From polar expeditions and wildlife encounters to cultural discovery in destinations around the world, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions offers travellers a more immersive way to explore. In this week’s Take 5, we speak with Aurélie Grand, Head of Trade Marketing, Lindblad Expeditions, about what’s new for the 2028–2029 season, how advisors can introduce expedition travel to a broader range of clients, the experiences that set the company apart and the training and sales tools available to help advisors grow their expedition business.
1.What’s new for National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions in 2028–2029, and what should travel advisors be most excited to share with their clients?
“The 2028–2029 season gives advisors even more ways to match clients with extraordinary experiences around the world. One of the highlights is our return to French Polynesia aboard National Geographic Orion, along with new and expanded opportunities across our portfolio, from the polar regions to the Galápagos and beyond. The breadth of our itineraries allows advisors to look beyond the traditional expedition traveler and introduce this style of travel to clients interested in wildlife, photography, culture, active exploration or simply experiencing a destination in a more meaningful way.”
2.With more expedition options available than ever, what should advisors emphasize when explaining the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions difference?
“It is not simply where your clients go, but how they experience it. Lindblad Expeditions has 60 years of expedition heritage, combined with the expertise and storytelling of National Geographic. The fleet’s nimble ships, experienced expedition teams, National Geographic Photographers and opportunities to explore by Zodiac, kayak, on foot and in the water bring clients closer to the places they have traveled so far to see. We also offer experiences for different types of travelers, including our exclusive National Geographic Explorers-in-Training program for families.”
NG Endurance in South Georgia Gold Harbour
3.Where do you see the greatest opportunity for Canadian travel advisors to grow their expedition business?
“The opportunity is much broader than clients who already identify as expedition travelers. Advisors should look at clients who love wildlife, photography, nature, active travel and cultural discovery, as well as well-traveled clients searching for something different and multigenerational families looking for meaningful experiences together. Destinations such as the Galápagos, Antarctica, the Arctic, Alaska and French Polynesia can all provide natural entry points. One of the best questions an advisor can ask is not simply where a client wants to go, but how they want to experience that destination.”
4.What advice would you give an advisor who has a client interested in expedition travel but is not yet confident selling it?
“You do not need to become an expedition expert before having the conversation. Start by understanding what excites your client and what they want from the trip, then let us help with the rest. Our Regional Sales Directors can help you compare itineraries, identify the right ship and voyage, answer questions and even join a conversation with your client. We want to be an extension of your business and help you confidently turn that initial interest into a booking.”
5.How is National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions helping travel advisors become more knowledgeable and successful at selling expedition travel?
“Supporting travel advisors is a major priority for us, and we have invested significantly in making it easier to learn, market and sell our expeditions. Expedition 360° provides dedicated training to build destination and product expertise, while our Travel Advisor Resource Hub brings sales and marketing resources together in one place, including Destination Toolkits, customizable client-facing content, social assets, webinars and more. Combined with the personal support of our sales team, our goal is to give advisors the knowledge, tools and confidence they need to grow their expedition business.”
For more information, check out the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions Travel Advisor Resource Hub, where travel advisors can find essential sales tools, marketing assets and training materials.
