Explorers have long found inspiration on the shorelines of Europe, from the Vikings who launched their longships from Norwegian fjords to the navigators who set sail from Portugal’s golden sands. Today, coastal Europe still holds the promise of discovery for expedition travelers. Get Inspired By Photos, Videos, Webinars, Stories, And Exclusive Offers. Sign Up

If you only focused your explorations in the heart of Europe in highly trafficked locales like Paris, Madrid, or London, you would be missing out on a host of extraordinary experiences. On the fringes of the continent, little-known wonders are waiting along captivating seafronts—treasures like an ancient basalt sea cave in Scotland, volcanic Azorean vineyards, prehistoric standing stones in the Corsican countryside, and Riga's stunning Central Market housed in old Zeppelin airship hangars.

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A vineyard set in the volcanic landscape on Pico Island in the Azores.

To sail Europe with Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic is to encounter both unfamiliar and iconic landmarks, exploring a wide range of geographies to gain unique perspectives on the threads that connect their histories and cultures. Our small ships sail deftly among windswept archipelagos, through historic canals, and into open water, inviting you to see Europe’s seascapes through the eyes of the explorers who came before. And the team at the helm of each expedition—including naturalists, cultural experts, historians, and certified photo instructors—offers expert insights into Europe’s past to help illuminate her present. 

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Zodiac ride to shore in Dingle, Ireland. Photo: David Cothran

We take you to the front doors of grand medieval cities and picturesque Mediterranean harbors, approaching them in an authentic, time-honored way and immersing you in their illustrious histories. And the special experiences we arrange on shore with local chefs, fishermen, musicians, and art curators help you forge deeper connections to the cultures that helped shape these storied places. Explore Europe with Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic and discover new perspectives on timeless treasures. 

Experience More When You Explore by Small Ship 

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National Geographic Explorer anchors off of Castle O'Brien in the Aran Islands. Photo: Michael S. Nolan

A quartet of stylish and comfortable small ships play host to our European voyages. Our 81-cabin flagship National Geographic Explorer is a world-class expedition vessel, equally at home on the high seas or in the small harbors of Europe. Our new, state-of-the-art sister ships, National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution, each feature 69 cabins, sleek Scandinavian design, and special amenities such as infinity hot tubs and twin saunas. Last, but certainly not least, the historic and sumptuously appointed 30-cabin Sea Cloud—once Marjorie Merriweather Post’s private yacht—harkens back to the golden age of sailing.


Our ships are outfitted with cutting-edge exploration tools so you can explore Europe’s stunning seascapes and shorelines up close. Kayak beneath waterfall-laced fjords in Norway or between the rocky, windswept islets of Sweden’s Åland Islands. Board a Zodiac for a cruise into dramatic Fingal’s Cave in Staffa, or ride directly into the picturesque Slovenian harbor of Piran. You’ll get unique viewpoints—and new perspectives—exploring these natural and cultural wonders at water level.