In 1958, Lars-Eric Lindblad had a revolutionary idea: what if everyday people could venture to the world’s most remote places previously only accessible by scientists and naturalists? Cut to 1966, and he’s leading the first civilian expedition to Antarctica. A year later and he’s back at it – this time in the Galápagos Islands – pioneering what we now refer to as ecotourism and expedition cruising.
In 2004, after nearly 50 years of experience, Lindblad Expeditions joined forces with National Geographic and the rest is history. This power couple of expedition tourism and wildlife enthusiasm became National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions and now operates over 100 small-ship expedition cruises to destinations across all seven continents, including Baja California, Costa Rica, the British Isles, Alaska and the Arctic. With a fleet of 22 purpose-built ships carrying a maximum of 148 guests, Nat Geo cruises provide intimate experiences at sea for travellers seeking adventure.
Many itineraries are family-friendly, setting National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions apart from other expedition cruise lines, and the dedicated Explorers-in-Training program caters to budding explorers and little adventurers. Passengers travelling on Nat Geo cruises have access to naturalists and industry experts in fields as diverse as archaeology, marine biology and photography, and there are Certified Photo Instructors (CPIs) on board every ship to make sure your holiday snaps look like they belong in the next edition of the National Geographic magazine!
- What destinations are included in National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions cruises?
National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions operates over 100 itineraries across all seven continents. Popular destinations include Antarctica, the Galápagos Islands, Baja California, Alaska and the Arctic.
- What types of ships are used for National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions cruises?
The National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet is one of the world’s most advanced when it comes to expedition cruising. Compact and well-equipped, these vessels are purpose-built for small-ship expeditions and allow passengers to explore the remote corners of the world in comfort. With a maximum of 148 passengers on board, guests enjoy an intimate and immersive experience at sea.
- Are excursions included on National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions cruises?
Yes! Excursions will generally be included in your fare when cruising with National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions. Depending on your destination and itinerary, this may include Zodiacs, glass-bottom boats, kayaking, snorkelling, photography excursions and more.
- What is the best time to take a National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions cruise?
This will vary depending on where you’re cruising! For remote Arctic and Antarctica cruises, summer will be your best (and often only) option, but National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions offers a wide range of itineraries with year-round departure dates.
- Are National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions cruises family-friendly?
Yes! Nat Geo cruises offer some of the most family-friendly expedition experiences around, with a dedicated Explorers-in-Training program available on all Alaska, Galápagos Islands, Baja California, Iceland and Greenland cruises, as well as select Antarctica itineraries. Put together by the team at National Geographic, the Explorers-in-Training program is designed to educate and inspire the next generation of explorers, scientists and naturalists.
- What should I pack for a National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions cruise?
While this will largely depend on where you’re going, essentials include passports, visas, travel insurance and other necessary travel documents, as well as any required medications. For Arctic and Antarctica expeditions, you’ll want to pack plenty of layers, warm woollen sweaters or fleeces, thermals, wool socks, sunglasses, waterproof clothing and comfortable hiking boots for shore excursions. Keen on photography? Don’t forget your camera, lenses and spare memory cards (trust us, you’ll fill them up fast!). See your itinerary or booking information for a more detailed packing list tailored to your particular destination.
- Do I need a visa for National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions cruise destinations?
This depends on what passport you hold and where you're travelling to. You are responsible for obtaining any visas necessary for your trip, so make sure you check the requirements in advance.
- How long are typical National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions cruises?
Yes, most Nat Geo cruises will include all onboard meals, including 24-hour snacks, hors d'oeuvre (locally sourced where possible), teas and coffees to keep you going in between adventures. Select alcoholic drinks are also included in your cruise fare on most ships.
- What makes National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions cruises different?
As a true pioneer of small-ship expedition cruising, there are lots of things that set National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions apart. When Lindblad Expeditions partnered up with National Geographic back in 2004, it gave passengers access to naturalists and industry experts in fields as diverse as archaeology, marine biology and photography. In fact, there are Certified Photo Instructors (CPIs) on board every ship to make sure your holiday snaps look like they belong in the next edition of the National Geographic magazine!
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