Responsible Exploration

Inspiring Sustainable Travel

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has long believed that Responsible Exploration is not only essential for the environments and communities visited—it also enriches the expedition experience for travelers. As the pioneer of sustainable travel, Lindblad continues to lead with a bold vision that embodies the company's founding promise: to improve the relationship between human beings and the planet - now and in the future. Using travel as a force for good has always been baked into their DNA, and their voyages are preserving the world’s wildest places while inspiring travelers to do the same.

I want to share this guide with with you, which introduces National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions' commitment to Responsible Exploration—and how you can be a part of it. It shares how your voyage can help support global conservation efforts and outlines simple, meaningful actions you can take aboard and ashore. From minimizing your environmental impact to engaging with local communities, this is your opportunity to travel with purpose and help preserve the extraordinary places we explore together.

Explore Lindblad's sustainability efforts

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The National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions Connection

Soon after joining forces with National Geographic in 2004, the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic (LEX-NG) Fund was established. The LEX-NG Fund supports projects that help us understand and protect our world's ocean, restore critical marine and coastal habitats, and foster environmental stewardship in the regions visited by the fleet and beyond.

Since 2008, the LEX-NG Fund has invested more than $24.7 million in impactful projects and programs in 77+ countries across all seven continents. Funding for this work comes from travelers inspired by the shared values of Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic.

Download the LEX-NG Fund Impact Report

A Responsible Exploration Philosophy

An Enduring Commitment

For more than 50 years, Lindblad Expeditions has been the leader in responsible and sustainable travel. They care deeply about the planet and serve as a catalyst for meaningful change—from offsetting 100% of carbon emissions and eliminating guest-facing single-use plastic aboard the fleet, to the creation of the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund. Together with their guests, they have supported projects around the globe that protect wildlife, engage communities and promote locally-driven solutions to marine and coastal challenges.

How You Can Make A Difference

Every guest has the power to make an impact. When you travel with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, you have the opportunity to support:

Local economies and small-scale artisans
Ongoing scientific research and conservation
Ocean health and educational efforts around climate, plastic, biodiversity, and more

By traveling mindfully and engaging in shipboard programs, you help extend Lindblad’s legacy of Responsible Exploration.

Onboard

Use our meal sign-up sheets daily to reduce food waste
Enjoy vegan and vegetarian meal options
Avoid single-use plastics by refilling your reusable stainless steel water bottle provided in every cabin and using the bulk amenities provided in your cabin
Recycle using labeled onboard bins
Learn from experts during naturalist-led presentations and evening recaps
Use Citizen Science apps such as iNaturalist, HappyWhale, and eBird to contribute data about sightings you make to the global scientific community

Ashore

Maintain a safe, respectable distance from wildlife, and always follow your naturalist’s guidance
Use reef-safe sunscreen and environmentally friendly products provided in your cabin, brought from home, and/or available for purchase on board
Leave no trace—take only photos, leave only footprints
When meeting with local people in their home communities, abide by the guidelines Lindblad shares about how to interact in a respectful manner depending on local customs, traditions, and expectations