Frommer's Review
Lindblad Expeditions specializes in environmentally sensitive, soft-adventure vacations that are explorative and informal in nature, designed to appeal to the intellectually curious traveler seeking a cruise that's educational as well as relaxing. Days aboard are spent learning about the Alaskan outdoors from high-caliber expedition leaders trained in botany, anthropology, biology, and geology, and observing the world around you either from the ship or during shore excursions, which are included in the cruise package. Educational films and slide presentations aboard ship precede nature hikes and quick jaunts aboard Zodiac boats. Flexibility and spontaneity are keys to the experience, as the route may be altered at any time to follow a pod of whales or school of dolphins.
The ships cruise a 12-night itinerary between Juneau and Seattle and an 8-night trip between Juneau and Sitka.
Passenger Profile -- Lindblad Expeditions tends to attract well-traveled and well-educated, professional, 55-and-older couples who have "been there, done that" and are looking for something completely different in a cruise experience.
Ships -- The 62-passenger Sea Lion and Sea Bird (built in 1981 and 1982, respectively) are nearly identical and are, in fact, very similar to many of the other small ships in the Alaska market. All are basic vessels built to get you to beautiful spots and feature a minimum of public rooms and conveniences: one dining room, one bar/lounge, and lots of deck space for wildlife and glacier viewing. Cabins are small and functional. Sample rates per person: Lowest-price outside cabin $583 per day for a 12-night cruise; no inside cabins or suites.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
