Lindblad Expeditions has inked a multi-year deal with B2B luxury river cruise charter Transcend Cruises to expand into European river cruising – a historic first for the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions co-brand.
The initial agreement will run through to at least 2028 and will see a notable year-on-year increase in annual European river departures operated by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions on board Transcend Cruises’ luxury newbuild ships.
Lindblad already runs luxury river expeditions on the Amazon, Nile and Columbia and Snake (US), but this partnership marks the first time it has offered these types of trips in Europe.
Details of the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions co-brand’s first-ever European river expedition season and the chartered vessel will be released soon.
What we do know is that the venture will offer customised itineraries that will allow cruisers to travel farther into riverside cities, towns and villages and experience guided private tours and exclusive tastings.
Each voyage will be staffed by Expedition Leaders, Field Staff and at least one National Geographic expert aboard a brand-new ship.
Lindblad Expeditions CEO Natalya Leahy said: “We are thrilled for the upcoming launch of our unique River Expeditions in Europe – an experience our guests have long desired and will deeply enjoy.”
“With National Geographic naturalists and historians and exclusive events woven into each journey, our guests will explore Europe’s storied rivers in truly meaningful ways.
“We’re equally excited to partner with Transcend Cruises to introduce a brand-new ship, custom-designed to deliver the elevated, personalised experience our guests expect from us.”
Transcend Cruises CEO Hans Rood said: “Our state-of-the-art, newbuild river cruise ships offer both a luxury experience as well as the opportunity to accommodate the lecturing and mind-enriching requirements essential for their travellers.”
“With a strong focus on wellness, sustainability and best of services, we are the perfect fit to deliver the programs Lindblad Expeditions require. By collaborating, we are able to create the most exclusive experiences on Europe’s most spectacular waterways.”
For more information, visit au.expeditions.com
