CELEBRITY XPEDITION
The pioneer of modern luxury in the Galapagos has left the fleet. Following a strategic sale, she now sails for Lindblad Expeditions.
- Final Voyage
- Jan 2025
- New Owner
- Lindblad
- New Name
- Nat Geo Gemini
- Status
- Transferred
Fleet News
End of an Era.
In a significant move to consolidate its Galapagos operations, Celebrity Cruises officially sold the Celebrity Xpedition (along with her smaller fleetmate Celebrity Xploration) to Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic. The transaction closed in January 2025. This marks the end of Xpedition's 20-year tenure as the backbone of Celebrity's Galapagos presence, leaving the purpose-built Celebrity Flora as the sole remaining ship in the brand's fleet for this region.
- Renamed National Geographic Gemini.
- Underwent refurbishment in early 2025.
- Now operates under the Lindblad Expeditions banner.
- Celebrity's Galapagos fleet is now exclusively the Celebrity Flora.
- All future Xpedition bookings were cancelled or transferred.
The Transition
Details on the handover to Lindblad Expeditions and the vessel's new operational profile.
New Identity
The ship has been renamed National Geographic Gemini. It officially launched under this name in March 2025.
The Buyer
Acquired by Lindblad Expeditions to double their capacity in the region. Lindblad partners with National Geographic for conservation-focused tours.
Refurbishment
Following the January handover, the ship underwent a multi-million dollar revitalization to align with Lindblad's expedition standards.
Fleet Strategy
Celebrity has opted to focus solely on the Celebrity Flora, a newer, larger, and purpose-built mega-yacht, rather than maintaining older tonnage.
Operational Timeline
A brief history of the vessel's service life.
Launch
Originally launched as the Sun Bay.
Celebrity Era
Acquired by Celebrity Cruises, becoming the Celebrity Xpedition and pioneering mainstream luxury in the Galapagos.
Revolution
Underwent a major refurbishment and capacity reduction (to 48 guests) to modernize the experience.
The Sale
Officially transferred to Lindblad Expeditions. Renamed National Geographic Gemini.