Unlock Alaska’s True Wilderness: Why Lindblad Expeditions Offers Unparalleled Immersion

Lindblad Expeditions ship navigating a serene Alaskan fjord with a waterfall cascading down a lush green mountain, framed by a yellow border.

Go beyond typical tourist routes into roadless fjords and ancient forests. Discover how Lindblad’s small ships and expert naturalists provide an intimate, active exploration of Alaska’s most pristine landscapes, ensuring you experience the wild up-close and personal.

Guests hiking through a moss-draped ancient forest in Tongass National Forest, with rays of sunlight filtering through the tall trees.

Experience Alaska From a New Perspective with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions

Driven by a deep passion for exploration and conservation, voyages with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions inspire a change in perspective that transforms the way you experience the world. These expeditions are designed to bring you directly into the heart of Alaska’s coastal wilderness, offering an intimate and active exploration of its most pristine landscapes.

Small Ships That Take You Farther

Lindblad’s small, nimble vessels are purpose-built for exploration, allowing seasoned captains and crews to stay flexible, go farther, and deliver some of the most ambitious itineraries ever created along Alaska’s remote shores. These ships can navigate narrow fjords, quiet coves, and secluded anchorages that larger vessels simply cannot reach, ensuring a truly immersive experience.

Travel with a World-Class Expedition Team

Every voyage is led by passionate expedition teams—naturalists, photographers, and cultural specialists who are explorers at heart. With over 110 team members boasting a decade or more of experience in the field, you’ll benefit from unparalleled expertise and insights. A National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions certified photo instructor joins every Alaska departure to help you hone your camera skills, offering real-time tips, presentations, one-on-one critiques, and engaging slideshows.

Explore Your Way Every Day

Itineraries feature a range of immersive activities for every skill level, bringing you into the pages of National Geographic magazine. From kayaking among icebergs to hiking through ancient moss-draped forests, you can explore at your own pace. On most departures, an undersea specialist captures underwater footage of Alaska’s vibrant marine life, interpreting sea creatures and geological features during nightly Recaps, revealing the hidden wonders of your surroundings.

“Voyages contribute to the preservation of the planet through the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund. Your support helps conserve coastal communities and marine habitats—and it funds explorers from the National Geographic Society who are envisioning bold changes for a sustainable future.”

A kayaker paddling through a serene Alaskan fjord surrounded by lush green mountains and clear blue water, with a small expedition ship in the distance.

A Day in the Life: On Expedition in Alaska

Venture far beyond Alaska’s busy ports and piers to roadless places where glaciers sparkle, mountains soar, and epic wildlife roams. You’ll be immersed in pure wilderness, experiencing it from every angle without another ship or soul in sight.

A Typical Day’s Adventures

Your day begins with a fjord-side breakfast, offering views of tumbling waterfalls or electric-blue icebergs. Enjoy fresh bread, pastries, made-to-order omelets, and other delicious dishes.

Morning Excursion: Exploring at Water Level

Join a naturalist aboard a Zodiac to speed toward a glistening glacier, or board a kayak or paddleboard to glide across iceberg-studded waters, on the lookout for otters, bald eagles, and harbor seals.

Talks and Photo Tips

Head to the lounge for a talk on smartphone photography by your certified photo instructor, followed by a naturalist presentation on topics such as the dynamics of area orca pods.

Lunch: A Fresh Catch

Ship chefs use fresh, local ingredients, including locally grown produce and fresh-caught fish. Savor an Alaska-inspired lunch, like a grilled salmon sandwich or a salad featuring wild berries.

Afternoon Excursion: Rainforest Walk

Put your new photo tips to the test during a walk through Tongass National Forest, the world’s largest temperate rainforest. Stroll amid blooming wildflowers or bushwhack through thick brush.

Downtime: On Whale Watch

With free time, read up on regional flora in the library, visit the open Bridge, or stand on deck to watch for whales. You might spot humpbacks engaged in cooperative bubble-net feeding. When conditions are right, a naturalist drops a hydrophone so you can listen to whale communications.

Ready for Recap

Gather in the lounge for drinks and hors d’oeuvres, followed by the nightly Recap and a preview of tomorrow’s activities. Today’s presentation features your undersea specialist, sharing footage from the day’s dive of colorful creatures thriving in nutrient-rich waters.

Dinner: Crab Feast

A culinary event that always earns rave reviews is the Dungeness crab feast—a mouth-watering taste of Alaska’s wild bounty, washed down with local craft beers.

Adventures Under the Midnight Sun

Take advantage of the summer’s lingering sunlight to capture golden hour photos or look for wildlife. If you’re traveling later in the season, you may have a chance to spot the northern lights painting the night sky.

The Greg Mortimer expedition ship sailing through icy waters in Alaska, with a Zodiac boat approaching.

The Lindblad Expeditions Fleet: Ships Built for Awe

Lindblad Expeditions offers a diverse fleet designed for intimate exploration, each vessel providing unique advantages for experiencing Alaska’s wilderness.

Introducing the Greg Mortimer: Expanding What’s Possible in Alaska

In 2027, the Greg Mortimer will join the Alaska fleet, hosting a trio of new expeditions. Launched in 2019, this cutting-edge vessel combines immersive small-ship experience with advanced design. Accommodating 154 guests in thoughtfully designed cabins—many with private balconies—she offers both intimacy and spacious comfort.

  • Purpose-Built for Adventure: Designed to sail the poles, her distinctive inverted X-Bow™ delivers a smoother, more efficient ride through dynamic seas. Dynamic positioning allows the ship to hold place without dropping anchor, protecting sensitive marine environments.
  • Seamless Exploration: Four rapid-deploy Zodiac platforms provide swift access to Alaska’s rugged shorelines, secluded waterways, and wildlife-rich coves.
  • Observation & Comfort: Expansive observation decks and hydraulic viewing platforms extend over the water, offering extraordinary opportunities to spot whales, seabirds, and calving glaciers. Indoors, ocean-view lounges, a library, and dedicated learning and wellness spaces foster a sense of community.
  • Relaxation: Unwind in the sauna with sweeping sea views, relax in top-deck Jacuzzis, or dine in spaces that frame Alaska’s shifting horizons.

National Geographic Quest and National Geographic Venture

These sister ships are purpose-built for navigating Alaska’s intricate waterways, bringing a modern, clean-lined approach to expedition travel. With 50 cabins and an exceptionally nimble design, they can slip into narrow fjords, quiet coves, and secluded anchorages. Twin Zodiac boarding platforms ensure quick disembarkation, while kayaks and paddleboards invite up-close encounters. Outward-facing cabins, expansive windows, and tiered viewing platforms keep you connected to your surroundings. Amenities include a partially covered sundeck, a fitness center, a welcoming lounge and library with a full-service bar, and dining menus drawing on regional ingredients.

A group of children participating in the National Geographic Explorers-In-Training program, examining marine life in a shallow pool with a naturalist.

Alaska With the Family: Discover the Wonder of Nature

Alaska is the ultimate vacation destination for adventurous families. Every departure features the exclusive National Geographic Explorers-In-Training program, which teaches kids and teens to explore like scientists. Certified Field Educator Kim Baldwin transforms Alaska into a natural classroom for young travelers, mentoring them to develop observation, communication, and problem-solving skills.

National Geographic Explorers-In-Training Program Highlights:

  • Wildlife Watching: Zip along shore in a Zodiac, then hike in search of Alaska wildlife, like sea otters and humpback whales. Snap photos and jot notes in your official Field Notebook.
  • Microscopic Exploration: Drop a net to collect plankton, then examine it under a video microscope.
  • Video Shoots: Get tips from your certified photo instructor on creating impressive slow-motion and timelapse videos.
  • License to Explore: Learn to operate a Zodiac and earn your “driver’s license.” (Sorry adults, kids only.)
  • Ice Cream Sundae Glaciers: Watch a naturalist demonstrate how glaciers form and change using ice cream sundaes, then enjoy the delicious display.
  • Check Your List: Review wildlife sightings in the ship lounge, marking creatures big and small in your notebook.
  • New Friends and Fun Adventures: Meet new friends for activities with your certified field educator, from games to watercolor painting with glacial ice or a pizza dinner.

A pair of orcas swimming in the calm waters of Alaska's Inside Passage, with a Zodiac expedition boat in the background.

Unforgettable Alaska Itineraries

Lindblad Expeditions offers a range of voyages designed to immerse you in the diverse beauty of Alaska and British Columbia. Here’s a glimpse into some of the incredible journeys available:

Alaska’s Inside Passage

8 DAYS | FROM $7,027.00pp
2026-2027 Apr.-Sep.
National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Hike through lush forests and muskegs, kayak into secluded inlets, and cruise by Zodiac among electric blue icebergs.
  • Encounter iconic Alaska wildlife, such as humpback whales, bears, otters, and bald eagles.
  • Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring grandeur of Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve during a full day of exploration.
  • Meet representatives from the Alaska Whale Foundation (schedules permitting) and learn how you can contribute to their research.
  • Discover Alaska’s seldom-seen, vibrant marine life, revealed by an undersea specialist.
  • Explore the wild and remote areas of Southeast Alaska by special use permit with the Tongass National Forest.

Exploring Southeast Alaska’s ABC Islands

8 DAYS | FROM $7,801.00pp
2026 Jun., Jul.
National Geographic Sea Lion

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Kayak or paddleboard along the rugged coastline of Chichagof Island, home to one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world.
  • Explore the wild and remote areas of Southeast Alaska by special use permit with the Tongass National Forest.
  • Spend a full day exploring the scenic outer bays of Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve by kayak, Zodiac, or on foot.
  • Cruise an ice-filled fjord toward the face of a glacier in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness Area.
  • Venture into Frederick Sound or Chatham Strait in search of breaching humpback whales and pods of orcas.
  • Meet the fleet’s conservation partners from the Alaska Whale Foundation (schedules permitting) and learn how you can contribute to their research.

Alaska’s Inside Passage and Tracy Arm

8 DAYS | FROM $9,065.00pp
2027 May-Sep.
Greg Mortimer

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Venture to remote corners of this wild frontier to hike temperate rainforests, paddle hidden coves, and cruise by Zodiac among sculpted ice.
  • Seek out the icons of Alaska: humpback whales, grizzly bears, bald eagles, and much more.
  • Discover the living heritage of Prince Rupert during visits to a longhouse-style museum and a restored cannery.
  • Embrace the adventurous spirit of Haines, where mountains meet the sea and days unfold through cycling, rafting, hiking, or casting a fly for salmon.
  • Witness the Inian Islands and Icy Strait, teeming with sea lions and seabirds.

Alaska’s Inside Passage and Hubbard Glacier

8 DAYS | FROM $9,065.00pp
2027 May-Sep.
Greg Mortimer

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Navigate spectacular icebergs—and watch for new ones calving—as we explore the face of the six-mile-wide Hubbard Glacier by Zodiac.
  • Discover little-known coves and inlets of the Inside Passage by kayak, and seek out a host of wildlife, from brown bears and moose to several species of whale.
  • Kayak along sheer cliffs and forested backwaters in Misty Fjords National Monument.
  • Explore the wild and remote areas of Southeast Alaska by special use permit with the Tongass National Forest.
  • Soak in the midnight sun from the Greg Mortimer’s top-deck hot tubs with 360-degree views.

Epic Alaska and British Columbia

15 DAYS | FROM $16,317.00pp
2027 May-Sep.
Greg Mortimer

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Navigate amid spectacular icebergs at the six-mile-wide Hubbard Glacier, and cruise Tracy Arm fjord, where massive ice sheets calve into pristine waters.
  • Venture into temperate rainforests, paddle hidden coves, and hike beneath soaring peaks in pristine wilderness areas, such as Misty Fjords National Monument.
  • Discover the living heritage of Prince Rupert during visits to a longhouse-style museum and a restored cannery.
  • Seek out humpback whales, brown bears, Steller sea lions, bald eagles, and more in nutrient-rich waters across Southeast Alaska and British Columbia.
  • Explore wild and remote corners of Southeast Alaska by special use permit with the Tongass National Forest.
  • Soak in the midnight sun from the Greg Mortimer’s observation deck or top-deck hot tubs, with 360-degree views.

Treasures of the Inside Passage

14 OR 15 DAYS | FROM $10,400.00pp
2026 Apr., Sep. | 2027 May, Oct.
National Geographic Venture, National Geographic Quest

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Hike the forests and shorelines of Alaska, British Columbia, and the San Juan Islands, and cruise remote inlets and bays in search of wildlife.
  • By special permit, spend a full day cruising Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve.
  • Visit Alert Bay, one of the oldest First Nations village sites in British Columbia, and participate in culture-sharing with the Kwakwaka’wakw people.
  • In Misty Fjords National Monument, Zodiac cruise along sheer, glacially carved cliffs and forested backwaters.
  • Search for marine mammals, including humpbacks, Pacific white-sided dolphins, sea lions, and more from the bow of a small ship.
  • Explore the wild and remote areas of Southeast Alaska by special use permit with the Tongass National Forest.

Voyage to Alaska, British Columbia and Haida Gwaii

15 DAYS | FROM $11,189.00pp
2026 Apr., Aug., Sep.
National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Spend four days in Haida Gwaii, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with special access to their mossy forests and protected ancestral sites.
  • Actively explore where iconic wildlife can be spotted—whales, bears, eagles, and more.
  • By special permit, spend a full day cruising Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve.
  • Explore at water level in Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm for an up-close view of calving glaciers and towering forests.
  • Explore the wild and remote areas of Southeast Alaska by special use permit with the Tongass National Forest.

Voyage to Alaska, the Great Bear Rainforest and San Juan Islands

14 DAYS | FROM $10,440.00pp
2026-2027 Sep.
National Geographic Venture

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Take kayaks and Zodiacs deep into verdant fjords and to wildlife-rich shores in search of bears, golden eagles, river otters, and more.
  • Journey into the most pristine forests in the region, inaccessible by road and managed by First Nations people.
  • Cruise the eastern coast of Princess Royal Island in search of the elusive spirit bear, a rare but thrilling sighting.
  • Hike the San Juan Islands, and cruise nearby waters in British Columbia where orcas gather annually to hunt.
  • Explore at water level in Tracy Arm for an up-close view of calving glaciers, towering forests, and harbor seals afloat on iridescent icebergs.
  • Explore the wild and remote areas of Southeast Alaska by special use permit with the Tongass National Forest.

Exploring British Columbia and the San Juan Islands

8 DAYS | FROM $5,954.00pp
2026-2027 Oct.
National Geographic Venture

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Kayak, hike, and explore aboard Zodiacs along the wildlife-rich coasts of Desolation Sound and the Gulf Islands.
  • Visit Alert Bay, one of the oldest First Nations village sites in British Columbia, and participate in culture-sharing with the Kwakwaka’wakw people.
  • Explore the San Juan Islands and learn about local orca populations from a researcher at the Center for Whale Research.
  • In lovely Victoria, tour private gardens, take a bike ride, and enjoy a private evening event at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria.
  • Search for marine mammals, including humpbacks, Pacific white-sided dolphins, sea lions, and more from the bow of a small ship.

A person paddling a canoe on a calm lake with majestic mountains in the background, representing the Denali National Park extension.

Extend Your Adventure: Denali National Park

Explore the heart of Alaska by extending your expedition to Denali National Park & Preserve. Venture into Alaska’s wild backcountry alongside local experts with in-depth knowledge of the region’s epic landscapes and diverse wildlife.

PRE- OR POST-VOYAGE | 7 DAYS | FROM $10,900.00pp

Travel inland to Denali National Park & Preserve aboard first-class, glass-dome railcars on the Alaska Railroad, and settle into the Grande Denali Lodge, a prime basecamp near the park entrance. Spot wildlife on a tour of the tundra, raft the Nenana River, and meet the sled dogs of Iditarod champion Jeff King. You may also opt for a scenic flightseeing excursion around Denali’s soaring peak. Your adventure concludes in Anchorage with a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Museum.

What’s Included and More: Inclusive Pricing & Special Offers

Lindblad Expeditions ensures a comprehensive and worry-free experience with inclusive pricing and ongoing promotions.

Ongoing Promotions:

Offers are valid for new bookings only,subject to availability and may not be combined with other offers unless otherwise noted. Call for details.

  • Bringing the Kids: Save $500.00 on cabin fare for each child under the age of 18 on any departure. Not applicable on extensions or airfare.
  • 10% Off Back-to-Back Voyages: Save 10% on consecutive back-to-back departures. Applicable on cabin fares only and not valid on extensions or airfare.
  • Save 5% Traveling as a Group: Save 5% when traveling as a group of eight or more adults over age 18. Valid on cabin fares only and not applicable on extensions or airfare. Deposit, final payments and cancellation policies for group travel vary from regular policies.
  • Celebrate Life’s Milestones: Celebrate a milestone with a group of eight or more and enjoy a special amenity package that includes: 5% savings on cabin fares, custom group photo, a total of $150.00 shipboard credits for the group and other special gifts. $150.00 shipboard credit is allocated to the lead guest on the booking. Milestone celebration to be communicated at time of booking. Not applicable on airfare or extensions. Deposit, final payments and cancellation policies for group travel vary from regular policies.
  • Combining Offers: Certain offers may be combinable for up to two savings opportunities except where noted otherwise. For example, travel with a group of eight or more on back-to-back voyages and take advantage of both savings.

Inclusive Pricing: Your Voyage, All-In

Your Lindblad expedition is designed to be all-inclusive, covering nearly every aspect of your journey so you can focus on discovery.

  • Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers as indicated in the itinerary.
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and on shore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible.
  • Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible.
  • 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water.
  • Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs, kayaks, and other state-of-the-art gear.
  • Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers.
  • Guidance and company of leading expedition staff.
  • Onboard physician consultations.
  • Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available.
  • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces.
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations.
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes.
  • Beer, Wine and Spirits: Your bar tab is included on all departures. Premium brands available for purchase.

Private Charters: The Ultimate Expedition Experience

A private charter with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions offers the ultimate expedition experience for your group. Whether you’re hosting a board meeting, staff incentive trip, or family celebration, a small ship can be exclusively yours. Venture deep into the world’s most extraordinary places, traveling responsibly and with purpose. Each voyage blends the exclusivity of private travel with the depth of Lindblad’s expedition heritage, inspiring meaningful connection—to one another and to the wild world around you.

Lia Vincent

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.