National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is marking the 60th anniversary of the first civilian expedition to Antarctica.

On January 23, 1966, Lars-Eric Lindblad led the first group of non-scientific travelers to Antarctica, opening one of the world’s most remote regions to explorers.

One year later, Lindblad brought the first civilian expedition to the Galápagos Islands.

“Lars-Eric Lindblad pioneered expedition travel with a simple belief: how you see the world matters,” said Natalya Leahy, chief executive officer of Lindblad Expeditions.

“Sixty years after the voyage that started it all, that vision continues to guide us. Every sailing is shaped by decades of experience, deep relationships with local communities and the expertise of some of the world’s most seasoned captains, navigators and naturalists.”

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions now sails to more than 100 destinations worldwide, spanning Antarctica and the Galápagos alongside expeditions across Europe, Asia, Africa and beyond.

The company launched the National Geographic Endurance, the first PC-5 polar class ship built for civilian expeditions. The company also offers private flight access in and out of Puerto Natales, Chile, as part of its Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage itinerary.

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is celebrating the milestone with ‘’The Expedition That Started It All’’ anniversary offer. Travelers can enjoy up to 20 percent savings and a 50 percent reduced deposit on select 2026 and 2027 voyages when booked by February 9, 2026.