; plenty of drawers, hooks and under-bed storage space for luggage; public address system; and a flat-panel TV with several channels for movies, National Geographic documentaries, lounge lectures and presentations, views from the Crow’s Nest camera and displays of the electronic chart system with the ship’s current position. Ethernet jacks are available for in-cabin Internet access and there are both 110-volt and 220-volt outlets. Cabin doors lock, but it’s recommended to leave jewelry and other valuables at home. The Explorer is not equipped with safety deposit boxes.

The National Geographic Resolution, sister ship to the National Geographic Endurance, is a 138-guest innovative polar expedition ship. Launched in late 2021 the Resolution and Endurance are the culmination of decades of experience built into the next generation of expedition ships. Famous captains, veteran expedition leaders and professional crew were consulted on every detail to create a ship as capable as she is comfortable.

National Geographic Resolution Ship - At a Glance

Nat Geo Resolution sets the standard for the next generation of expedition ships. She is an extraordinary platform for expedition adventure thanks to her many state-of-the-art features and tools including:

• A fully-stabilized PC5 Category A ice class passenger vessel
• Omni-directional WESMAR HD860 sonar for scanning the sea floor in order to navigate poorly-charted waters
• Patented X-Bow design for smoothest, most comfortable ride
• Advanced sustainability engineering: larger fuel tanks, a more fuel-efficient engine with cleanest exhaust gases, plus large water tanks make National Geographic Resolution more ecofriendly and able to range far beyond ordinary limits
• Optimal viewing and photography opportunities from unprecedented forward and down-the-sides sightlines, plus multiple observation decks and new observation wings
• Heated outdoor dining, observation and rejuvenation areas offer innovative opportunities to stay comfortably connected to the stellar outdoors and wildlife sighting opportunities
• A suite of expeditions tools: Fleets of Zodiacs, kayaks, cross-country skis for early season voyages, an ROV, hydrophones, video microscope, underwater video technology and more
• Hyper efficient Zodiac loading for “getting out there” more swiftly and safely

National Geographic Resolution - In Detail:
Why Cruise Aboard
X-BOW® Design
Speed & Propulsion
Common Areas
Dining & Cuisine
Off-Vessel Activities
Namesake
Cabins & Suites & Deck Plan

Why Sail Aboard National Geographic Resolution

A fully stabilized small expedition ship with a high PC5 Category A ice class rating, the Resolution enables adventurous guests to go where few have or can. The National Geographic Resolution’s most striking exterior feature is her distinctive profile, the patented X-Bow®. This game-changing design guarantees the smoothest, most comfortable ride in all kinds of conditions. Since it eliminates bow impact, guests experience a quieter ride as well.

This educational polar vessel has a specifically designed hull to break through the tough pack ice, increasing the ability to explore these hard-to-reach destinations and making new expeditions possible. Her polar ice class 5 rating allows her to operate during any time of the year in polar environments, vastly expanding the range of exploration in Antarctica and the Arctic. Her ability to venture deeper, paired with state-of-the-art educational equipment and highly qualified guides, creates an in-depth intellectual and truly exploratory experience.

An equally impressive feature may well be her capacity: she carries just 138 guests, a commitment to expedition excellence over scale. Scandinavian-inflected, luxuriously appointed, her inviting interiors would be a destination in themselves. Because she is a National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions ship, however, her attention is focused on the world outside—with acres of window glass to keep you connected to the stunning views beyond the pane, and a fleet of expedition tools to get you out exploring.

Choose the National Geographic Resolution for a refined, scholarly and pleasant experience aboard a modern, innovative polar vessel with highly intellectual programming and unique polar itineraries that voyage into the depths of the Arctic, Antarctica and beyond. The National Geographic Resolution is equipped to be a floating home base in the most faraway places, with many educational tools and topnotch onboard guides trained to the standards of National Geographic. For these and many other reasons, the Nat Geo Resolution is among our top choices for passengers seeking luxury Antarctica cruises.

AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard National Geographic Resolution firsthand. Read our dedicated National Geographic Resolution ship review, written by our founder and president who sailed aboard the ship in the Arctic. Or consult this page further for a detailed description of National Geographic Resolution, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images, photo gallery and current links to all the trips she sails. We can help compare the National Geographic Resolution with other Antarctica ships, small cruise ships and polar expedition ships offering Antarctica cruises, Alaska small ship cruises, Arctic cruises, small ship Asia cruises, Canada cruises, Greenland cruises, Chile cruises, Japan small ship cruises, Patagonia cruises, Pacific Island cruises and small ship cruises in Northern Europe.

Groundbreaking X-BOW® Design

Designed and built by the Norwegian ship builders Ulstein Group, this ship is leading a new age of polar travel focused on sustainability, efficiency, safety and stability. The Ulstein’s innovative, signature bow—the X-BOW®—creates a vessel with increased agility, security, performance and convenience and incorporates conservation-minded solutions to reduce the ship’s environmental impact.

This hull design also allows for excellent forward and downward viewing from numerous observation decks, including observation wings that extend out from the ship’s sides. Her larger volume displacement in the front of the ship, upturned bow and slender hull design offer higher fuel efficiency, improved performance in waves, increased stability in rough waters, softer entry into waves, reduced acceleration levels, less spray, less slamming and bow impact, and lower vibration. Her zero-steam stabilizers increase stability while anchored/not moving, and her expanded fuel and water tanks allow for longer expeditions to explore farther.

Speed & Propulsion

With a top speed of 16.5 knots, the Resolution is fast. Most expedition ships boast a top speed of 12-15 knots. Furthermore, traditionally bowed ships must slow down in rough seas to avoid slamming the bow against waves. All of this translates into faster crossings and more time exploring.

The Resolution boasts Azipod propulsion, where the motor is housed in a pod outside the hull and can rotate 360 degrees. This revolutionary design increases efficiency and maneuverability, particularly in ice-infested waters.

The propulsion system also allows the Resolution to hover in place for Zodiac operations, kayaking or watching wildlife. This dynamic position system, or anchorless anchoring, means the ship can remain close to shore resulting in more efficient shore landings.

Common Areas & Amenities

Across her six guest decks, the Nat Geo Resolution boasts more than 10,000 square feet of glass for prime enclosed viewing. The interior is fitted with Scandinavian design that’s both enjoyable and contemporary. Fire and ice are the motif throughout the ship, reflecting the external surroundings that National Geographic Resolution cruises through. Photographers may enjoy the purpose-designed space for editing and collaboration, as well as access to a photo gear locker filled with photography equipment for guests’ use. This Nat Geo expedition ship takes relaxation and fitness seriously with spa treatments, saunas featuring amazing views, gym equipment, a yoga studio and two infinity-pool Jacuzzis.

The high tech Bridge is adapted to accommodate every guest on board, enabling travelers to share the thrill of being underway. Learn from the Captain and officers and scan the horizon for wildlife with naturalists from one of be the best viewpoints aboard the ship. The Bridge is always open for guests to enjoy. 
Tour the Bridge Deck

Restaurant 270 Degrees on the Main Deck features wraparound views and provides a window on the vital expedition team members: the galley staff as they prepare meals. The dining area features sustainable choices that are sourced locally where possible and unassigned, flexible, inclusive seating.

The Observation Deck keeps guests connected to the outside world with floor-to-ceiling windows and easy outdoor access points. Follow the course of the ship in the interactive electronic charter table. In the library, catch up on reading during days at sea, or enjoy a nightcap with fellow guests at the bar.

The Lounge Deck’s Ice Lounge, with its signature “Circle of Truth” at the center, is where the daily ritual of recap—convening, sharing knowledge and anticipating tomorrow—takes place over cocktails and canapes with engaging presentations or undersea videos lighting the screens. It's also home to the Photo Studio, where all guests can borrow complimentary B&H photo gear.

The Expedition Deck is home to the equipment and amenities needed for exploration off the ship. The spacious Basecamp (also known as a mudroom) offers warm, welcome home storage for your expedition gear. Zodiacs and kayaks are stored in the garage. Newly designed loading bays allow the fleet of Zodiacs to be deployed quickly, maximizing your time ashore.

Originally intended as solarizing units for the adjacent infinity hot tubs, the igloos quickly became such an acclaimed feature that guests can now book an overnight stay (on a first-come, first-serve basis). It is a one-of-a-kind experience to lie on a superb mattress under a froth of cozy duvet, warmed by twin hot-water bottles in the traditional Scandinavian way. Gaze out at impossible polar beauty or up at never-before-seen polar stars.

The Sanctuary features amenities and services to jump start the day or relax after exploring ashore. Every morning, wellness specialists offer a stretch class in the Yoga Studio. Twin saunas, Nordic and Tropic, boast glass walls for soaking in million-dollar views. Enjoy massages, facials and other wellness treatments in the two massage rooms during days at sea. The Fitness Studio features state-of-the-art equipment, including free weights, weighted balls, kettle balls, treadmills and ellipticals.

The Science Hub facilitates research projects and provides a lab for researchers needing to stretch grant dollars to get to key sites and do vital work. Guests gain a front row seat on ongoing science and connect with interesting researchers.

Tupaia’s restaurant, named after the great Polynesian navigator, offers an early riser breakfast as well as lighter, made-to-order lunch fare. Custom grilled selection are prepared on the outdoor barbecue when the weather allows. Enjoy both indoor and outdoor seating thanks to the outdoor wind-protected seating and infrared heaters. Plus, on every departure all guests are hosted at the Chef’s Table, an innovative approach to private dining.

Cozy up around one of the two fire pits outside of the Ice Lounge. With real, heated flames from the fire pits, protection from the wind, and additional overhead infrared heaters, enjoy great views of the surrounding landscape.

A full-time doctor and impressive medical center with isolation rooms are prepared for most emergencies.

Internet is available on board (one device at a time) via three tiers: time-limited complimentary "basic" internet, for app messaging, email and simple social media; time-limited "enhanced" internet, adding general web browsing and video conferencing capabilities; and "premium" internet, for unlimited access to all features under the "enhanced" plan. WiFi is satellite based and may not always be accessible in poor weather or extremely remote areas.

Dining & Cuisine

Resolution features multiple dining options to ensure her guests are nourished well between adventures. From various dining options, polar travelers can enjoy excellent views, early breakfast, private dining, al fresco BBQs in the protected winter garden (weather permitting), and daily high tea and hors d’oeuvres. Large menus offer an array of options including fresh and lighter fare; custom grilled items; and regionally inspired, sustainable and creative food.

Off-Vessel Activities

The Nat Geo Resolution features fast, painless and secure loading and unloading from its modern-designed Zodiac loading system. Onboard expedition tools include cross-country skis, kayaks, hydrophones, underwater video cameras, a remotely operated vehicle, a video microscope and more. Every voyage is an adventure with activities designed to enhance your understanding of the surrounding environment.

Resolution Ship Namesake

The ship’s name honors Captain James Cook, the legendary explorer who was the first to circumnavigate Antarctica and cross the Antarctic Circle, and the first European to reach Hawaii. While he served as the master of several ships, his favorite was the Resolution. To seal the name, a rare, vintage, commemorative silver coin depicting Cook on one side and a Hawaiian chieftain on the other, is welded into the ship. It is a Hawaii Sesquicentennial half dollar, struck in 1928 by the United States Bureau of the Mint in honor of the 150th anniversary of Cook’s landing in Hawaii.

National Geographic Resolution Cabins & Suites

All cabins are outward-facing and feature large windows. All are equipped with climate control, an expedition command center—including tablets, multiple electrical and USB outlets, a TV, barometer, a National Geographic Atlas and more—a mini refrigerator, small safe and robes. Bathrooms are outfitted with a rain shower and directional showerhead, botanically inspired products and a hair dryer. Enjoy luxury linens and pillows, as well as complimentary insulated water bottles.

Cabins feature warmth-inspired decor, offering a comforting respite after a day spent exploring in polar environments. Large windows feature the outdoors while also being equipped with blackout shades to combat the midnight sun when it’s time to sleep. An impressive 75% of the cabins offer balconies and 12 are designed for solo travelers. All 69 cabins have a command center with atlas, barometer, clock, tablet, electrical ports and mirror, and a sofa or reading chair.

National Geographic Resolution Deck Plan

Use the Nat Geo Resolution deck plan below to determine the best cabin category and location. Contact our experts for a personal consultation.