Traveller contributions have contributed to a record-breaking year where more than $3 million has been invested in worthwhile projects.
The money has gone to conservation, science, education and storytelling through the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund (LEX-NG Fund).
In 2025, the fund invested the money across 36 projects worldwide, marking the largest single-year investment in its history, and has now contributed more than $26.4 million since 2008 to support projects in the regions the fleet explores.
“This year’s results show what can happen when travel is rooted in purpose,” said Natalya Leahy, CEO of Lindblad Expeditions.
“As the pioneer of modern expedition travel, our belief has been that exploration and stewardship go hand in hand.
“What makes this work so powerful is that it’s driven by our guests – every journey helps support the science, conservation and community initiatives that protect the places we explore.”
Among the projects supported last year:
# Unplastify – has engaged more than 4,000 students across 10 countries through expanded educator training and youth-led solutions to reduce single-use plastics
# Mapping Microplastics and Microfibers in Water and Air – is pioneering plastic pollution research by mapping microplastics and microfibers in the water and air in the Arctic and the Southern Ocean
# Alaska Whale Foundation – continues its long-term whale health research through its Ocean Health Program, now nearing a decade of work and recognized as one of the largest initiatives of its kind, advancing scientific knowledge while supporting coastal communities
# Moananuiākea: Voyage for Earth – led by the Polynesian Voyaging Society, is connecting communities across the Pacific to advance ocean stewardship
“It’s a reminder that travel can do more than broaden perspective – it can make a meaningful impact on the world we’re so fortunate to experience,” added Ms Leahy.
