Announcing a New Era of Exploration—by Air, Land and Sea
Welcoming White Desert Antarctica and Echo Charlie into the Lindblad Family of Travel Brands
Lindblad Expeditions has acquired a majority stake in White Desert Antarctica, beginning a new chapter that will also include the launch of Echo Charlie Modern Odysseys.
Founded in 2005 by polar explorer Patrick Woodhead, White Desert flies small groups into Antarctica’s rarely seen interior, welcoming travelers at intimate luxury camps and taking them as far as the South Pole. White Desert’s deep knowledge of the Antarctic interior complements Lindblad Expeditions’ decades of experience exploring Antarctica by sea.
Together, our expertise spans the breadth of Antarctica—from its wildlife-rich coasts to the sculpted ice tunnels, blue rivers and vast polar plateaus of its interior. Underlying our distinct approaches is a shared belief in small-group, expert-led exploration and a profound respect for this remarkable continent.
Beyond Antarctica, Lindblad Expeditions and White Desert will work together to launch Echo Charlie Modern Odysseys, which will offer imaginative, aviation-led journeys into remote regions from South America to the Arctic—connecting travelers with hidden places, ancient cultures and dramatic landscapes few ever experience.
White Desert: Exploring the Antarctic Interior
White Desert offers a rare way to experience Antarctica: from deep within its remote interior. Each journey pairs the thrill of true adventure with remarkable comfort, supported by extraordinary logistical precision and a commitment to operating responsibly in this sensitive environment. Guests fly from Cape Town across the Southern Ocean, watching icebergs unfold below before landing on a runway of blue glacial ice. Days might be spent exploring sculpted ice caves, rappelling down a glacier, journeying to the geographic South Pole or witnessing emperor penguin chicks take their first steps. Back at camp, elegant private suites, inviting gathering spaces, exceptional dining and sweeping views create a warm refuge at the edge of the world.
A SHARED SPIRIT OF EXPLORATION
Lindblad Expeditions - A New Era of Exploration
- Sep 2026
Stepping into Antarctica’s remote interior offered Lindblad Expeditions CEO Natalya Leahy an entirely new perspective on a continent at the heart of the company’s history. In this video, she shares moments from her journey and reflects on the pioneering spirit that connects the two companies.