Nichols Brothers launches new expedition vessel for Lindblad

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The following is text of a news release from Nichols Brothers Boat Builders (NBBB):

(FREELAND, Wash.) — Nichols Brothers Boat Builders (NBBB) was contracted by Lindblad Expeditions in December 2015 to construct two 100-passenger cruise vessels for expedition cruising in coastal California, Baja California; Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, Costa Rica, Panama, and Belize. The first vessel, M/V National Geographic Quest, has operated within the Lindblad fleet since July 2017, while M/V National Geographic Venture launched Monday at Nichols Brothers shipyard in Freeland, Wash.

The Jones Act coastal cruise vessel, measuring 238 by 44 by 10 feet, is a state-of-the-art, purpose-built vessel made for exploring coastal waters, shallow coves, and fast-moving channels where wildlife congregates. Spacious cabins, open decks for wildlife viewing, and specialty tools for exploration make it an ideal platform for voyaging in remote areas.

The U.S.-flagged National Geographic Venture will transfer to NBBB’s pierside facility in Langley, Wash., for final outfitting and sea trials before being delivered to Lindblad Expeditions in October.

By Professional Mariner Staff