by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 10:25 AM ET, Tue May 6, 2025
Lindblad Expeditions is getting into European river cruising.
The popular expedition cruise line is partnering with Transcend Cruises to expand into European river sailings starting in 2026. The two companies have entered into a multi-year charter agreement that will “reframe European river cruising for discerning travelers looking to experience the continent's most iconic waterways like a true explorer,” according to a statement.
“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,” says Natalya Leahy, chief executive officer of Lindblad 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.”
The two companies will partner through at least 2028, with a notable increase in annual departures year-over-year. The voyages will be offered on Transcend Cruises’ new ships.
This is not Lindblad Expeditions’ first foray into river cruising. The company has sailed on the Nile and the Peruvian Amazon, as well as America’s Columbia and Snake Rivers, but it has not offered river cruises in Europe until now.
The two companies are developing a series of customized itineraries, which will be led by one of Lindblad’s expedition leaders, several field staff and at least one National Geographic expert.
Transcend Cruises launched in 2023 as a “charter-only” river cruise line. It’s building two ships, Transcend Connect and Transcend Evolve, which are slated to debut next year.
“We are a natural fit in working so close together with such a respected brand in mindful exploration travel,” says Hans Rood, chief executive officer 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 travelers.”
He adds: “With a strong focus on wellness, sustainability and best of services, we are the perfect fit to deliver the programs Lindblad Expeditions require. By collaborating, we are able to create the most exclusive experiences on Europe's most spectacular waterways.”
The European river cruising market continues to expand. Earlier this year, Celebrity Cruises announced its plans to expand into European river cruising in 2027. And Trafalgar will launch two river cruises in Europe in the spring of 2026.
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