National Geographic Explorer parked in the ice, allowing guests to disembark directly on the ice

Cruise Review: National Geographic Explorer Cruise Review – January 2016

We were a family of four. We booked this trip almost a year ahead of time to be able to get the cabins we wanted aboard the National Geographic Explorer; Category 3 midship. We had been on a small ship in Alaska, (not Lindblad) and loved the experience and heard Lindblad was the best for Antarctica.

We had an absolutely fabulous time. Antarctica is the most spectacular place I’ve ever seen. We had one cloudless day as we were cruising down the Gerlache Strait and was simply gorgeous I will never forget it Most of our days were overcast, the light in the distance and emanating from icebergs was endlessly fascinating. Lots of penguins, seals, and humpback and killer whales. Got to kayak and to do a walk onto the sea ice (unusual this late in the year). Crossed the Antarctic Circle and did the polar plunge (girls did it twice — into 30-degree water!). Crazy!

The ship is ideal and the Lindblad folks were all professional, experienced, and incredibly nice and helpful. The talks were informative and entertaining. The open bridge is a great idea and we made good use of it — it’s the ideal place to see stuff. The other travelers were a great bunch, well-traveled, educated, and really into exploring as we were. — everyone got along famously.

It’s a ton of money, but you get a really first-rate voyage for it. Thank you for your help and guidance, as it was wonderful working with you again.

— Anonymous