What age groups would enjoy a Lindblad family expedition cruise?

Lindblad expedition cruises cater to all ages, from second graders fascinated by ship navigation to teenagers who love kayaking, and grandparents who enjoy naturalist talks. Every generation can find activities and experiences to enjoy, creating shared family memories.

What types of activities can children participate in on a Lindblad expedition?

Children can join expert-led excursions like snorkeling with sea turtles or zip-lining through rainforests. The National Geographic Global Explorers program offers hands-on activities such as examining plankton under a microscope, identifying wildlife on naturalist-led hikes, and even earning a Zodiac 'driver's license'.

Are there special savings or offers for families traveling with Lindblad Expeditions?

Yes, Lindblad Expeditions often provides family savings, such as two full-paying adults bringing a guest aged 22 and under at 50% off, and a second guest 22 and under for free on select Alaska and Galápagos departures. Additionally, there's a 'Bring the Kids' offer providing $500.00 off for each child under 18 on any departure. These offers are subject to specific terms and conditions and are valid for new bookings by June 30, 2023.

What age groups are best suited for Lindblad Expeditions family travel?

Lindblad Expeditions are ideal for all ages, from second graders fascinated by ship navigation to teenagers who love kayaking, and grandparents who enjoy naturalist talks. Activities are designed to engage every generation, allowing families to make memories together while also enjoying individual interests.

What kind of activities are available for children on Lindblad Expeditions?

Children can participate in expert-led excursions such as snorkeling with sea turtles, zip-lining through rainforests, and wildlife identification hikes. The National Geographic Global Explorers program offers hands-on activities like microscopic plankton examination, making ice cream sundae glaciers, and earning a Zodiac 'driver's license'.

Are there special savings or offers for families traveling with Lindblad Expeditions?

Yes, Lindblad Expeditions offers 'Family Savings' where two full-paying adults can bring a guest aged 22 and under at 50% off, and a second guest aged 22 and under for free on select Alaska and Galápagos departures. Additionally, the 'Bring the Kids' offer provides $500.00 off for each child under 18 on any departure.

What is the National Geographic Global Explorers Program?

The National Geographic Global Explorers Program is a hands-on, interactive program developed by Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic Education for kids and teens aged 18 and under. It teaches young travelers to explore like scientists and tell stories of their surroundings through activities such as Zodiac driving lessons, plankton observation, and wildlife photography, led by certified field educators.

Which destinations offer the Global Explorers Program?

The Global Explorers Program is offered in naturally fun and fascinating places including Alaska, Baja California, Galápagos, and on the Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent expedition. Note that Arctic programs (Iceland, Svalbard, Greenland) and Central America programs do not offer this specific program.

What types of activities are included for children in the Global Explorers Program?

Children can participate in a wide range of activities including wildlife watching from Zodiacs, microscopic exploration of plankton, video shoots with certified photo instructors, earning a Zodiac 'driver's license,' tracking wildlife sightings in field notebooks, making new friends through fun activities, and night sky observation with naturalists.

What does 'all-inclusive' mean for a Lindblad National Geographic expedition to Alaska?

All-inclusive means your voyage covers unlimited excursions, all meals both aboard and onshore (including regional cuisine and locally sourced ingredients), all beverages (premium coffees, teas, non-alcoholic drinks, beer, wine, and spirits), expert guidance from naturalists and photo instructors, onboard physician consultations, wellness activities, park and site entrance fees, special access permits, port taxes, and basic Wi-Fi. It's designed for a worry-free experience.

What types of activities are included in a Lindblad Alaska expedition?

Activities are diverse and immersive, including Zodiac cruises, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking through rainforests, wildlife spotting (whales, bears, eagles, otters), cultural visits, and educational presentations by expedition staff and guest speakers. Every expedition offers excursions for various skill levels.

Are there special programs for families or children on Lindblad Alaska expeditions?

Yes, Lindblad National Geographic Expeditions offer an exclusive National Geographic Explorers-In-Training program for kids and teens. This program teaches young travelers to explore like scientists through activities such as wildlife watching, microscopic exploration, video shoots, Zodiac 'driver's license' training, and interactive lessons on glacier formation.

What makes Lindblad Expeditions' ships ideal for exploring Alaska?

Lindblad's small, nimble vessels are purpose-built with shallow drafts, allowing them to navigate intricate waterways, secluded coves, and narrow channels that larger ships cannot access. Features like Zodiac platforms, kayaks, and paddleboards offer unparalleled access to wildlife and glaciers, while observation decks provide expansive views.

What is unique about the Greg Mortimer joining the Lindblad Alaska fleet?

The Greg Mortimer, launched in 2019, features cutting-edge design including an inverted X-Bow™ for a smoother ride and dynamic positioning to protect marine environments. It offers spacious comfort for 154 guests, many with private balconies, and enhances deep exploration with its advanced capabilities for Alaska's glacier-carved waters starting in 2027.

Are there family-friendly options for Alaska expeditions with Lindblad?

Yes, Lindblad Expeditions offers the exclusive National Geographic Explorers-In-Training program on all Alaska departures. This program teaches kids and teens to explore like scientists through engaging activities such as wildlife watching, microscopic exploration, video shoots, Zodiac driving lessons, and glacier formation demonstrations, making Alaska a natural classroom for young travelers.

What is the National Geographic Explorers-In-Training program?

The Explorers-In-Training program is an exclusive offering on Lindblad Expeditions' Alaska voyages, designed for kids and teens. It provides hands-on learning experiences, teaching young travelers to explore like scientists through activities such as Zodiac driving lessons, microscopic marine life discovery, wildlife observation, and photography tips from certified instructors.

What types of wildlife can families expect to see on a Lindblad Alaska expedition?

Families can expect to encounter a diverse range of iconic Alaskan wildlife, including humpback whales, orcas, brown and black bears, sea otters, bald eagles, Steller sea lions, and various seabirds. The expedition team, including naturalists and undersea specialists, helps guests spot and learn about these creatures.

Are there any special offers for families traveling with children?

Yes, Lindblad Expeditions offers a 'Bringing the Kids' promotion, allowing families to save $500 on cabin fare for each child under the age of 18 on any eligible departure. This offer is not applicable to extensions or airfare. Other group and milestone celebration savings may also be available.

What makes Lindblad Expeditions' Alaska voyages unique?

Lindblad Expeditions utilizes small, nimble ships and a team of expert naturalists, photographers, and cultural specialists to access remote, roadless areas of Alaska. This allows for unparalleled immersion in pristine wilderness, offering active exploration like kayaking among icebergs and hiking ancient forests, far beyond typical tourist routes.

Are Lindblad Expeditions' Alaska voyages suitable for families?

Yes, Alaska is an ultimate family destination with Lindblad. Every departure features the exclusive National Geographic Explorers-In-Training program, which teaches kids and teens to explore like scientists through engaging activities such as wildlife watching, microscopic exploration, video shoots, and even earning a 'Zodiac driver's license'.

What is included in the price of a Lindblad Expeditions Alaska voyage?

Inclusive pricing covers excursions, hotels, airport transfers, all meals (aboard and ashore, regionally sourced), hors d'oeuvres, 24-hour snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, exploration tools (Zodiacs, kayaks), expert-led presentations, onboard physician consultations, fitness classes, access to lounges and libraries, a reusable water bottle, park fees, and even beer, wine, and spirits (premium brands available for purchase).

Blog

Incredible Wildlife Up Close: Best Lindblad Expeditions for Family Animal Lovers

Family on a Lindblad Expeditions small ship looking out at a stunning coastal landscape, ready for adventure and wildlife viewing.

Imagine your family swimming with playful sea lions in crystal-clear waters, witnessing majestic whale breaches that defy gravity, or observing polar bears and their cubs navigating their icy domain. Lindblad Expeditions, in partnership with National Geographic, offers unparalleled voyages designed to bring families closer to the natural world. This article highlights their top expeditions for immersive wildlife encounters in breathtaking destinations like Baja California, the Galápagos Islands, and the remote Polar Regions. Discover how a team of expert naturalists, certified field educators, and professional photographers enhance these journeys, making every moment a breathtaking connection to the wild and fostering a lifelong passion for exploration in every family member.

Mother and child paddleboarding together in a serene cove with lush green trees, enjoying a Lindblad family expedition.

Why Choose Lindblad for Unforgettable Family Wildlife Expeditions?

Lindblad Expeditions are crafted to provide a seamless, enriching, and stress-free travel experience for families of all ages. From the moment you step aboard, every detail is handled, allowing you to fully immerse yourselves in discovery and create indelible memories together.

Ships Built for Exploration and Comfort

The Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet features small, nimble vessels perfectly suited for navigating secluded coves, narrow fjords, and sheltered lagoons. These ships serve as a comfortable home base, equipped with a variety of tools to inspire exploration. Families can utilize Zodiacs, kayaks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and even glass-bottomed boats to get up close to marine life and remote shorelines.

For an elevated experience, newly enhanced suites on select ships, like the National Geographic Explorer, offer a “Command Center” with tools like a barometer and a National Geographic Atlas. Suite guests also enjoy an amenities package that includes an in-room espresso maker, priority booking for spa treatments and igloo stays (on select vessels), and complimentary laundry services.

The National Geographic Global Explorers Program

Developed in conjunction with National Geographic Education, this hands-on, interactive program is designed for kids and teens aged 18 and under. It teaches young travelers how to explore like scientists and tell the stories of their surroundings. Certified field educators, experts at using the wild as a natural classroom, lead activities in fascinating places such as Alaska, Baja California, Galápagos, and Antarctica.

Children hone observation skills and learn to capture their experiences through photography, video, and drawings. Activities range from examining plankton under a microscope, making “ice cream sundae glaciers,” or earning a Zodiac “driver’s license.” The program encourages young explorers to delve into their interests, whether marine biology, geology, or photography.

“As soon as my family dove in, we were surrounded by playful sea lions who were equally as captivated by us as we were by them. Some of the young pups tried to replicate our every move. Others floated and stared at us, as if they were mesmerized.”

– Dana Ng, Baja California traveler

Expert Expedition Team & Photography Guidance

Each voyage is accompanied by a dynamic expedition team eager to share their knowledge. This team includes naturalists who interpret wildlife behavior, undersea specialists who reveal the underwater world, and cultural historians who explain local customs. On voyages featuring the Global Explorers program, specially trained field educators lead enriching activities for younger guests.

A Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor (CPI) is on hand for every voyage to assist travelers of all ages with camera settings, composition, and storytelling through images. Guests can learn from top photographers and on select ships, access a complimentary OM System Photo Gear Locker stocked with lenses and camera bodies to test in the field.

Stress-Free Family Travel

Lindblad handles all the details, from booking flights and transfers to arranging land accommodations if you wish to extend your trip. Once on board, you unpack once and enjoy your comfortable home at sea. Daily activities are published the evening prior, offering choices and flexibility for multi-generational fun. Whether kayaking, hiking, or simply relaxing, there are options for everyone.

Meals are informal and easy, with generous breakfast and lunch options to suit even the pickiest eaters. Dinner menus draw on ingredients and cuisine from visited ports, allowing your family to sample new flavors. Snacks and beverages are always available on board to satisfy any cravings.

A group of young explorers sledding down a snowy hill in Antarctica, bundled in blue jackets, experiencing the polar environment.

Top Wildlife Destinations for Family Animal Lovers

Lindblad Expeditions offers a diverse range of destinations where families can encounter incredible wildlife and natural wonders up close.

The Polar Regions: Antarctica & Arctic

Journey to the top or bottom of the world and discover icy waters teeming with polar bears, penguins, and whales. Sail past towering icebergs and perhaps even take on the challenge of a polar plunge.

Expedition	Duration	Starting Price Per Person	Highlights
Journey To Antarctica: The White Continent	14 DAYS	$15,840.00/PP	Penguins, ice, and stunning polar landscapes.
A Circumnavigation of Iceland	10 DAYS	$16,790.00/PP	A wild land of geological extremes and unique wildlife.
Land of the Ice Bears: An In-Depth Exploration of Arctic Svalbard	10 DAYS	$12,850.00/PP	One of the planet’s best places to spot polar bears.
Wild Greenland Escape	6 DAYS	$8,890.00/PP	Unique getaway among epic ice and Inuit culture.

Please note: Arctic programs do not feature the National Geographic Global Explorers Program.

North America: Alaska

Get immersed in Alaska’s epic beauty. Paddle into fjords, ride a Zodiac to the foot of a glacier, learn about ancient cultures, and watch humpbacks bubble-net feeding.

Expedition	Duration	Starting Price Per Person	Highlights
Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness	8 DAYS	$7,560.00/PP	Sail into the wildest corners of the Inside Passage.
Wild Alaska Escape: Haines, the Inian Islands & Tracy Arm Fjord	6 DAYS	$4,800.00/PP	Hike, kayak, and raft along rugged, wildlife-rich coastlines.
Wild Alaska Escape: LeConte Bay, Wrangell, and the Misty Fjords	6 DAYS	$4,800.00/PP	Explore Alaska’s wildness and culture.
The Glaciers of Prince William Sound	6 DAYS	$4,950.00/PP	Venture to the isolated, glacier-ringed Prince William Sound.

North America: Baja California

Discover the rich waters off Baja California, where gray whales come to breed each year. Hike desert islands, kayak into secret coves, and head out by Zodiac to encounter whales, dolphins, and other marine life.

Expedition	Duration	Starting Price Per Person	Highlights
Baja California: Among the Great Whales	8 DAYS	$6,930.00/PP	Witness a remarkable spectacle of marine life.
Wild Baja California Escape: The Whales of Magdalena Bay	6 DAYS	$4,040.00/PP	Discover the magic of days spent among whales.
Baja California Holiday Voyage: A Living Sea & Desert Isles	8 DAYS	$7,240.00/PP	Discover whales, wildness, and wonder in a living sea.

South America: Galápagos & the Amazon

Venture to the Galápagos for close encounters with incredible creatures like giant tortoises, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies. Or journey by riverboat through the Amazon, the world’s most biodiverse rainforest, and visit communities along the riverbank.

Expedition	Duration	Starting Price Per Person	Highlights
Galápagos aboard National Geographic Endeavour II	10 DAYS	$7,940.00/PP	Encounter legendary wildlife across land and sea.
Wild Galápagos Escape (7- and 8-Day)	7 DAYS	$6,795.00/PP	Sail aboard the new National Geographic Islander II.
Upper Amazon aboard Delfin II	10 DAYS	$7,930.00/PP	Sail in style through the world’s most biodiverse rainforest.

Please note: Amazon programs do not feature the National Geographic Global Explorers Program.

Sophie’s Story: A Young Explorer’s Impact in Galápagos

National Geographic Global Explorers program alumna Sophie came to the Galápagos at the age of seven, driven by her passion for wildlife. During her 10-day adventure aboard National Geographic Endeavour II, an encounter with “Lonesome George,” the last giant tortoise from Pinta Island, left a profound impression.

“When I saw the preserved ‘Lonesome George,’ I was very sad! He was the last giant tortoise from Pinta Island. I could not believe that all the Pinta giant tortoises are now extinct because of humans.”

– Sophie, National Geographic Global Explorers participant

Inspired to make a difference, Sophie returned home to Switzerland and began fundraising. Through garage sales and birthday donations, she initially raised $500. Two years later, upon learning she would return to Galápagos, Sophie intensified her efforts, creating a GoFundMe page and collecting a total of $2,650.

The Charles Darwin Research Station (CDRS) invited Sophie to deliver her donation in person, providing a behind-the-scenes look at their conservation work. Her contributions helped tag and monitor Galápagos penguins and assess the health of giant tortoises. Sophie’s experience fueled her determination to protect fragile environments, leading her and her mother to launch Tunememi Conservancy, a nonprofit association dedicated to species preservation. Sophie continues her fundraising for the Charles Darwin Foundation and dreams of becoming a scientist one day.

Central America: Costa Rica, Guatemala & Belize

The tropics of Central America offer smoldering volcanoes, colorful reefs, and mysterious temples. Adventure in Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Belize, exploring treasures by zip line, Zodiac, and more.

Expedition	Duration	Starting Price Per Person	Highlights
Costa Rica & the Panama Canal	8 DAYS	$6,820.00/PP	Transit the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal.
Wild Costa Rica Escape: Exploring Guanacaste’s Natural Wonders	6 DAYS	$4,190.00/PP	Venture to seldom-seen shores along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
Wild Belize Escape: Wildlife, Reefs, and Rivers	6 DAYS	$4,460.00/PP	Explore the world’s second largest barrier reef.

Please note: Central America programs do not feature the National Geographic Global Explorers Program.

Europe: British Isles & the Mediterranean

Gain new perspectives on timeless Europe, navigating ancient trade routes and exploring the continent’s most secluded corners. Sail to grand medieval cities and quaint fishing harbors, connecting with cultures that shaped these celebrated places.

Expedition	Duration	Starting Price Per Person	Highlights
Ancient Isles: England, Ireland, and Scotland	12 DAYS	$11,887.00/PP	Encounter wild coastlines steeped in stone age history.
Egypt, the Greek Isles, and the Suez Canal: Sailing Through Antiquity	12 DAYS	$10,260.00/PP	Two of the world’s greatest civilizations unite in one compelling journey.

Please note: Europe programs do not feature the National Geographic Global Explorers Program.

A family on a Lindblad expedition vessel, observing a stunning sunset over the ocean with dramatic rock formations, creating lasting memories.

What to Expect on Your Lindblad Family Expedition

Frequently Asked Questions for Family Travelers

Why are expedition cruises ideal for kids and families?

Expedition cruises offer an exhilarating combination of exploration and education. Each day is full of hands-on learning both on board and on shore. The ship provides a casual and comfortable home base where your family can share the thrill of discovery and make lifelong friendships with other families who are enthusiastic about exploring.

What age groups would enjoy expedition cruising?

There is something for everyone! From a second grader fascinated by ship navigation to a teenager who loves the freedom of kayaking, to a grandparent who never misses a naturalist talk. Your family will make memories together, and yet every generation can enjoy the experience in their own way.

Which destinations and seasons are best for families?

The best destination depends on your family’s interests. Are you seeking glaciers or desert islands? Penguins or polar bears? Every voyage offers daily opportunities for hands-on exploration. In certain destinations, kids can also participate in the National Geographic Global Explorers program. Families are welcome year-round, with more families typically on board during school breaks and summertime.

What types of activities can children participate in?

Children can participate in any of the expert-led excursions, from snorkeling with sea turtles to zip-lining through a rainforest canopy. In the National Geographic Global Explorers program, they might collect specimens to view under a microscope or learn to identify wildlife on a naturalist-led hike.

Are there accommodation options for families?

Families often reserve adjacent rooms. Several Lindblad ships have adjoining rooms that can be combined to create a family suite, offering more space and convenience.

What can kids do on the ship?

Kids love downtime on board. They are free to roam and explore their interests, always under the care of our crew. They can examine footage of sea creatures with an undersea specialist, visit the open bridge to see the captain demonstrate navigation instruments, read a book in the lounge, or play a board game with new friends. There is plenty of independence and entertainment.

How far ahead of time should you book an expedition cruise for your family?

We recommend booking as far out as possible. This provides the most flexibility to reserve the cabins and dates that best suit your family’s needs and preferences.

Inclusive Pricing & Amenities

Lindblad Expeditions offers an all-inclusive experience, ensuring a seamless and worry-free journey for your family. Your expedition price typically includes:

Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers as indicated in the itinerary.
All meals, both aboard and on shore, inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced ingredients.
Hors d’oeuvres, snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water available 24 hours a day.
A selection of exploration tools curated for your destination, such as Zodiacs, glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear.
Guidance and company of our leading expedition staff, including naturalists, undersea specialists, and certified photo instructors.
Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers.
The services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic where available.
Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment.
24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, and a library stocked with regionally relevant literature.
A complimentary Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic parka or jacket on select Arctic and Antarctic voyages.
A complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations.
Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes.

About the Author: Lia Vincent

Lia Vincent is the Owner for Vincent Vacations and Travel Agent Pro, and serves as the official Signature Travel Network Liaison. With extensive experience in the luxury travel sector, Lia specializes in pairing discerning travelers with premium expedition and ocean cruise lines, including Seabourn, Silversea, and the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

May 14, 2026

Stress-Free Family Expeditions: Multi-Generational Travel with Lindblad & National Geographic

A multi-generational family, including children, joyfully exploring sand dunes, kayaking, and observing wildlife during a Lindblad National Geographic expedition.

Something magical happens when you introduce a child to the wonders of the world—you can almost see their minds opening and new passions taking hold. Aboard the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, each day is full of exciting discoveries that spark curiosity and conversation. Lindblad takes care of every detail so that you are free to appreciate these incredible moments and make indelible memories with your family.

A mother and child paddleboarding together on calm, clear waters with lush green foliage on the distant shore, showcasing family adventure.

Immersive Exploration for Every Generation

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic offers unforgettable family travel experiences designed for immersive exploration and comfort, ensuring every generation finds their adventure.