On board public areas
A choice of public areas is available for all guests. Some areas, such as the restaurant, are listed here, but there is more information about meals in Life Aboard. Public areas include the restaurant, bistro bar, chart room, global gallery, library, lounge, internet café, mudroom with lockers for expedition gear, fitness center, sauna, LEXspa, and observation lounge. Even the bridge is open to guests, giving you the opportunity to meet the captain and officers, and to learn about navigation.
Heating & air-conditioning
The ship is fully climate controlled, either heated or air conditioned, depending on the outside temperature.
Windows
There are grand view windows in the dining room, lounge, fitness center, library, and observation lounge connecting you to the outdoors.
Library
National Geographic Explorer features an on-board library with an extensive selection of books pertaining to the region.
Photo kiosk
For those interested in downloading digital photos aboard ship, there is a digital photo kiosk in the Internet Café, which will enable you to download your photos to various types of digital media.
Email/Internet access
Email and Internet access are available onboard. Your personal email and Internet may be accessed from your own device in your cabin or in one of many wifi areas aboard, or at the Internet Kiosk onboard. Charges apply. Please note that when the vessel is operating at high latitudes, or in deep fjords, satellite email access may not be possible.
Laundry
Laundry and pressing services are available at an additional charge. There is no dry cleaning.
Telephone & fax
Satellite telephone calls and fax transmissions are available at an additional charge.
Elevator
The National Geographic Explorer is equipped with a wheelchair accessible elevator that operates on most decks. Not all areas of the ship are accessible by wheelchair.
Smoking
For the comfort of all our guests, smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas.
Climate controls
Each cabin has its own thermostat, allowing you to control the temperature (heating or air conditioning) in your cabin.
Balconies
Certain cabin categories (Cat. 5, 6, 7) have exposed balconies with furniture. These balconies range in size from approximately 37 to 90 square feet.
Windows/portholes
All cabins face outside with either windows or portholes. Cabins with balconies have sliding glass doors. Some portholes may be covered periodically during rough seas.
Shower amenities
We supply Zero% brand 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. In addition, Expedition Essential Kits are provided for each guest. Toiletries are also available for sale in the Global Gallery.
Hair dryers
Hair dryers are available in a drawstring bag in each bathroom.
Video programming
Each cabin is equipped with a 22-inch flat screen LCD for video programming (the size of the screen is 32-inch in the suites). Video programming includes movies, educational programming, and live feeds from the screens in the lounge.
Electrical appliances
At the desk in each cabin there is an outlet for 110v and 220v (European). Additional outlets of both types are located in every cabin.
Valuables
The ship is not equipped with safety deposit boxes. Guests are asked to see the Purser if they have something that must be kept in the ship's safe, although we recommend leaving valuables at home. All passports are kept throughout the duration of the voyage by the purser.
Meals are served in one open seating in the panoramic-windowed restaurant or in the more intimate bistro bar. In addition, on occasion light lunches are served out on the sun deck or in the observation lounge. Tables are always unassigned to encourage mingling and to ensure you dine with a variety of fellow guests, expedition team members, and special guest experts.
Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style, with an array of healthy options from fruits, vegetables, freshly squeezed juices, homemade breads—choices range from simple to indulgent to satisfy any yearnings. Dinner is served with varied meat, fish, or vegetarian options at every meal. Our sustainable seafood program aims to serve locally caught or harvested fresh seafood. And our baker presents fresh breads and desserts daily to surprise and delight. Meal hours will be posted in your Daily Program.
If you have special dietary requirements, please let us know in advance and we will gladly accommodate you. Unfortunately, we cannot provide kosher meals but can provide vegan meals.
Throughout your expedition, there is no need for formal clothing, unless you’re inspired to do so. The onboard atmosphere is casual and comfortable, and so is the dress code.
The ship’s hospitable hotel staff maintain an always-open station for coffee, tea, hot chocolate, soda and beer in the chart room. And the Bistro Bar provides on-demand cappuccinos and lattes. Afternoon tea and cookies are served daily. And pre-dinner hors d’oeuvres and cocktails are served in the lounge at daily Recap. There are re-useable water bottles in every cabin and chilled fresh water stations in the hallways to make staying hydrated convenient and refreshing.
Yes, alcohol, considered a personal item, is available for purchase on the ship.
Zodiacs
Key to our operation is our fleet of Zodiacs, the amphibious landing craft we use to navigate the coastlines and narrow reaches of jungle rivers 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. Kayaks Lindblad Expeditions pioneered kayaking from expedition ships in remote regions.
Kayaks
Kayaking provides one of the best means for personal exploration. National Geographic Explorer is outfitted with a fleet of kayaks for everyone who wants to participate. They are very stable and easy to master for novices and experts alike. Lessons and assistance will be offered for newcomers to the sport, so all interested parties may join in this activity. There is something special about being alone, or with a partner in our double kayak, quietly exploring the inviting reaches of the jungle river waterways. Conditions in the rivers and along the coast will determine where and when you’ll be able to kayak. Your expedition staff will always strive to provide you with this experience but will never compromise your safety.
Undersea tools for exploring
National Geographic Explorer is equipped with panoply of underwater exploration equipment, including an ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) that can dive 1,000 feet below the surface and bring up images to view on LCD screens in the comfort of the lounge. Splash-Cams or hydrophones bring to life the sights and sounds beneath the sea, and our undersea specialists may also dive for a look at marine life. These tools allow us to go further and get closer to nature’s wonders. For more information, see Tools for Exploration.
One of the most important aspects of every Lindblad-National Geographic Expedition is the expertise of our knowledgeable staff of naturalists, photography experts, biologists, oceanographers, historians and other specialists who provide talks, guidance ashore, and daily camaraderie. These engaging people will greatly enhance your experience, sharing special insights into areas of the world they know intimately.
Your expedition team is key to your experience. They not only accompany all your explorations off the ship, they also give engaging talks and informal presentations on board. The state-of-the art lounge is equipped with facilities for films, slideshows, and presentations. Naturalists will share their knowledge and add insight to all you see and do. Our Undersea Specialist shoots undersea footage and then shows images on flat screens in the comfort of the ship’s lounge, giving you a rare view of the undersea world in the South Atlantic. Global Perspectives guest speakers will add depth, knowledge, and relevancy to your understanding of the region. Our National Geographic Photographer shares their images and offer one-to-one critiques for those who are interested in participating.
This is a Lindblad Expeditions tradition, as much a part of the expedition as riding in the Zodiacs. Recaps are generally held each evening in the lounge prior to dinner and include informal presentations by the staff and a lively review of the day’s events involving both staff and guests. At the conclusion of Recap, your expedition leader will review the activity options for the next day.
A video chronicler accompanies every expedition. 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 your expedition for you. A Voyage DVD will be professionally edited and made available for purchase at the end of your expedition—proof of your intrepid spirit!
Yes, everyone on our expedition team speaks English. Some are multi-lingual as well.
Yes, National Geographic Explorer features a glass-enclosed fitness center with gym equipment, including treadmills, stationary bicycles, an elliptical cross-trainer, free weights, benches, and body bar. There is also an outdoor stretching area.
Exploring the world can be a powerful restorative tonic. To that end, we offer you options to tap into your own personal wellness goals and help you rejuvenate as best we can. The LEXspa, sauna, and fitness center are located on the wellness deck. A wellness specialist is available for wellness elements ranging from massages, facials, and body treatments to activities with more fitness in mind, such as aerobic hikes, morning 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. There are two spa treatment rooms on National Geographic Explorer where wellness treatments are offered.
Children of any age are welcome on our Epic South America expedition. We believe sharing an expedition with your kids or grandkids is a life-enhancing experience. Take $500 off the double occupancy rate for each person under 18.
A minor consent form must be signed by the parents or parent not traveling with the child. It is also suggested that the legal guardian of the child sign and have notarized a letter of consent to travel with their knowledge
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. The ship is equipped with satellite communications for internet access, telephone, and fax.
Our ships are equipped with satellite communications for e-mail and internet access, and telephone and fax, for which charges apply. E-mail access is available 24 hours a day through the purchase of pre-paid internet access cards onboard, however, since it is satellite access and we explore remote locations, sometimes we are without a signal to connect. Once purchased, the internet cards can be used to access the internet on your personal device in your cabin using an Ethernet cable or at select wireless access points on board, or at the Internet Kiosks. Internet cards are available in the following increments:
a. Internet Gold Card, 250 minutes, $100.00
b. Internet Silver Card, 100 minutes, $55.00
c. Internet White Card, 50 minutes, $22.50
Yes, there is a doctor on board all National Geographic Explorer voyages; and his/her services are free of charge. The doctor is available at any time in case of emergency. Please inquire about the doctor for your individual expedition.
No vaccinations are currently required for travel to Brazil if you travel there directly from the United States. If you are not traveling directly from the United States, please contact the CDC for specific information regarding travel to Brazil from other countries. The CDC recommends that the normal routine vaccines should be up to date: Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR Vaccine), Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTP Vaccine) and Polio vaccine.
Yes, it is mandatory that you and your doctor complete and return a required three-part General Medical Information Form prior to departure so that our ship’s physician is fully aware of your medical conditions (i.e. diabetes, pregnancy) and will be better able to care for you should an emergency arise.
While the National Geographic Explorer is fully stabilized, you may want to bring some preventative medication if you are susceptible to motion discomfort; please check with your personal physician for recommendations.
Yes, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months after the end of your expedition.
If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen, the only document you will need is a passport that is valid for six months after the end of your trip. If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, please contact the Brazilian consulate or embassy nearest you for visa requirements to enter Brazil. If a visa is required, you are responsible for obtaining it. It can take several weeks for the Brazilian consulate to process visa applications. Visas for Brazil are good for ten years. Therefore, we strongly urge you to start the process upon booking your reservation. There is also an Argentina Immigration Fee: American, Canadian and Australian visitors are required to pay a reciprocity fee (the charge is $160 for U.S. citizens) for entering Argentina. This fee must be paid for online in advance of your expedition.
The shipboard currency is in U.S. Dollars. 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 credit card (American Express, VISA, MasterCard, and Discover Card).
Brazil: The monetary unit of Brazil is the Real. Major credit cards are widely accepted by restaurants and shops, but U.S. dollars are not, so you will want to exchange some currency for incidentals during our visits to urban centers.
Uruguay: The monetary unit of Uruguay is the Uruguyan Peso. Major credit cards are generally accepted by hotels, restaurants and shops, but U.S. dollars are not. Therefore, you will need a small amount of local currency for Uruguay.
Argentina: The monetary unit of Argentina is the Argentine Peso. U.S. dollars and major credit cards are generally accepted by restaurants and stores in Argentina. Therefore, you will only need a small amount of local currency. We recommend that you bring U.S. dollars in small denominations and exchange only the amount you will need for miscellaneous expenses.
All gratuities ashore are included in your expedition cost. Gratuities to crew aboard ship are at your own discretion.
Prices vary, depending on the length of your voyage.
That’s a personal choice. Note, you will be able to use credit cards and personal checks aboard. Unfortunately, we are unable to cash personal checks or traveler's checks for cash on board.
Often, the most memorable events are those that are unplanned. That’s why every Lindblad-National Geographic itinerary has flexibility built into the schedule, with considerable time left open for exploring. So, if we happen to encounter pink river dolphins, for example, we’ll have 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. You can read the top ten or browse our archives, looking at the destination and time of year that most interests you.
Brazil will be warm, with daytime highs in the 80s Fahrenheit and lows in the upper 60s or low 70s. Some rain is possible. Montevideo and Buenos Aires will be at the height of spring during your visit. You can expect pleasant daily temperatures, cloudless blue skies, and only very occasional rain. The average daytime high is from 69°F-75°F, and the average nightly low is from 56°F - 61°F.
This expedition can be physically demanding and you should be in general good health and able to walk short distances over uneven and rough terrain unassisted. Since you are traveling to a remote area without access to sophisticated medical facilities you must not join this expedition if you have a life-threatening condition.
Yes, your expedition team always offers hikes of varied lengths for different fitness levels and interests. Our wellness specialist may lead a faster paced walk for those who want more of a workout. Naturalist-guided walking and hiking options will be offered regularly throughout your expedition, as conditions allow. Distances will vary, and often involve an incline
Hiking sticks are permitted and may prove be helpful. There are some provided onboard, and you are welcome bring along your own.
When you board a Zodiac to make a landing, at times there is shallow water to walk through after you disembark the Zodiac and walk ashore.
Yes. Our ship is equipped with an onboard fleet of 36 double kayaks—to give our guests the opportunity for personal, "eye-level" encounters with wildness.
Yes, guests are welcome to visit the bridge to meet our officers and captain and learn about navigation and the extensive equipment located on the bridge.
On a photo expedition, the itinerary, presentations and activities are designed specifically with photographers in mind. On other expeditions, photography is a significant component of the expedition, but not the primary component. National Geographic Explorer does not offer any photo expeditions but photography is a very significant component on board.
National Geographic Explorer has a National Geographic photographer and a Lindblad/National Geographic-certified photo instructor aboard every voyage. After all, travel and photography go hand in hand. And, with the partnership between Lindblad and National Geographic, it’s natural that photography has become a vital component of our expeditions. While all of our expeditions offer a full contingent of specialists to give you plenty of options and an in-depth experience—ornithologists, marine biologists, historians, oceanographers 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.
The photo team can enhance everyone’s voyage with useful tips for improving your images, strategies for being in the right place at the right time, and assistance with using your camera to take the best possible photos.
Lindblad-National Geographic Expedition 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
- Use of kayaks and Zodiac excursions
- Services of a ship’s physician
- Services of our Expedition Team
- International airfare is always shown as a separate cost since many of our travelers prefer to use 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. Activities and shore excursions are included in the cost of every Lindblad-National Geographic 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-National Geographic, all activities and sightseeing are included-from guided hikes to kayaking. You'll always have the freedom to pick and choose activities as your day unfolds: a long hike, a shorter walk, kayaking, a Zodiac excursion, or relaxing aboard ship. After all, these are not scheduled tours, these are expeditions. Every guest is different; every day is different.
You will be in several time zones during your journey, and the pattern is something of a crazy quilt. Argentina and the individual Brazilian states adopt daylight time in some years but not in others, and the Brazilian states may only decide if and when there will be daylight time a few weeks before! Most places we go will be one to two hours ahead of Eastern Daylight Time; in other words, when it is noon in New York it will be 1:00 p.m. or 2:00 p.m. where we are.
No, National Geographic Explorer does not have a pool.
Our style is always informal. The relaxed atmosphere of every journey, a Lindblad-National Geographic expedition 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 the conditions in the region you're exploring.
One pair of fully waterproof knee-high rubber boots with sturdy, high-traction soles are essential. We stress the importance of boots that are completely waterproof so that your feet will not get wet when you step into shallow water during wet Zodiac landings. Additionally, boots should have good traction because you are likely to encounter poor footing on rough terrain. Also, comfort is important—if your boots are too heavy or bulky, your footing will be awkward during hikes.
