Lindblad Expeditions launched the fleet's newest ship - National Geographic Endurance, at an official dockside christening ceremony in Reykjavik Iceland, held on Thursday, July 22.
This was the first christening of an international ship in Reykjavík Harbor.
The closed ceremony (exclusively for Lindblad's customers) marked an important milestone for the company as the first polar newbuild in its history.
Sven Lindblad (company's Founder and Co-Chair) and Dolf Berle (CEO) presided over the ceremony, joined by Captain Aaron Wood.
The naming kicked off with a video highlighting the construction of National Geographic Endurance to her completion in the world's top shipbuilding capitals, as well as the polar environments the ship will explore.
The boat's two godmothers - Jen Martin (Director of Field Staff & Expedition Development) and Ana Esteves (Director Hotel Operations) then proceeded to the bow for the toast and breaking of the champagne bottle.
Dockside, guests enjoyed champagne and canapes while listening to Icelandic musicians prior to embarking on a special 19-day Maiden Voyage exploring destinations in Iceland and Greenland.
The inaugural voyage marks the opening of CHANGE, the first permanent ship-based installation of paintings, drawings, photography, sculpture, and video, curated by artist Zaria Forman. NatGeo Endurance exhibit features a range of artists dedicated to expressing responses to vulnerable polar geographies and giving guests a rich polar experience.