National Geographic-Lindblad has held its first-ever fam trip for UK agents, calling the tour a “catalyst” for future trade relations ahead of its 2027 Alaska expansion.
The cruise line’s "Showcase at Sea" welcomed onboard nine agents from agencies, including Panache Cruises, Mundy Cruising, Travel Counsellors, Latin Routes, Iglu and Fred Olsen Travel. A representative from the Expedition Cruise Network also attended.
Hosted by Danielle Bates, head of UK sales for National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, the trip last nine days and was designed to give participants a comprehensive understanding of the co-brand.
The group joined National Geographic Endeavour II for its 10-day expedition in the Galapagos, which saw them enjoy everything from deep water snorkelling and hiking to kayaking and photography. They also visited the Charles Darwin Centre and a giant tortoise sanctuary, enjoyed wine-tasting and beach walks at sunset, and celebrated crossing the equator with a deck BBQ and onboard party.
Later, they explored the three other ships in the Galapagos fleet, learned about the Explorers in Training initiative for children and visited three partner hotels in the Ecuadorean capital of Quito.
“Our trade partners are vital to our continued growth in the UK and this Showcase at Sea not only underscores our commitment to supporting them but acts as a catalyst for what we expect to deliver in 2026 and beyond,” said Bates.
“We have a wonderful offering in this part of the world and it was such an amazing opportunity to introduce the agents to the destination and our entire fleet.
"This was my second visit to the Galapagos and seeing it through other people’s eyes for the first time made it even more special. It is a magical destination that provides numerous emotional moments for each of the participants. It really is a transformative travel experience.”
National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions’ commitment to the UK trade will continue into 2027, when it expands its Alaska programme with new itineraries and a new ship which has been chartered.
The company will lease expedition vessel Greg Mortimer for a three-year-period, as part of its strategy to meet a “strong and growing traveller demand". Its National Geographic Sea Bird and National Geographic Lion ships will continue to operate under National Geographic branding next year before leaving the fleet.
“I am incredibly proud of the exceptional, unique and intimate Alaska experience that our ships and our expert expedition team deliver. Demand for our Alaska voyages continues to grow, and I’m thrilled that with the introduction of a new ship to our Alaska fleet we can welcome even more explorers and also offer exciting new itineraries to our collection,” said Natalya Leahy, Lindblad Expeditions chief executive.
“We're equally grateful to honour the final farewell season of the Sea Bird and Sea Lion in 2026. These beloved ships have been the backdrop to countless memorable adventures for our guests over many years. We invite travellers to join us for this special farewell season.”
