The pioneer of modern expedition cruising, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, today announces the addition of the 17-cabin Charaidew II to its chartered fleet, set to offer two new unique departures in India in 2026. The newly chartered vessel is a specially designed ship, well-equipped to navigate the complex moods of the mighty Brahmaputra with an extra-shallow draught and a low profile that also allows cruising further upstream than any other ship on this river.

The new itineraries, both setting sail in March 2026, offer the best of India, whether travelers choose to embark on the 18-day India by Land and River: Taj Mahal, Safaris and the Brahmaputra or the 11-day India Expedition: Kolkata, Kaziranga and the Brahmaputra River.

The India by Land and River: Taj Mahal, Safaris and the Brahmaputra itinerary offers the best of India, combining the lesser-visited Assam region with legendary spots in the north, like the Taj Mahal and Agra’s Red Fort—both UNESCO World Heritage sites— and renowned wildlife reserves. This new expedition combines four of India’s most fascinating destinations into one comprehensive and gratifying journey, filled with curated experiences, impeccable accommodations, warm local people, intriguing history and some of the rarest wildlife on the planet. Itinerary highlights include:

Explore Agra Fort, Taj Mahal and Kaziranga National Park, three renowned UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Embark on jeep safaris through Bandhavgarh and Kaziranga National Parks to search for rare species like the Asian one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephants and the elusive Royal Bengal tiger, along with abundant birdlife.
Enjoy the cultural treasures and rich history of Kolkata, including markets filled with colorful flowers and artisans crafting intricate clay idols.

Starting at $20,655 per person.

For travelers who have already seen icons of the north, such as the Taj Mahal and Bandhavgarh National Park, there is the option to limit explorations to the eastern leg of the expedition and travel on the India Expedition: Kolkata, Kaziranga and the Brahmaputra River itinerary. This shorter journey still allows passengers to immerse themselves in the wide variety of culture and wildlife India has to offer. Itinerary highlights include:

Navigate the Brahmaputra River, which plays an important part in Hindu mythology, and meet the inhabitants of seldom-visited communities along the riverbank.
Explore Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, on thrilling jeep safaris to spot incredible birdlife, and search for rare species like the Asian one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephants and the elusive Royal Bengal tiger.
Spend a full day in Kolkata, India’s third-largest city and home to colorful flower markets, historic buildings, ornate temples, and the center of Mother Teresa’s charity work.

Starting at $11,320 per person.

Accommodation aboard Charaidew II includes 17 air-conditioned, spacious cabins, comprising two Deluxe cabins and 11 Standard cabins on the upper deck with four additional Standard cabins on the main deck. Shared spaces including a vast sundeck, mini library, spacious saloon, and gym, along with five-star service, ensure an intimate and comfortable experience, with Assamese décor infusing the surroundings with local flare. Along the way, guests will be guided by an expert expedition team, including local naturalists and a National Geographic-certified photo instructor.

On behalf of the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions co-brand, Lindblad Expeditions operates the largest, most diverse fleet of mission-built expedition vessels in the industry. With the addition of the Charaidew II, the Lindblad Expeditions fleet now consists of 21 ships—including 12 owned and nine chartered vessels—exploring 70+ countries and territories on seven continents across 100+ unique itineraries with 600+ departures annually.