3 Ways to Leverage National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions for Adventurous Clients
by Brittany Chrusciel
The National Geographic Endurance in Dynamic Positioning at Lilliehöökbreen, Svalbard, Norway. Photo: Michael S. Nolan
For clients used to cruising, an expedition with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions could be a natural evolution in their vacation style. Clients who regularly book adventure travel, from safaris to cycling tours, might find many merits in sailing to hard-to-reach parts of the globe aboard an expedition ship with like-minded travelers. A far-flung journey in comfort is not a difficult sell to luxury clients looking for an atypical getaway.
Lindblad Expeditions has more than 50 years of experience in passenger expedition voyages, a fleet of 20 expedition vessels — including a dozen purpose-built, oceangoing ships — and itineraries that stretch from the top to the bottom of the earth (and many places in between). Protecting the planet is also an integral part of Lindblad’s mission, with no guest-facing single-use plastics on board and focused efforts to measure and 100% offset its carbon emissions. Add to that an ongoing collaboration with National Geographic and differentiating Lindblad as an expedition brand gets a whole lot easier.
There are three distinct ways that National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions sets itself apart in the expedition cruising space as you plan your client’s next greatest adventure.
The World’s Premier Expedition Fleet
There’s no need to “rough it” in order to explore the far reaches of the world, whether it’s across glacial ice or through the Chilean Fjords. The programming focus aboard National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions ships is on the enrichment and education, however learning isn’t the only thing your clients will do during their time at sea. Redesigned suites; wellness spaces and saunas; and full-stocked libraries and observation lounges are just a few among the welcoming spaces onboard ships like the 102-passenger National Geographic Orion and the 148-passenger National Geographic Explorer.
Launched in 2021, the 138-passenger National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution were built to ply polar waters. They also sail the coastal waters of Patagonia, Canada, Iceland, Greenland and Alaska, among others. Their features include a fitness center and yoga studio; hot tubs; and an open bridge policy. Inclusions like prepaid gratuities, open bar and basic wi-fi service are among the amenities available on these newest vessels.
Nearly all guest cabin categories on National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution feature balconies, providing guests with plenty of opportunities to glimpse wildlife and gaze at their incredible surroundings. Up to 14 dedicated solo cabins warmly welcome guests traveling independently. Exclusive family programming developed in collaboration with National Geographic is available on select polar itineraries.
Expert-led Polar Itineraries
When it comes to the sought-after polar regions, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions offers both reinforced hardware along with plenty of expertise onboard. National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution, which navigate Arctic and Antarctic waters, have been designed with a patented X-bow hull and designated with the highest ice class rating (PC5, category A), allowing for a relatively smooth ride in most conditions. Add to that a whip-smart team of veteran expedition leaders who are available day and night to guide guests through the literal ends of the earth, along with lectures on topics like the history of polar explorations and debriefs each evening on the day’s activities.
Are your clients looking for otherworldly icescapes and a few fine penguins? Antarctica — or the White Continent — is at the top of many bucket lists and can be paired with the nearby wilds of Patagonia, South Georgia and the Falklands for an absolutely thrilling expedition for any nature lover. Determined to spot a polar bear? They’ll need to head north to the High Arctic, perhaps on a 24-day sailing through Canada and Greenland under the midnight sun of August.
Itinerary choices in both Antarctica and the Arctic are plentiful, ranging from a fly-direct option to spend seven days exploring Antarctica without a fabled Drake Passage crossing to an 8-day expedition sailing around Iceland that reveals its famed natural wonders
National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions ships are outfitted with all the equipment needed for shore landings, exploration and of course a team trained to help guests utilize every piece of gear, from complimentary parkas or heritage jackets and binoculars to kayaks and Zodiac boats. No need to worry about packing bulky expedition supplies like walking sticks.
Igloos are a Wow Factor
Imagine the chance to stay in an igloo on the top deck of a ship as you sail through the mesmerizing and isolated landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula. Lindblad Expeditions has two ships — National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution — outfitted with this exclusive accommodation. Not only can guests wake up under the insulated dome of a geodesic glass igloo, but those brave enough to don a bathing suit in chilly temperatures can hop into the adjacent infinity-edged hot tub. In the morning, coffee and pastries are delivered to your privacy-frosted door.
The “Igloo Experience” is available to guests on a first-come, first-served basis with no additional charge. Being in the know helps, as you can coach your clients to reserve their stay (for up to two guests) first thing upon boarding. Inspired by the igloo hotels in Finland used for northern lights viewing, these luxe little domes are a crowning jewel onboard either National Geographic Endurance or National Geographic Resolution. Just remember clients will need an eye mask if they’re sailing during the midnight sun!
From the Sponsor
National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions brings adventurous travelers to captivating places near and far to uncover the world’s wild secrets.
With every voyage we undertake, our shared belief is reinforced: that our planet holds infinite potential — for new experiences, enhanced knowledge, and increased understanding of our role in protecting its trove of natural and cultural treasures.
This enduring quest for discovery drives us to find new ways to help your clients explore — deeply, safely, and in genuine comfort. The state-of-the-art ships take guests further into remote places with itineraries and expedition teams that inspire, and that chart courses far from the usual ports of call to give your clients a richer picture of the world. Because when it comes to exploration, it’s not just what your clients see, but how they see it that matters.
Book online – https://portals.expeditions.com/travel-advisors/login/

