Lindblad Expeditions launched National Geographic Global Explorers, a unique exploration-based family program that provides an unforgettable “smart fun” travel experience. Itineraries are designed to inspire children under the age of 18 to become the next generation of explorers.
Kids will hike up volcanoes; snorkel with sea lions; walk among giant tortoises and earn their zodiac driver’s license. Group experiences will allow young travelers to actively participate in discussions with naturalists, and in current citizen science projects such as helping to count sea turtles during nesting season. Young explorers will be encouraged to utilize “field notebooks” to mimic the research scientists conduct in the field, maps to keep track of the itinerary, wildlife checklists and more. Storytelling skills both independently and collaboratively will be encouraged via different mediums, including photos, videos, journaling, music and maps. All of these activities will take place under the watchful eyes of National Geographic trained naturalists dedicated to the core mission to help foster and grow global citizens of the world.
The launch of this program celebrates the 50th anniversary of the first citizen explorer expedition to the Galapagos Islands led by founder Lars-Eric Lindblad in 1967. While Lindblad Expeditions welcomes children on all of their itineraries this takes their commitment to younger travelers a bit further. Naturalists participating in this new program have to complete a new National Geographic curriculum designed by educators who work outside of classrooms in museums and zoos.
The program will be offered on all Lindblad Alaska itineraries in 2018 with the goal of rolling out the National Geographic Global Explorers program on all of their adventure cruises fleet wide. There is no additional charge for the program and children under the age of 18 travel for $500 less than adult pricing on Lindblad sailings.
Visit Lindblad Expeditions for itinerary details, rates and reservations.
Written by Sally Black
