National Geographic Sea Lion

Ship and identity

The National Geographic Sea Lion sails under the U.S. flag for Lindblad Expeditions. It accommodates up to 62 guests; Lindblad lists a total of 30 staff and crew members. The ship is 152 feet, or about 46.3 meters, long and has three decks with 31 cabins. Nichols Brothers built the Sea Lion together with its sister ship, the National Geographic Sea Bird. Both sail along the west coast of North America and in Central America. The two sister ships were built before Nichols Brothers constructed the National Geographic Venture and the National Geographic Quest.

The 2022–2023 Lindblad brochure lists 31 outside cabins for 62 guests. All cabins faced outward and had windows, private bathrooms, and climate control. The same edition lists six Zodiacs and 16 kayaks for expeditions. The equipment described also included a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), hydrophone, underwater video camera, and video microscope. Snorkeling gear and wetsuits were available to all guests when required by the destination.

Expedition profile

Lindblad describes the ship’s shallow draft and compact design as giving it access to places that larger vessels cannot reach. Its official examples include fast-moving channels where whales feed, locks in the Pacific Northwest, waterfalls in remote coves, and sheltered anchorages in small bays. The Sea Lion shares its cruising region with the National Geographic Sea Bird. Regional itineraries include voyages on the Columbia and Snake and expeditions along the coasts of Central America.

The interior spaces include a library and a lounge with a bar. Films, photo presentations, and talks are held there. The observation deck and the partially covered sundeck, with tables and chairs, are the outdoor areas named by the operator. On the open bridge, guests can meet the captain and officers and learn about navigation.

Meals are served in one seating at unassigned tables. Lindblad highlights sustainable ingredients and, when available, locally sourced products. The Lindblad expedition fleet combines nature, science, and cultural interpretation on voyages to remote regions.