Navigating New Horizons: Chief Mate Maura Neely on Leadership at Sea
Drawn to the water from an early age, Maura Neely, Chief Mate aboard the U.S. National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet, has built a career navigating both open oceans and new opportunities. A graduate of SUNY Maritime College, she joined Lindblad Expeditions three years ago and has since advanced into a leadership role aboard the National Geographic Quest. In her position, she oversees safety, navigation and deck operations while taking the time to foster meaningful connections with guests on the open Bridge. Grounded in curiosity and resilience, she brings focus and purpose to her work—helping expand what’s possible for the next generation of women explorers.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what inspires you.
I grew up in Towson, Maryland with my parents and sister, but recently moved to Alexandria, Virginia. My family is the core of my support system; they always believed I could do whatever I set my mind to. I’ve loved taking them on some of my travels—it’s been awesome having them sail with me at work and see me in action.
What led you to Lindblad Expeditions? What does your work with us entail?
I have always felt most like myself when I’m near the water—whether sailing on the Chesapeake Bay, swimming laps in the pool or watching ocean waves crash along the shore. I graduated from SUNY Maritime College with a USCG Third Mate Unlimited Tonnage license and a B.S. in Marine & Environmental Science. In college, I was also part of Women Offshore, a nonprofit organization supporting women in the maritime industry, which has created a strong community within a traditionally male-dominated field.
For the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of working for Lindblad in a variety of onboard roles. Most recently, I was promoted to Chief Mate of the National Geographic Quest. In this role, I serve as the Vessel Security, Medical and Safety Officer; stand daily navigational watches; lead a team of eight deckhands; and collaborate closely with fellow department heads to ensure the highest standards of guest safety.
Maura Neely and her family in the Arctic with the National Geographic Resolution in the distance.
What about the Lindblad Expeditions mission resonates with you?
I admire how Lindblad is committed to inspiring the next generation of explorers and environmental stewards through sustainable travel. I particularly love sharing my passions with our travelers on the open Bridge. A guest once shared that when she was young, the idea of women working on ships felt impossible—an opportunity she never could have imagined for herself. She spoke with amazement about how, just a few generations later, I was serving as a Bridge officer. Though we had only just met, we shared a quiet sense of pride in how far things have come.
Why do you love traveling the world?
It gives me a profound sense of appreciation and wonder. The more you explore, the more you realize just how much there is to discover.
What’s your favorite voyage with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions?
Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands is a memorable highlight in my travels. From seeing the shadow of the National Geographic Explorer cast on towering ice to visiting a massive king penguin colony, every moment felt surreal. But the Alaska’s Inside Passage voyage will always feel like home to me because it’s where my career with Lindblad Expeditions began!
Neely navigates the National Geographic Quest through the waters of Alaska.
What advice would you give to women who aspire to leadership roles in the maritime industry?
Find your support system—the ones who will celebrate each milestone with you and help back you up when you fall. Follow your compass and be the leader you wish you had. Learn from your experiences, both good and bad. In the words of Louisa May Alcott, “I am not afraid of storms, for I’m learning how to sail my ship.”
What excites you most about the future of exploration with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions?
The world is ours to discover—the possibilities are endless. If we can dream it, we will find a way to do it.
