Before they built the National Geographic Venture and National Geographic Quest, U.S. shipbuilder Nichols Brothers built the twin ships National Geographic Sea Lion and National Geographic Sea Bird. Nimble, reliable, and intimately scaled, they both continue to sail the waters of the west coast of North America and Central America.
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Ship Category
Capacity
62 Guests
30 Staff & Crew
Decks & Cabins
3 Decks
31 Cabins
Dimensions
Length: 152 feet
Highlights
A U.S.-flagged vessel, she and her sister, National Geographic Sea Bird, discover domestic waters
National Geographic Sea Lion and her sister ship, National Geographic Sea Bird, sail the waters of the west coast of North America and Central America.
With a shallow draft and small size, she can easily reach places inaccessible to larger ships. She can venture into fast-moving channels where whales come to feed, transit a series of locks in the Pacific Northwest, nose up to waterfalls in secluded coves, and sail into protected anchorages in small bays perfect for snorkeling and kayaking.
National Geographic writer Andrew Evans called National Geographic Sea Lion the “closest thing to Cousteau’s Calypso” he’s ever had the pleasure to be on.
Final Season
Bidding Farewell to a Pioneering Vessel
Sailing its final season in 2026, this vessel’s pioneering legacy has helped define expedition travel for decades and continues to inspire how we explore the world. Discover more voyages in this ship's travel regions, available aboard National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture and the Greg Mortimer.
DECKS AND CABINS
View our deck maps to explore cabin options and the public spaces you'll enjoy onboard.
Explore the Ship
Public spaces include a library; lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slideshows and presentations; observation deck; partially covered sun deck with chairs and tables. Our “open bridge” provides guests an opportunity to meet our officers and Captain and learn about navigation. Meals are served in the dining room at a single seating with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menus feature sustainable choices, local where possible.
