National Geographic Endurance: A Taste of Expedition Luxury in London
A Polar-Class Icon in the Heart of London
National Geographic Endurance basking in London Sunshine by Shard. Photo: Kathy Taylor
A Thames Sailing on National Geographic Endurance
There are few experiences that can rival taking in the London skyline from your private hammock, glass of champagne in hand, aboard one of the most technologically advanced expedition ships on the planet. That’s exactly how our journey began aboard National Geographic Endurance, which made its maiden call to London this week with all the style and substance you’d expect from a ship that was purpose-built to conquer the polar extremes—and now, the hearts of UK travellers.
National Geographic Endurance Inaugural Visit to London. Photo: Kathy Taylor, Cruise Lowdown
Docked alongside HMS Belfast and framed by the iconic Tower Bridge, the ship glistened under unseasonably hot and golden skies. The city, bathed in early summer sunlight, served as a spectacular backdrop to this historic moment.
National Geographic Endurance passing under Tower Bridge on inaugural London visit
As Tower Bridge lifted to let us sail underneath, we cruised gracefully down the Thames past business-centric Canary Wharf, historic Greenwich with its Obervatory and Cutty Sark and the iconic O2 Arena. We spent the evening basking in the calm waters of the Thames Estuary, before returning overnight for a dawn sail-in. The view of Tower Bridge rising at sunrise was pure magic, particularly for a Londoner.
A Ship Built for the Edges of the Earth
Launched by Lindblad Expeditions in partnership with National Geographic, National Geographic Endurance is a marvel of modern expedition cruising. Named after Shackleton’s legendary vessel, with lots of nods to its history, it’s the kind of ship you could imagine handling ice floes and katabatic winds with ease - and it’s made to do just that.
This polar-class vessel (PC5 Category A) accommodates just 138 guests in 76 beautifully designed cabins, all with Scandinavian-inspired interiors and smart use of space.
A Taste of Life On Board
The Den on National Geographic Endurance
Despite its expedition credentials, the ship never compromises on comfort. It’s a refined, floating basecamp where luxury and learning go hand in hand.
However, what really sets Endurance apart is what lies within. From The Den and the panoramic Observation Lounge, to the state-of-the-art Science Hub and onboard library, every public space encourages curiosity. The Ice Lounge includes social seating groups surrounding the “Circle of Truth” podium, where adventures are planned and experiences shared. Outside, the Lounge Deck provides circular seating groups complete with fire pits.
National Geographic Endurance Observation Deck - Just imagine the possibilities
Wellness is a large part of a Lindblad Expedition and on National Geographic Endurance The Sanctuary includes twin saunas with floor-to-ceiling windows (imagine watching an iceberg float by mid-steam), a steam room, gym and a yoga studio for stretching out after Zodiac landings. Outside there are two small infinity-style heated pools and, unique to Endurance, two geodesic glass igloos where you can snuggle up under the duvet on a double bed warmed by hot water bottles, to watch the Northern Lights or to wish on a shooting star.
The Expedition Deck houses the Zodiac garage - Base Camp - which is a dynamic launchpad to adventure, complete with a mudroom to dry the cosy complimentary parkas, and an interactive science zone where guests can chat with naturalists, scientists and expedition leaders.
Category 4 Balcony Cabin on National Geographic Endurance. Photo: Kathy Taylor
Accommodation onboard is far more luxurious than you might imagine on an expedition vessel, from cosy solo cabins to two-roomed suites. Our Category 4 balcony stateroom on Lounge Deck was a cocoon of comfort, complete with sleek finishes, and a balcony hammock that made the perfect perch for watching London drift by.
Dining on Endurance
Delectable dining on National Geographic Endurance.
The culinary experience was another unexpected highlight. Lunch and dinner offer fresh, globally inspired menus using locally produced produce. Think vibrant soups and salads, fresh fish, meat and vegetarian dishes all served with paired wines. Afternoon tea offers savoury bites, buttery scones and cakes that could rival any French patisserie.
The National Geographic Difference
This wasn’t just a ship visit—it was a glimpse into a world of purposeful travel. With onboard experts including marine biologists, glaciologists and National Geographic photographers (plus a camera loan scheme), guests aren’t just passengers—they’re part of the mission.
An Expedition to Antarctica tops my Bucket List
Whilst National Geographic Endurance visits 13 destinations on 20 itineraries, for me, the ultimate draw is Antarctica. Sailing there aboard Endurance is firmly at the top of my bucket list. The ship’s unique capabilities, such as her X-bow design with wave-slicing action for smoother sailing and reduced spray on deck, make even the roughest seas manageable; and with tools like ROVs, underwater cameras and hydrophones, every journey becomes an immersive learning experience.
Whether it’s penguin spotting in South Georgia or kayaking past blue-hued icebergs in the Weddell Sea, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions promise a kind of storytelling travel that resonates long after the voyage ends.
A Bright Future in the UK
Plaque and Keys Ceremony. Alongside Natalya Leahy, CEO of Lindblad Expeditions and Captain Aaron Wood, National Geographic Endurance Captain Oliver Kreuss exchanges plaques with Port of London Official.
This special UK FAM sailing, hosted in partnership with Fred. Holidays, marked the brand’s first serious step into the British market. As a UK-based cruise writer and content creator, I was thrilled to be among the 50 agents and media professionals invited aboard, especially as the day also marked a special moment with the honorary plaque and keys ceremony. Captain Oliver Kreuss welcomed officials from The Port of London aboard National Geographic Endurance for this symbolic gesture commemorating the ship’s first-ever UK call, an exciting milestone in the brand’s expansion into the UK market.
With increasing interest in immersive and sustainable expedition cruising, National Geographic Endurance is not just a ship - it’s a statement. And I, for one, can’t wait to follow her wake all the way to the White Continent.
If you’d like to find out more about Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic Endurance, visit their website here.