National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has secured the 17-cabin Charaidew II for 2 newly introduced itineraries in India, set to begin in March 2026. Purpose-built for navigation along the Brahmaputra River, the vessel’s shallow draft and low profile enable access to upstream regions that were previously inaccessible.
The new offerings include:
- 18-day India by Land and River: Taj Mahal, Safaris, and the Brahmaputra. This itinerary combines northern India's historic landmarks with Assam's natural beauty. Guests will visit UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Taj Mahal and Agra's Red Fort and partake in jeep safaris in Bandhavgarh and Kaziranga National Parks. Wildlife highlights include opportunities to observe Asian one-horned rhinoceroses, Asian elephants, and Bengal tigers.
- 11-day India Expedition: Kolkata, Kaziranga, and the Brahmaputra River. Focusing on eastern India, this journey includes cruising the Brahmaputra River and exploring riverside communities. Travelers will also spend a full day in Kolkata, delving into its cultural and historical significance.
The Charaidew II offers 17 air-conditioned cabins, including: 2 Deluxe cabins and 11 Standard cabins on the upper deck; 4 Standard cabins located on the main deck.
Additional amenities include a sundeck, a mini library, a saloon, and a gym. To enhance the guest experience, the expedition team will include local naturalists and a National Geographic-certified photo instructor, ensuring an immersive and educational journey.
The addition of the Charaidew II brings Lindblad Expeditions’ fleet to 21 vessels, comprising 12 owned and nine chartered ships. These vessels operate across 70+ countries, further solidifying the company’s global reach in providing unique and destination-focused travel experiences.