Is Lindblad Worth It? A Detailed Review
Lindblad Expeditions has long been a pioneer in adventure cruising, offering expertly guided, small-ship journeys to some of the most remote and awe-inspiring destinations on Earth. But with luxury expedition cruise prices ranging from $7,000 to $50,000+ per person, many travelers ask:
Is Lindblad Expeditions worth the price?
This detailed review breaks down the ships, itineraries, onboard experience, and overall value of Lindblad Expeditions, so you can decide if it’s the right luxury adventure for you.
What Sets Lindblad Expeditions Apart?
Unlike traditional cruise lines, Lindblad Expeditions is built for true explorers who want:
✔ Access to Remote Destinations – From Antarctica to the Galápagos, Lindblad reaches places few ships can.
✔ Expert-Led Adventures – Every cruise includes naturalists, scientists, and National Geographic photographers.
✔ Zodiac & Kayak Excursions – Multiple daily landings for close-up wildlife encounters and immersive experiences.
✔ Casual, Expedition-Style Luxury – No formal nights—just comfortable accommodations, fine dining, and 5-star service.
While Lindblad is often compared to Silversea, Ponant, and Scenic, it leans more into adventure and education than ultra-luxury pampering.
Lindblad Expeditions: Pros & Cons
✅ Pros: Why Travelers Love Lindblad
✔ Small Ships, Big Adventure – Most ships hold 100 guests or fewer, ensuring intimate exploration.
✔ Hands-On Learning – Daily lectures, photography tips, and wildlife experts onboard.
✔ Sustainability Focus – Carbon-neutral operations and deep environmental commitment.
✔ All-Inclusive Excursions – No extra fees for Zodiacs, kayaking, or expert-led landings.
✔ National Geographic Partnership – Access to top-tier scientists, photographers, and conservationists.
❌ Cons: Potential Drawbacks
✖ Expensive Compared to Competitors – Higher price point than some expedition lines.
✖ No Butler Service or Over-the-Top Luxury – More adventure-luxe than ultra-luxe.
✖ Limited Onboard Entertainment – No casinos, Broadway shows, or traditional cruise-style nightlife.
✖ Adventure-Focused – Not ideal for those looking for a laid-back, resort-style cruise.
💡 Who It’s Best For: If you value deep exploration, expert insights, and National Geographic-caliber expeditions, Lindblad is a perfect match.
Lindblad Ships: A Breakdown
Lindblad operates a fleet of purpose-built expedition ships designed for small-group travel. Here’s how they compare:
| Ship | Guest Capacity | Best For | Standout Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Geographic Endurance | 126 | Polar Expeditions | X-Bow design for smooth sailing in Antarctica |
| National Geographic Resolution | 126 | Luxury Adventure | Sauna with floor-to-ceiling Arctic views |
| National Geographic Explorer | 148 | Classic Expeditions | Ice-strengthened hull for extreme environments |
| National Geographic Quest | 100 | Alaska & Baja | All-suite accommodations |
| National Geographic Venture | 100 | Galápagos & Coastal Cruises | Zodiac launches directly from the ship |
✔ All Lindblad ships include: Open bridge access, observation decks, onboard experts, and high-tech exploration tools like underwater cameras and hydrophones.
Lindblad’s Top Destinations
Lindblad sails to some of the most remote, wildlife-rich places on the planet. Here are their most popular expedition cruise destinations:
📍 Antarctica – Ice-covered landscapes, penguin colonies, and humpback whales.
📍 Galápagos Islands – Giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and pristine beaches.
📍 Alaska – Glacier Bay, fjords, and grizzly bears in the wild.
📍 Arctic & Svalbard – Polar bears, walruses, and the Northern Lights.
📍 South Pacific & Indonesia – Coral reefs, Komodo dragons, and hidden island cultures.
📍 Amazon River – Rainforest lodges, pink dolphins, and wildlife-rich river expeditions.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re traveling for wildlife encounters, Lindblad is among the best choices for expert-led animal viewing.
Onboard Experience: Life on a Lindblad Expedition
Lindblad balances luxury with adventure—focusing more on exploration than opulence. Here’s what to expect:
🛏 Cabins & Suites: Modern, comfortable, but not ultra-glamorous. Some ships have balcony suites, others feature large observation windows instead.
🍽 Dining: Farm-to-table gourmet cuisine, locally inspired menus, and all meals included.
🍷 Beverages: Some ships include beer/wine at meals, but not full open bars like Silversea or Scenic.
🛶 Excursions: Zodiacs, guided hikes, snorkeling, and scientific research programs.
📸 National Geographic Photography Workshops: Learn from professional photographers onboard.
🧖♀️ Wellness & Relaxation: Small spas, saunas, hot tubs—but no full-size pools or elaborate fitness centers.
💡 Pro Tip: While not as “plush” as Silversea or Scenic, Lindblad offers an incredible balance of comfort, adventure, and discovery.
How Does Lindblad Compare to Other Luxury Expedition Cruises?
| Feature | Lindblad Expeditions | Silversea Expeditions | Scenic Eclipse |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Active exploration & education | Luxury & pampering | Yacht-style elegance |
| Guides & Experts | National Geographic-certified experts | Standard expedition guides | Expert guides, but fewer scientists |
| Cabin Style | Comfortable, adventure-luxe | All-suite, butler service | All-suite, private balconies |
| Excursions | All included (Zodiacs, kayaking, hiking) | Many included, some at extra cost | Many included, helicopter/submarine extra |
| Onboard Luxury | ✅ ✅ (Elegant but casual) | ✅ ✅ ✅ (High-end luxury) | ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ (Ultra-luxury yacht) |
| Price | $$$ – Higher than Ponant, lower than Scenic | $$$$ – Premium pricing | $$$$$ – Ultra-luxury pricing |
💡 Key Takeaway: If you want a luxury adventure with top-tier experts, Lindblad is worth the price—but if you prefer butlers and all-suite accommodations, Silversea or Scenic may be better fits.
Final Verdict: Is Lindblad Worth It?
✅ Worth It If:
✔ You want world-class experts and deep exploration.
✔ You prefer small ships with an active, adventure-driven itinerary.
✔ You love learning, wildlife photography, and immersive excursions.
❌ Not Worth It If:
✖ You want a butler service, open bars, and ultra-luxury pampering.
✖ You prefer a resort-style cruise experience.
✖ You’re looking for budget-friendly options (Lindblad is on the high end of the price spectrum).
🚢 Ready to Book? If you’re an explorer at heart, Lindblad offers one of the best small-ship expeditions available today. Contact us to plan your next luxury adventure!
