Corrections & Clarifications: This article has been updated to clarify that Trey Byus serves as the chief expedition officer for Lindblad.

On a brisk night in August, I found myself in an empty parking lot on the fringe of Reykjavik, witnessing an unexpected volcanic eruption that lit up the night sky with streams of glowing red lava.

The cold wind against my face was hardly a bother; it was a stunning, awe-inspiring moment.

This thrilling experience was part of my final night on a National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions cruise around Iceland, which had lasted ten days—and this volcanic eruption was a surprise addition to our itinerary.

A volcano in southwestern Iceland had started to erupt that evening, posing no danger to nearby communities. The expedition team took advantage of this rare opportunity, alerting passengers about the volcano’s activity that very morning. (We had returned to Reykjavik earlier than planned after missing our last destination at Heimaey due to inclement weather.)

Witnessing the eruption felt like stepping into a living National Geographic cover, mirroring the essence of what National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions aims to provide.

The National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions are small-scale luxury cruises that take guests to explore unique cultures and breathtaking natural landscapes. As Trey Byus, the chief expedition officer for Lindblad Expeditions, aptly put it, these trips make participants feel as if they’re “experiencing the pages of National Geographic.”

Here’s what travelers should know about embarking on a cruise with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions.

What is National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions?

This collaboration has a solid history rooted in conservation and exploration. National Geographic is renowned for its eye-catching wildlife photography and in-depth looks at untouched natural wonders. Likewise, Lindblad Expeditions has been a trailblazer in eco-tourism since its early voyages to Antarctica in 1966.

“We share many goals and values centered on conservation and the betterment of global communities,” Byus explained regarding their collaboration.

The partnership established in 2004 now boasts over 100 routes spanning all seven continents aboard 20 chartered and owned vessels. Destinations include pristine and unspoiled locales like Baja, the Amazon, the Galapagos, Iceland, Antarctica, and more.

What sets National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions cruises apart?

Guests can experience a strong commitment to sustainability and conservation throughout their cruise, thanks to being on genuine research vessels staffed by knowledgeable naturalists, including scientists and local cultural experts to enrich the traveling experience. (During my trip, among the naturalists were volcanic geologists and Icelandic locals sharing childhood folklore.)

Every expedition features a National Geographic expert who enhances the journey by providing deeper insights and making the experience even more immersive, as described by Byus. On my trip, it was the celebrated nature photographer Paolo Verzone, who led photography discussions and was always available to help travelers capture the memorable moments.

For some passengers, the desire to experience the magic of National Geographic is exactly why they chose to join this voyage.

Linda and Paul Katz, from Chesapeake, Virginia, shared that taking a cruise with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions had been on their wish list for many years, as they are devoted followers of NatGeo’s magazine and TV network.

“We’ve traveled extensively via cruises and have been discussing NatGeo for quite some time,” mentioned Linda Katz.

The Global Explorers program is available for families with kids aged up to 18, offering specially designed activities that allow young participants to feel like aspiring scientists. They receive field notebooks and can earn badges along the way.

What is the cost of a National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions cruise?

The itinerary for circumnavigating Iceland starts at $18,782 per person. This price includes meals, drinks (including alcohol), excursions, onshore activities, and transfers from the airport. However, airfare, spa services, and laundry are not included.

While the Explorer ship doesn’t feature a pool or hot tub like some other vessels, it offers a fitness center, sauna, and a library on the observation deck. Guests are also invited to visit the bridge to speak with the captain.

What can you anticipate during a National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions cruise?

Brace yourself for a wealth of adventure and learning in a cozy environment both on the ship and off it.

The National Geographic Explorer, measuring 122 meters in length, accommodates 148 passengers in 81 cabins. Its smaller size enables the ship to navigate to more secluded areas of Iceland, which would be challenging to access by car or impossible with larger ships. Even though I was on an expedition, the experience was far from rough – daily turndown service and afternoon tea were included.

As we journeyed around Iceland, each day presented various activities, including hikes of differing levels, e-biking, and bus tours. I had the opportunity to witness puffins, stunning waterfalls, and tranquil glacial lagoons, as well as visit the Arctic Circle and enjoy a geothermal bath.

Guests were divided into six groups, ensuring that disembarking and activities remained calm and organized. “You’re not being herded in and out like on other cruises,” remarked Paul Katz. “They emphasize that it’s an expedition, not just a cruise.”

Each evening before dinner, there was a review of the day’s activities and plans for the following day – and since it’s an expedition, adjustments can happen quickly. During this time, naturalists shared valuable information about the locations we visited, discussing the birds we encountered or the findings of the diving team from that day, often accompanied by undersea footage.

Countering mass tourism

While massive cruise lines face criticism for contributing to over-tourism and overwhelming destinations with countless visitors, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is deliberate about where and how they explore.

The itineraries are meticulously crafted to incorporate vital elements of the destination’s culture, history, and natural surroundings while balancing popular attractions with hidden gems. “It’s a very intricate mix of ingredients,” Byus explained. During my expedition, I explored the famous Diamond Beach and a previously operational herring factory in the small village of Djupavík, now transformed into a museum by a local family.

Focusing on leaving a positive impact on the communities visited, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions collaborates with local guides for onshore activities and will cancel a stop if too many ships are scheduled. (We substituted Siglufjörður with Djúpavík due to excess “marine traffic.”)

“We put a lot of thought into how we affect the community, so we engage with and listen to local voices,” Byus stated. “There’s a lot of dialogue involved.”

The Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund encourages passengers to donate for supporting research, conservation, and educational initiatives. To date, over 30,000 travelers have contributed more than $22 million.

The expeditions aim to foster a deeper engagement, urging guests to not only observe but also to connect with the communities. When my group was delayed by bad weather in Djúpivogur, our local guide quickly arranged a visit to a new brewery and a local family’s ranch, where we watched Icelandic horses demonstrate their unique tölt gait, allowing us to glimpse authentic Icelandic culture.

“We aspire for the communities we visit to see us as part of their community’s fabric and to anticipate our return,” Byus shared. “It’s about much more than surface interaction.”

The reporter for this article received complimentary access to this sailing from National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. YSL News retains editorial authority over the content.