National Geographic Delfina
- capacity
- 16
- year built
- 2007
- remodeled
- 2024
- length
- 98 feet
- beam
- 37 feet
- cruising speed
- 12 knots
- flag
- Ecuador
The newest and most intimate addition to the National Geographic fleet, the Nat Geo Delfina is a sleek, upscale catamaran designed for cruising the archipelago in style and stable comfort. The elegant, well-appointed ship, with a double hull, accommodates only 16 guests in eight spacious, air-conditioned double staterooms with polished wood décor.
AdventureSmith’s History with Nat Geo Delfina
We have a long history with this ship and welcome her return to service under the National Geographic banner. Originally named the Motor Catamaran Athala II she was one of our favorite Galapagos catamarans from her launch in 2007 until 2017 when she was sold and rechristened as the Celebrity Xploration.
One of the initial wave of catamaran’s designed and built to operate in the Galapagos Islands she was among the largest and nicest. She offered the spacious and comfortable, fully air-conditioned accommodation of a larger boat while still preserving the relaxed exclusivity of a smaller vessel.
We are confident the Delfina will maintain everything that made her a luxurious pioneer while adding elements of education and expedition that Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic are known for.
National Geographic Delfina Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ National Geographic Delfina review includes a detailed description of the small ship including a deck plan and photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard the National Geographic Delfina firsthand and can be your ultimate resource when comparing other Galapagos cruise ships, yachts and catamarans offering Galapagos cruises.
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Choose the National Geographic Delfina for an intimate voyage steeped in learning and action-packed excursions led by expert naturalists with a passion for protecting this one-of-a-kind archipelago. Her educational programming and multi-million-dollar renovation (2024) will dazzle any traveler, and she’s perfectly sized for a group of family and friends looking for a private Galapagos yacht charter.
Common Areas
National Geographic Delfina was built in 2007 and extensively renovated in 2024. On board, the open-air Observation Deck offers guests sweeping 360-degree views of the islands, with a cozy shaded area for relaxation, a Whirlpool hot tub, and lounge chairs to kick-up one’s feet and take in the surroundings or stargaze. On the wraparound Upper Deck, guests can dine al fresco at the Outdoor Café and enjoy spectacular island views from the bow as they watch for dolphins, whales and other dazzling endemic marine life.
The dining room, bar and cozy lounge with library are on the Main Deck, which is also the boarding area and marina. Guests can savor Ecuadorian-inspired cuisine with local, sustainable ingredients in both indoor and outdoor dining areas, enjoying a sociable and informal atmosphere within a single, unassigned seating.
Activities & Expedition Tools
Guests can enjoy multiple ways to explore on land and at sea, including hikes, photo walks, kayaking, paddleboarding and snorkeling. The intimate National Geographic Delfina is equipped with state-of-the-art tools for exploration, including Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and complete snorkeling gear for kids and adults.
Crew & Guides
Explore the Galapagos in good company with Ecuadorian officers and crew plus two veteran National Geographic expedition staff: an Expedition Leader and National Geographic certified photo instructor (both licensed naturalists). Staff are certified as Field Educators to offer the National Geographic Global Explorers program for kids and teens as well. Many of the veteran guides aboard the National Geographic Galapagos fleet are Galapagueños, who in addition to sharing their extensive knowledge of island species and habitats, also offer an authentic connection to the region’s culture.
Cabins & National Geographic Delfina Deck Plan
Located on two decks, all 8 cabins are bright with outside view windows, convertible queen/twin beds, ample closets, and large bathroom with plush bathrobes and stand-up showers. In addition, staterooms have a stocked mini-bar, in-room WiFi and a flat-screen TV.
Category 5 staterooms have a private balcony. Cabins have either a private balcony (Category 5) or direct access to an expansive wood deck (Category 4). Families may opt to connect select Category 4 cabins. The Nat Geo Delfina does not offer triple occupancy cabins.
