Dining Guide for National Geographic Explorer
Embark on a culinary journey aboard the National Geographic Explorer, where dining transcends the ordinary, blending exploration and gastronomy into an enriching experience. With four distinct dining venues, each offering its own unique ambiance and gourmet flair, the Explorer invites you to savor the flavors of the world in the most extraordinary settings. From the elegance of the Restaurant to the casual charm of the Bistro, the panoramic views of the Observation Lounge, and the exclusive dining at the Chart Room, your taste buds are set for an adventure as vast as the destinations you explore. Whether it's a sit-down dinner or a buffet that appeals, every meal is an opportunity not just to dine but to dine exceptionally, with open seating that fosters a convivial atmosphere among guests and staff alike. Prepare to be delighted by creativity, variety, and impeccable service as we invite you to explore the sumptuous culinary landscapes of the National Geographic Explorer.
Restaurant
IncludedThe Restaurant aboard the National Geographic Explorer is where elegance meets variety, presenting a fine dining experience with panoramic windows that ensure every meal is accompanied by stunning views. Known for its impeccable service, the Restaurant's international cuisine is a testament to the Explorer's global journeys, offering dishes inspired by the regions visited. Signature dishes such as sliced duck in its own juice and grilled cod highlight the menu, showcasing the creative prowess of the culinary team. This venue, with its medium-tone faux-wood paneling and range of table sizes, provides an inviting atmosphere for those seeking both intimate dinners and lively group gatherings. A notable dining experience here is the chance to enjoy a meal with a naturalist or an officer, making each dining occasion an opportunity for learning and engagement.
Bistro
IncludedCasually elegant, the Bistro on the National Geographic Explorer offers a more relaxed dining atmosphere with its bar service and smaller, cozy tables perfect for couples or small groups. As an extension of the main dining room, the Bistro serves all three meals in a buffet style, emphasizing convenience without sacrificing quality or taste. The emphasis here is on fresh, expedient dining with a flair, perfect for fueling up before an excursion or winding down afterwards. The afternoon tea service, complete with cookies and pastries, is a highlight, offering a delightful pause in your day's adventures. The Bistro's side windows invite natural light and provide serene views of the ocean, enhancing the dining experience with the beauty of the Explorer's surroundings.
Observation Lounge
IncludedPerched under the long glass dome of the National Geographic Explorer, the Observation Lounge offers a light lunch with a panoramic view that rivals any dining establishment on land or sea. This venue is ideal for those seeking a casual meal without missing a moment of the scenery. Offering a selection that includes hot soup, two entrees, salad fixings, and dessert, the lounge is a perfect spot for a midday meal that is both satisfying and scenic. As you dine, keep your binoculars close at hand—the Observation Lounge offers unmatched opportunities to spot wildlife and ice formations, making every meal an adventure in itself.
Chart Room
IncludedExclusive and intimate, the Chart Room aboard the National Geographic Explorer elevates dining to an event of distinction. Located just above the Restaurant, with forward-facing windows, this venue presents the same menu but within a setting that feels private and exclusive. By invitation, guests dine with officers or members of the naturalist staff, turning a meal into a memorable occasion filled with insightful conversations and personal connections. The opportunity to dine in the Chart Room is a special experience offered once to every passenger on expeditions of two weeks or more, making it a sought-after dining event that merges culinary excellence with the spirit of exploration.