The second polar expedition new-build to enter service for Lindblad Expeditions, following the 2020 debut of National Geographic Endurance, is National Geographic Resolution, named in honor of legendary explorer Captain James Cook (1728-1779). Cook was the first person to cross the Arctic Circle, circumnavigate Antarctica, and was the first European to reach Hawaii. Many of his travels were done aboard his favorite ship, HMS Resolution (1770).
Like its predecessor, National Geographic Resolution features a Polar Ice Class 5 rating, meaning the ship is suitable for navigation in polar environments at any time of year. It can be readily identified by its unique bow, called an X-Bow, which is designed to improve fuel efficiency and provide greater comfort during rough seas. The ship also has expanded fuel and water tanks for extended operations, zero-speed stabilizers for increased comfort, and the latest environmental initiatives and technology.
While the ship is a rugged vessel designed for the world's harshest polar climes, plenty of thought has been given to onboard passenger comfort. The ship will feature a yoga studio, spa and sauna, two infinity hot tubs situated at the stern, an aft-facing restaurant, a panoramic main lounge, a bow observation deck, a gym, and a bistro bar and observation lounge with ample forward viewing space outdoors.
National Geographic Resolution offers all the key expedition tools, including motorized landing craft; a fleet of kayaks; its own remotely operated vehicle (ROV) for undersea exploration; an underwater camera; a video microscope; a hydrophone; snorkeling gear and wet suits; electronic charts; and an open bridge policy that invites passengers up to the navigation bridge when conditions allow.
Of the 69 cabins onboard, 75 percent will feature private balconies. A further 12 cabins will be set aside for solo travelers.
Dining
Like its sister ship, National Geographic Resolution will offer two different dining venues, plus an intimate Chef's Table for small group dining.
On the Observation Deck, a bistro will offer lighter, made-to-order fare to ensure that a moment of the polar regions' beauty is never far from sight. A nearby bistro bar serves up all the requisite libations, both alcoholic and otherwise.
The ship's main restaurant is located all the way aft on Main Deck. Flanked by an outdoor viewing space overlooking the stern, breakfast, lunch and dinner can be enjoyed here. Seating is clustered around large windows running along the port, starboard and aft sides of the ship, ensuring that every table has a good view.
As with the rest of Lindblad's polar fleet (but not its non-polar fleet), all beverages -- including alcohol -- are complimentary aboard National Geographic Resolution.
Cabins
Each of the 69 cabins aboard National Geographic Resolution offers ocean views, and 53 -- including all 12 single-occupancy cabins -- will feature private balconies with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors.
Ocean-view cabins either have two portholes or a picture window, and all cabins are equipped with modern bathrooms and stocked with botanically inspired toiletries. Cabins are equipped with in-room tablets and USB docking stations, flat-panel television sets, Wi-Fi internet access, and hair dryers.
Cabin sizes range from 140 square feet (the 12 solo-occupancy cabins) to the ship's 430-square-foot suites. Most cabins onboard measure a generous 205 square feet and include a private balcony.
Top-Deck Attractions
The Observation Deck aboard National Geographic Resolution is exactly that – a place for observing the ship's natural surroundings. In addition to a small spa and sauna, the ship features a dedicated yoga room, two infinity hot tubs mounted at the stern, a casual bistro and bar, and a forward-facing Observation Lounge and Chart Room with plenty of open deck space forward overlooking the bow of the ship.
Entertainment
Like the rest of Lindblad's polar fleet, onboard enrichment lectures make up the bulk of programming onboard – when guests aren't out actually exploring the wilderness they've been hearing so much about. The National Geographic name carries a lot of weight (and expectation) with passengers, so expect lecturers and presenters who are at the pinnacle of their respective fields, along with a crack team of expedition specialists to pull it all together.
Itineraries
National Geographic Resolution will operate polar itineraries to the Arctic and Antarctic for Lindblad Expeditions when it enters service in 2021.
