National Geographic Endurance made an extraordinary debut in London last week, with the vessel passing the city’s iconic Tower Bridge before docking in the heart of the city beside the HMS Belfast.

Port of London officials joined Captain Olivier Kreuss on board the vessel for an honorary plaque and keys ceremony to mark the occasion.

The day also saw 50 of the UK’s top travel agents and media hop aboard for National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions’ first ever UK famil hosted in partnership with its UK general sales agent Fred Holidays.

“Since joining us in September 2024, Fred Holidays has been instrumental in accelerating the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions brand’s growth in the UK market,” the company said.

Accommodating just 138 guests across 76 cabins, the National Geographic Endurance is named in honour of explorer Ernest Shackleton and his legendary Transantarctic expedition.

The vessel has been purpose-built for polar exploration, with a patented X-Bow design and a PC5 Category A ice-class rating.

“The ship is designed to go where few have – or can -with unmatched comfort and capability,” the company said of National Geographic Endurance‘s London debut. “We’re thrilled to mark this milestone in London and continue sharing the spirit of responsible, world-opening exploration with our global community.”

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