34 NOVEMBER 2017 • FOGHORN MEMBERNEWS 1.800.777.0714 toll free www.merequipment.com 8-500kW Marine Generators // Pull harder in the harshest marine environments // More copper & premium corrosion resistance // Superior motor starting & low operating temps // Better fuel economy & longer engine life // Easy to service & worldwide dealer support // Proudly made in America Let MCM manage your insurance so you can focus on your voyage MCM is a leading independent insurance brokerage based in the Pacific Northwest. Our marine practice group has more than 100 years of combined experience placing insurance and managing the marine industry’s unique risks. Whether we’re working with vessel operators, builders, repair facilities or suppliers, we create specialized solutions that meet each client’s needs. EMpLoyEE BEnEfits | ExECutivE BEnEfits | REtiREMEnt pLans insuRanCE advisoRy | pRopERty & CasuaLty Contact Damon L. Nasman at (206) 262-6375 or email damon.nasman@mcmnw.com www.mcmnw.com Seattle-based Lindblad Expeditions’ newest overnight vessel, National Geographic Quest, began cruising over the summer and early fall exploring the northern parts of Alaska’s Inside Passage. As temperatures drop in the north, Quest has ventured south to the tropical climes of Costa Rica, Panama, and Belize. PVA Associate member Jensen Maritime Consultants, Seattle, WA, provided detailed design and production engineer- ing services, and the ship was built by PVA Associate member Nichols Brothers Boat Builders, Freeland, WA. The 263-foot vessel ac- commodates 100 overnight passengers in 50 cabins, nearly half of which have step-out decks. Nichols Brothers Boat Builders also built the Lindblad’s National Geographic Sea Bird and National Geographic Sea Lion—vessels that, with regular maintenance schedule and recent refurbishment, have been operating successfully for decades. Additionally, the Quest cruise ship achieves some other notable firsts, including six sets of connecting cabins perfect for families and groups; and a designated mudroom for expedition gear. Although Quest is larger than the 62-guest Sea Bird and Sea Lion, the new vessel has the same shallow draft depth, allowing Lindblad to navigate the same inner reaches and provide the same intimate experiences of the charismatic regions the adventure tourism company is known for. Twin expedition craft landing platforms allow passengers to rapidly get on and off the ship to take Lindblad Expeditions Adds a New Ship to its Fleet Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Quest. ©Marc Cappelletti