The mighty Mekong. The wild Amazon. The sun-soaked Nile. The great rivers of the world beckon curious travelers to their storied banks to journey through a bygone era. On these historic waterways, we handpick vessels that evoke the splendor of their ports of call, chartering them just for our guests. Sail aboard the Relais & Chateaux member Delfin II in the Amazon, or take a culinary journey along the Columbia and Snake Rivers, sampling from a wine list curated by Food & Wine. Along the way, you’ll enjoy active exploration, engaging onboard programs, and expert insights from our leading expedition teams—all the hallmarks of the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic experience.
“What imagination is not swept away by the romance and exploration of a river, winding around bend after curious bend? Nothing entwines our sense of mystery and exploration with comfortable observation and tranquility like a voyage on a river.”
Why Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic
Our River Cruise Expeditions
Our Ships
Delfin II
- Guests
- 28
- Cabins
- 14
Sail the Amazon in tropical style and comfort with a small band of explorers.
National Geographic Sea Bird
- Guests
- 62
- Cabins
- 31
National Geographic Sea Bird accommodates just 62 guests in 31 outside cabins. With a shallow draft and small size, she can easily reach places inaccessible to larger ships.
National Geographic Sea Lion
- Guests
- 62
- Cabins
- 31
National Geographic Sea Lion accommodates just 62 guests in 31 outside cabins. With a shallow draft and small size, she can easily reach places inaccessible to larger ships.
The Jahan
- Guests
- 48
- Cabins
- 24
There is no better way to travel in comfort and grand style than aboard The Jahan. Built in 2011 from the ground up, she is simply the finest ship on the Mekong River.
Lord of the Glens
- Guests
- 48
- Cabins
- 25
Lord of the Glens was built for one purpose—to fit through the network of locks and canals that cut through the heart of the Scottish highlands.
Oberoi Philae
- Guests
- 44
- Cabins
- 22
Originally built for 100 guests, Oberoi Philae was remodeled and reconfigured to accommodate 44 in her peerless style.
Sun Goddess
- Guests
- 60
- Cabins
- 30
The elegant Sun Goddess carries a maximum of only 60 guests in 30 spacious suites, providing an intimate and exceptionally comfortable experience on the world’s longest river.
Our Expedition Team
Traveling aboard our chartered vessels, guests enjoy all the benefits of exploring with Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, including access to our immersive programming and leading guides. Every member of our team—from our naturalists and photographers to our expedition leaders—is committed to ensuring you have an unforgettable experience. Many are veteran and locally based guides chosen for their extensive knowledge of subjects like wildlife biology and cultural history. Exploring in small groups, you’ll hear different perspectives every day, and because there are no group assignments, you can gravitate toward experts who share your interests and inspire your curiosity.
On voyages aboard the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, our dedicated hotel team ensures that your time on board is as comfortable and rewarding as your time on shore.
Photo Gallery: River Cruise Highlights
Caledonian Canal, Scotland
Travelers watch on as Lord of the Glens transits the lock system on the Caledonian Canal.
Photograph: Andrew Peacock
Latest Video
In Good Company: Exploring the Upper Amazon with Carlos Romero
- Jan 2024
"The Amazon is one of my favorite destinations on Earth," says Expedition Leader Carlos Romero, who has been working with Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic for over three decades. “The endless river, the endless greenery, and the endless opportunities to learn and look for wildlife make this place very special.” As guests explore aboard the 14-suite Delfin II, they’ll encounter the rainforest’s rare creatures and welcoming riverside communities in the most authentic way possible. In this episode of In Good Company, Romero shares why he thinks every traveler should experience this biodiverse region at least once in their lifetime.
View our brochure for more details
Explorations 2024-2026