Lindblad Expeditions

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Excellent

National Geographic Orion

Pago Pago

This was our 7th cruise with Lindblad.   We go with Lindblad/NatGeo because of the smaller ship size (72 people on this one), the knowledgeable and expert staff and the very high quality of the crew.

We toured the Tumumatu Atolls and the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia, visiting 17 in 15 days.   Some had not seen a cruise ship stop there and many did not have any people where we swam, snorkeled, kayaked and hiked.  We were fortunate to have wonderful weather.

Every day offered a number of activities.   The crew and Lindblad staff always were looking for what may be the most interesting or most rewarding.   They would work closely with the Captain (who mingled with the guests on most days) to put the ship where we could best partake in the events.   Flexibility was always high on the list and offered everyone the chance to get between activities when they wanted to do so.

Another very strong attribute of the trip is the access to many experts of the Lindblad staff as well as those they bring on board.   We had at least 5 naturalists, 3 cultural experts, underwater experts and certified photography experts.   We also had the head of Nat Geo's Natural History photography on the trip.   All of them reach out constantly and are there to answer, assist and suggest ways to get the absolute best out of the venture.  If that is not enough, the Bridge is open and the Captain and Co-Captain would personally discuss the ship operation and navigation.

As for other attributes, the Chef and kitchen staff did a fabulous job.   Many choices, fresh offerings, and constant availability.   Ice cream bars brought to the beach and greeting us after a drift snorkeling experience!  The hotel staff knows everyone by name and is always ready to serve you.

I would not pick Lindblad if you are looking for a large fitness center (you don't have time to use it anyway), a casino (none), entertainment (the crew do a great job and the recaps are entertaining as well as the Hotel Manager), multiple pools (there is one spa) or shore excursions that hit popular places (they hired all the transport, which was 6 trucks on one island).

However, if you are seeking an immersive experience and want to be with sharp and interesting people from all walks-of-life, you would be hard-pressed to find a better choice in Lindblad Expeditions.

Fantastic cruise/expedition with outstanding crew, staff and guests.

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