Lindblad Expands Partnership with National Geographic

Expedition and adventure travel company Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc. has expanded its agreement with National Geographic Partners. The two entities currently operate under co-selling, co-marketing and branding agreements that cover the US, Australia, and New Zealand. The expansion adds Canada and Latin America.

The companies have promoted a shared interest in exploration, conservation, and research since 2004.

According to Lindblad, the US remains its primary source market. But, the interest in expedition travel is growing globally, and international expansion is key. The enhanced collaboration will leverage National Geographic’s brand strength in Canada and Latin America.

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In light of growing demand for its product, Lindblad is building an additional expedition vessel. Set for delivery in 2021, the new ship will continue the fleet expansion begun with National Geographic Quest in July 2017. National Geographic Venture will debut in December 2018 and National Geographic Endurance will launch in the first quarter of 2020.

“Lindblad has been a pioneer in expedition travel for fifty years," said Lindblad’s president and CEO Sven-Olof Lindblad. "By extending our successful partnership with National Geographic, energizing new markets and expanding our fleet, we are taking the next steps in our long-term growth strategy. Our experience and track record in delivering unparalleled experiences in the world’s most amazing locations ideally positions us to capitalize on the explosive growth in high-quality adventure travel."

Gary E. Knell, CEO of National Geographic Partners, noted that the two companies have been united in a common cause for the past 14 years.

“This manifests itself in knowing the importance of people exploring the world, building understanding and becoming more knowledgeable and energized citizens," said Knell. "Our collaboration goes far beyond business, into education, conservation, and storytelling through expedition travel. We know collectively that our partnership’s goal is to consistently grow the number of people who explore our world and that’s why we’re so excited to expand our partnership to include the Canadian and Latin American markets."