Showcase at Sea: Insights from the Galápagos with National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions
- Akvile Marozaite
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
This week, ECN CEO Akvile Marozaite is travelling through the Galápagos Islands as part of National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions’ inaugural UK Showcase at Sea FAM trip. Designed exclusively for media and travel trade partners, the trip offers a rare opportunity to step aboard all four vessels in the Lindblad Galápagos fleet while experiencing the region’s remarkable wildlife, landscapes, and expedition style of travel first-hand.
During the voyage, Akvile sat down with Danielle Bates, Head of UK Sales, to discuss the fleet, the expedition experience, and the essential knowledge travel advisors need when selling the Galápagos.
Watch the full interview here.
A Fleet with Unmatched Variety
One of the strongest selling points of National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions’ Galápagos programme is the breadth of its fleet. As Danielle explained, having four distinct ships enables advisors to match every client type with the right product.
The fleet includes:
National Geographic Delfina – A 16-guest catamaran ideal for families, multigenerational groups, or private charters thanks to its intimate size and two-naturalist ratio.
National Geographic Islander II – A 48-guest luxury yacht-style vessel featuring opulent interiors, alfresco dining, and elegant outdoor spaces.
National Geographic Gemini – Another 48-guest ship, newly added to the fleet, offering a private-yacht atmosphere with premium touches.
National Geographic Endeavour II – A 96-guest purpose-built expedition vessel—and the ship hosting this FAM trip—equipped with a full suite of exploration tools and a 10-strong naturalist team.
This diversity, Danielle emphasised, makes Lindblad exceptionally easy for advisors to work with:
“Regardless of what your client is looking for, there will be something in our portfolio that suits them. It’s a one-stop Galápagos shop.”
Experiencing the Galápagos: A Day in the Life
For many first-time expedition travellers, the biggest surprise is the pace and variety of activities. Danielle describes the Galápagos as “a destination that squeezes every minute of opportunity” and a day in Fernandina island offered the perfect example.
A day on board National Geographic Endeavour II typically includes:
Sunrise deck stretch
Morning landing on islands such as Fernandina or Isabela
Deep-water snorkelling, with encounters ranging from sea turtles to marine iguanas
Afternoon Zodiac cruising, photography workshops, or lectures with the expedition team
Evening recap, guest talks, and special programming such as wine tastings or equator-crossing celebrations
The combination of land and water activities, supported by a highly skilled naturalist team, is what sets the Galápagos apart. For Akvile, now visiting for the third time, the destination remains just as powerful:
“The wildlife encounters here are like nowhere else in the world. The magic never fades.”
A Seamless Journey for Travellers and Advisors
While the Galápagos is one of the world’s most extraordinary expedition destinations, it is also one of the most regulated and logistically complex. Danielle highlighted how Lindblad makes this process smooth for both advisors and their clients.
All expeditions include:
Pre- and post-nights in Quito
Group flights between Quito and the islands
National Park fees and transit cards
Full airport assistance and luggage handling
Expert representatives at every stage of the journey
As Danielle shared:
“Everything is incredibly seamless—you don’t need to think about the logistics. It’s all taken care of.”
The Showcase at Sea itinerary itself demonstrates the fully supported nature of the experience, from the moment the group checks in at London Heathrow to connecting flights, ship transfers, and guided visits across the islands.
Selling Tips for Galápagos Expedition Cruises
Danielle shared her practical advice for matching clients to the right ship:
Endeavour II: Best for guests seeking a classic, activity-rich expedition on a larger vessel with extensive exploration tools.
Islander II: Ideal for luxury ocean cruisers trying expedition for the first time, offering a familiar level of comfort and refinement.
Delfina: Perfect for families or groups wanting a personalised, intimate experience.
Gemini: A premium mid-sized option with a private-yacht feel.
With Lindblad’s deep roots in the region, dating back to 1967, and a team comprised largely of Galápagos locals, guests benefit from extraordinary knowledge, access, and interpretation throughout their journey.
The Journey Continues
The FAM trip continues across the islands this week, with highlights including Punta Vicente Roca, Rabida, Tagus Cove, Playa Espumilla, the Charles Darwin Research Station, the highlands of Santa Cruz, Punta Pitt, and more. Advisors can expect further updates and insights from Akvile as she continues to explore the fleet and the archipelago’s iconic wildlife.
For those selling or considering selling the Galápagos, this journey reinforces why it remains one of the most compelling expedition cruise destinations on Earth and why a knowledgeable partner such as National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions makes all the difference.
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