National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is launching European river cruises on the Rhine River in 2026. The two itineraries will include iconic destinations such as Amsterdam, Cologne, Germany, and Strasbourg, France.
While Lindblad has offered other river cruises in the past—on the Nile, for example—the new Europe trips will be the first of their kind for the nearly 60-year-old company, CEO Natalya Leahy You can tell them by clicking on the link Travel + Leisure.
Leahy stated that “our guests want an authentic European river cruise experience but in a more National Geographic way, which is more in-depth and more authentic.” Our team of historians, photographers, and experts don’t simply take guests to their destinations; they show them what to see.
The company is offering two options. Each option will have a different focus. The first option is a tour of Belgium and the Netherlands with stops at Amsterdam, Rotterdam Ghent Antwerp and Brussels. Activities include walking tours, cooking demonstrations, and visits to museums—including some that Lindblad guests will visit after hours and without crowds.
Leahy explained, “We have an intense destination experience.” “We are for learners, enrichment seekers and people looking for a truly authentic experience.”
The second option involves an itinerary that runs between Cologne, Germany, and Basel Switzerland. It passes through what is known as the Rhine Gorge. A dramatic stretch of the Rhine River, it’s been designated by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. On these trips, you can visit Cologne and Frankfurt.
Lindblad is operating these sails at the newly constructed 60-cabin Click Here to ConnectTranscend Cruises – a charter specialist – is the partner of. The ship can accommodate 120 passengers, 54 crew members, and 210-square foot cabins. The ship will feature a main dining room, as well as several lounges and a top-deck barbecue, a yoga class, an outdoor movie theater, a spa and a fitness centre. Bikes will also be available to guests who wish to pedal independently.
Leahy, in an interview with T+L, said that the smaller ship size would make it feel like other Lindblad vessels. She said that you will never feel as if you are on a bus full of tourists. “You will be part of a family.”
Lindblad’s 2026 European sailing season will start in April with eight departures as it ramps up for the future.
Leahy stated, “Our ambition is expansion.” “I would love to be able to participate in the Christmas markets, too. That would be amazing.”
National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is offering eight-day European River cruises for as low as $6,450 each.
