Our Heritage in the Antarctic

On September 20, 1958, Lars-Eric Lindblad, considered by many the father of eco-tourism, opened the doors to his new company, Lindblad Travel, in New York City. As his company continued to grow, he searched for new places on the map. In 1966, Lindblad brought the first group of "citizen" explorers to Antarctica.

He initially operated his pioneering Antarctic voyages with chartered vessels. However, within two years he decided to build his own ship — to run expeditions the way he wanted, and to exercise the level of control and reliability he considered vital. The original Lindblad Explorer was launched in 1969.

In the subsequent 40-plus years since Lars-Eric's pioneering voyage, the collective polar intelligence of Lindblad Expeditions has grown exponentially. As a result, Lindblad knows Antarctica to a greater degree than any other company voyaging there. And we have remained committed to owning and operating our own expedition ships.

Sven Lindblad. Lindblad Cove, Antarctica 2011

In 1996, the US Geological Society recognized Lindblad's contribution to Antarctica by officially designating a section of Trinity Peninsula as "Lindblad Cove." Their letter stated, "A noted conservationist, Mr. Lindblad operated the first cruise to Antarctica in 1966 and was a leader in the concept of expedition tourism as a means of environmental awareness."

In January 2011, Sven Lindblad returned to Antarctica, and visited Lindblad Cove, an extraordinary piece of polar real estate, for the first time.

The Lindblad Expeditions
National Geographic Alliance

Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic have joined forces to further inspire the world through expedition travel. Our collaboration in exploration, research, technology and conservation will provide extraordinary travel experiences and disseminate geographic knowledge around the globe.

 

 

 

 

National Geographic has brought the world to adventurous readers for more than 100 years. And Lindblad has been bringing adventurous travelers out into the world — to Antarctica and other pristine places — for nearly 50 years. Our alliance guarantees top-tier professionals on board and a richer, deeper experience on the land.

Through this alliance of two exploration pioneers, guests can not only explore the most fascinating reaches of the planet, they can interact with world-renowned scientists, naturalists, and researchers. They uncover stunning natural environments alongside skilled specialists utilizing state-of-the-art exploration tools.

Formed in 2004, our exclusive partnership with National Geographic means that our ships have become a platform for enhancing the expedition experience for all guests by including National Geographic photographers. Sven-Olof Lindblad, our founder, was appointed to the National Geographic Society's Conservation Trust Advisory Board, a move that reflects National Geographic's growing commitment to geotourism.

"National Geographic was founded more than a century ago based on the aspirations of individuals who wanted to see and understand the world, and share their knowledge with as many people as possible. Together with Lindblad, we are enhancing opportunities for research and discovery for Lindblad guests and everyone who cares about the planet."

- John Fahey, president and CEO, National Geographic Society