Explore Antarctica with Lindblad Expeditions
Active, immersive expedition travel
Explore Antarctica in expedition style, aboard an authentic expedition ship is an incomparable experience and your guarantee of an in-depth encounter with all its wonders. Lindblad Expedition’s pioneering polar heritage and 50 years of experience navigating polar geographies is your assurance of safe passage in one of the wildest sectors of the planet. Lindblads veteran polar expedition team enables you to:
~ See more of the legendary landscapes and habitats
~ Encounter iconic penguins, leopard seals, and marine mammals
~ Kayak among icebergs, Zodiac cruise past resting leopard seals, and hike on the continent with the best ice team on Earth
~ Experience the seldom-seen Antarctic undersea, too––through the efforts of our undersea specialist
~ Benefit from our 175 collective years of Lindblad-National Geographic expedition experience to see and do all you came for and more
Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent
14 days with Expeditions departing in January, February, November and December 2020
From US $14,680 to US $35,330 p.p.
NG Explorer – 148 Guests | NG Orion – 102 Guests
Special Offers
FREE AIRFARE | Book select departures by December 31, 2019 for free round-trip economy group airfare between Miami and Buenos Aires (or Santiago).
FREE BAR TAB AND CREW TIPS INCLUDED | We will cover your bar tab and all tips for the crew on all National Geographic Explorer and National Geographic Orion voyages.
Have up-close, personal penguin encounters
Travel with virtually any company to Antarctica, and you will see penguins. They are the citizens of the white continent, present in astounding numbers, and endlessly fascinating. Travel with Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, however, and you’ll travel equipped for up-close, personal encounters—with a fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks to enable you to get closer. And a team of engaging experts that enable you to spend more time enjoying penguin society, and understand more of the adaptations that enable these remarkable animals to survive their environment.
Take advantage of all the superb photo ops
You’ll have a National Geographic photographer as your traveling companion, to inspire you and provide tips in the field. And the services of a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor, as well—to help you turn your point-and-shoot camera into an “aim and create.” You’ll find no end of subjects and the help you need to return home with your best photos ever.
Every day is active and engaging
You’ll get out on adventures every day we’re in Antarctica, sometimes twice a day—to walk or hike, kayak or Zodiac cruise among the bergs. Because National Geographic Explorer has a fleet of both Zodiacs and kayaks, the entire expedition community can embark at once on forays, no waiting around for returning parties. You’ll have a choice of activities each day, and the option to join the naturalist whose interests mirror yours. Choice also includes opting to enjoy the view from the bridge, the all-glass observation lounge, the library or the chart room. To visit the fitness center with its panoramic windows, or ease into the sauna or a massage in the wellness center.
Travel in excellent company
Journey to Antarctica under the sure guidance of an expedition leader, eight veteran naturalists, a National Geographic photographer, plus a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor, an undersea specialist, a Global Perspectives guest speaker, a video chronicler, and a wellness specialist. Their knowledge and passion for Antarctica is the key to your once-in-a-lifetime experience.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina (Explorer) or Santiago (Orion)
Depart this evening on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires (Explorer) or Santiago (Orion).
DAY 2: Overnight Hotel in Buenos Aires (Explorer) or Santiago (Orion)
Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Explorer arrive this morning in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, set on the Rio de la Plata, and check in to the fine Alvear Art Hotel (or similar). In the afternoon, we have a guided overview of the city, seeing its Beaux Arts palaces, grand boulevards, and the famous balcony forever associated with Eva Peron. In the early evening we gather for an informal reception and a drink at the hotel. (Day 2: L)
Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Orion arrive today in Santiago. We check in to the fine Mandarin Oriental (or similar), centrally located in Santiago, and have the morning to relax. Santiago is nearly surrounded by the Andes, which form an inspiring backdrop to our afternoon guided overview of this vibrant city. We explore the Plaza de Armas, the main square, and nearby Presidential Palace, enjoying wonderful views from the many hills that dot the city. In the early evening we gather for an informal reception and a drink at the hotel. (Day 2: L)
DAY 3: Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina/Embark Ship
Today we fly by private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Explorer will from Buenos Aires, Argentina to Ushuaia to embark the Explorer; and guests traveling aboard National Geographic Orion will fly from Santiago, Chile to Ushuaia to embark the Orion. This morning’s charter flight will bring us over Patagonia before landing in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. If the weather is fine, you’ll have a chance to view the spectacular mountains rising out of the Beagle Channel as you enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise. Then, you’ll embark the expedition ship and set sail, (B,L,D)
DAY 4: At Sea
We awake this morning well into our journey across the Drake Passage. Lying between Cape Horn and the Antarctic Peninsula, the Drake holds a unique place in maritime lore. Sometimes misty and gray, other times calm and clear, crossing the legendary Drake Passage is unforgettable—a milestone in any adventurer’s personal travel history. (B,L,D)
DAY 5-10: Antarctica
With nearly 24 hours of daylight, we make the most of our days, keeping a flexible schedule to take advantage of the unexpected — perhaps watching a 40-ton whale surface off the bow. We are out daily. One day, you may take a Zodiac foray amid towering bergs under a bright sun, walk along the shoreline amid a huge penguin colony, hike to a summit for a breathtaking view, or kayak along a cliff-side rookery in search of blue-eyed shags. And the next, you’ll have the thrill of watching the ship crunch through the pack ice, or step ashore to the cries of thousands of gentoo penguins. You’ll learn from our experts how to identify penguins and get photo tips from a National Geographic photographer while watching those same penguins. Back aboard, our Undersea Specialist may present video from that day’s dive — rare images taken up to 1,000 feet below the surface using our ROV. Our expert staff will craft an expedition where you will learn more, see more and experience more. (B,L,D)
DAY 11-12: At Sea
As we sail back to Ushuaia, an albatross or two may join the avian escort of seabirds that cross our bow, and our spotters will keep an eye out for marine life. There’ll be plenty of time to enjoy a wellness treatment, log some time in the gym, or catch up on the book you haven’t had a minute to read. Talks from our staff will reflect on all you have seen and learned.(B,L,D)
DAY 13-14: Disembark Ushuaia/Fly to Buenos Aires (Explorer) or Santiago (Orion)/Home
After breakfast, we disembark in Ushuaia with some time to explore before proceeding to the airport for our LAN charter flight (guests on Explorer fly Ushuaia to Buenos Aires; guests on Orion fly Ushuaia to Santiago.) Please confirm departure and arrival cities with an Expedition Specialist before booking your flights. (Day 13: B,L)
Connect with a cruise specialist and check this incredible experience off your bucket list!
Photo: Gentoo penguin (Pygoscelis papua) parent with two downy chicks on Pleneau Island, near the Antarctic Peninsula.
Copyright: Michael S. Nolan
What is an Expedition Ship?
More and more Canadians are discovering the joys of cruising, on large megaliners, on intimate river cruise ships, and even on traditional sailing vessels. And there’s another niche which is seeing growing interest, particularly among the 50+ crowd: expedition ship cruising. You could say it’s both the latest trend and the last frontier.
What’s an expedition ship? It’s a small ship (maximum around 175 passengers) dedicated to visiting some of the world’s most inaccessible places. On board, rather than a karaoke club or champagne bar, you’re more likely to find scientists and researchers whose lectures are one of the main attractions. “If their profession ends in ‘ist’ – botanist, archaeologist, marine biologist – chances are you’ll find them on an expedition ship,” says Pat Rochon, Vision Travel’s senior manager of active travel who likens the ships to floating classrooms.
Days are spent explore ashore (or afloat) hiking, kayaking, on board a zodiac or snowshoeing. Perhaps you hike through a pristine jungle or get up close and personal with a few hundred penguins.
Sample destinations include the polar regions, both north and south, the Amazon or the South Pacific.
Not surprisingly, the folks on board are not first time travellers. “You tend to find people from all over the world, North America, Europe, Asia, on board and they’re well-travelled, well-heeled, well-educated and curious people,” says Rochon, who has sailed on expedition ships in both the Arctic and Antarctic.
Once fairly primitive in their amenities, now that they are not purely research vessels the ships are now becoming more comfortable, with the addition of libraries, bars, saunas and hot tubs. “Think of it as adventure by day, comfort at night,” says Rochon.
An expedition ship will take you places no other ship can even get near to…some of the world’s most remote and pristine corners. No wonder it can be a life-changing trip.
Lindblad Expeditions – National Geographic Launches New Ship
San Francisco, CA – December 4, 2018 — Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic officially launched the newest addition to their fleet, National Geographic Venture, at a dockside christening ceremony in San Francisco Bay on Friday, November 30, 2018. The occasion marked a major milestone for the line, as only the second new build in the company’s history. Following the ceremony, the ship embarked on a two-night VIP mini expedition that included travel agency partners, affinity/charter partners, media and other special guests.
Sven Lindblad, CEO of Lindblad Expeditions, presided over the christening ceremony, joined by Gary Knell, Chairman of National Geographic Partners, and the ship’s captain, Andrew Cook. During the ceremony, Lindblad gave a special thank you to the ship’s crew lined up aboard the National Geographic Venture’s bow, “all of you, and the countless others involved, should feel a deep sense of pride and accomplishment. You have all worked tirelessly to make this possible, and I thank you.”
“I am very, very, proud. It is a great expedition ship. It’s comfortable, nimble, and with massive amounts of glass, our guests will constantly be connected to the outside world. We are delighted with the way she came out.”
“For fifteen years Lindblad and National Geographic have worked together taking travelers around the world to some of the most amazing places. We could not be happier than we are seeing this beautiful new Venture head out to sea,” remarked Gary Knell.
Captain Cook expressed his excitement about the meticulous planning of the ship’s features. “What we have learned over time has provided us the best way to experience the environment. For me personally, this is as fine a ship as I could have asked for.”
Then Pamela Fingleton, 40-year Lindblad veteran and senior vice president, joined Sven on the bow for the traditional toast and breaking of the champagne bottle.
The 50-cabin coastal vessel is the second new build in the line’s history, and is sister ship to National Geographic Quest, launched in 2017. Built entirely in the US, her design is based on 50 years of expedition experience and is the perfect base for exploring. The lounge is a moving window on the world outside, the bow the perfect place for photography with a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor. The ship also features the B&H photo gear loaner program, where guests can try the latest lenses, camera bodies and binoculars aboard ship.
National Geographic Venture is now exploring the Pacific coast on two new and unique inaugural itineraries, giving guests a privileged perspective on the region—before she begins her seasons in Baja, the Pacific Northwest and Alaska.
Lindblad Expands Partnership with National Geographic
Lindblad Expeditions Expands Long-term Strategic Partnership With National Geographic Partners
NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: LIND; the “Company” or “Lindblad”), a global provider of expedition cruises and adventure travel experiences, announced today that it has expanded its agreement with National Geographic Partners (“National Geographic”) to include all of the Americas.
The relationship between Lindblad and National Geographic, founded in 2004 and steeped in a shared interest in exploration, research, technology and conservation, includes co-selling, co-marketing and branding arrangements that run through 2025. With the addition of the Canada and Latin America markets to the existing agreement covering the United States, Australia and New Zealand, Lindblad and National Geographic have further deepened their long-term strategic partnership and will collectively invest to further accelerate growth in these important geographies.
The United States has long been the primary source market for Lindblad, and with the rapidly accelerating demand for authentic and immersive experiential travel the Company certainly expects significant domestic growth for years to come. At the same time, many of the trends powering the increase in expedition travel in the United States are manifesting themselves globally as well, and deepening expansion into select international markets is a core part of Lindblad’s growth strategy.
The expanded collaboration with National Geographic provides an opportunity for Lindblad and National Geographic to leverage the strong brand position National Geographic holds in Canada and key Latin American markets, while at the same time building upon Lindblad’s long-established leadership position in the United States expedition travel market.
Given the accelerating demand for high quality and authentic expedition travel and the expanded agreement with National Geographic, Lindblad’s Board of Directors recently approved the build of an additional blue water vessel to explore the world’s most unique and remote locations. This state of the art vessel, which is anticipated to be delivered in 2021, will be the next step in the Company’s fleet expansion following the launch of the National Geographic Quest in July 2017, the addition of the National Geographic Venture to the fleet in December 2018 and the delivery of the National Geographic Endurance in the first quarter of 2020.
Sven-Olof Lindblad, President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Lindblad has been a pioneer in expedition travel for fifty years. By extending our successful partnership with National Geographic, energizing new markets and expanding our fleet, we are taking the next steps in our long-term growth strategy. Our experience and track record in delivering unparalleled experiences in the world’s most amazing locations ideally positions us to capitalize on the explosive growth in high quality adventure travel.”
“National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions have, over the past 14 years, found an extraordinary level of common cause. This manifests itself in knowing the importance of people exploring the world, building understanding and becoming more knowledgeable and energized citizens,” says Gary E. Knell, CEO of National Geographic Partners. “Our collaboration goes far beyond business, into education, conservation and storytelling through expedition travel. We know collectively that our partnership’s goal is to consistently grow the number of people who explore our world and that’s why we’re so excited to expand our partnership to include the Canadian and Latin American markets.”
Top 10 Reasons to visit Egypt with Lindblad Expeditions
See why traveling to Egypt with Lindblad Expeditions should be on your must-do list
1. The Most Knowledgeable & Experienced Egyptologists: An outstanding team of highly experienced Egyptologists will be with you from the moment you arrive in Cairo and will remain with you throughout your journey. They are passionate about Egyptian culture, art, history and archaeology. With them you’ll simply see, do and learn more.
2. The Best Itinerary: Passage Through Egypt includes six nights of cruising the Nile aboard Oberoi Philae to see the sites along the river, and five nights exploring the great city of Cairo.
3. The Finest Hotels: At the beginning of your journey, stay at the Nile Ritz-Carlton in Cairo. And at the end of your journey, stay at the Mena House in Giza—dramatically located at the foot of the Pyramids—and enjoy a view of the Pyramids from your balcony.
4. The Private, Spacious, Elegant Ship: Oberoi Philae, one of the most luxurious ships on the Nile, is exclusively chartered for Lindblad guests, so you and your small group will have it all to yourselves. Originally designed for 100, Oberoi Philae has been refitted to accommodate just 42 guests in 22 large, well-appointed cabins including 4 suites. All are outside facing.
5. Privately Chartered Aircraft: Private flights within Egypt ensure convenient departure times, flexible schedules and a relaxing experience. You will rise at a reasonable hour and travel aboard a turboprop with fifty comfortable seats.
6. Carefully Crafted Itinerary: Explore Egyptian culture, history, archaeology, art and modern life on an itinerary that’s been arranged with TLC, to take you to the sites at the most optimal times of day.
7. Travel in Small Groups: Our expeditions accommodate a maximum of only 42 guests, and with two guides, there’s one Egyptologist for a maximum of 21 travelers, along with a Lindblad Certified Photo Instructor for the full group. The warm interactions you’ll have with our Egyptologists is a huge part of the learning and enjoyment, and there’s always plenty of time for questions and discussion.
8. Wallet Optional: We include just about everything you have the opportunity to do as part of your expedition with us. The only things not included are those of a personal nature, or that interest a limited number of people—alcohol, or an occasional meal in Cairo where you might prefer choices.
9. Nourish Your Mind, Body and Spirit: You’ll find expert Egyptologists, excellent English speaking staff, outstanding cuisine, and the highest level of service. Our dedication to this expedition is never at the cost of comfort. The ship and hotels offer full spa services with exercise facilities and swimming pools.
10. Extension to Jordan: To make the most out of your time in the region, you’ll surely want to consider an extension to Jordan, which includes the ancient city of Petra.
c/o Lindblad Expeditions
Top 10 reasons to expedition with Lindblad-National Geographic
Reason 1 > The human genetic drive to head out in ships and discover new things. For 50 years, we’ve been introducing travelers to this exhilarating way to experience the planet’s wonders.
Reason 2 > Authentic expedition ships Ranging from 28 guests to 148 guests, our 11 ships, scaled to go where cruise ships can’t, are equipped to bring you deep inside places where no infrastructure of docks or ports exist.
Reason 3 > More of what you’re ‘out there’ for An onboard fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, paddle boards, and snorkel gear for all, lets us make up-close, personal discoveries virtually anywhere. Plus, bow cams, hydrophones, video microscopes to reveal wonders.
Reason 4 > Exclusively ours: the undersea Discover the virtually unknown Antarctica, Arctic or Alaska beneath the ship—through our undersea specialist’s icy dives. Watch vivid HD video—in the dry warmth of the ship’s Lounge, perhaps with a cocktail in hand.
Reason 5 > Renowned expedition teams Over 50 years, we achieved a reputation for the best expedition teams in the business. Their experience, personalities, superb spotting and storytelling skills ensure that you’ll see, do and understand more.
Reason 6 > National Geographic photographers aboard Inspiration and expert tips from top pros on every departure of NG Explorer & NG Orion, and on select other departures. Hit the B&H gear lockers aboard to try out new cameras and glass. And when you book, find out about exclusive B&H gear discounts.
Reason 7 > Lindblad-National Geographic Certified photo instructors-naturalists Aboard every ship, they help you with camera settings and basics, and to understand wildlife to better anticipate behavior that leads to great shots.
Reason 8 > Global Perspectives Guest Speakers On NG Explorer—travel with experts from the top tiers of journalism, science, and exploration. And on all our trips, count on rewarding local encounters, from concerts to hang-outs.
Reason 9 > Adventure without adversity We’re inspired by historic expeditions but—no deprivation. Dining is excellent, with an emphasis on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Onboard Wellness makes exploring a mind-body activity.
Reason 10 > Going beyond limits & expectations To be on an expedition means to be free, no ‘port’ schedule. We can be the first to set foot somewhere—because we are an expedition travel company and this is our mission.
Anchors Aweigh – new ships for 2018
2018, cruise lines will christen a fleet of new ships with nobel onboard attractions that are sure to make a splash. There’s never been a better time to set sail than 2018.
SYMPHONY OF THE SEAS – Royal Caribbean International
Launches: April 2018
Passengers: 6,870
Cruises: The Mediterranean and the Caribbean
Star Attraction: Huge is an understatement – with 2,774 staterooms, 18 decks, seven “neighbourhoods”. and 18 dining venues, Symphony will be the world’s largest cruise ship
You’ll Also Love: The ten-story Ultimate Abyss slide, the tallest at sea, and virtual balconies (real-time floor-to-ceiling displays) in staterooms.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC VENTURE – Lindblad Expeditions
Launches: June 2018
Passengers: 100
Cruises: Alaska and the Pacific Northwest
Star Attraction: The bow’s unique tiered design, which allows for totally unobstructed wildlife viewing.
You’ll Also Love: Step-out balconies in nearly half of the staterooms, and military-grade Zodiacs with easier entry and added stability.
LE LAPEROUSE AND LE CHAMPLAIN – Ponant
Launches: June and September 2018 respectively
Passengers: 184
Cruises: Northern Europe and the Mediterranean
Star Attraction: Cruising’s first underwater lounges, with portholes that look out into the subaquatic world.
You’ll Also Love: A hydraulic mini-port that provides easy access to Zodiacs, and a high-tech theatre with an LED wall.
VIKING ORION – Viking Ocean Cruises
Launches: July 2018
Passengers: 930
Cruises: Asia, Australia, Europe and Alaska
Star Attraction: The 1,448 square foot Owner’s Suite with a glass-walled sauna – the perfect reprieve after meetings in its private boardroom.
You’ll Also Love: Wraparound balconies in Explorer Suites, and the ship’s pool with a glass dome that can be opened during balmy weather.
NORWEGIAN BLISS – Norwegian Cruise Line
Launches: November 2018
Passengers: 4,000
Cruises: Alaska and the Caribbean
Star Attraction: Multiple world’s firsts, including a two-story electric go-kart track and a galactic-themed laser-tag course.
You’ll Also Love: The 20,000 square-foot observation lounge with 180-degree views, and a Texas barbecue join with live country-pop music.
NIEUW STATENDAM – Holland America Line
Launches: December 2018
Passengers: 2,650
Cruises: the Caribbean
Star Attraction: High-def projections of cirrus clouds and constellations that cap the three-story central atrium.
You’ll Also Love: The “Music-Walk”, featuring Lincoln Centre Stage and Billboard Onboard, and wine-blending classes at Blends by Chateau Ste. Michelle.
CELEBRITY EDGE – Celebrity Cruises
Launches: December 2018
Passengers: 2,900
Cruises: the Caribbean
Star Attraction: Eden, a three-level venue featuring panoramic ocean views, performance art, and a variety of restaurants and culinary experiences such as hands-on cooking classes
You’ll Also Love: A “Magic Carpet” outside elevator that picks up passengers for disembarkation, and a smartphone app that lets you control everything from dinner reservations to stateroom lighting.
Connect with an ilovecruising.com cruise specialist to learn more about these ships and available sailings
℅ Virtuoso Traveler Dec 2017
Floating Hotels ~ 10 Reasons to Love Cruising
For travellers who want to see the world without compromising on accommodations, today’s cruise ships offer the best of both worlds: transportation, adventure, and ever changing views, plus cosseting and comfort via private balconies, fluffy bedding, butler service, gourmet restaurants, and ethereal spas. There are more than 30 cruise lines in the Virtuoso portfolio, ranging from mega ocean liners to boutique ships, expedition vessels, riverboats, and even yachts. No matter how you set sail, let’s count the ways a cruise will float your boat.
1 ~ HASSEL-FREE RELAXATION
Check in and instantly check out from scheduled responsibilities other than planning your next day in port. From Champagne sail-away toasts to walks along open-air promenades, on itineraries as varied as transatlantic crossings or island-hopping, breath in and let the water views work their wonders.
2 ~ UNPACK JUST ONCE
Enjoy the secret thrill of stowing your luggage out of sight for the duration of the trip. Embarkation, i.e., move-in day, is the last time in 7, 1 or 90 days (or more) that you’ll be bothered with your bags. Cruising allows you to settle in without settling for one setting. From the tropics to the poles, oh, the places you’ll go, all while dressing from a closet, rather than a suitcase.
3 ~ A GANGWAY TO THE WORLD
By river or ocean, cruising lets you hit world highlights – and your bucket list – in each port of call. Float the idea of raising good global citizens by brining the whole family. (Tip: A cruise offers something for all ages, which also makes it an ideal multigenerational getaway with grandparents, children, and everyone in between.)
4 ~ WINING AND DINING
Enjoy foodie favourites in port on on board across the globe. Looking to learn some new cooking skills? Explore the art of miniature desserts or master the science of high-heat grilling in classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen, a hands-on teaching facility and the very first cooking school from Regent Seven Seas Cruises, aboard its newest ship, Seven Seas Explorer.
5 ~ THE VALUE EQUATION
Cruising’s bundled pricing means you avoid nickling-and-diming, and it can result in some incredible extras, in addition to meals and entertainment. “Crystal, Regent, and some other luxury lines often include business-class airfares which can be almost double when priced separately, so that’s a very nice deal,” says Virtuoso travel advisor Julie Danziger. “Shipboard credits that you can use at the spa or in the shops are also nice perks.” Depending on the line, shore excursions, alcohol, and gratuities may also be included, further enhancing the value.
6 ~ WELLNESS ON THE WATER
Indulge in spas worth their salt scrubs with an array of options from bespoke massages to medi spa treatments, such as noninvasive dermal fillers, skin tightening therapy, and wrinkle treatments offered aboard Crystal Cruises’ Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity. For something a little more active, fitness itineraries include options that range from on-deck yoga in Alaska to biking excursions along the banks of the Danube.
7 ~ TAKE THE KIDS
We’ve yet to meet a child who doesn’t love cruising, whether it’s for the kids’ clubs with activities tailored to all ages or for the buffets with unlimited desserts. Baby on board? Entrust children as young as six months to the nannies aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Escape, and rest well for an hour or two.
8 ~ INVITATION-ONLY EVENTS
Virtuoso Voyages is a perks program that offers shipboard credits, entree to private cocktail parties and exclusive shore excursions, and more. For example, explore old and new Shanghai on a private tour that spans a sixteenth-century residence, art deco architectural icons, and a forward-looking urban planning museum with Seabourn, Holland America Line, Windstar Cruises, Oceania Cruises, or Silversea Cruises. Gain access to these complimentary extras via your travel advisor.
9 ~ LEARN ALONG THE WAY
Today’s cruises aren’t conga-line cliches – many now offer educational opportunities, workshops by renowned experts, special guest speakers, and more. Plus, it’s never a bad time to discover a new talent or develop a skill, like learning the ropes of photography in the Galapagos Islands with the help of certified photographers aboard National Geographic Endeavour II, Lindblad Expeditions’ latest ship.
10 ~ “WOW” EXPERIENCES
Living large, immersing yourself in another culture, and giving back are just a few of the memories you might make at sea.
by Elaine Glusac ℅ Virtuoso Travel Catalog – Ultimate Cruises
Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc. signs agreement with Ulstein Verft for building of New Polar Vessel
World’s Foremost Expedition Vessel Will Be the First Polar New Build in the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fleet
NEW YORK, Nov. 7, 2017 : Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: LIND; “Lindblad”, the “Company”), the global leader of expedition cruises and adventure travel experiences, today announced that it has signed an agreement with Norwegian shipbuilder and ship designer Ulstein to build the world’s foremost expedition ship.
The new vessel will be built in Ulsteinvik, Norway and is scheduled for delivery in the first quarter of 2020, with an option for two additional ships to be delivered in subsequent years.
The state-of-the-art polar vessel has been designed as the ultimate expedition platform with a focus on safety and comfort, as well as incorporating innovative sustainability solutions to reduce its environmental impact. A core feature is Ulstein’s signature X-BOW®, a distinctive bow that provides fuel efficiency while significantly improving guest comfort in rough seas; and a very high ice class for access deep into polar regions. The ship’s expanded fuel and water tanks provide for extended operations in remote areas; while the zero-speed stabilizers will ensure stability underway, whether at zero speed when stopped for wildlife observation, or embarking/disembarking the ship.
“We are incredibly excited to be working with Ulstein and their brilliant team of engineers and designers on this state-of-the-art vessel as we continue expansion of our fleet. It is the next step in the long-term growth of the company, and will be the most extraordinary global expedition ship in the world on a multitude of levels,” said Sven Lindblad, President and CEO of Lindblad.
“The launch of this ship will mark the 50th anniversary year of the first-ever purpose-built expedition ship, Lindblad Explorer, which was built by my father, Lars-Eric Lindblad, and will set another important milestone in the company’s commitment to deliver expedition travel at its best,” added Lindblad.
In keeping with the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic ethos to connect guests with the environment being explored, the ship will be designed to access the outside environment from anywhere on the ship. With 75% of the cabins featuring balconies for private viewing; multiple observation decks inside and outside, and new “observation wings,” the surrounding environs will always be accessible. Off-ship exploring will be greatly enhanced with an innovative Zodiac loading system which will allow everyone to get ashore quickly and safely, ensuring quick access to every destination. The ship’s complement of expedition tools for exploration will include kayaks, cross-country skis, a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), hydrophones, a video microscope, underwater video cameras, a helicopter landing platform, and more to be announced in the coming months.
The ship will afford gracious comfort and an unparalleled level of service, with the highest comfort class for guests to ensure a quiet and peaceful environment onboard. The 69 spacious guest cabins and suites will include 12 cabins for solo travelers. The spa and fitness area will include treatment rooms, saunas, a fitness room, a relaxation area and yoga room; and there will be two infinity Jacuzzis for the utmost relaxation in pristine environments. Dining offerings include a main restaurant with outstanding views to the surroundings, and an outdoor barbeque and bistro area.
“Our expedition cruises, operated through our alliance with Lindblad Expeditions, have delivered remarkable experiences to our guests for the past 13 years,” said Nancy Schumacher, head of Travel and Tour Operations for National Geographic. “The expansion of the Lindblad-National Geographic fleet is truly terrific news, as it allows us to offer these unforgettable trips to even more travelers in the future. We look forward to joining our partner Lindblad Expeditions in celebrating the launch of the latest addition to the Lindblad-National Geographic fleet.”
“We are pleased to have been chosen as a partner for this exciting project. Lindblad is an innovative company and a frontrunner in the exploration cruise industry. We look forward to turning this project into reality together with Lindblad and their partners,” stated Gunvor Ulstein, CEO at Ulstein Group.
National Georgraphic Islander
Exploring Galápagos aboard the 48-guest National Geographic Islander allows you to experience the islands on an up-close, personal scale. Originally built for service in the Caribbean, and then later used for expeditions in the Scottish Highlands, the twin-hulled Islander has been sailing year-round in the Galápagos since 2004 and is perfectly suited to these wild islands.
A nimble, modern ship, she offers an intimate environment and a friendly, convivial community quickly forms on board. Yacht-scaled and trim, her mahogany and gleaming brass fittings create a gracious and welcoming environment. Designed for active exploration, she can visit areas larger vessels can’t, and guests often compare Islander to being aboard a private yacht—one that’s as smart as she is lovely and dedicated to discovery.
An intimate and friendly atmosphere
Islander accommodates 48 guests in 24 outside cabins, including two suites. At 164 feet, she is perfectly sized and offers a full range of facilities. With such an intimate community, life aboard is friendly and bright. A community at sea quickly develops between guests and staff. Names are quickly learned and personal preferences remembered—shipboard services are impeccable. From broad open decks (complete with comfy hammocks perfect for iguana-like basking in the sun) to delectable dining on fresh, local food, Islander delivers a sophisticated and amiable expedition.
Contemporary and stylish, she offers a high degree of comfort on board without sacrificing expedition pedigree. Her dining room easily accommodates all guests at once for a single seating, and a large lounge forms the social hub of the ship. Here, you’ll gather each evening with newfound friends, members of your own party and our naturalists for an expedition tradition called Recap. As you’d expect from your own yacht, life on board is casual in every respect, with no need for formal clothing. And services such as professional laundry and wireless Internet make packing and traveling more convenient.
A sleek, well-equipped expedition ship
Don’t be fooled by her sleek exterior: Islander is a ship built for adventure and exploration. Her cool tools for expedition offer an impressive range of ways to experience the wildness of Galápagos. Learn about life below the surface with our undersea cameras, poke into waterline caves aboard a kayak, and snorkel with playful, inquisitive sea lions. And, with our small groups and several Zodiac landing craft, you’ll be ashore within minutes of our dropping the anchor–meaning more time exploring and less time waiting.