Lindblad Expeditions: A Legacy of Exploration and Discovery

When it comes to expedition cruising, few names carry as much weight as Lindblad Expeditions. With over 50 years of experience taking travelers to the world’s most remote destinations, Lindblad has mastered the art of combining authentic exploration with comfortable travel. Their partnership with National Geographic has created an unparalleled expedition experience that spans all seven continents, with over 100 different cruise itineraries taking you to some of the most fascinating places in the world.

Want to learn more about one of our most recommended expedition cruise lines? Keep reading as we review what’s in store with them.

National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions: A Partnership That Transforms Travel

Running more than two decades, the collaboration between National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions has set the standard for expedition cruising.

Offering over 100 expedition cruises in more than 70 countries across the globe, this partnership brings together National Geographic’s commitment to sharing and protecting world wonders with Lindblad’s expertise in remote exploration.

The result is a travel experience that goes beyond typical cruising – every voyage contributes to scientific research and conservation while providing travelers with deep, meaningful connections to the destinations they visit. You will be traveling in the company of expert expedition teams, including veteran naturalists, cultural specialists, certified photo instructors, and more knowledgeable guides focused on teaching you the ins and outs of your destination in a way no other cruise line does.

The Lindblad Experience

What sets Lindblad Expeditions apart is their focus on genuine discovery. Each ship serves as a floating base camp for exploration, equipped with tools and technology designed to help you experience destinations up close. From Zodiac boats and kayaks to stand-up paddleboards and snorkeling gear, you’ll find everything needed to explore thoroughly.

The onboard experience emphasizes learning and enrichment with National Geographic experts sharing their insights. These specialists enhance your journey through presentations, workshops, and informal conversations, offering unique perspectives on the destinations you visit.

When we talk about the Lindblad Expeditions ships though, we are talking about destinations in their own rights. Featuring thoughtfully curated amenities and cultural experiences connecting you to your chosen itinerary, onboard you are welcomed to savor the flavors of local delights, join performances from local musicians, enjoy soothing spa treatments, and more.

Start your day with a sunrise yoga session, or head to the spa for a treatment tailored to your needs, incorporating natural ingredients from the surrounding areas.

Their musical performances are curated by ethnomusicologist Jacob Edgar, making sure they are in line with every port of call. Be greeted by local singers and dancers when sailing into the South Pacific, or dance to Guyana’s calypso tunes – each performance brings the best of local culture straight into your cruise.

Comfort Meets Adventure

While Lindblad Expeditions’ focus is on exploration, they understand the importance of comfort during your journey. Their ship interiors are adapted to the landscape of every destination they visit through local artwork and decor, giving them a unique sense of place.

When traveling to the Polar regions onboard the National Geographic Endurance, and National Geographic Resolution, you are welcome to take in the first-ever ship-based exhibitions of visual and auditory works, created to admire and honor the beauty of the destinations you will be visiting.

Purpose-built for exploring the world, their ships feature well-appointed accommodations and thoughtful amenities, including wellness spaces with saunas and glass-enclosed fitness studios. Many vessels offer multiple dining venues, from casual cafés to elegant restaurants, all serving cuisine inspired by the regions you visit.

The National Geographic Gemini, for example, carries only 48 guests to the Galápagos, ensuring the best way to protect such a pristine and delicate ecosystem, while the Delfina is a sleek, luxury catamaran carrying no more than 16 guests to the archipelago. With an open-air observation deck providing 360-degree views, plus a whirlpool hot tub and lounge chairs, you are welcome to soak in the views and dine al fresco as you watch for dolphins, whales, and more.

The all-inclusive nature of Lindblad voyages means you can focus on the experience rather than additional costs. Your fare covers excursions, presentations, most alcoholic beverages, gratuities on many vessels, and even extras like Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi and the use of expedition gear.

Destination Spotlight: Alaska and Iceland

Lindblad Expeditions’ cruises to Alaska offer an intimate look at America’s last frontier. Their small ships can access narrow fjords and shallow bays that larger vessels can’t reach, bringing you closer to glaciers, wildlife, and pristine wilderness. Expert naturalists help you spot and understand the behavior of bears, whales, and other Alaskan wildlife.

In Iceland, Lindblad Expeditions reveals a land of fire and ice. Their carefully crafted itineraries take you beyond the typical tourist routes to explore remote fjords, volcanic landscapes, and areas rich in Viking history. The ships’ expedition tools allow you to actively explore, whether by hiking across lava fields or kayaking among icebergs.

Perfect for Families

Lindblad family expeditions offer unique opportunities for multiple generations to explore together. Their National Geographic Global Explorers program provides young travelers with activities designed to inspire curiosity and develop exploration skills. From wildlife photography workshops to science experiments, these programs turn every voyage into an educational adventure.

For help planning your Lindblad Expedition cruise, contact our travel advisors. With extensive experience in expedition cruising, we can match you with the perfect itinerary for your interests, whether you’re drawn to the glaciers of Alaska, the volcanic landscapes of Iceland, or any of Lindblad’s other remarkable destinations.