The second new build ship in the history of Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic has entered into service.
The 50-cabin National Geographic Venture is sister ship to National Geographic Quest, launched last year.
The design is based on 50 years of expedition experience with the vessel undertaking coastal voyages on the US west coast on two new itineraries.
The ship will then be deployed in Baja, the Pacific north-west and Alaska.
The vessel was named at a ceremony in San Francisco before embarking on a two-night mini cruise for travel agents and other partners.
Sven Lindblad, CEO of Lindblad Expeditions, said: “I am very, very, proud. It is a great expedition ship. It’s comfortable, nimble, and with massive amounts of glass, our guests will constantly be connected to the outside world. We are delighted with the way she came out.”
Gary Knell, chairman of National Geographic Partners, added: “For 15 years Lindblad and National Geographic have worked together taking travellers around the world to some of the most amazing places.
“We could not be happier than we are seeing this beautiful new Venture head out to sea.”
The ship’s captain Andrew Cook said: “What we have learned over time has provided us the best way to experience the environment. For me personally, this is as fine a ship as I could have asked for.”