Expedition cruise specialist National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has reported an exceptional start to 2026, achieving 63% of its total 2025 sales in the first two months of the year alone, with trade sales playing a pivotal role in the milestone performance.
Bookings through the trade have doubled compared to the same period last year. In January and February 2026, 40% of UK sales were made via travel agents, up from 20% at the same time last year, underscoring the brand’s growing engagement and momentum within the trade sector.
Top-selling destinations for the two months were Antarctica, the Galápagos and Alaska/Canada, reflecting continued demand for immersive, expert-led and scientifically focused small-ship expeditions in some of the world’s most remote and wildlife-rich regions that allow guests to connect on a deeper level to the people, places and cultures they visit.
The standout trade booking came from Charlie Mason, polar specialist at Polar Routes, who secured a booking valued at over £100,000 for two guests. The booking was for a 25-day Patagonia, Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica Odyssey sailing on National Geographic Resolution in February 2028. Leveraging the company’s 60 years of experience in Antarctica and reflecting their unmatched expertise in exploring this legendary region, this is one of the most comprehensive expeditions to the Southern Ocean, spanning four iconic regions and bringing travellers to remote and seldom-seen locations where wildness and wildlife reign supreme.
The strong results follow the strategic expansion of the UK sales team, including the addition of expedition specialist Karen Hollands and dedicated trade support Brooke Dunn, enhancing agent engagement, training and responsiveness across the market.
Looking ahead, 2026 will see an increased focus on trade partnerships. A new 360-degree training programme will launch alongside ship visits, enhanced agent rates and increased in-market presence. In addition, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is an active member of ATAS, Aspire and the Expedition Cruise Network, and has recently joined Latin American Travel Association (LATA), creating further opportunities to connect with and support the trade through both online and in-person initiatives.
Danielle Bates, UK Head of Sales for National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the momentum we’re seeing from the UK trade community. Doubling our trade bookings year-on-year and reaching 63% of last year’s total sales in just two months is a phenomenal achievement.
“The investment in our UK team and our commitment to meaningful agent partnerships is clearly paying off. Trade is a huge focus for us, and we’re incredibly excited about the energy and enthusiasm around our brand. There is so much more to come in 2026 and beyond.”
