Lindblad Expeditions is set to launch its first-ever European river cruises in 2026 following the signing of a multi-year charter agreement with Transcend Cruises, marking a major new chapter for the expedition cruise pioneer.
The strategic partnership, announced on 6 May 2025, will extend through at least 2028 and expand the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions co-branded operations into Europe’s iconic riverways.
A new frontier for expedition cruising
Known for redefining adventure travel at sea, Lindblad Expeditions will bring its hallmark depth of exploration to Europe’s rivers for the first time, beginning in 2026. The new product line, dubbed “River Expeditions,” aims to deliver immersive journeys through the continent’s most storied waterways aboard luxury newbuild ships operated by Transcend Cruises.
“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,” said Lindblad Expeditions CEO Natalya Leahy.
“We’ve curated these voyages with the same care, expertise and spirit of discovery that define all of our expeditions.”
Custom-designed vessels, tailored for exploration
The river cruises will be conducted on state-of-the-art vessels designed by Transcend Cruises with Lindblad guests in mind. These ships will combine luxury with functionality, offering both premium comfort and dedicated space for expert-led lectures, wellness programming, and intimate group exploration.
“Transcend Cruises is extremely pleased to join Lindblad Expeditions in a symbiotic partnership,” said Hans Rood, CEO of Transcend Cruises.
“Our new ships are ideally suited to support Lindblad’s thoughtful, enriching travel style—with wellness, sustainability and expert service at the core.”
Deep discovery with National Geographic experts
Each itinerary will be staffed by Lindblad’s veteran Expedition Leaders, Field Staff and at least one National Geographic Expert. These guides will lead guests through specially curated experiences, including private cultural tours, exclusive tastings, and immersive storytelling that highlight the rich history and ecology of Europe’s riverside towns and cities.
The European expansion builds on Lindblad’s five-decade history of operating on iconic rivers like the Amazon, the Nile, and the Columbia and Snake Rivers. This new series of European river expeditions signals the brand’s boldest diversification yet.
Itineraries and ship details coming soon
The first season of National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions river voyages in Europe and details of the new Transcend Cruises vessel will be announced in the coming weeks.
