National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has released new details of its entry into European river expeditions, which will debut with two new eight-day itineraries on the Rhine River beginning in April 2026.
The company will operate these expeditions onboard the newly built, 120-guest Connect, a river vessel constructed in 2025 featuring wrap-around picture windows and designed for European waterways.
"We're delighted to bring National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions' bold new vision of European river expeditions to our guests," said Natalya Leahy, CEO of 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 onboard a brand-new, state-of-the-art river vessel, these voyages are proof that 'how you see it matters.'"
The two new itineraries include Rhine River: Castles, Culture and Culinary Delights, featuring visits to Germany's Mainz, Frankfurt and Heidelberg, as well as France's Strasbourg and Colmar, with activities including sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage Rhine Gorge and a reception at Rheinstein Castle.
The second itinerary, Holland and Belgium: Medieval History and Scenic Waterways, traverses the waterways of Holland and Belgium with stops in Amsterdam, Antwerp and Delft. Activities include spring visits to Keukenhof gardens and after-hours tours at the Kroller-Muller and Mauritshuis Museums.
Each expedition will be staffed by a Lindblad Expedition Leader, field staff and at least one National Geographic Expert who will guide guests through private tours and experiences.
While Lindblad Expeditions has operated river expeditions in regions including the Peruvian Amazon, the Nile, and the Columbia and Snake Rivers in the U.S. for more than 50 years, this marks the brand’s first venture into European river expeditions.
The addition of the chartered Connect vessel expands Lindblad's fleet to 23 owned and chartered expedition ships operating under the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions co-brand.
Early access reservations are currently available to past guests, with public bookings opening May 20, 2025.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. It has been fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
