LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS-NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ANNOUNCES ON THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER

World’s Ultimate Expedition Ship Marks Fifth Anniversary

NEW YORK, NY, August 2012 – Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic will mark the fifth anniversary in 2013 of its flagship, National Geographic Explorer, with five new itineraries that will put you in the explorer’s seat and connect you to incredible places, cultures, and people around the world. The expeditions have been designed to provide one-of-a-kind moments, whether you’re spotting the legendary pink dolphins of the Orinoco, encountering the Inuit people who thrive at the Arctic’s edge, or meeting former President of Poland, Lech Walesa, during our expedition in the Baltics. All expeditions are set aboard the National Geographic Explorer, a 148 guest state-of-the-art expedition ship.

The new 2013 itineraries include:

· Epic South America - Jungle Rivers, Rain Forests & the Colonial Coast: One of the most ambitious expeditions Lindblad has ever offered, the journey will begin in Trinidad ending in Buenos Aires, Argentina visiting eight countries – with special experiences added to the expedition over the next 14 months. You’ll have the rare opportunity to explore three legendary rivers—the Orinoco, Amazon and Essequibo—and experience the region’s exuberant cultures. We will voyage the diverse coastlines and visit colonial towns such as Ilhéus and Parati, vibrant cities including Montevideo and Buenos Aires, and spend two full days in exhilarating Rio de Janeiro. Among the journey’s myriad facets: unique riverine and rain forest habitats, virgin beaches, and special access to Fernando de Noronha to explore and snorkel in the crystal clear waters. A special focus on the region’s varied musical styles and cultural heritage will be woven into the voyage. To give you the best of what this region has to offer, our carefully planned itinerary includes flexibility—to take advantage of the unexpected wonders sure to occur in this exciting part of the world. The 38-day epic adventure departs September 18, 2013. Rates begin at $34,730 per person based on double occupancy in a category 1 cabin. http://www.expeditions.com/Itineraries45.asp?Expedition=805&Destination=324

· A Circumnavigation of Iceland: This is a rare opportunity to discover a riveting geography in its totality. This multi-faceted expedition creates a cohesive narrative of the amazing geological extremes. Cruise among magnificent icebergs in Jokulsarlon, and spend a day on the Arctic Circle spotting rich birdlife. Kayak into fjords and serene bays, and go hiking on spectacular and remote stretches of the coast.. Explore Europe’s largest ice cap, and discover the lava-sculpted landscapes of the Westman Islands. Soak in hot springs, and see boiling mud pots and the thundering Godafoss Waterfall. Go whale-watching on the shores of Iceland and its surrounding isles. Cap off the adventure with a soak in Reykjavik’s famous Blue Lagoon. Joining the voyage is Andrew Evans, National Geographic travel writer and author of the Bradt Travel Guide: Iceland. Departs July 10, 2013 for 10 days/8 nights, rates begin at $7,990 per person based on double occupancy in a category 1 cabin. http://www.expeditions.com/Itineraries45.asp?Expedition=794&Destination=333

· Along the Viking Trail – From Iceland to Greenland: Follow in the wake of legendary explorers as you discover the dramatic landscapes and rich traditions of Greenland and Iceland. Explore Iceland’s western fjords by Zodiac; kayak among the magnificent icebergs of East Greenland; and hike amid charming northern hamlets. Along the way, get immersed in Nordic history on visits to fascinating Viking sites and settlements with our experts. Explore Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital city, and discover the wild western coast of Iceland. Venture to two remarkable sites on the Viking Trail, settled by Erik the Red 500 years before Columbus. Joining the voyage is author and adventurer Tim Severin, one of the last traditional style explorers. Departs July 18, 2013 for 12 days/10 nights. Rates begin at $9,620 per person based on double occupancy in a category 1 cabin. http://www.expeditions.com/Itineraries45.asp?Expedition=793&Destination=333

· Arctic Quest: Greenland and the Canadian High Arctic: Venture deep into the far reaches of the Arctic, where we will trace the rugged fjords of Greenland and navigate the mouth of Canada’s legendary Northwest Passage. Glide between soaring icebergs at the mouth of the Ilulissat Icefjord, spot polar bears on the pack ice, and watch for a wide variety of whales—from minke and killer whales to the rare narwhal. We will explore Uummannaq, site of Greenland’s impressive mummy find, and visit the historic Inuit village of Sermermiut, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get up close to massive glaciers, and hike the wild islands that dot Canada’s northern shores. Joining the voyage is Henning Thing, Ph.D. in arctic wildlife ecology. The 17-day expedition departs July 27 and August 10, 2013. Rates begin at $16,160 per person based on double occupancy. http://www.expeditions.com/Itineraries45.asp?Expedition=792&Destination=333

· A Circumnavigation of the Baltic Sea: Discover the nine countries united by the Baltic Sea, encountering fascinating cultures and histories. Meet former President Lech Walesa in his hometown of Gdansk, Poland. Stroll through the medieval Old Towns of Lübeck, Riga, and Tallinn, designated UNESCO World Heritage sites; visit the great maritime capital of Stockholm; and explore the tiny islands along the Finnish and Swedish coasts by kayak or on nature walks. View one of the world’s greatest art collections at the Hermitage Museum, explore St. Petersburg’s imperial treasures, including the palace of Catherine the First. Departs on May 10, 2013 for 16 days/14 nights. Rates begin at $13,990 per person based on double occupancy in a category 1 cabin. http://www.expeditions.com/Itineraries45.asp?Expedition=802&Destination=292

For more information or to book your Lindblad Expeditions experience today, visit www.expeditions.com, call 1-800-EXPEDITION or call your travel agent.