Experience European rivers like never before—with one of the leaders in modern expedition cruising
This is Europe beyond the postcard: vibrant villages, untold stories, and enriching connections—all from a different point of view.
Nicole Lindberg
612-207-8489
In April 2026, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions sets a new course in Europe, bringing its signature style of exploration to the continent's iconic rivers.
Combine storied waterways like the Rhine and Danube with brand-new ships and world-class programming inspired by National Geographic. It's an incredible experience you won't want to miss.
Take a look at the preview below and let me know if you have questions!
Sail Aboard Two Brand-New River Ships
Connect
Constructed in 2025, Connect is a brand-new, state-of-the-art river ship that will join National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions' growing collection of unique charter vessels in 2026. With cutting-edge technology and luxurious amenities, this sleek 120-guest ship is specifically designed to sail through the heart of storied destinations such as Germany, France, the Netherlands, Belgium and beyond. Blending sustainability with authentic encounters at each port of call, she offers journeys that are both enriching and meaningful.
Evolve
The sister ship of Connect, Evolve joins the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet in 2027. She will host festive holiday voyages along the Danube, sailing through the heart of storied destinations from Germany to Austria, the Slovak Republic and beyond. Sustainability and regional connection are at her core, creating refined and meaningful experiences that elevate every journey.
Cabin Views
Restaurants and Lounges
Aft Lounge
Dining Room
Coffee Bar
Amenities
Fitness Center
Spa
Sauna
A peek inside
Get a first look at the brand-new Connect, designed for exceptional comfort and immersive adventure on Europe's great rivers.
Rhine River Itineraries
Rhine River: Castles, Culture and Culinary Delights Aboard Connect
✓ Sail through the majestic Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the romantic Rheinstein Castle, where you're invited to an exclusive champagne reception hosted by the castle’s lord
✓ Enjoy private wine tastings throughout your voyage: Try Riesling served by the resident nuns at St. Hildegard's Abbey and a variety of wines at the Cave Historique des Hospices de Strasbourg, home to one of the world’s oldest wines
✓ In Frankfurt, tour the home of famed German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe on a private visit, then delve into the city’s Jewish history that spans as far back as medieval times
✓ Dine at a local brewery with university students in Heidelberg, discovering what daily life is like at one of Germany’s oldest academic institutions
✓ Enjoy private wine tastings throughout your voyage: Try Riesling served by the resident nuns at St. Hildegard's Abbey and a variety of wines at the Cave Historique des Hospices de Strasbourg, home to one of the world’s oldest wines
✓ In Frankfurt, tour the home of famed German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe on a private visit, then delve into the city’s Jewish history that spans as far back as medieval times
✓ Dine at a local brewery with university students in Heidelberg, discovering what daily life is like at one of Germany’s oldest academic institutions
Holland and Belgium: Medieval History and Scenic Waterways Aboard Connect
✓ Stroll through more than 7 million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths at Keukenhof, known as the “Garden of Europe” (spring departures only)
✓ Witness the works of masters like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer and more with exclusive after-hours tours at the Kröller-Müller and Mauritshuis Museums
✓ Tour WWII monuments that reveal Amsterdam’s rich Jewish heritage, guided by Holocaust survivors or family members of survivors
✓ Indulge in incredible culinary experiences throughout your voyage, from a progressive food tour of Belgian specialties in Antwerp to curated dinners on board featuring local flavors
✓ Witness the works of masters like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer and more with exclusive after-hours tours at the Kröller-Müller and Mauritshuis Museums
✓ Tour WWII monuments that reveal Amsterdam’s rich Jewish heritage, guided by Holocaust survivors or family members of survivors
✓ Indulge in incredible culinary experiences throughout your voyage, from a progressive food tour of Belgian specialties in Antwerp to curated dinners on board featuring local flavors
Danube River Itineraries
Christmas and New Year's on the Danube: A Holiday Voyage Aboard Evolve
✓ Celebrate the holidays with exclusive seasonal events, from festive concerts and gala dinners on board to special moments amid Europe’s most atmospheric Christmas settings in Budapest, Vienna and beyond
✓ Experience private access to cultural landmarks throughout your journey—from an organ concert at St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Passau to an after-hours tour of Melk Abbey and a private visit to historic Clam Castle
✓ Savor the locally crafted wine of the Wachau Valley with a tasting that highlights the region’s diverse terroirs
✓ Choose to explore the deeply rooted heritage of Salzburg or the storybook-like charm Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site
✓ Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of each destination with festive traditional meals on board and ashore that reflect the storied flavors of the region
✓ Experience private access to cultural landmarks throughout your journey—from an organ concert at St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Passau to an after-hours tour of Melk Abbey and a private visit to historic Clam Castle
✓ Savor the locally crafted wine of the Wachau Valley with a tasting that highlights the region’s diverse terroirs
✓ Choose to explore the deeply rooted heritage of Salzburg or the storybook-like charm Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site
✓ Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of each destination with festive traditional meals on board and ashore that reflect the storied flavors of the region
Christmas Markets on the Danube Aboard Evolve
✓ Celebrate the most magical season along the Danube, exploring the festive Christmas markets of Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna and beyond
✓ Enjoy exclusive access, from a private orchestral performance in Bratislava to an after-hours tour of Melk Abbey and a private visit to the medieval Clam Castle
✓ Savor the flavors of the holidays with specially curated seasonal menus on board and festive meals ashore that reflect each region’s culinary traditions
✓ Taste the terroir of the Wachau Valley during a guided visit to Domäne Wachau, where hundreds of small vineyards unite to produce Austria’s most distinctive wines
✓ Explore Salzburg’s heritage or the storybook beauty of Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site
✓ Enjoy exclusive access, from a private orchestral performance in Bratislava to an after-hours tour of Melk Abbey and a private visit to the medieval Clam Castle
✓ Savor the flavors of the holidays with specially curated seasonal menus on board and festive meals ashore that reflect each region’s culinary traditions
✓ Taste the terroir of the Wachau Valley during a guided visit to Domäne Wachau, where hundreds of small vineyards unite to produce Austria’s most distinctive wines
✓ Explore Salzburg’s heritage or the storybook beauty of Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site
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