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I like what I see and would like to travel with Lindblad Expeditions (LEX) How do I make a reservation?
It's easy. Just see your travel agent or call our highly knowledgeable Expedition Specialists at 1-800-EXPEDITION (1-800-397-3348), or 212-765-7740. Our reservation hours are: Monday through Friday, 9am to 8pm (ET) and Saturday and Sunday 10am to 5pm (ET).
For your convenience, we are glad to accept payment by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover or by personal check.
What is the style of travel on a Lindblad Expeditions journey? What kind of clothing do I need to bring?
Our style is always informal. The relaxed atmosphere of every journey, a LEX hallmark, is something our travelers tell us they particularly enjoy. There is never a need for fancy clothing, so our recommendations on your travel wardrobe are all about comfort, practicality and likely conditions in the region you're exploring. You'll find a “What to Pack” (as well as a “What to Read”) link included in every expedition itinerary section on our web site. You'll also find a link for LEXpedition Gear, our online store, which specializes in the kind of clothing, footwear and accessory items suited to expedition travel. A special note about footwear: As you can imagine, the wrong footwear can ruin your travel plans. Good walking shoes (whether for warm or cold climates) are essential. And in destinations where waterproof rubber boots are recommended for possible “wet” landings in a Zodiac, our Expedition Team is fond of answering: “Yes, please wear the boots!”
What will I do each day on a Lex ship-based journeys?
You will always have choices and boredom isnot an option. The details will vary accordingto your destination, but typically there will be at least one, and probably two or more excursions each day. We usually land somewhere that gives you a choice of activities: a short walk or a longer hike, birdwatching, snorkeling or beachcombing—or kayaking, snorkeling or scuba diving where available. You might choose to explore on your own, or else go in the company of one of our expedition staff members. In a cultural destination like Stockholm or Gdansk, you’ll have a guided introduction to the city, followed by plenty of built-in time to explore on your own: to enjoy a sidewalk café, mingle with the locals at a pub, or pursue your own interests. Our staff has the creativity and connections, for example, to organize an impromptu bicycle excursion, a photo walk, or entrance to a special church or synagogue. And, you’ll always have the option to simply relax and read on deck amid spectacular surroundings. Since our pace is unhurried, there is time to do any on of a number of different things.
What are Lindblad Expeditions' ships like?
Lindblad Expeditions' ships include the Sea Bird and Sea Lion, Polaris, Islander, National Geographic Endeavour and Sea Voyager. They are highly comfortable, have a generous amount of public space, and are superbly equipped to travel in the remote places they go. You can read more about our fleet in the “Story of our Company” in the About Us section of the site. In addition, we charter the Sea Cloud II, River Cloud, Triton, Panorama and Lord of the Glens. A link to the relevant ship's layout and description is included in every expedition itinerary section as well.
Lindblad Expeditions often refers to the value of flexible schedules. What does this mean to me?
Often, the most memorable events are those that are unplanned. That's why every LEX itinerary has flexibility built into the schedule. On some of our journeys, in fact, whole days are left open for exploring. So, if we happen to encounter a blue whale or a school of dolphins, for example, we'll be afforded the luxury of taking the time to stop and watch rather than having to rush off somewhere else. To get a sense of what these adventurous, open-ended days are like, spend some time reading our Daily Expedition Reports (DERs). You can read the top ten or browse in our archive, looking at the destination and time of year that most interests you.
You frequently mention the Zodiac landing craft that your ships carry. What makes them so special?
They're one of the keys to our style of expedition travel. The best thing about the Zodiacs is that they allow us to go almost anywhere, anytime. We can venture to places where larger vessels can't go, such as remote bays and inlets, and we can get everyone aboard on a moment's notice. With the combination of our agile ships and our fleet of Zodiacs, we're not tied to established ports of call.
Lindblad Expeditions is proud to team with Zodiac of North America, Inc. as their first expedition travel company. To learn more about their line of strong and versatile craft, visit www.zodiac.com.
I saw a photo of somebody in a kayak near an iceberg in one of your brochures. Is that possible? Do you arrange for kayaking excursions?
It is most definitely possible, in fact, count on it! LEX pioneered kayaking in Antarctica in 2000 and in Galapagos in 2005. And we don't “arrange for excursions,” we travel with our own kayaks. All our six ships (Sea Bird and Lion, Polaris, Islander, National Geographic Endeavour and Sea Voyager) are equipped with an onboard fleet of kayaks—to give our guests the opportunity for personal, "eye-level" encounters with beauty and wildness in all the pristine places we explore.
Your expedition team members seem to be a big part of each Lindblad Expeditions journey. What makes them special?
The LEX team makes all the difference in the world; in fact, what most sets us apart from other companies is the high caliber of the people who lead our journeys. You'll be escorted (as appropriate to the destination) by Naturalists, Historians, Geologists, Archaeologists, Marine Biologists and experts on local cultures, with a very high ratio of staff members to quests. In addition to being knowledgeable companions in the field, our team members are also entertaining andengaging social companions—you'll enjoy talking with them over drinks in the Lounge and at dinner, too.
How is a Lindblad Expedition different from a tour?
Our expeditions bring you up close to the wildlife and cultural sites of a region, giving you a deeper appreciation of each place. You're accompanied by experts, and you typically have a wide choice of activities. And it's important to note that you'll be in a small group, where you receive personal attention and have your questions answered.
What's the difference between a Lindblad Expeditions small-ship voyage and a regular cruise?
There's a huge difference. In the table below, we've summarized the things that distinguish our voyages from a cruise. | Conventional Cruise | Lindblad Expedition | | Hundreds or thousands of passengers | 30-110 guests | | Social director or guest lecturer | A highly qualified, personable Expedition Team accompanies you throughout and is made up of Naturalists, Historians and other specialists (depending on destination) | | Restricted to ports of call | Zodiac landing craft allow you to disembark and explore almost anywhere | | Fixed itinerary | Flexible itinerary that takes advantage of unexpected events | | Lots of optional extra-cost items such as shore excursions | Practically everything included | | "Las-Vegas" style entertainment | Slide shows, videos, undersea cameras, video microscopes, and informal talks about the destination; plenty of laughter | | Formal dress at dinner, assigned seating | Informal dress at all times; tables are unassigned | | Good food (usually) | Great food (always) that reflects the local cuisine of the destination |
Why is My LEX Login not working?
· To correctly display past expeditions, please make sure to enter your information exactly as it was when you took your last expedition.
· Use the exact name (include any hyphens and/or spaces) and the zip code you had at the time of your trip.
· If you have traveled with or are planning totravel with a group, unfortunately we are not able to display your trip information at this time.
· If you any further questions or your login fails, please contact us via phone at 1.800.EXPEDITION or by e-mail at explore@expeditions.com
What makes a Lindblad Expedition special?
Top 10 Reasons to Travel with Lindblad Expeditions. . . - The world's most interesting destinations. Read about the places we call "capitals of wildness," and you'll see that we go to where unsullied beauty still reigns.
- Expeditions, not tours. We bring adventure to travel by taking small groups to special places for unique and exclusive encounters with nature.
- Thoughtfully planned itineraries. There's a connectedness to our expeditions that gives youa deeper sense and a richer understanding ofeach place we visit.
- Engaging experts. Our Naturalists and Historians are true experts in their fields. And they, along with our invited Guest Lecturers, are also excellent travel companions, always available for questions and casual conversation.
- Our Undersea Program. Our ability to reveal the undersea to you and provide kayaking experiences virtually anywhere we go are some of the unique ways we open new doors of discovery.
- Flexibility, spontaneity and freedom. We take those often magical opportunities to experience nature's unplanned events. You don't have to fear being wrenched away from a marvelous sighting by a rigid schedule.
- The world's most interesting guests. Our guests have a lot in common: an innate curiosity and spirit that produces great camaraderie, great conversation and, often, lasting friendships.
- Fine food and accommodations. Expedition does not mean deprivation: skillfully prepared and presented regional cuisine and comfortable quarters make pleasure a significant part of the expedition adventure.
- Relaxed and informal atmosphere. Casual clothes and a matching attitude are our hallmarks: no need to dress up, and many opportunities for fun and laughter.
- Respect for our world. We travel in an environmentally responsible manner. And we donate funds, time and resources, often in partnership with our guests, to protect or restore the world's wildernesses.
And more… Our groundbreaking alliance with the National Geographic Society inspires people to explore and care about the planet, and provides our guests with access to the best underwater observation and research tools, along with opportunities to participate in meaningful scientific research with world-class experts.
What about sightseeing, are there extra costs?
Activities and shore excursions are included in the cost of every Lindblad Expedition. We don't want you to miss out on anything. Many cruise lines charge you extra, often hundreds of dollars, to see the sites that prompted you to book in the first place. With Lindblad, all activities and sightseeing are included-from guided walks to museum entrance fees to water activities like kayaking and snorkeling-and you won't be locked-in to a pre-booked excursion. You'll always have the freedom to pick and choose activities as your day unfolds. After all, these are not scheduled tours, these are expeditions. Every one is different-every day is different.
What will we do in the evenings?
Entertainment onboard stems from the day's explorations: films and informal talks about the destination, videos from the day's undersea explorations, perhaps a performance by local dancers or musicians-and plenty of laughter. Most evenings, we gather in the ship's lounge for a LEX tradition called "recap," where the expedition staff members talk about what you experienced that day and what to anticipate tomorrow. It's a lively forum for questions and answers. Inevitably, the sense of discovery, learning and fun that pervades each "recap" becomes an eagerly anticipated part of the day.
What is the food like? Can I get low-fat, low-salt or vegetarian options?
Every destination has a "flavor." And we believe our guests should have every opportunity to "taste" the destination. A great deal of thought goes into what we serve. With every voyage on every ship we make an effort to bring regional flavors to your table with fresh, local fruits, vegetables and spices. And our sustainable seafood program aims to serve locally caught or harvested fresh seafood.
Full buffet breakfasts, casual lunches, and leisurely dinners with plenty of choice are served in our comfortable dining rooms in an open, single-seating dining environment, or on deck or even ashore on a remote beach. If you have special dietary restrictions, please let us know in advance and we will accommodate you.
What's included in the cost? Are there any hidden charges-for port taxes, for example-that are not included?
LEX costs are all-inclusive: - All ship and hotel accommodations
- All meals aboard ship and most meals ashore except when an itinerary provides an "at your leisure" morning, afternoon or evening. All non-alcoholic beverages aboard ship.
- Tips, taxes, port charges and service charges (gratuities to ship's crew at your own discretion)
- All shore excursions and sightseeing, entrance fees, special access permits.
- Transfers to and from group flights
- Use of sea kayaks, snorkeling gear and Zodiac excursions
- Services of a ship's physician on international voyages (please inquire)
- Services of our Expedition Team and special National Geographic Guest Speakers
International airfare is always shown as a separate cost since many of our travelers prefer to use their Frequent Flyer miles. There are never hidden charges, like port charges. Of course, you'll want to check carefully the inclusions for the journey you've selected, but you can rest assured there will be nothing hidden.
Are there any special incentives I should know about?
$250 Early-Booking Incentive: We are pleased to offer an early-booking savings incentive. Reserve your place nine months (275 days or more) prior to the departure date of your selected expedition and receive a $250 per person early-booking reduction.
Bringing the Kids: We believe sharing an expedition with your kids or grandkids is a life-enhancing experience. So, take $500 off the double occupancy rate for each person under 18.
Bringing a Group: For your party of eight people or more, you will each receive 5% off the cost of your expedition. A deposit of 10% of the trip cost is required at the time of reservation, and an additional 25% is required 120 days in advance. Final payment is due 90 days in advance (excludes extension and airfare.) Note: if taking advantage of this discount, a variation of the cancellation policy will apply. Please ask upon making your reservation.
Back-to-Back Savings: Save 10% on any consecutive journeys taken aboard one of our expedition ships (excludes extensions and airfares.)
The Flexible Traveler Plan*: You can save $500 on any of our expeditions that offer Flexible Traveler Savings. Make your reservation by selecting the month in which you'd like to travel and choose your cabin category. Then, if space is available one month prior to your selected travel month, we will inform you of your specific departure date.
*Note: Availability may be limited for the Flexible Traveler Plan. To reserve your place, an advance payment for the program as outlined is required at the time of reservation. If, for any reason, we are unable to provide you with a departure date or the cabin category of your choice, you will receive a full refund plus a travel certificate worth $250 per person to be used on any Lindblad Expeditions voyage. If we offer you a departure date and you decline to take it, you will forfeit your advance payment. Final payment is due seven days after you are confirmed on a departure.
Our Policy on Combining Offers: If the expedition that interests you provides more than one savings opportunity (e.g. it is eligible for Flexible Traveler and Kids savings), we won't make you choose between them-you may combine up to two offers from any of the applicable savings offers.
Value Voucher: You, our guest comes first to us. So, in the event that we discount a departure for which you are booked, we will extend you the courtesy of a matching discount. You'll receive a certificate representing the value of the promotional discount, which can be applied to any future Lindblad Expeditions voyage. It is transferable at your discretion.
I'm planning a trip with my family. Is LEX a good choice for families traveling together?
Families are welcome at any time on any of our expeditions, and our leading family destinations are Alaska, Baja California, Galapagos and Central America.
The number of families traveling with Lindblad Expeditions has grown substantially in the last four years, so much so that LEX will have staff on all Alaska, Galapagos, Costa Rica Family and Greek Isles Family departures that know how to inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. These staff members have gone through a course designed by several of Lindblad's family travel experts with years of experience in childhood and environmental education. The course has also been created in conjunction with the National Geographic Education department and NG Kids Magazine. And don't worry - the primary emphasis is on fun. After all, you are on vacation! LEX has also created a new educational activity book series for kids last year. Archie Comics illustrator Stan Goldberg traveled with us to Galapagos and Alaska and created child explorer "Little Lin" as an inspiration from his travels.
And finally, if you look at other family travel offerings, you'll notice a considerable emphasis on keeping young people and adults separate. While this may appeal to many, it is certainly not our thrust. We emphasize shared experiences, and while there are always some activities just for children or adults, most of what we do is done together. Destinations with an emphasis on nature are perfect for families to share in the expedition experience. Kids and parents or grandparents can, for example depending on the destination: observe the wildlife, walk through rain forests, swim from isolated beaches or kayak in remote waters. Everyone's on the same wavelength; it's that simple.
I am traveling solo, please tell me what I can expect.
A growing number of men and women are traveling alone today, either by choice or necessity. LEX has always welcomed the independent traveler. You'll find expedition life is very conducive to traveling solo. You'll travel with fellow guests who have similar interests, making it easy to mingle. In the Dining Room, meals are served in a single seating with unassigned tables and odd-numbered seats-so it's easy to pull up a chair and make new friends. And, if you'd like to share cabin costs, we are glad to try to arrange for a roommate for you.
I'm interested in photography and notice your trips sometimes have photographers aboard. What level of expertise is necessary to participate?
Travel and photography go hand in hand. And, with the partnership between LEX and National Geographic, it's natural that photography has become a vital component of our expeditions. In 2008, we're taking photography a step further.
Beginning in March 2008, all expeditions aboard National GeographicEndeavour will feature a National Geographic Photographer teamed with a LEX Photo Specialist as part of our expedition staff. And, while all of our expeditions offer a full contingent of specialists to give you plenty of options and an in-depth experience-Naturalists, Marine Biologists, Archaeologists, Birders, Undersea Specialist, Wellness Specialist and other experts-our Photo Team is there to help you take the best travel photographs of your life whether you're an interested beginner or seasoned pro. Also, designated Photo Expeditions on our other ships in Alaska, Baja and Galapagos will team a LEX Photo Specialist and a National Geographic Photographer, who will tailor daily activities to maximize photo ops and present an array of instructional photo talks.
The Photo Team can enhance everyone's voyage with useful tips for improving your travel and wildlife images, strategies for being in the right place at the right time, and time-saving hints for editing and storing digital images. Everyone can now take advantage of these added options: - Travel with a National Geographic Photographer
- In-the-moment tips to help you maximize photo ops
- The option to join Zodiac cruises & walks ashore devoted to photography
- Presentations on the creative and technical aspects of photography
- One-on-one mentoring and coaching in the field
- Voyage slideshows for everyone to enjoy
While you may choose to make photography a part of your experience, all of our expeditions provide a variety of activities for all our guests. So, bring your friends and family-but don't forget your camera.
Will I have access onboard to e-mail and the internet? May I bring my laptop?
All six LEX ships (Sea Bird and Lion, Polaris, Islander, National GeographicEndeavour and Sea Voyager) are equipped with satellite communications for e-mail and internet access, telephone and fax for which charges apply. E-mail access via our satellite internet system is available 24 hours a day through the purchase of pre-paid internet access debit cards onboard. Once purchased, the debit cards can be used to access the internet on your personal laptop at select wireless access points onboard, or at the Internet Kiosks. National Geographic Endeavour cabins are equipped with cables to access the satellite internet system on your laptop. Additional information will be provided in your final documents.
Tell me more about the ship cabins and shipboard amenities.
Our cabins are tastefully decorated and comfortable, all have wonderful outside views. Here's an A-Z list of GENERAL INFORMATION you may find useful.
AIR CONDITIONING
The ships are air conditioned and heated throughout. Each cabin has its own thermostat, allowing you to control the temperature level in your cabin.
BEAUTY SALON / HAIR STYLING SERVICES
Beauty salon and hair styling services are available aboard National Geographic Endeavour, including manicures and pedicures. Appointments for these chargeable services may be made on board.
CABIN AMENITIES
We supply 100% natural, biodegradable conditioning shampoo, body wash and body lotion. If you choose to bring your own shampoo and/or conditioner, we recommend that you bring biodegradable products.
CHILDREN
We believe sharing an expedition with your kids or grandkids is a life-enhancing experience. So, take $500 off the double occupancy rate for each personunder 18.
COMMUNICATIONS
Prior to your departure date, we will provide you with a list of port contacts and phone numbers, indicating how you can be reached in case of emergency.
CURRENCY AND CREDIT CARDS
In foreign ports, a small amount of local currency will be available for exchange aboard ship. All services and products purchased on board the ship may be paid for by cash, check or charge (American Express, VISA, MasterCard and Discover Card).
DINING
There will be one open seating for all meals, with tables unassigned to encourage mingling. The meal hours will be posted in the Daily Program.
DOCTOR
There is a doctor on board international voyages (excludes any domestic U.S. voyages) and his or her services are provided free of charge. The doctor is available at any time in case of emergency. Please inquire about a doctor for your individual expedition.
ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES
In general, each cabin is equipped with at least one 110v (American) electrical outlet which can be used for electric razors and other small devices. Hair dryers are available in each cabin or from the Hotel Manager. Additional outlets can be found in the cabins that are either 110v (American) or 220v (European). For vessels with 220v (European) electrical outlets, adapter plugs or converters are available from the Hotel Manager.
ELEVATOR
None of our ships have elevators.
E-MAIL / INTERNET ACCESS
E-mail and Internet access are available on all six LEX ships. Your personal e-mail and internet may be accessed from your own personal laptop or at the state-of-the-art Internet Kiosk onboard. Charges apply.
EXPEDITION STAFF
One of the most important aspects of every Lindblad Expedition is the knowledge of our terrific staff of Naturalists, Biologists, Oceanographers, Historians and other specialists who provide talks, guidance ashore and daily camaraderie. These people will greatly enhance your experience, sharing special insights into areas of the world they know intimately.
FITNESS EQUIPMENT
Four of our ships (Polaris, Islander, National Geographic Endeavour and Sea Voyager) feature a fitness center with gym equipment. The Sea Bird and Sea Lion carry exercise equipment on deck. All six ships have a Wellness Program with elements ranging from kayaking and hiking, to exercises inspired by yoga and Pilates, massage therapy and body treatments.
GRATUITIES
All gratuities ashore are included in your expedition cost. Gratuities to crew aboard ship are at your own discretion.
KAYAKS
Kayaking provides one of the best means for personal exploration in the areas we travel. Therefore, we've outfitted our ships with a fleet of them-not just a symbolic kayak or two, but enough for everyone who wants to participate. They are very stable and easy to master for novices and experts alike. There is something special about being alone, or with a partner in our double kayaks, paddling along a remote coastline. Lindblad pioneered kayaking from expedition ships in both the Arctic and Antarctic, and Lindblad is the first company of its kind to be awarded unique permits for kayaking in the fragile Galapagos environment.
LAUNDRY
Laundry services are available at an additional charge aboard Polaris, Islander, National Geographic Endeavour and Sea Voyager.
LIBRARY
Each ship features an onboard library with an extensive selection of books pertaining to your destination.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Photo guidelines for your particular destination will be sent with your documents, covering tips for lighting, etc. For those interested in downloading digital photos aboard any of our six ships, there is a digital photo kiosk which will enable you to download various types of digital media to CD-ROM. Recordable CD-ROMs may be purchased in the LEXmarket (gift shop).
PORTHOLES
On all of our six ships (Sea Bird and Sea Lion, Polaris, Islander, National Geographic Endeavour and Sea Voyager) there are large view windows in all of the Dining Rooms and Lounges. Some cabin windows can be opened, although most are secured for safety reasons. Some portholes may be covered during portions of voyages due to rough seas.
SMOKING
For the comfort of all our guests, smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas.
SNORKELING
Snorkels, masks, fins and beach towels are available on board our six ships (Sea Bird and Lion, Polaris, Islander, National Geographic Endeavour and Sea Voyager.) To ensure a perfect fit, you may want to bring your own mask and snorkel. For your convenience, on select itineraries we will provide shorty wetsuits for snorkeling. Our goal is to ease packing restrictions and provide added comfort in the water. Wetsuits will be available on board in a range of adult sizes XS, S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL. Unfortunately, due to storage constraints, we are unable to provide children's wetsuits, as they often require special fitting and to provide a sufficient range of sizes is beyond our capacity. We advocate the buddy system for everyone, at all times. It is highly recommended that children 12 years of age and under be accompanied by an adult and wear an inflatable snorkel vest while snorkeling.
TELEPHONE & FAX
Telephone calls and fax transmissions are available at an additional charge.
UNDERSEA
Our six vessels are outfitted with panoply of underwater exploration equipment, ranging from snorkeling gear to high-tech imaging systems. Bow cams or hydrophones bring to life the sights and sounds beneath the sea, kayaks allow us to silently explore a cove or inlet under our own power, and our Undersea Specialists dive in remote locations like Antarctica and Arctic Norway for a look at marine life below the surface. These tools allow us to go further and get closer to nature's wonders. For more information on our Undersea Program, go to the "About Us" section of our web site, and click on "Tools for Exploration."
VALUABLES
While our ships are not equipped with safety deposit boxes in the cabins, most have small locking drawers with a key where you can keep your valuables. As our vessel safes are quite small, ournormal policy is that the ships cannot accept custody or responsibility for guests' valuables while on board.
VIDEO CHRONICLER
A video chronicler accompanies every expedition. We send our Video Chroniclers "on assignment" to remote corners of the globe 365 days a year. With cameras at-the-ready 24 hours a day and seven days a week, these talented professionals have just one goal: to capture the essence of each expedition for you. A Voyage DVD will be available for purchase at the end of your expedition - proof of your intrepid spirit!
WELLNESS PROGRAM
Exploring the world can be a powerful reenergizing tonic. To that end, we are delighted to offer you more options to tap into your own personal wellness goals and help you rest and rejuvenate as best we can. Our Tonic of Wellness is a holistic approach that includes many levels of choice for you-with wellness elements ranging from massages and body treatments to activities with more fitness in mind. Our staff will provide expertise in massage therapy and relaxation, water sports and aerobic hikes, stretching classes with poses inspired by Yoga or Pilates, personalized guidance with the fitness equipment, and more. Our goal is not a one model fits all, but rather a multi-tiered approach to exploration and rejuvenation.
ZODIACS
Key to our operation is our fleet of Zodiacs, which we use to land on remote islands that would otherwise be inaccessible. These sturdy inflatable rubber boats are the same craft that Jacques Cousteau used in his expeditions for over 30 years. They are widely recognized as the safest and most versatile small boats afloat. The Zodiacs we use are 19 feet long, powered by outboard engines, and are capable of carrying 12 to 14 people with ease.
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