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Lindblad Expeditions is renowned for its adventure-filled voyages to some of the most remote and pristine corners of the world—from Antarctica and the Galápagos to Alaska and the Arctic. These trips are designed for explorers who crave discovery, wildlife encounters, and immersion in nature. However, one question often arises among travelers who have furry companions: “Can I bring my pets on Lindblad Expeditions?”
The short answer is no—pets are generally not allowed on Lindblad Expeditions vessels. But there are exceptions for trained service animals, and there are ways to plan your journey responsibly as a pet owner. This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know about bringing pets (or not bringing them) on Lindblad cruises, how service animal policies work, and what alternatives exist for pet care while you’re exploring the world.
Lindblad Expeditions operates in partnership with National Geographic, emphasizing environmental stewardship, wildlife preservation, and minimal ecological impact. Given the remote destinations and fragile ecosystems the company visits, strict regulations are enforced—not only by Lindblad itself but also by international conservation authorities.
For these reasons, Lindblad does not permit pets on any of its vessels, including dogs, cats, birds, or other animals kept for companionship. The primary concerns behind this policy are:
Biosecurity regulations: Many destinations, such as the Galápagos Islands or Antarctica, have strict biosecurity laws that prohibit non-native animals from entering to protect local wildlife.
Health and safety: Pets can be stressed in confined environments and may pose health or allergy concerns for other passengers.
Limited onboard facilities: Lindblad ships are expedition vessels, not luxury liners with pet-friendly suites or kennels. They lack the amenities necessary for safe and comfortable pet accommodations.
Therefore, Lindblad Expeditions maintains a firm stance on “no pets allowed”—ensuring that voyages remain environmentally compliant and stress-free for all guests.
Understanding why pets are prohibited helps travelers appreciate the environmental and ethical reasoning behind this policy.
Lindblad operates in places like the Galápagos Islands, Svalbard, and Antarctica—regions that are home to delicate, isolated ecosystems. Introducing any foreign species, even unintentionally, could devastate native populations. Pets may carry bacteria, parasites, or allergens that could disturb local wildlife.
Lindblad Expeditions must comply with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) guidelines. These laws impose strict controls on biological contamination, limiting what can be brought aboard or ashore.
Unlike large cruise ships, Lindblad’s vessels are smaller—often hosting fewer than 150 passengers. Cabins are designed efficiently, and space is optimized for exploration equipment, laboratories, and zodiacs, not animal housing. Additionally, there are no veterinarians onboard, making it unsafe for pets who may fall ill or experience stress.
Some passengers may have allergies, phobias, or sensitivities to animals. The absence of pets ensures a universally comfortable and hygienic environment for everyone.
While pets are not permitted, service animals—specifically trained to assist passengers with disabilities—may be allowed under certain conditions. However, approval is not automatic and must meet stringent guidelines.
A service animal is individually trained to perform specific tasks that assist a person with a disability, such as guiding the visually impaired, detecting seizures, or providing mobility support. Emotional support animals (ESAs) and comfort animals, while important to many individuals, do not qualify as service animals under Lindblad’s or maritime law definitions.
Travelers who need to bring a service animal must notify Lindblad Expeditions well in advance of their departure date—ideally at the time of booking. Required documentation may include:
Proof of certification or training from a recognized organization
Verification of vaccinations and health certificates
Detailed explanation of tasks performed by the animal
Compliance with international quarantine regulations (especially for destinations like the Galápagos, where entry laws are extremely strict)
Each case is reviewed individually, and approval depends on destination-specific restrictions.
If approved, Lindblad will provide necessary accommodations for the service animal, such as:
Designated relief areas
Safety protocols during landings or zodiac transfers
Guidance from the ship’s staff for animal comfort
Still, even with service animals, shore landings may be restricted in environmentally protected regions to comply with local conservation laws.
Many travelers rely on emotional support animals for mental or emotional well-being. Unfortunately, Lindblad Expeditions does not allow emotional support or therapy animals onboard any of its ships.
This policy aligns with international maritime guidelines and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which differentiates between trained service animals and emotional support animals. The ADA requires access accommodations for service animals but does not extend the same to ESAs in maritime travel.
If you travel with an emotional support animal in your daily life, it’s essential to plan alternative arrangements for your pet before your expedition.
Since you cannot bring pets aboard, the next best option is to ensure their comfort and safety while you explore. Here are some responsible and reliable options:
Many travelers use professional pet hotels or boarding services that provide 24/7 care, exercise, and veterinary supervision. Premium boarding facilities often include webcams so you can check in remotely.
Hiring a professional pet sitter to stay in your home can keep your animal comfortable in its familiar environment. This is an ideal choice for pets prone to anxiety.
If you have trusted friends or family members willing to care for your pet, it’s a cost-effective and comforting option. Make sure to leave clear instructions and emergency contacts.
For long voyages, some travelers hire certified pet nannies who can transport animals safely between cities or even countries—useful if your journey is part of a longer global adventure.
If you’re committed to traveling with a pet, you might wonder whether any other expedition cruise lines allow animals. Unfortunately, most eco-expedition companies follow similar restrictions. For example:
Cruise LinePet PolicyService Animal Policy
Lindblad ExpeditionsPets not allowedService animals permitted with prior approval
Aurora ExpeditionsNo pets allowedService animals allowed in compliance with local laws
Quark ExpeditionsNo petsService animals approved case-by-case
Hurtigruten ExpeditionsNo pets on expedition routesService animals must meet international regulations
Across the industry, environmental protection remains the overriding priority. Bringing any non-native animal into protected ecosystems risks ecological harm, so expedition cruise companies maintain a unified “no pets” stance.
Leaving your pet behind can be emotionally challenging, especially if they’re a daily companion. Here’s how to make your travel more comfortable—for both you and your pet.
Begin planning pet care arrangements at least 4–6 weeks before your departure. This allows time for trial visits to boarding facilities or meetings with potential sitters.
If using a pet service, ask for daily updates, photos, or live webcam access to ease separation anxiety.
Traveling without your pet can feel strange at first. Bring small reminders like photos, or use video calls with caretakers to maintain a sense of connection.
When you return home, spend extra quality time with your pet. This helps them readjust and strengthens your bond.
Lindblad Expeditions has a long-standing reputation for environmental leadership. Their strict no-pet policy isn’t about inconvenience—it’s about preservation. Every expedition is guided by principles of “leave no trace” and minimal disturbance to wildlife.
The company invests heavily in conservation efforts, including:
Funding research in the Galápagos and Antarctica
Supporting the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund for environmental education
Enforcing waste reduction and wildlife protection programs
Allowing pets, even under supervision, could jeopardize decades of conservation work. By adhering to this policy, passengers directly contribute to protecting some of the world’s last untouched habitats.
For pet lovers, separation doesn’t have to mean disconnection. Here are some creative ways to stay emotionally close to your pet while you’re on your Lindblad voyage:
Use pet camera apps (like Furbo or Petcube) to interact remotely.
Schedule virtual check-ins with your pet sitter or boarding facility.
Keep a travel diary and write letters “to your pet”—a fun way to process your journey.
Bring home souvenirs such as a paw-print charm from your destination.
Share stories about the animals you encounter on expedition—it’s a beautiful way to celebrate all living beings.
No. All animals, regardless of size or species, are prohibited onboard due to biosecurity risks.
No. The ships are designed for exploration and scientific operations, not for pet accommodations.
Ports like Ushuaia or Reykjavik may have local kennels, but Lindblad Expeditions does not offer or manage any pet storage services.
Only under very specific conditions—and even then, restrictions may apply. The Galápagos National Park Authority must approve the entry of any service animal.
Lindblad reserves the right to deny boarding, and refunds may not be issued. Always clarify pet-related requests before finalizing your booking.
While it may be disappointing that Lindblad Expeditions does not allow pets onboard, this policy underscores the company’s dedication to environmental integrity and the safety of all travelers. Expedition cruises are not typical vacations—they are scientific journeys to fragile ecosystems that require strict biosecurity.
If you’re a devoted pet owner, the best approach is to make responsible care arrangements at home while you explore the wonders of the world with Lindblad. The memories you create—penguins in Antarctica, sea lions in the Galápagos, or polar bears in the Arctic—will be stories to share when you return to your loyal companion waiting at home.
Ultimately, by respecting Lindblad’s pet policy, you’re helping protect the very wildlife that makes these expeditions so extraordinary.
Your ultimate guide to cruise adventures. Discover amazing destinations, find the perfect cruise, and create unforgettable memories on the high seas.
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