Nat Geo Gemini
Overview
Purpose-built for Galapagos exploration, the 296-foot National Geographic Gemini vessel offers an authentic and deeply immersive Galápagos experience, shaped by both long-standing relationships with local communities, and dedicated conservation efforts. Originally constructed in 2001 as Sun Bay 1, she was re-launched in March 2025 as the National Geographic Gemini after undergoing a recent multi-million-dollar refit, a month after her smaller sister-ship (catamaran), the National Geographic Delfina.
Life On Board
Aboard the National Geographic Gemini, sophisticated comfort is seamlessly blended with adventure and authenticity, with amenities to maximize your relaxation and viewing pleasure, and artwork and decor showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople.
With a maximum capacity of just 48 passengers, the four deck ship fosters an intimate ambiance, allowing personalized service from a dedicated crew. Guests revel in the largest suites available within Nat Geo’s Galapagos fleet, many boasting private balconies that invite the outside in.
Beyond personal sanctuaries, social amenities abound. The Upper Deck beckons with a serene whirlpool hot tub and a windowed fitness center and spa, offering moments of relaxation and rejuvenation. Culinary delights—crafted in partnership with Ecuadorian chefs to highlight locally sourced regional ingredients—await in the restaurant on the Marina Deck and the outdoor café on the Lounge Deck, both accommodating all guests in single open seating for a convivial atmosphere.
The open, windowed lounge serves as a hub for captivating presentations, informal gatherings, and features a well-stocked library and inviting bar, perfect for sharing the day’s discoveries.
Immersive Exploration
The National Geographic Gemini sails longer 8-day itineraries year-round through the enchanted isles of the Galápagos, offering immersive journeys of discovery through an archipelago teeming with unique life. Highly maneuverable thanks to her shallow draft, each voyage is designed to get you up close and personal with the remarkable inhabitants of the marine reserve and explore its terrestrial wonders, all accompanied by expert guides to enrich your understanding and experience.
The ship carries a comprehensive fleet of quick-to-deploy Mark VI Zodiacs, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, ensuring effortless access to pristine shores and hidden coves. All guests are fully equipped with snorkeling gear, including shortie wetsuits, inviting immersive encounters with the vibrant underwater world.
Guests will actively engage in daily excursions, witnessing iconic species in their natural habitats, from playful sea lions to ancient tortoises, and discovering the landscapes that inspired revolutionary thought.
Embarking on a cruise aboard the National Geographic Gemini makes guests feel like true pioneers in Darwin’s living laboratory. You will achieve the rare feat of witnessing evolution unfold before your eyes, explore untouched landscapes, and come face to face species found nowhere else on Earth.
Ideal for the curious and discerning traveler, the wildlife enthusiast, or anyone seeking an escape to nature at its finest, the Gemini provides both intimate adventure and exceptional comfort in one of the planet’s most significant natural wonders.
Itineraries & Prices
All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.
Accommodations
Social Areas
Suites & Cabins
Category 1
Located on the Lounge Deck, these cabins have windows and face forward. The bed configuration can be either a queen or two twin beds, depending on the guest's needs. The cabins also have ample storage space, a sitting area, a desk, a mini fridge, and a television. Ensuite bathrooms with a glass shower and amenities.
Category 2
Located in the middle of the ship and on the Lounge Deck, these cabins are outside facing with a large window, a choice of either a queen or two twin beds, ample storage, a sitting area, a desk, a mini fridge, and a television. En-suite bathrooms come equipped with a glass shower and amenities. Same in size and amenities as other Category 2 cabins.
Category 4
These cabins are outside-facing and feature a large window. They offer a choice of one queen bed or two twin beds, ample storage space, a sitting area, a desk, a mini-refrigerator, and a television. The bathrooms include a glass-enclosed shower and a selection of amenities.
Category 2S
Located on the Lounge Deck, outside facing with a large window, choice of either a queen or two twin beds, ample storage, sitting area, desk, mini fridge, and television. En-suite bathrooms come equipped with a glass shower and amenities. Equal in size and amenities to other Category 2 cabins.
Category 5
Cabin Category 5 offers an exterior-facing orientation with floor-to-ceiling glass doors leading to a 50-square-foot balcony featuring seating. Accommodation options include one queen bed or two twin beds, accompanied by ample storage space, a sitting area, a desk, a mini-refrigerator, and a television. The en-suite bathroom provides a glass-enclosed shower and standard amenities. The cabin measures 205 square feet and connects to cabin #604, allowing it to be used as a family suite. Cabin #602 allows triple occupancy, as it has a sofa bed.
Category 6
This Cabin Category features a forward-facing orientation and includes floor-to-ceiling glass doors that provide access to a private, 195-square-foot forward-facing balcony furnished with seating. Accommodation options include one queen bed or two twin beds, alongside ample storage space. Additional amenities consist of a sitting area, a desk, a mini-refrigerator, and a television. The en-suite bathroom is equipped with a glass-enclosed shower and a selection of standard amenities. The total cabin size is 250 square feet and can be connected to cabin #602, allowing a family suite configuration.
Category 7
This Upper Deck Suite is forward-facing and features floor-to-ceiling glass doors. It is a 195-square-foot forward-facing balcony with seating. It includes a separate living area with a sofa bed, accommodating triple occupancy. The bedroom offers a choice of one queen bed or two twin beds, a 50-square-foot side balcony, ample storage, a mini-refrigerator, and a television. A large bathroom with a rain shower is provided.
Category 5S
This Cabin Category features an exterior-facing orientation and includes floor-to-ceiling glass doors leading to a private 50-square-foot balcony equipped with seating. The cabin is furnished with one queen-sized bed and offers ample storage space. Additional amenities include a dedicated sitting area, a desk, a mini-refrigerator, and a television. The ensuite bathroom is equipped with a glass shower and provides standard toiletries.
Technical Information
Deck Plan
Features
- Connecting cabins
- Cabins with balconies
- Air conditioning
- Pool / Jacuzzi
- Excercise room
- Lecture room
- WIFI available
- Medical staff
- Onsite tour desk
- Souvenir shop
- Hot showers
- All inclusive
- Heating
- Family Room (Triple or Quadruple)
- Charging areas for electronic equipment
Equipment
- Snorkeling gear
- Wetsuits
- Stand up paddleboard
- Kayaks / Canoes
- Water canteen/bottle
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