National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions Expands its Reach in Alaska with New Ship and Routes

Published on December 12, 2025

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is expanding its highly sought-after Alaska program to meet surging traveler demand, with new itineraries and the charter of the Greg Mortimer ship starting in 2027. This move strengthens the company’s position as a leader in expedition travel and ensures it can continue offering exceptional experiences in Alaska, one of the most popular destinations for adventurous travelers.

For nearly 40 years, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has set the benchmark for exploration in Alaska, pioneering small-ship access to the region’s most remote and pristine wilderness areas. With the introduction of the Greg Mortimer, the company is enhancing its ability to go deeper into Alaska’s uncharted territories, offering more opportunities to explore, learn, and connect with the region’s extraordinary landscapes and wildlife.

The Greg Mortimer: A New Addition to the Alaska Fleet

The Greg Mortimer, purpose-built for remote environments, will serve as the cornerstone of this expansion. Designed for the challenges of expedition cruising, the ship features the innovative Ulstein X-BOW® for enhanced stability and comfort, allowing passengers to explore even the most rugged parts of Alaska with ease. With dynamic positioning capabilities to protect sensitive seafloors and multiple Zodiac loading platforms, the Greg Mortimer is equipped to provide seamless off-ship exploration, a hallmark of National Geographic-Lindblad’s immersive expeditions.

Accommodating 154 guests in thoughtfully designed cabins, many with private balconies, the Greg Mortimer is designed to offer exceptional comfort while remaining closely connected to the wild environments of Alaska. The ship also includes dedicated spaces for learning and wellness, further enhancing the immersive experience that Lindblad is known for.

New Itineraries and Iconic Alaskan Destinations

The new itineraries introduced in 2027 will feature a range of iconic Alaskan destinations, including Hubbard Glacier, North America’s largest tidewater glacier, where guests can enjoy Zodiac excursions and kayaking opportunities. Another highlight is the scenic Inside Passage, with Grenville and Princess Royal Channels providing ideal routes for small-ship exploration. These new routes complement the traditional Alaska experiences offered by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, such as visits to the Inian Islands, Misty Fjords, Endicott Arm, and Tracy Arm, all while providing exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities guided by expert expedition teams.

These new itineraries allow guests to experience Alaska like never before, deep into the wilderness, far from the crowds, and guided by experts who have an intimate knowledge of the region.

A Longstanding Legacy of Expedition Travel

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has long been a pioneer in modern expedition cruising, and this expansion reinforces its commitment to delivering unparalleled adventure travel experiences. By combining world-class expertise with a fleet of state-of-the-art, mission-built ships, the company continues to redefine the standards of immersive travel, offering guests opportunities to explore new places and perspectives.

With over 100 unique itineraries across 70+ countries and territories on seven continents, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is now more equipped than ever to offer deep, enriching travel experiences. Their Alaska expansion ensures that guests can continue to explore one of the most spectacular and rugged environments on Earth with the knowledge, comfort, and safety provided by Lindblad’s experienced team.

Farewell to the Sea Bird and Sea Lion

The upcoming 2026 season will also mark the farewell of two beloved ships, the National Geographic Sea Bird and National Geographic Sea Lion. These ships have been central to the company’s Alaska expeditions for many years, providing guests with intimate and unforgettable journeys. As they retire, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions invites travelers to join them for one final season aboard these iconic vessels, experiencing Alaska’s wilderness in the company of expert guides and long-time crew members.

Expanding Opportunities for Alaskan Exploration

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions’ expansion in Alaska underscores the company’s commitment to providing unforgettable expedition travel experiences. With the addition of the Greg Mortimer and new itineraries, the company is set to offer even more opportunities for travelers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of Alaska. Whether exploring the glaciers, kayaking through remote waters, or spotting wildlife in the most pristine areas of the state, these new voyages provide a unique and immersive way to experience Alaska’s wild wonders.

For those looking to explore Alaska in the most immersive and responsible way possible, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions remains the go-to provider for expert-led, small-ship exploration of this remarkable region.