A Multigenerational Alaskan Escape with Lindblad Expeditions

“I am not a cruiser” is my general statement when asked about this type of travel. A large boat where you feel like you are stuffed in with 5,000 of your closest friends is not my idea of a good time. However, it is well-known that the best way to see Alaska is through a cruise. Therefore, when researching the best option for my multigenerational family, finding a “cruise for those who don’t cruise” was critical. Small and intimate was a must. I also knew that this cruise needed to meet the needs of the discerning grandparents and the active grandkids. Enter: National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions. The Alaska Escape on the Sea Lion fits the bill.

From the moment we arrived in Anchorage, we knew our experience was different. National Geographic has a hospitality suite set up (complete with snacks) where you can go to meet your new friends. The staff excitedly greets you and hosts some ice breakers—remember, there are fewer than 60 guests on this boat (31 guest cabins to be exact), so you’re going to get to know everyone. Once the meet and greet is complete, they whisk you to the boat, where they’ve already set up your luggage. With this size crew, onboarding only takes a few minutes. Then, you’re off!

The onboard experience is equally as personal and special. There is one lounge, and it is the social hub. Cocktail hour occurs with snacks and lively discussion of the day’s activities. Nightly entertainment (nature- and conservation-focused) is also offered in this space. The dining room is open-seating and allows you to sit with different guests for meals. Once seated, you’re treated to a varied and delicious menu. The bridge, where the Captain steers the boat, is open, and you’re welcome to go up there at any time to chat and learn more. The bow is always staffed by a naturalist, and they are constantly on the lookout for wildlife. If you happen to be elsewhere on the boat, do not worry—they’ll announce wildlife sightings so you can head that way.

While it is a cruise, where this boat and the itinerary really shines is the ease of exploring the amazing landscapes of Alaska. As the boat is small, it can get into fjords and coves that the big boats cannot. There are no stops that require you to go out and do an excursion; instead, everything is included and unique. Each day, the naturalists on board (there are three per expedition) curate great experiences based on where you anchor. Just a few of the experiences we enjoyed included taking a zodiac to the glaciers, bushwhacking through the forest, hiking to a lookout point, fly fishing, eagle spotting, sea lion spotting, a polar plunge, kayaking, and plankton gathering. And the best part: There is a professional photographer on board that captures it all for you.

There are so many options for Alaska, but if you are after an authentic experience, National Geographic Explorer is the way to go. Reach out to me so I can help you pick the best option.

The line has cruises all over the world, and picking the right destination and itinerary for your group is key. I am here to help!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our cruises page.