By
Laura Hyde |
Expedition cruise line Lindblad Expeditions will offer European river cruises for the first time in 2026 after signing a multiyear deal with river cruise company Transcend Cruises.
The initial agreement will run until at least 2028 with cruises onboard Transcend’s newbuild ships. Each voyage will feature one of Lindblad Expeditions’ veteran expedition leaders and at least one National Geographic expert.
“We are thrilled for the upcoming launch of our unique river expeditions in Europe – an experience our guests have long desired and will deeply enjoy,” said Natalya Leahy, CEO of Lindblad Expeditions. “We know that ‘how you see it’ matters, and that’s why we’ve curated these river voyages with the same depth, care and expertise that define all of our expeditions. With National Geographic naturalists and historians, and exclusive events woven into each journey, our guests will explore Europe’s storied rivers in truly meaningful ways. We’re equally excited to partner with Transcend Cruises to introduce a brand-new ship, custom-designed to deliver the elevated, personalised experience our guests expect from us.”
The two cruise brands are working together to develop a series of customised itineraries designed to provide passengers with the chance to “venture closer, deeper and further” into Europe’s river-side cities, towns and villages.
“Transcend Cruises is extremely pleased to join Lindblad Expeditions in a symbiotic partnership; we are a natural fit in working so close together with such a respected brand in mindful exploration travel,” said Hans Rood, CEO of Transcend Cruises. “Our state-of-the-art newbuild river cruise ships offer both a luxury experience, as well as the opportunity to accommodate the lecturing and mind enriching requirements essential for their travellers. With a strong focus on wellness, sustainability and best of services, we are the perfect fit to deliver the programmes Lindblad Expeditions require. By collaborating, we are able to create the most exclusive experiences on Europe’s most spectacular waterways.”