Lindblad Launches European River Cruises: Is It the Right Fit for You?

If you’ve ever traveled with Lindblad Expeditions, perhaps to Alaska, the Galápagos, or Antarctica, you know their approach is rooted in curiosity, conservation, and expert-led exploration. These are not mass-market cruises. They are thoughtfully designed journeys for travelers who want to engage deeply with the world.

Starting in April 2026, Lindblad is bringing that same philosophy to the rivers of Europe with the launch of two immersive new itineraries. Whether you are new to river cruising or looking for something beyond the standard options, here’s what makes these sailings unique and how to decide if they are the right fit for your next adventure.

A rendering of Linblad's Connect ship coming to Europe's rivers

What Lindblad European River Cruises Offer

Lindblad’s approach to river cruising is slower, more curated, and less crowded. With a focus on cultural access and meaningful pacing, these itineraries are ideal for travelers who prefer depth over breadth.

Rhine River: Castles, Cathedrals & Vineyards

Route: Cologne to Basel

Duration: 8 days

Highlights:

• Private reception at Rheinstein Castle

• Wine tasting with the nuns of St. Hildegard Abbey

• Guided walking tours of Strasbourg, Koblenz, and Speyer

• Dinner and conversation with Heidelberg students

  
  

Holland & Belgium: Medieval History & Scenic Waterways

Route: Amsterdam to Brussels

Duration: 8 days

Highlights:

• After-hours visit to the Mauritshuis in The Hague

• Culinary walking tour of Antwerp

• Windmill visit in Kinderdijk

• Architecture and art in Bruges, Ghent, and Ghent

  
  

Both itineraries include small-group excursions, cultural experiences that go beyond the surface, and room to explore independently if desired.

Traditional colorful houses in La Petite France, Strasbourg, Alsace, France

A Closer Look at Connect, Lindblad’s New River Ship

These cruises will sail on a newly built ship named Connect, designed specifically for Europe’s rivers and Lindblad’s guest philosophy.

Ship Details:

• Accommodates 120 guests in 60 cabins (all 210 sq ft, combinable into 420 sq ft suites)

• Floor-to-ceiling picture windows and French balconies in every room

• Multi-level wellness area for yoga, fitness, and relaxation

• Two-story auditorium for expert lectures and presentations

• Multiple dining areas, including a top-deck grill

• Onboard bikes for guests who want to explore independently

  
  

Lindblad’s design is clean, functional, and purpose-driven. Rather than lavish extras, the focus is on comfort and access to learning and culture.

A rendering of a stateroom onboard the Connect

How Lindblad Compares to Other River Cruise Lines

Feature	Lindblad Expeditions	Viking	Tauck	AmaWaterways
Guests	120	190	130	150
Focus	Expeditionary, cultural, educational	Efficient, traditional	All-inclusive luxury	Active, culinary
Excursions	Small-group, expert-led	Group-focused, efficient	Fully inclusive, guided	Fully inclusive, guided
Price Range	$6,450–$10,000+ per person	$3,000–$6,000 per person	$6,500–$12,000+ per person	$3,500–$7,500 per person

If Viking feels like a well-paced introduction to Europe, and Tauck delivers five-star luxury, Lindblad offers something different. It is less about polished glamour and more about access, reflection, and enrichment.

View from the Rüdesheim am Rhein, wine country, vineyards on the river Rhine in the Hesse, Germany

For Lindblad Loyalists

If you have previously traveled with Lindblad Expeditions, whether on a polar voyage or a Galápagos adventure, this new offering extends their expedition mindset into the cultural landscapes of Europe.

The same hallmarks remain:

• Expert-led programming

• Small groups and immersive excursions

• A guest experience built around education and authenticity

  
  

Instead of glaciers and wildlife, you will engage with abbeys, vineyards, and museums, but the spirit of the journey remains the same.

The Forum is a dramatic two-story space featuring tiered seating and unobstructed views

Who Should Consider These Cruises?

You may love this experience if you:

• Prefer small-ship, educational travel with depth and flexibility

• Are drawn to local culture, food, and off-the-beaten-path stories

• Want time to reflect and explore independently in each port

• Are comfortable with a higher price point in exchange for access and enrichment

  
  

You may want to consider other options if you:

• Prefer entertainment and nightlife onboard

• Want a larger group setting with more structured activities

• Are looking for the lowest-cost river cruise or broadest inclusions

Keukenhof, South Holland, Netherlands

Frequently Asked Questions

When do Lindblad’s European river cruises begin?

Sailings begin in April 2026 and early booking is now open.

What’s the starting price?

Fares begin at $6,450 per person for a standard cabin. As with all cruise lines, higher-tier suites and popular dates will cost more.

What’s included in the fare?

Excursions, Wi-Fi, gratuities, and expert-led programming are included. Alcohol is not included.

Will there be onboard experts?

Yes. Just like their ocean expeditions, Lindblad’s river cruises include cultural and historical experts, guides, and guest speakers.

Are these cruises family-friendly?

The cruises are open to families but designed for adult travelers. There are no children’s programs or youth-specific amenities.

Why Work With a Travel Advisor

Lindblad’s river cruises are new to the market, which means comparison shopping can feel overwhelming. My role is to help you decide if this is the right fit and to guide you through the details, from booking to embarkation.

As a river cruise specialist, I offer:

• Clear, unbiased recommendations

• Personalized cabin selection and date guidance

• Pre-and post-cruise travel planning

• Flight, insurance, and documentation assistance

• In-destination support

• Complimentary service—there is no additional fee for my expertise

  
  

You do not have to navigate this alone. Instead, I’ll make sure your investment in travel delivers exactly the kind of experience you’re hoping for.

Let’s Start Planning

If this sounds like the kind of river cruise you’ve been waiting for, I’d be honored to help you explore availability and options. These are small ships with limited space, and interest will grow quickly as we approach 2026.

So let’s talk. There’s no pressure and no cost to reach out—just the beginning of a planning process that’s as enjoyable as the cruise itself.

Start here with my river cruise inquiry form and let’s have an actual conversation. I’ll listen, advise, and advocate for you the whole way. You can also feel free to call or email first if you prefer.

👉 Ready to chat? Click here to fill out my River Cruise Inquiry Form. You can also scroll down and fill out the form below. No pressure. Just a conversation starter.

Here’s what happens after you reach out:

• You’ll hear from me personally within 1–3 business days

• I’ll review your form and contact you with curated next steps

• You’ll get personalized guidance, not a generic or automated quote

Submit Your Inquiry

Real Reviews from Real People

Emma Guse is a River Cruise Specialist with Travelmation, helping solo travelers, couples, families, and groups plan unforgettable river cruises with ease. Known for her down-to-earth style and expert guidance, she handles the details so you can focus on making memories.

Emma's services are 100% complimentary and included in the base rates of every river cruise line. Learn more about Emma HERE or submit an inquiry HERE.