Lindblad Expeditions has a storied history of leading expedition cruises to some of the world’s most exciting destinations, including Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands, and the Northwest Passage, which spans from Greenland to Alaska. Now, they’re bringing this brand of epic storytelling, immersive programs, and expert guides to Europe’s Rhine River, beginning in April 2026.
Two inspiring eight-day itineraries take you through the heart of Europe aboard the Transcend Connect, a brand-new river ship that features cutting-edge sustainable design and luxurious comfort.
The Rhine River: Castles, Culture, and Culinary Delights
This itinerary sails the southern stretch of the Rhine between Cologne in Germany and Basel, Switzerland. In true Lindblad fashion, you’ll enjoy exclusive tours and behind-the-scenes access to some of the region’s most popular destinations.
Your route meanders through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, a picture-perfect tableau of castles and wineries dotting rolling hills, where you’ll learn about the region while you indulge in a hearty German meal called Frühschoppen served in mid-morning.
Rheinstein Castle
The castle lord will welcome you to an after-hours champagne reception at the 13th-century medieval Rheinstein Castle, replete with a working drawbridge and portcullis. At the stunning Benedictine St. Hildegard Abbey, you’ll enjoy an exclusive tour followed by a private Riesling tasting led by the nuns themselves.
Traditional colorful houses in La Petite France, Strasbourg, Alsace, France.
In Heidelberg, you’ll tour Germany’s oldest university and have lunch at a local brewery with students. And, you’ll enjoy a full-day tour to the Black Forest or Alsace Winery, giving you time to relax and experience it at your own pace. Along the way, you’ll stroll enchanting streets and soak in European history and culture.
You can add on optional pre- or post-cruise extensions as well, allowing you to experience the region more fully. Choose from a three-day stay in the German cities of Cologne and Bonn, where you’ll go on a pub crawl to 18 German breweries, including Kolsch, and have a traditional German Dinner. Alternately, visit Lucerne and Interlaken in central Switzerland, where you’ll bask in the breathtaking alpine scenery and take in the iconic landmarks of Lucerne.
Holland and Belgium: Medieval History and Scenic Waterways
This northerly route on the Rhine takes you between Amsterdam, the Netherlands and Brussels, France to explore Amsterdam’s scenic canals, historic cities such as Antwerp and Delft, and the serene Dutch countryside. If you choose a spring departure, you’ll be just in time for Holland’s famous fields of tulips at Keukenhof gardens. In autumn, you’ll explore the Alkmaar Cheese Market, a cheese-travaganza that’s been open every Friday from March to September since 1593.
Alkmaar Cheese Market, an old Church converted in to a museum and market building, Alkmaar, North Holland, Netherlands.
You’ll tour the Kröller-Müller Museums after hours to discover the magic of some of the world’s most famous artists, such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Vermeer, and you’ll explore the region’s Jewish heritage in a tour of WW II monuments guided by Holocaust survivors or family members of survivors. You’ll learn about Amsterdam’s unique relationship with water and its iconic canal system, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The voyage is highlighted by incredible culinary experiences, from a progressive food tour in Antwerp of Belgian specialties–think waffles, fries, and chocolates–to curated dinners on board. You’ll enjoy a private early opening of the Mauritshuis in The Hague, where you can view such esteemed artwork as the Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer and the Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp by Rembrandt. Alternatively, venture to Delft for an up-close view of traditional windmills.
Windmills at Kinderdijk, South Holland, Netherlands
You can also book an optional extension that explores Bruges and Brussels, or three days in Amsterdam to see old port towns, trains, gorgeous scenery, and the Rembrandt house.
Excursions
Lindblad offers more than one choice of excursion in almost every port, so you can choose the way you want to experience your tour. You can opt for an active outing, such as a guided or independent bicycle excursion, or enjoy curated free time with help finding the best dining and food at your location. Excursions are included in your experience, so you don’t have to choose whether to take advantage of everything the journey has to offer.
What Makes Lindblad Expeditions Special?
Since founder Lars-Eric Lindblad led the first non-scientific expedition to Antarctica in 1967, Lindblad Expeditions has been guiding travelers to the most far-reaching and unique places on earth. They created the immersive experience, guided by teams of seasoned experts who bring a destination to life.
Lars-Eric Lindblad leading an expedition to Antarctica
Each ship sails with a dedicated expedition team that includes an expedition leader, cultural specialist, historian, and a National Geographic-certified photo instructor—plus a rotating expert, such as a scientist or storyteller. This means every outing is not just a tour; it’s a rich educational experience guided by people who know the destination inside and out. Whether you’re kayaking along a glacial shoreline or walking through a historic city, you’ll have an insider’s view of the history, culture, and geography of each place.
Another standout is Lindblad’s thoughtful approach to food and sustainability. Meals are crafted using locally sourced ingredients that reflect the flavors of each region, from wild Alaskan salmon to Alsatian wine and cheese. This supports local communities and reduces the environmental impact of shipping ingredients from afar. Lindblad also emphasizes eco-conscious practices onboard—like providing complimentary reusable water bottles and minimizing single-use plastics—making it easy for guests to travel responsibly without sacrificing comfort or quality.
Finally, Lindblad’s all-inclusive philosophy adds real value. You’ll enjoy gourmet meals, regional wines and beers, premium coffee and teas, and hors d’oeuvres, with snacks available throughout the day. Bicycles and e-bikes are available for guided or solo exploration, and entrance fees, special access permits, and high-speed Wi-Fi are all covered. With 24/7 access to observation decks, cozy lounges, and a well-stocked library, you can relax, learn, and connect at your own pace. From the moment you step aboard, everything is designed to inspire your curiosity and make you feel truly taken care of.
The Transcend Connect
The all-new Transcend Connect, constructed in 2025.
Lindblad’s newest ship, the Transcend Connect, sets sail in April 2026 as the most technologically advanced vessel in their fleet, purpose-built for the river cruise experience. Designed with a priority for sustainability, the Connect features green propulsion systems, eco-friendly construction, waste minimization, and biodegradable onboard products. With just 60 outside cabins and a typical guest count of under 120, the Connect offers a luxury, boutique feel for guests.
The Forum, a multi-purpose presentation space on board the Transcend Connect.
Every space on the Transcend Connect is designed to enhance your experience on board. The ship’s two-story amphitheater, The Forum, offers tiered seating for talks, performances, and presentations where every guest has a perfect view. For more intimate conversations, breakout rooms host smaller discussions and group activities. The wellness area includes a yoga studio, gym, sauna, and a large screen for guided workouts. On the rooftop deck, you can enjoy al fresco presentations, movie nights, and special events. There’s even a retractable screen that rises above the ship for open-air viewing under the stars.
Cabins on the Transcend Connect
Accommodations aboard the Transcend Connect are spacious, bright, and thoughtfully designed. All cabins are outside-facing with floor-to-ceiling windows—the top half lowers to let in fresh air, and the glass turns opaque at the touch of a button for privacy. Pairs of rooms can be converted into a suite with a spa-like shower, four wardrobes, and either a separate sitting area or additional beds.
Top Deck of the Transcend Connect
Dining is equally flexible, with a main restaurant that shifts atmospheres throughout the day, a casual rooftop Top Grill, an all-day coffee bar with pastries, and in-room dining available. Whether you’re enjoying regional cuisine in a sunlit dining room or relaxing in your airy suite, the Connect makes every moment onboard feel personal and effortlessly comfortable.
Plan Your European River Cruise Aboard the Transcend Connect
If you’re seeking an authentic cultural connection, stunning scenery, and expert-led itineraries, Lindblad’s tours of the Rhine River aboard the Transcend Connect deliver an unmatched European journey.
Are you ready to choose your route? Interested in extensions, cabin choices, or how these compare to other river experiences? Contact us at 800-578-1479 to get your journey started.
