Culture Discovery Cruises
A Lindblad expedition ship pushing through polar ice under a bright sky
Expedition Cruise Line

National Geographic-Lindblad

Expedition voyages made richer by National Geographic scientists, naturalists and photographers.

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The line

Where expedition travel meets National Geographic

Lindblad Expeditions helped invent modern expedition cruising, running some of the first citizen voyages to Antarctica and the Galapagos. Since 2004 it has sailed in partnership with National Geographic, and in 2023 the two extended that alliance through 2040.

The result is a fleet of purpose-built expedition ships that carry National Geographic scientists, naturalists, certified photo instructors and, on many voyages, a National Geographic photographer. Lindblad Expeditions Holdings trades publicly as LIND, and the fleet has grown well past a dozen ships as the company has expanded.

The polar flagships, National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution, are among the most capable expedition ships afloat, while smaller vessels reach the Galapagos, the Amazon, Alaska, Baja and coastal waters worldwide.

Style
Expedition
Partner
National Geographic
Fleet
A dozen-plus ships
Guests
48 to 148
Sails to
All 7 continents
Founded
1979
In a word

“No other expedition line puts National Geographic scientists, naturalists and photographers aboard the way Lindblad does, which is exactly why people book it.”

Guests taking in the view from an observation lounge on a Lindblad ship

Purpose-built ships, led by the polar flagships

The fleet is built for exploration rather than crowds, with ships carrying roughly 48 to 148 guests. The polar flagships, National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution, use an ice-cutting bow design and carry a fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks and, on some ships, remotely operated vehicles and undersea specialists.

Smaller vessels are matched to their regions, from the Galapagos and the Amazon to Alaska and Baja California, so the ship always fits the place. It is a fleet designed around the destination, not the other way around.

An informal dining setting aboard a Lindblad expedition ship

Experts aboard, and a camera in good hands

Every voyage travels with a team of naturalists and expedition staff, and the National Geographic partnership adds scientists, certified photo instructors and often a National Geographic photographer. You learn to read the landscape and come home with far better photographs.

Fares are largely inclusive, covering meals, most excursions and the expertise that defines a Lindblad voyage. The style is casual and curious, focused on being out among wildlife and wild places rather than on formal dining rooms.

A bright cabin with expedition views aboard a Lindblad ship

From Antarctica to the Galapagos

Lindblad sails to all seven continents. Antarctic voyages cross the Drake Passage from Ushuaia to the peninsula, while the Arctic season brings Svalbard, Greenland and the Northwest Passage, and year-round Galapagos itineraries explore the islands that made the line famous.

Beyond the poles the fleet ranges across Alaska, the Amazon, Baja California, the Pacific and coastal Europe. We help you match the right ship, expert team and season to the expedition you have in mind.

Because National Geographic-Lindblad Antarctic voyages leave from Ushuaia, it is easy to add an Argentina and Uruguay tour before you sail south.

Booking National Geographic-Lindblad with CDV

Why book through us

Exclusive Lindblad value

Group amenities and onboard credit on qualifying Lindblad sailings that you will not find booking direct.

Combinable offers

Our exclusive value can usually be layered with Lindblad’s current promotions, plus full loyalty credit.

Expedition specialists

Advisors who know the fleet ship by ship and match the right vessel, cabin and season to you.

Seamless land and sea

Because we run our own tours ashore, we make it easy to add a CDV land stay where your Antarctic voyage begins or ends.

Pair your voyage with a land tour

Begin in Argentina, then set out for the ice

Lindblad Antarctic voyages sail from Ushuaia, at the southern tip of Argentina. Add a Culture Discovery stay in Buenos Aires and the Argentine countryside and you frame your expedition with the food, wine and culture of South America.

See our Argentina and Uruguay tours
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Hapag-Lloyd Expedition

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Poseidon Expeditions

A polar-focused line known for all-suite comfort on small expedition ships.

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Hurtigruten Expeditions

Norwegian expedition heritage across the Arctic, Antarctica and beyond.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Lindblad owned by National Geographic?

No. Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic are partners, not one company. They have worked together since 2004 and extended the alliance through 2040 in 2023. The partnership puts National Geographic scientists, naturalists and photographers aboard Lindblad ships, and the vessels carry the National Geographic name.

How many ships does Lindblad have?

The fleet has grown past a dozen expedition ships and continues to expand through new builds and acquisitions. They range from small regional vessels to the polar flagships National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution, so the fleet covers everything from the Galapagos to Antarctica.

Are Lindblad cruises all-inclusive?

Lindblad voyages are largely inclusive, covering accommodations, meals, most excursions and the expedition team’s guiding and lectures. Items such as airfare, premium beverages and certain optional activities may sit outside the fare, which we confirm for your specific voyage.

What is included with the National Geographic partnership?

Most voyages travel with National Geographic experts, which can include scientists, certified photo instructors and a National Geographic photographer, alongside Lindblad’s own naturalists. The focus is on learning, access and coming home with better photographs.

Where do Lindblad expeditions sail?

Lindblad sails to all seven continents. Signature regions include Antarctica, the Arctic, Svalbard, Greenland, the Galapagos, Alaska, the Amazon, Baja California and coastal Europe.

What is the dress code on a Lindblad expedition?

It is casual and practical throughout. Days are built around layers, waterproofs and good footwear for landings, and evenings stay relaxed. We tell you what to pack for your route and season.

Is there a minimum age on Lindblad expeditions?

Most voyages welcome families, and some have a minimum age of around eight, with dedicated family departures built to engage younger travelers. Age requirements vary by itinerary, so we confirm the rules for the specific expedition you choose.

How much does a Lindblad cruise cost?

Fares vary widely by ship, cabin, season and destination, and a remote polar voyage prices very differently from a Galapagos or Baja sailing. Rather than quote a misleading range, we price your specific expedition and secure the best available CDV value. Request a complimentary quote and we will lay out the real numbers.

Ready to sail with National Geographic-Lindblad?

Complimentary quote, exclusive CDV value, and a specialist who plans it around you.

Request a Quote+1 (656) 333-6123 ext. 403