Planning a family vacation that educates and excites? Imagine a journey where your children don’t just see wildlife, but actively participate in scientific discovery, guided by experts in one of the world’s most unique ecosystems. Lindblad Expeditions, in partnership with National Geographic, transforms the Galapagos into a dynamic, hands-on classroom through its exclusive Explorers-in-Training program.
This article will spotlight the immersive activities, expert mentorship, and special savings that make these voyages the ultimate bonding and discovery experience for all ages, fostering a lifelong passion for nature and exploration.
Why Lindblad Expeditions for Your Family Galapagos Adventure?
For over 20 years, the collaboration between National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions has set the standard for expedition cruising, creating transformative experiences that connect travelers with the planet. This unique blend of National Geographic’s legendary exploration spirit and Lindblad’s 60 years of expedition heritage ensures every voyage is deeply enriching.
A Legacy of Exploration and Conservation
In the 1960s, Lars-Eric Lindblad pioneered tourism to the Galapagos, driven by a vision for sustainable travel long before it was mainstream. His commitment to protecting these islands laid the groundwork for responsible exploration.
“Mr. Lindblad single-handedly brought international tourism to Galapagos, and he insisted on regulation to prevent damage to the islands. He made it so we specialize in something—a love for nature.”
— Gustavo Vallejo, Journalist
Today, this legacy continues, with Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic strengthening their commitment to conservation, having contributed over $10 million to the preservation of Galapagos habitats and communities.
Unparalleled Expertise and Small Ship Advantage
Lindblad’s voyages are led by veteran captains, seasoned naturalists, and National Geographic Expedition Experts. Every departure includes a National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions certified photo instructor to help guests hone their camera skills. The fleet of small ships, designed for comfort and access, allows for close-up encounters with wildlife and remote shorelines inaccessible to larger vessels.
Responsible Travel at its Core
The National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet is designed for efficiency in remote regions, minimizing environmental impact. Onboard, thoughtful choices like eliminating guest-facing single-use plastics, reducing food waste, and sourcing locally grown ingredients help minimize the fleet’s footprint while supporting local communities.
A Day in the Life of a Young Explorer
A Lindblad Galapagos expedition is a dynamic journey of discovery, where every day brings new opportunities for learning and adventure. Here’s a glimpse of what a typical day might hold:
Early Start: Rise and Roam
Greet the day with an invigorating stretch session on the open-air deck or join expert naturalists at the bow to spot early-morning wildlife. Young travelers in the Explorers-in-Training program can begin recording their sightings in their official field notebooks, setting the stage for a day of discovery.
Morning Excursion: Dive In & Discover
Snorkel in the Galapagos Marine Reserve, encountering sea lions, technicolor fish, marine iguanas, and even feeding penguins. For those who prefer to stay dry, a naturalist-led Zodiac or glass-bottom boat cruise offers water-level views of marine life.
A Farm-to-Table Breakfast and Local Lunch
Enjoy a fresh breakfast featuring bespoke omelets, a rainbow of fruits, and Galapagos-grown coffee. Lunch often includes a special Ecuadorian feast with locally sourced dishes, such as wild-caught fish in coconut milk.
Afternoon Adventures: Paddle, Hike, or Bird Watch
Paddle a kayak or stand-up paddleboard along the coast to observe volcanic features, or head ashore for a birding walk. Depending on the island, you might spot waved albatrosses engaged in courtship dances or flightless cormorants diving for fish.
Evening Recap & Stargazing
Gather in the lounge for the daily Recap, featuring presentations, photo slideshows, and a preview of tomorrow’s activities. After a delicious dinner, head to the top deck for a naturalist-led stargazing session, where you might see both the Big Dipper and Southern Cross—a phenomenon unique to the Equator.
The National Geographic Explorers-in-Training Program Highlights
The exclusive National Geographic Explorers-in-Training program transforms the natural world into a dynamic classroom for young travelers on every Galapagos departure. Children and teens learn to explore the archipelago like scientists through photography, video, drawing, and other hands-on activities. National Geographic-certified field educators mentor families through shared discoveries, while select kids-only moments build independence and confidence.
Program Highlights
- Wildlife Watching: Zip along shore in a Zodiac, then hike in search of Galapagos wildlife like barking sea lions and marine iguanas. Snap photos with your smartphone and jot notes in your official National Geographic Explorers-in-Training Field Notebook.
- Microscopic Exploration: Drop a net over the side of your Zodiac to collect plankton, and check it under a video microscope to see how it looks and moves.
- Video Shoots: Get tips from your certified photo instructor on how to create impressive slow-motion and timelapse videos, then test out your new skills in the field.
- License to Explore: Learn to operate a Zodiac and earn your “driver’s license.” (Sorry adults, kids only!)
- Check Your List: Head to the ship lounge to review the wildlife you saw and mark it in your notebook. Include creatures big and small—whether it’s a lava lizard or a giant tortoise. Tally your points to keep track of your progress on becoming certified as a National Geographic Explorers-in-Training.
- New Friends and Fun Adventures: Meet up with your new friends for fun activities with your certified field educator. Depending on the day, it might be a pizza dinner, games in the lounge, a special hike or other surprises.
- Eyes to the Night Sky: Head to the top deck to watch the stars come out as the sun goes down. Find and record constellations with the help of your certified field educators.
Lindblad’s Galapagos Fleet: Your Floating Basecamp
National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions sails four exceptional vessels in the Galapagos year-round, each offering a unique onboard experience. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or chartering an entire ship, there’s a perfect option for your adventure.
| Feature | National Geographic Endeavour II | National Geographic Delfina | National Geographic Gemini | National Geographic Islander II |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guest Capacity | 96 | 16 | 48 | 48 |
| Cabins | 52 | 8 | 28 | 26 |
| Solo Cabins | 9 | — | 3 | — |
| Connecting Cabins | 14 | — | 6 | 4 |
| Balcony Cabins | — | 4 | 13 | 6 |
| National Geographic Explorers-in-Training | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Family Friendly | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Spa Facilities | ✓ | — | ✓ | — |
| Fitness Center | ✓ | — | ✓ | — |
| Bar Tab and Wi-Fi Included | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Note: National Geographic Delfina does not carry an undersea specialist nor a medical professional. Please call for details.
Special Offers & Inclusive Value
Lindblad Expeditions ensures your family adventure is not only unforgettable but also offers exceptional value and flexibility.
Family Savings: Bring the Kids!
Enjoy a $500 savings for each child under the age of 18 on any departure. This offer is valid for new bookings only and is not applicable on extensions or airfare.
Comprehensive Inclusions
Your Lindblad Galapagos expedition is designed to be all-encompassing, providing a seamless and enriching experience:
- All accommodations aboard ship or in hotels as per itinerary.
- Transfers, regardless of flight or arrival/departure day, with included services.
- All meals, both aboard and onshore, inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible.
- Beer, wine, and spirits aboard the ship (except certain super-premium brands).
- 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water.
- A curated selection of exploration tools, including Zodiacs, glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling equipment (wetsuits, masks, and fins).
- Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers.
- Guidance and company of leading expedition staff and a National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions certified photo instructor.
- Onboard physician consultations (where available).
- Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment.
- 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature.
- Complimentary reusable water bottle.
- Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes.
- Complimentary basic Wi-Fi across the expedition fleet via Starlink.
Combine & Save on Back-to-Back Expeditions
Make the most of your time in the region by combining your Galapagos experience with other immersive journeys on the mainland. When you book consecutive expeditions—whether it’s two, three, or more departures—you save 10% on each voyage fare.
What is the National Geographic Explorers-in-Training program?
The Explorers-in-Training program is an exclusive, complimentary program for children and teens on every Lindblad Galapagos departure. It transforms the natural world into a dynamic classroom, allowing young travelers to learn and explore like scientists through hands-on activities, photography, video, and drawing, mentored by National Geographic-certified field educators.
What kind of activities can families expect on a Lindblad Galapagos expedition?
Families can expect a wide range of immersive activities, including Zodiac cruises, snorkeling in the marine reserve, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking volcanic trails, wildlife observation walks, and glass-bottom boat tours. Onboard activities include expert presentations, photo instruction, and dedicated Explorers-in-Training program highlights like microscopic exploration and stargazing sessions.
Are there special savings for families traveling with children?
Yes, Lindblad Expeditions offers a special savings of $500 for each child under the age of 18 on any Galapagos departure. Additionally, guests can save 10% on consecutive back-to-back expeditions, and groups of eight or more adults can save 5% on cabin fares.
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.