National Geographic-Linblad Expeditions Specialist
I really like National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions because these trips are built for people who want to be fully immersed by experiencing it, learning about it, and understanding what they are seeing.
This is true expedition travel. The ships are smaller and designed to reach areas that larger cruise ships simply cannot, which means the experience can include remote coastlines, wildlife-rich areas, secluded coves, and places that would be difficult to access any other way. Depending on the destination, days can include Zodiac rides, kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and other hands-on ways to explore.
One of my favorite things about National Geographic–Lindblad is the expedition team traveling with you. You are not just being taken somewhere and dropped off to explore on your own. Their teams can include naturalists, scientists, historians, cultural specialists, undersea specialists, photographers, and expedition leaders who help you understand what you are seeing along the way. There are also presentations and conversations onboard that add so much context to the places you are visiting.
Photography is another huge part of the experience. Every expedition includes a National Geographic–Lindblad certified photo instructor, and select ships also sail with a National Geographic photographer. You do not have to be a professional photographer either they can help with everything from basic camera settings and composition to getting a better wildlife photo in the moment.
I also love that expedition travel is not always about following the exact same schedule every single day. In certain destinations, the expedition team may adjust plans around wildlife, weather, ice, or an unexpected opportunity. If whales suddenly appear or conditions are perfect for a Zodiac outing, there can be flexibility to take advantage of that. That sense of discovery is a big part of what makes an expedition different from a traditional cruise.
National Geographic–Lindblad travels to some incredible places, including Antarctica, the Galápagos, Alaska, Iceland, the Arctic, Baja California, and many other remote destinations around the world.
I especially recommend them for curious travelers, wildlife lovers, photographers, nature lovers, families who value educational experiences, and people who want to spend their vacation exploring. I also think they are a great fit for travelers who have already done more traditional vacations and are ready for something that feels completely different.
I recently earned my
National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions Specialist designation, which means I have completed additional training on their ships, destinations, and expedition experiences. I love being able to help clients figure out not only where they want to go, but whether this style of expedition travel is actually the right fit for them.
National Geographic–Lindblad is not what I would consider a traditional cruise vacation and that is exactly the point. It is for travelers who want the destination, wildlife, learning, and adventure to be the main event.