National Geographic Sea Bird
- capacity
- 62 guests
- year built
- 1982
- remodeled
- 2014
- length
- 164 feet
- beam
- 33 feet
- draft
- 6 feet
- cruising speed
- 10 knots
- flag
- United States
National Geographic Sea Bird, a twin expedition ship to the National Geographic Sea Lion, can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to her small size and shallow draft, all while comfortably accommodating 62 guests in 31 cabins. The feeling is often compared to that of a large private yacht, with everyone integral to the adventure. In fact, National Geographic writer Andrew Evans called the vessel the “closest thing to Cousteau’s Calypso” he’s ever had the pleasure to be on.
National Geographic Sea Bird Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ National Geographic Sea Bird review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our National Geographic Sea Bird review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the National Geographic Sea Bird with other small cruise ships and yachts offering Baja cruises, Canada small ship cruises, Pacific Northwest small ship cruises and Alaska small ship cruises.
Choose the National Geographic Sea Bird for active and inquisitive travels with immersion in nature and wildlife. The experts and equipment on board provide excellent intellectual and educational experiences. The Sea Bird is an ideal platform for exploration of remote and rarely seen places. Her captain and crew have decades of sailing experience and know where to find breaching whales, bow-riding dolphins and alluring coves. The probable presence of National Geographic explorers, photographers, writers, scientists and other experts gives guests unequaled opportunities to expand their knowledge. In addition, connection among travelers is also a focus, as National Geographic Sea Bird’s inviting public spaces foster a sense of shipboard life where everyone is integral to the adventure, engendering a sense of expedition community.
Common Areas & Amenities Aboard Nat Geo Sea Bird
The large open bow on the Upper Deck, which holds all guests at once, provides ample opportunities for experiencing the wildlife and scenery. The Bridge Deck offers a sun deck with tables, chairs, exercise equipment and partial shade as well as the bridge, which is often open to visitors, providing the captain’s view.
Indoors, an open lounge features a full bar and space for films, slideshows and lectures; a reference library and global market. During this event, the market displays the talent of local artisans. Items may include silver jewelry crafted in Alaska, handmade dolls from Baja, paintings and books by the naturalist staff, plus expedition clothing and other essentials. Every item purchased in the global market contributes to an artisan fund, which supports artisans in communities around the world to develop their potential more successfully.
Internet access (one device at a time) is available on board via three tiers: time-limited complimentary “basic” internet, for app messaging, email and simple social media; time-limited “enhanced” internet, adding general web browsing and video conferencing capabilities; and “premium” internet, for unlimited access to all features under the “enhanced” plan. The satellite-based WiFi may not always be accessible in remote areas or extreme weather.
Dining Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird
Onboard chefs prepare fresh, delicious dishes from local ingredients. Meals are served in the dining room in an unhurried, open seating with views through panoramic windows. Breakfast is a buffet with a wide selection of options, lunch is often served family style and dinners are most commonly plated. Reusable bottles for water are in each cabin when guests arrive. The bar is typically open in the mid-morning and evening. A variety of beverages are available for purchase including wine by the glass or bottle, cocktails, specialty drinks and spirits. There is also a 24-hour self-service beverage station with coffee, tea, soft drinks, water, ice and snacks.
Activities Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird
One- or two-person kayaks are available for explorations. A sturdy fleet of Zodiacs accommodate quick, safe and versatile off-ship adventures.
This ship offers a wide range of cameras that record wildlife along the way. A bow camera, video microscope and underwater camera all stream footage to TVs in the lounge and staterooms; a hydrophone provides a soundtrack to the imagery; all offer multiple ways to interact with the wildlife. The ship is also equipped with a Splash-Cam for easy deployment by naturalists to show the spectacular world beneath the surface. An iMac station is available in the ship’s lounge for editing and sorting photos, equipped with a digital media reader and USB outlets. A full-time certified photo instructor and video chronicler are aboard.
A variety of wellness treatments are available on board, as well as activities led by the wellness specialist. Morning stretch classes are held in the open air of the sun deck, with yoga mats available. Exercise bands and sets of small hand weights are also available for use. Massages, body treatments, natural facial treatments and hand and foot treatments are all on offer at the spa. Signup opportunities for treatments occur once on board.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird
All of National Geographic Sea Bird’s 31 cabins are outside facing with one or two windows and two lower beds (some configurable). Rooms are comfortable and clean with organic cotton duvets and crisp cotton sheeting. Every cabin has Wi-Fi access for purchase and temperature controls, and is stocked with botanically-inspired hair products, soap and shower gel, plus a hairdryer. Beneath every bed is space to store luggage, and each cabin has one or two closets plus drawers under the beds. A speaker in each cabin is optionally tuned to the microphone in the ship’s lounge. Laundry is available for an additional fee.
