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National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions Unveils First-Ever European River Expedition Season

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Published
05/30/2025 by

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is on a mission to reframe river cruising in the way only the global leader and pioneer of modern expedition cruising could with the launch of its first-ever European river expeditions.

Beginning April 2026, the brand will debut two new eight-day itineraries sailing along the Rhine—including sailings from Amsterdam to Brussels and Cologne to Basel—aboard the newly built 120-guest Connect. Constructed in 2025, Connect is a brand-new, state-of-the-art European river ship with cutting-edge technology, luxurious amenities and wrap-around picture windows designed to sail through the heart of Europe's storied destinations.

"We're delighted to bring National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions' bold new vision of European river expeditions to our guests," said Natalya Leahy, CEO, Lindblad Expeditions. "These new itineraries are crafted with the same pioneering spirit that defines our expeditions around the world, delivering deeply immersive, authentic, and all-inclusive experiences of these destinations. Guided by veteran expedition leaders and National Geographic experts, enriched by exclusive experiences ashore and aboard a brand-new, state-of-the-art river vessel, these voyages are proof that 'how you see it matters.'"

 

2026 Rhine River: Castles, Culture and Culinary Delights (Eight Days):
Sail along the iconic Rhine River, a spectacularly scenic route lined with stirring history, stunning landscapes and exceptional cuisine. Pass through the dramatic Rhine Gorge with its rolling hills and lush vineyards before calling on a medley of charming towns, from Germany's Mainz, Frankfurt and Heidelberg to Strasbourg and Colmar in France's Alsace region. Along the way, explore ancient castles, stroll cobblestoned streets, and indulge in private wine tastings and traditional feasts.

Itinerary highlights include:

  • Sailing through the majestic Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the romantic Rheinstein Castle, where guests will be invited to an exclusive reception hosted by the castle's lord
  • A variety of private tastings throughout the voyage, from Riesling tastings served by the resident nuns at St. Hildegard Abbey to a variety of wines at the historic Cave Historique des Hospices de Strasbourg, home to one of the world's oldest wines
  • In Frankfurt, touring the home of famed German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe on a private visit
  • Dining with university students in Heidelburg, discovering what daily life is like at one of Germany's oldest academic institutions


2026 Holland and Belgium: Medieval History and Scenic Waterways (Eight Days):
Journey along the Rhine and other picturesque waterways of Holland and Belgium, where centuries of rich culture, art and history come to life amidst vibrant tulip fields, iconic windmills and fairytale towns. Travel down Amsterdam's scenic canals, call on historic cities such as Antwerp and Delft, and take in the serene Dutch countryside while delving into the region's defining artistic legacy, deep-rooted Jewish history and culinary delights.

Itinerary highlights include:

  • Spring-time strolls through more than seven million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths at Keukenhof, known as the "Garden of Europe"
  • Witnessing the works of masters like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer and more with exclusive, after-hours tours at the Kröller-Müller and Mauritshuis Museums
  • Indulging in incredible culinary experiences throughout the voyage, from a progressive food tour of Belgian specialties in Antwerp to curated dinners onboard featuring local flavors


Each voyage will be staffed by one of the brand's veteran Expedition Leaders, several knowledgeable Field Staff, and at least one National Geographic Expert. Field Staff will guide guests on private tours, exclusive tastings, and expertly curated experiences synonymous with the co-brand.

For more than 50 years, Lindblad Expeditions has explored some of the most iconic waterways—including the Peruvian Amazon, the Nile in Egypt, and the Columbia and Snake Rivers in the United States' Pacific Northwest—however, this launch will mark a historic first for the company, which has never offered river expeditions in Europe before.

The chartering of the brand-new river long-ship Connect also marks a notable expansion of Lindblad Expeditions' expedition cruise portfolio; with this addition, the Lindblad Expeditions fleet now consisting of 23 owned and chartered mission-built expedition ships that it operates on behalf of the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions co-brand.

To learn more about National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions' new European river expeditions and Connect, visit www.expeditions.com/destinations/europe-rivers. For reservations or additional information on voyages to many of the most beautiful, remote, and fascinating places on Earth, visit www.expeditions.com, call (855) 734-3271 to speak to an Expedition Specialist, or contact a travel advisor. 

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