Our Story
Pioneering Modern Expedition Cruising
Lindblad Expeditions was built on a pioneering tradition of exploration that spans more than six decades—one rooted in a simple belief: that experiencing extraordinary places firsthand can inspire a lifelong commitment to protecting them. Through immersive, expert-led expeditions, we create opportunities for travelers to connect more deeply with the natural world. That philosophy has shaped every chapter of our history—from the pioneering voyages of the 1960s to the collaborations, innovations and experiences that continue to define Lindblad Expeditions today.
The Expeditions That Started It All
In 1966, explorer Lars-Eric Lindblad brought the first tourists to Antarctica on a pioneering journey that laid the groundwork for modern expedition cruising. The following year, he led the first international travelers to the Galápagos Islands—another landmark voyage that helped shape this new era of exploration.
Widely regarded as the father of ecotourism, Lars-Eric saw travel not simply as a way to see the world, but as a way to change how people think about it. By opening these remote regions to thoughtful exploration, he demonstrated that travel could be a powerful force for learning and discovery, bringing people closer to wild places and the stories they hold.
A Vision Carried Forward
In 1979, Lars-Eric’s son, Sven Lindblad, founded Lindblad Expeditions to carry his father’s pioneering vision forward. He built a fleet designed to explore the world’s remote places, expanding the company’s reach to Baja California, the High Arctic and beyond. Under his leadership, Lindblad Expeditions refined the model Lars-Eric first introduced, pairing expeditions guided by experts with itineraries designed to foster a deeper understanding of the planet.
In this short film, Sven reflects on his father’s groundbreaking journey and the enduring purpose that continues to inspire new generations of explorers.
In Collaboration With National Geographic
By 2004, Lindblad Expeditions had established itself as a leader in expedition travel, known for immersive, expert-led exploration and access to remarkable places. That made the company a natural partner for National Geographic. Together, the two organizations forged a groundbreaking collaboration that combined National Geographic’s expertise in science, education and storytelling with Lindblad Expeditions’ unmatched heritage of expedition cruising. With their relationship recently extended through 2040, travelers can look forward to decades of immersive journeys inspired by discovery.
“National Geographic: They represented the world and all that’s in it, and we were the people who took you there.” — Sven Lindblad
Our ships bear the National Geographic name because they are equipped for exploration, with tools and capabilities that deepen discovery.
Immersive, expert-led exploration brings guests closer to wildlife and wild places, revealing the natural world in unforgettable ways.
Our collaboration with National Geographic has been extended through 2040, opening new possibilities for exploration in the decades ahead.
Our Family of Travel Brands
As Lindblad Expeditions has evolved, we've built a collection of travel companies that bring our same spirit of discovery to remarkable destinations on land. Today, our family of travel brands includes Natural Habitat Adventures, Classic Journeys, DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co., Off the Beaten Path and Thomson Safaris. Whether on foot, by bicycle or on safari, these journeys are united by the same values that have always guided Lindblad Expeditions: expert guidance, authentic connections and a deep respect for the cultures and natural environments that make each destination unique.
Travel With Purpose
Lindblad Expeditions has always been guided by a simple principle: The better people understand the natural world, the more they will feel inspired to protect it. With initiatives like the Lindblad Expeditions–National Geographic Fund and sustainable practices built into operations across the fleet, our expeditions are contributing to the health of the places we explore. From supporting local communities to hosting scientists conducting research at sea, each voyage is part of a broader effort to safeguard the places and traditions that make these destinations extraordinary. Guests return home not only with extraordinary memories, but with a deeper appreciation for the planet.
