Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic have rebranded their long-standing partnership, now operating under the co-branded identity National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. This evolution marks a significant milestone in their more than 20-year collaboration, enhancing the integration of scientific exploration, nature-focused travel, and purpose-driven cruising.
Kathi Riddle, Vice President of Sales and Revenue Management for Lindblad Expeditions, emphasized the shared mission to connect travelers with transformative experiences and define modern expedition cruising through this strategic alliance.
The rebranding also reflects an expanded agreement, granting Lindblad global rights to the National Geographic brand for expedition cruising through at least 2040. This shift allows the company to fully leverage the global recognition of the National Geographic name. The partnership extends to marketing through The Walt Disney Company, National Geographic’s majority owner, unlocking access to Disney’s distribution channels and robust joint promotional efforts.
Lindblad Expeditions, which offers 100+ itineraries spanning 70 countries across all 7 continents, operates a diverse fleet of 20 purpose-built expedition ships. These vessels, tailored for exploration, accommodate between 16 and 148 guests, ensuring personalized and immersive experiences. The small-ship design allows close access to remote destinations, a hallmark of Lindblad's operations, enabling landings and activities in areas inaccessible to larger vessels. The fleet is set to expand further in early 2025 with the addition of National Geographic Delfina, a 16-guest luxury catamaran, and National Geographic Gemini, a 48-guest expedition ship. Both will undergo extensive revitalization before debuting in the Galapagos Islands.
The company continues to lead the industry through innovation and partnerships. For example, it will charter Delfina, a sister vessel to Delfin II, to double its offerings along the Amazon River by 2026. This vessel expands Lindblad’s footprint in the region, where it has operated year-round expeditions since 2010.
Lindblad's Expedition 360 program underscores its commitment to collaboration with travel advisors. This initiative includes comprehensive training, advanced technological tools, and personalized content platforms such as Approach Guides. These resources help advisors provide clients with an in-depth understanding of the National Geographic-Lindblad cruising experience.
The rebranding also celebrates Lindblad’s legacy in expedition cruising. Lars-Eric Lindblad pioneered civilian travel to remote regions, leading the first non-scientific expeditions to Antarctica in 1966 and the Galapagos Islands in 1967. His son, Sven-Olof Lindblad, expanded this vision by building the world’s most advanced fleet of expedition vessels and establishing industry standards for responsible travel. This family legacy, combined with National Geographic’s commitment to exploration and education, defines the co-brand's distinctive approach in the expedition cruising market.
With an intimate fleet, expertly crafted itineraries, and a dedication to discovery, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions remains at the forefront of small-ship expedition travel.