Latest news with #LindbladExpeditions
Forbes
30-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The First Female CEO Of National Geographic-Lindblad Is Making Big Changes
Natalya Leahy, CEO of Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, traveling in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. In the cruise industry, there are corner office CEOs. And there are 'in the details' CEOs. Natalya Leahy, the new Chief Executive at National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, is squarely in the latter category. Whether she's running full-tilt with passengers trying to make it back to a ship on time, spontaneously ordering pistachio baklava from the best local bakery to be delivered in each cabin, or navigating zodiac boats around the Galapagos, she's not just running the business by the numbers—she's knee deep in the water with a work phone in her pocket, making sure excursions go the way she wants them to go. Since she left her role as President of the luxury cruise company Seabourne, and officially took the helm at the publicly-traded Lindblad Expeditions Holdings in January, it's become abundantly clear: She's here, she's in charge and she wants to win. 'Our guest profile is an affluent person who is highly educated, looking for truly authentic experiences of the world in places that very few will ever go. We can really serve the needs of these guests, 360, with our portfolio of [six] brands. We haven't even scratched the surface to truly understand the scalability of that,' Leahy said in a recent interview. The National Geographic Endurance in the Bourgeouis Fjord, Antarctica Her entrance makes some people, who are life-long fans of (and investors in) Lindblad since Sven Lindblad founded the company in 1979, a bit nervous. Among generations of travelers, he's earned trust as an environmental steward and pioneer of tourist expeditions. Sven's father, Lars-Eric Lindblad, brought private citizens to Antarctica for the first time in history more than five decades ago. Today, the company is a global operation, with a fleet of 23 owned and chartered medium-size ships (ranging from 28 to 148 passengers) that it operates in destinations like the South Pacific, the Galapagos islands, and the Mediterranean. But it's still best known for its navigation know-how in Antarctica, largely because it employs and retains remarkable people like the 'Ice Master' Leif Skog, VP of Marine Operations, who is one in about ten people in the world who have mastered both arctic navigation and mission-built ship design. If you're navigating the Drake passage, he's who you want at the helm. Captain Leif Skog on the bridge of the ship National Geographic Endeavour with guests It's also benefiting from a new co-branding deal with National Geographic (owned by Walt Disney Co.) that was inked before Leahy came onboard. The agreement grants Lindblad Expeditions global rights to the National Geographic brand for expedition cruises until at least 2040. Upon the announcement, Sven Lindblad said: 'We will be demonstrating the power of this new co-brand and improved name recognition, which will be vitally important as we expand our footprint in key growth markets around the world.' It's a pretty big deal, because it means Lindblad can leverage Disney's powerful sales channels and joint marketing campaigns to its advantage—which it needs. The company faces intense competition from operators like HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), andBeyond, Silversea Expeditions, Seabourne Expeditions, Aurora Expeditions, Antarctica21, and even new luxury cruise lines like Explora Journeys. Though Explora's ships are not ice-class vessels nor are they equipped with Zodiacs for landings in polar regions, demand for what they do means they can still steal market share. Because the term 'expedition' is not protected IP. 'We have competitors that carry 500 people and call it an expedition. This is bollocks,' says Lindblad's Captain Oliver Kruess, claiming that a true expedition ship hosts less than 200 passengers. Regardless, the race to dominate the fastest-growing segment in the $8 billion cruise industry is on. And while most operators cannot afford to build brand-new ships, they're getting ever-more creative with the ships they've got. Cruise analysts say companies that can balance luxury, adventure, and sustainability are likely to see the strongest growth. Guests explore waterfalls by Zodiac in Gothul Bay, South Georgia. Lindblad's expeditions are conducted in partnership with National Geographic's team of 'naturalists'—environmental scientists, historians, photographers and cultural experts—who bring their expertise onboard, joining the standing crew of captains, engineers, technicians, kitchen and cleaning staff who keep things running like a luxury hotel-at-sea. The deep scientific knowledge these people bring to programming, in the way of daily lectures and in-the-field lessons, makes the experience of sailing with Lindblad practically incomparable to what the uninitiated might think of as a 'cruise.' Sure, there are tour buses and the odd fanny pack, depending on the day's excursions. But these expeditions trade on the notion that you're going much further into remote destinations and delving deeper into the natural world than you could ever hope to reach on a sightseeing pleasure cruise. In spirit, it's much more lean-forward than laid back. And the clientele, many of whom are tenured University Professors, military veterans, ex-Navy seals, or otherwise adventurous retirees with means, mirrors that fact. 'They're all geeks! They're all nerds,' joked Maggie Godbold and Steven Bershader, a retired couple in their 70s who sailed on Lindblad's recent Endurance voyage to the Azores islands. They're avid travelers; the kind who would book a flight to witness a solar eclipse. 'I'm not interested in gambling or shopping,' said Godbold. 'That's not why I'm here. I don't consider this a cruise ship. This is an exhibition ship. We've done so many Lindblad trips, we've lost count.' (The company is known for having a high rate of repeat guests). Basically, if you want to not just understand but physically feel the impact of climate change on oceanography (the Azores sail featured 15-foot swells), taste the mineral content of a volcanic hot spring (did you know iron rich water can turn tea purple?), or learn about the chemical composition of lichens, the sound production of sperm whales, the mating habits of Emperor penguins, or the art of telephoto lens photography — you've come to the right place! Natalya Leahy, Chief Executive Officer, traveling in Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. While there have been female CEOs in the broader industry, such as Christine Duffy at Carnival Cruise Line and Lisa Lutoff-Perlo at Celebrity Cruises, Natalya Leahy's appointment marks the first time a woman has led Lindblad Expeditions. Her career arc is a tale of grit, determination and perseverance. She grew up in Soviet Uzbekistan, studied finance at University, and at 17, talked her way into her first gig working in a two-person finance department at the Meridian Hotel in Termez. She then went on to work for the procurement department for Coca Cola, served as United Nations Country Manager for Uzbekistan and eventually earned her MBA from Michigan State. She entered the cruise industry with Holland America Group, where she served as Chief Operations Officer and Chief Financial Officer for about eight years. Then the 'big break' came. As President of the luxury cruise operator Seabourne, when I first met her, she was orchestrating a nearly 40% increase in women ship officers in a classically male-dominated field. She is, after all, a mother of two daughters. Importantly, she has the backing of Sven Lindblad himself, who clearly hired her for her financial experience and publicly demonstrates his support for her in this video filmed in the Galapagos islands. What they don't mention in the video is the difficult financial picture Leahy is inheriting, while Sven still serves as Co-Chair of the Board. Per its first quarter 2025 financial statements, Lindblad has more debt than equity. So, Leahy must either lower debt or increase equity. Typically, you increase equity by generating profits and either use those profits to grow the business or pay down the debt. Shareholders often demand a combination of both, which is easier said than done. Though Lindblad's revenues have rebounded from COVID lows of $147 million in 2021 to about $670 million in 2025, given their very high cost base, they have not turned a profit in five years. As CEO, Leahy needs to get this company to a position of profitability. The good news is its day-to-day business is generating more cash than it did last year. And they have $235.2 million in cash as a liquidity buffer. There are other signs that she's headed in the right direction. As any CEO knows, success can very much depend on the team you assemble. To that end, Leahy made a key hire by tapping the young Harvard MBA grad, CFO Rick Goldberg, who will help Leahy expand their portfolio of ship and land-based expeditions internationally. For example, Leahy claims they're already working on expanding their footprint in Australia. Meanwhile, the company just announced the launch of European river expeditions, beginning April 2026. Two new eight-day itineraries involve sailing along the Rhine from ports in Amsterdam to Brussels and Cologne to Basel, all aboard the 120-guest Connect (constructed in 2025). The company has never offered river expeditions in Europe before, but chartering the latest in modern river ship design seems like a smart move. Expanding access to private charters is another lever to pull, as hard as they can. 'Our private charters program is going to be a huge strategic focus area. Because we have a very unique set of ships that are much smaller, more intimate, and perfect for private groups and corporate events. The smallest ship we just launched a month ago is a 16 passenger yacht, and she's sailing in the Galapagos. That's the perfect ship for a private family event, right?' adds Leahy. 'So we really are driving resources to grow the charter program.' The notion of 'family' cannot be glossed over here. Lindblad must attract younger guests, and become known for 'multi-generational travel' in order to thrive long term. Hence, programs like the Nat Geo Explorers-in-Training for kids, and lower pricing for shoulder and off-season sails. Which is now an industry-wide norm. But, there's something else up her sleeve that she refused to divulge, because it isn't yet a done deal. I first got an inkling of what's-to-come from the Ice Master Leif Skog in April, who—without revealing the details—says he's working on planning new destinations and itineraries for Lindblad that would require serious maritime gymnastics to pull off. Leahy confirmed this, at least in intention: 'This company's collaboration between ship experts, expedition experts and deployment experts is phenomenal… I had a dream for a while that no other company could really do. That's where Captain Leif is heavily involved, because we have the right vessels. If we are able to do it right, it will be a very different bucket list experience.' Different, meaning unprecedented. So says the girl from Uzbekistan who at 17 decided not to accept a receptionist position, and instead forged her own path in finance. In our first sit-down interview last year, she recalled her pivotal moment: 'It was my first year in University, and I desperately needed a job. I came to the [Meridian] hotel, and said: Who is your head of finance? I must have sounded so confident, the way you sound before you know what's appropriate… I knocked on his door, and he said: Do we have an appointment? I said no, but I am looking for a job in your finance department. What kind of finance experience do you have? I don't have any experience, but I started studying finance in this great, prestigious University. And he said: Go downstairs, we have a lot of openings in reception or in food and beverage. I was super scared because I really needed this job, but I told him: "I will never be your best receptionist, but I will be the best finance person you ever hired.' And she wasn't content to stop there.
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Travel + Leisure
29-05-2025
- General
- Travel + Leisure
Here's Everything I Packed for Antarctica—and What I Wish I Had
Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime destination marked by untouched landscapes, drifting icebergs, and thriving penguin colonies. I recently returned from the 'frozen continent,' traveling on the inaugural Sail and Fly the Drake Passage itinerary with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. While the experience was extraordinary, it also came with logistical challenges, including two nearly 24-hour flight routes with multiple layovers between the U.S. and South America, plus strict luggage weight limits for the one-way charter return flight to Chile from King George Island. As someone who tends to overpack for cold-weather destinations, I knew I had to be extra strategic and conducted extensive research to find the most functional and reliable clothing, gear, and accessories to withstand demanding weather conditions. Layering is crucial: Include moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell to adapt to changing conditions more easily. Include moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell to adapt to changing conditions more easily. Check what gear is provided: Most expedition companies supply waterproof muck boots for land excursions and a warm outer parka. Most expedition companies supply waterproof muck boots for land excursions and a warm outer parka. Bring backups of critical items: Remember essentials such as medications or seasickness remedies, and pack spares for things that can get wet (or lost) like gloves, hats, and socks. The most essential items for an Antarctic expedition are proper clothing and footwear. Without them, survival in Antarctica's extreme conditions would be nearly impossible. Start with base layers made from moisture-wicking materials such as Merino wool, or opt for synthetic fabrics like polyester if you're sensitive to wool. The design of your base layers also matters, as features like partial zippers, U-neck collars, and thumbholes can contribute to greater comfort and functionality. For moisture-wicking fabrics to work effectively, they must fit snugly and be in direct contact with your skin. Mid-layers, such as fleece or wool, provide additional insulation, while a waterproof and windproof outer shell protects against harsh winds and wet conditions. For footwear, most expedition cruises offer passengers muck boots for rent or as an inclusion to wear during landings on the continent but you'll need shoes with good traction to wear onboard as well. Be sure to pack a reliable pair of flip-flops and a swimsuit for onboard amenities such as saunas and hot tubs, which are available on some ships. These items are also necessary if you plan to take part in the polar plunge. Additionally, most ships offer laundering services, so plan to launder a few items during your trip to reduce the amount of clothing you bring. Credit: Cotopaxi $295 $251 at Amazon $206 at REI $295 at Backcountry I chose Cotopaxi's Fuego Hooded Down Jacket because it's warm, stylish, and incredibly lightweight. It also features a well-fitted hood that helps seal out cold air and is sustainably made from 100 percent recycled polyester. National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions provided each passenger a signature, branded orange parka, which served as my outer layer during landings. Knowing I would receive this parka, I opted not to pack one of my heavy outer coats, and the Fuego jacket served as my mid-layer and was warm enough for short outings on the ship's outdoor decks. I found the jacket's fit to be true to size, and a similar version is available for men. If your ship does not provide you with a parka, a Gore-Tex skiing jacket will do the trick. Keep in mind that the outer layer jacket you choose must be totally waterproof and windproof. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure A base layer top is a staple piece of clothing for any Antarctic expedition cruise. Smartwool's version (also available in men's) is made from 100 percent Merino wool that is incredibly soft and non-itchy, plus functions well in extreme environments. Its slim fit, featuring a quarter-zip, makes layering easy and allows you to wear it comfortably under a mid-layer and outer shell without feeling restricted. Whether I was outside in freezing temperatures or inside the ship in a more controlled climate, this base layer adapted well and proved to be one of my most reliable and frequently worn pieces of clothing on the journey. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $115 $95 at Amazon $57 at REI $115 at Nordstrom Smartwool's classic thermal Merino base layer bottoms were one of the unsung heroes of my Antarctic expedition (and also come in men's sizing). They kept my legs warm and dry as I transitioned between the icy outdoors and the cozy interior of the ship—no small feat in such extreme conditions. The fit is firm but never restrictive, giving me full range of motion whether I was hiking icy terrain or climbing back into the zodiac. Additionally, Merino wool resists odors far better than synthetic fabrics, which is a huge advantage when laundry facilities are limited. I wore this base layer every other day. It's easy to layer it under insulated pants or waterproof shells, and I never once felt overheated or clammy. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Burton $450 at Amazon View on $420 $252 at I wore a version of the Lenado pants from The North Face, but they're often hard to find in stock. A great alternative is the Burton Summit pants. They're made with two-layer Gore-tex, so you'll stay dry and comfortable in wet, windy conditions. The fit is roomy enough to layer thermal leggings underneath, and the zippered vents come in handy when you're heating up during things like zodiac landings or glacier hikes. These sleek pants come in several modern colors—because who wants to wear plain black in every epic penguin photo? Realistically, most ski pants will work for Antarctica, but be sure they're fully waterproof, not just snow-resistant. Men can opt for the Men's Swash Gore-tex 2L Pants. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: The North Face $145 at Amazon $145 at REI View on The North Face Since muck boots are required and typically available to rent for Antarctic shore excursions, there's no need to pack specialized expedition footwear. Onboard the ship, you can wear almost any type of shoe, but a reliable, waterproof hiking shoe like The North Face Hedgehog 3 is a smart and versatile option. Hiking shoes provide stability for navigating slippery decks or climbing stairs when the ship is swaying, especially while crossing the Drake Passage. They're also perfect for pre- and post-cruise adventures in rugged destinations such as Ushuaia, Argentina, and Torres del Paine in Chile. The North Face Hedgehog 3 has become my go-to for most outdoor adventures, thanks to its comfortable cushioning and durable construction. The North Face sells a men's version of the shoe as well. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Accessories may seem like a minor detail, but they're just as important as main clothing layers when traveling to places like Antarctica. Insulated gloves are critical for keeping your hands warm and functioning during zodiac landings and when handling gear in freezing temperatures. Look for pairs with touchscreen compatibility so you can take photos without removing your gloves. A thermal hat that covers your ears is key, as a significant amount of heat is lost through the head. For additional protection from biting winds and blowing snow, a balaclava or neck gaiter helps shield your face and neck, while sunglasses with UV protection and polarized lenses reduce the intense glare from sunlight reflecting off snow and ice. Credit: REI $170 $153 at Amazon $339 at REI Gloves are one item I can never seem to have enough of—though it's usually just one from each pair that sticks around, as the other inevitably goes missing. For the expedition, I packed a pair of no-longer-available Columbia gloves which featured a thermal lining and the brand's proprietary Omni-heat technology for enhanced heat retention. They were also touchscreen-compatible, a small but helpful feature when you want to snap a photo or check your phone without peeling off your gloves in the cold. However, the next time I participate in an extreme, cold-weather adventure, I'll be bringing along a pair of heated gloves instead—turns out my hands just aren't built for freezing temperatures. This exact pair is next on my list as they are also touchscreen compatible, but have three heat settings for even warmer hands and keep out the snow and wind with adjustable wrist straps. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $175 at Amazon $175 at View on The hat I wore in Antarctica is an old favorite from The North Face that has been with me on countless adventures around the world, but unfortunately, it's no longer available online. Now, I've discovered a new go-to: White + Warren beanies like the Cashmere Plush Rib Beanie. This ultra-soft cashmere hat feels great against the skin, offers plenty of warmth, fits easily under a hood or helmet, and is light enough to stash in a pocket or daypack. The only trade-off is that it requires a bit of extra care, as it needs to be hand-washed or dry cleaned, but for the comfort and quality, I find it well worth it. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure When you're wearing muck boots, you've really only got your socks for insulation and comfort, so they need to be both warm and moisture-wicking. I've found the Fits Light Ski Sock to be an excellent choice. Made from a high-quality Merino wool blend, they offer a snug, over-the-calf fit that stays in place without slipping or bunching. Thoughtful features, such as the dynamic toe cup, which molds to the shape of your foot, and the heel lock system, provide added support and significantly reduce the risk of blisters when paired with well-fitted boots. The socks are also unisex, so they work well for just about anyone. After long days in wet, cold environments, having socks that perform this well really makes a difference. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Buff $27 $23 at Amazon $19 at REI View on One surprisingly practical accessory to pack for an Antarctic expedition is a gaiter. I highly recommend the Buff ThermoNet Neckwear Gaiter, which is made from recycled materials and can be worn multiple ways—I've used mine as a neck warmer, face covering, and even as a makeshift hat. Incredibly lightweight and compact, it dries quickly and adds an extra layer of protection against biting wind and blowing snow. Lightweight and compact, the gaiter dries quickly and provides an added layer of protection, making it a far more practical choice than a traditional scarf. In fact, I've all but replaced scarves with this gaiter in cold climates. Its versatility and performance make it a must-have item on any Antarctica packing list. Best of all, it's one-size-fits-most, so there's no need to worry about sizing. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure/Taylor Fox Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure For my eyes, Ray-Ban's Chromance sunglasses were a fantastic choice. The polarized lenses provided greater visual contrast and sharpness while also blocking out UV rays. What I especially appreciated was how lightweight and comfortable these sunglasses were. I wore them for hours without any pressure points or irritation. Even in strong, cold winds and after physically demanding climbs on icy terrain, they never fogged up and offered excellent protection from the wind and the brightness reflecting off the snow and ice. They fit nicely, and I never had to worry about them slipping during active excursions. They also looked stylish, so I didn't feel like I was wearing bulky expedition gear. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure With unpredictable weather, limited storage space, and the need to stay organized during landings and long days at sea, the bags and gear you bring to Antarctica must be rugged, reliable, and well-designed. Look for bags made from durable, weather-resistant materials, with smart organizational features that help you separate wet and dry items or access key items quickly. Versatility is also key, and gear that can handle both shipboard living and shore excursions will make your experience far smoother. Credit: REI $150 at REI View on View on Bringing a waterproof backpack or dry bag is essential for protecting gear, such as electronics and large camera lenses, from the elements. National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions provided me with a dry bag, but if I had to bring my own, I would have chosen the Ortlieb Velocity PS Pack 17L. This compact roll-top backpack is fully waterproof and very comfortable to wear, thanks to its padded back panel and adjustable straps. Even when it's not actively raining or snowing, there's plenty of moisture, sea spray, and condensation that can seep into your gear and cause issues. The great thing about investing in a quality dry bag is that you can use it beyond Antarctica in numerous scenarios, including biking or hiking in damp conditions. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure If you're looking for something small, stylish, and super handy for landings or just hanging out on the ship, the Cotopaxi Allpa X 1.5L Hip Pack is the perfect companion. Though small in size, it offers just the right amount of space for everyday essentials like your phone, lip balm, sunscreen, and hand cream—which I found myself reaching for constantly in the dry, polar desert climate of Antarctica. It has water-resistant fabric, durable construction, and Cotopaxi's signature vibrant colors. Its ergonomic design makes it comfortable to wear either around the waist or across the chest, and it stays securely in place and never feels cumbersome, even during more active excursions. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Cotopaxi $180 at Amazon View on REI View on The Cotopaxi Allpa Getaway 70L Duffel is a dependable, high-capacity bag that easily accommodates all your expedition gear. It's spacious and built from rugged, weather-resistant materials that can withstand the demands of adventure travel. One of my favorite features is the exterior pockets for quick-access items. I also appreciate that you can wear it as a backpack or carry it by hand, depending on what's most convenient in the moment. The padded handles make it comfortable to transport, even when fully packed, and because it lacks the rigid frame of traditional luggage, you get more usable space. It's also lightweight, compared to similar-capacity bags, which was one of my top considerations. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Cotopaxi $395 at Amazon View on REI View on Dicks Sporting Goods With its clean, modern look and cleverly designed compartments, the Allpa 65L roller bag made it easy to keep my gear organized. I primarily used it to store undergarments, base layers, accessories, and any other items I didn't want to part ways with. The bag was especially handy in the tight quarters of my cabin, where efficient packing really matters. One thing to keep in mind is that this bag doesn't have 360-degree wheels, which makes maneuvering through tight spaces a little more challenging. That said, 360-degree-wheeled bags are less ideal on a swaying small ship, so this trade-off didn't bother me too much. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: REI $50 at Amazon $35 at REI View on Walmart One often overlooked but incredibly useful item is a waterproof phone case. The Nite Ize Waterproof Phone Case kept my phone completely dry during zodiac rides and shore landings. I love its airtight construction, lanyard, and touchscreen compatibility, which allowed me to use my phone and snap quick photos without removing it. However, since image quality is noticeably better without the case, I usually removed the phone for photos during landings and when conditions allowed. I especially liked the integrated attachment point, which made it easy to clip the case securely to my pack or jacket, keeping it accessible but out of the way. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $38 at Amazon $38 at Target $38 at Walgreens I've long been a fan of La Roche-Posay products, and the Anthelios Melt-In Milk Lotion Face and Body Sunscreen quickly became part of my daily routine. Given the tilt of the Southern Hemisphere, the sun in Antarctica can be surprisingly intense, even on overcast days. While I've used this company's moisturizer before, this trip was my first time trying their sunscreen. It offers broad-spectrum, high-SPF protection that holds up well in the harsh polar conditions. Non-greasy and oil-free, it absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast, and it didn't clog my pores, irritate my sensitive skin, or interfere with makeup application. If you have reactive skin like I do, this sunscreen is definitely one to consider. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure To protect Antarctica's fragile ecosystem, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) has established strict regulations for travel to the continent. Among them are that you cannot bring food or drinks ashore during landings to prevent contamination and avoid attracting wildlife. Additionally, all gear—especially boots and outerwear—must undergo biosecurity checks to prevent the introduction of non-native species, seeds, or bacteria. This often includes disinfecting boots and brushing off any soil or plant material. Antarctic summers are milder than you might expect. During the cruise season from November through March, coastal temperatures typically range from 20 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, though recent years have seen record highs reaching 64.9 degrees Fahrenheit. The early season (November to early December) offers striking icy landscapes and the chance to witness penguin courtship, but it also tends to be colder and windier. Mid-season (December through January) is the warmest and most popular time to visit, with long daylight hours, abundant wildlife activity, and easier access to landing sites. Late season (February to March) is excellent for whale watching and usually sees fewer visitors, though snow may become slushier. Mid-season is the best time to visit for active wildlife and optimal weather conditions. Taryn White is a freelance travel writer and luxury travel advisor, always looking for her next adventure. With nearly 100 countries under her belt, she has ventured to the volcanic terrain of Iceland, the otherworldly landscapes of Bolivia's Uyuni Salt Flats, and the frozen wilderness of Antarctica. A self-proclaimed fleece fanatic, she has a talent for turning any packing list into a cozy-meets-chic wardrobe for every climate. Her favorite travel companions? Her husband and children, who've been packing their own bags since they were old enough to choose their favorite hiking boots. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Travel Weekly
28-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Weekly
How river charterer Transcend is making inroads with tour operators
Brinley Hineman Transcend Cruises, which first positioned itself as a solution for the meetings and events market on European rivers, is also attracting tour operators to its charter-only model. The brand designed its river cruise ships with the MICE market in mind, but it now says that land-based tour operator charters are already a sizable piece of its business. Transcend has worked with LGBTQ operator Vacaya and UK-based Imagine Cruising. And it is in discussions with other operators for 2027 and 2028 charters, include those that specialize in niche tours. "From the tour operator side, we identified at the very beginning that that was one of our audience segments," said chief revenue officer Kimberly Daley. Other river cruise ships -- from Tauck, Amadeus River Cruises and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, for example -- can also be chartered. But Daley, whose professional background includes roles at tour operators like Pleasant Holidays, Mountain Travel Sobek and Abercrombie & Kent, said that chartering with those lines can be difficult for tour operators due to the schedules those lines have to keep for their own itineraries. But Transcend's partnership with Lindblad Expeditions through 2028 marks an important milestone. Transcend will operate two National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions itineraries on the Rhine next year on Transcend's 120-passenger Connect, and both companies envision the partnership growing from there. "A lot of what [Lindblad was] trying to achieve was an entry into a growing market and be able to differentiate themselves and enable the type of robust learning and engagement that they're known for," Daley said. The partnership formed after Daley said she began outreach to operators, including Lindblad. The Connect and Evolve will begin cruising next year. The ships can sail the Rhine, Danube and Main, but Transcend's goal is to grow its fleet to 10 to 12 ships on those rivers and other waterways. Transcend allows a level of customization and flexibility that is enticing for operators and not commonly found on other lines, Daley said. The lodging is customizable, with the ability to convert cabins into suites. Partners fully plan their itineraries and excursions for up to seven-night sailings, which enables them to pick and choose what they want to highlight on their itineraries. The lower deck of the ships will have flexible space for wellness activities and a theater to support TED-talk style events. For Lindblad, Daley said, the flexible spaces work for its National Geographic experts and other lecturers. The ability to craft the itinerary from scratch enabled it to create one itinerary focused on castles and another on medieval history. Transcend hopes to be the "brand behind the brand," Daley added, ensuring its partner's branding is front and center with screens to reflect the partner's logo on the ship's exterior. Transcend is actively building partnerships with tour operators and travel agencies, and it anticipates more brands will come on board, but it has reported limited space for next year. "Our goal is to enhance whichever brand is on our ship beyond what they've ever thought was possible," Daley said. "Our imagination is pretty much the limit, other than where the rivers can take us."
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Undervalued Small Caps With Insider Buying Across Regions
Over the last 7 days, the United States market has experienced a 2.6% drop, yet it remains up by 9.1% over the past year with earnings projected to grow by 14% annually. In this context, identifying small-cap stocks that are perceived as undervalued and exhibit insider buying can be an intriguing strategy for investors looking to capitalize on potential growth opportunities amidst fluctuating market conditions. Name PE PS Discount to Fair Value Value Rating Lindblad Expeditions Holdings NA 0.8x 38.07% ★★★★★★ Thryv Holdings NA 0.7x 28.13% ★★★★☆☆ Shore Bancshares 9.7x 2.4x -68.29% ★★★☆☆☆ Columbus McKinnon 50.2x 0.5x 35.30% ★★★☆☆☆ MVB Financial 12.8x 1.7x 39.77% ★★★☆☆☆ Delek US Holdings NA 0.1x -57.81% ★★★☆☆☆ BlueLinx Holdings 13.8x 0.2x -72.96% ★★★☆☆☆ Tandem Diabetes Care NA 1.4x -2766.72% ★★★☆☆☆ Montrose Environmental Group NA 0.9x 9.37% ★★★☆☆☆ Titan Machinery NA 0.2x -369.05% ★★★☆☆☆ Click here to see the full list of 110 stocks from our Undervalued US Small Caps With Insider Buying screener. Here we highlight a subset of our preferred stocks from the screener. Simply Wall St Value Rating: ★★★☆☆☆ Overview: Concrete Pumping Holdings operates as a provider of concrete pumping and waste management services, primarily in the U.S. and U.K., with a market capitalization of approximately $0.44 billion. Operations: The company generates revenue primarily from U.S. Concrete Pumping and U.S. Concrete Waste Management Services, with additional contributions from its U.K. Operations. The cost of goods sold (COGS) significantly impacts the company's gross profit, which has shown fluctuations over time, reaching 40.32% in the most recent period ending January 31, 2025. Operating expenses include notable general and administrative costs that influence net income margins, which have varied across different periods but stood at 3.74% as of January 31, 2025. PE: 24.6x Concrete Pumping Holdings, a smaller company in the U.S. market, recently reported a decline in first-quarter sales to US$86.45 million from US$97.71 million the previous year, though net losses improved slightly to US$2.64 million from US$3.83 million. Insider confidence is evident as Bruce Young purchased 49,507 shares worth approximately US$256,941 between November 2024 and January 2025. The company anticipates revenues of up to $420 million for fiscal year 2025 and has extended its share buyback plan through December 2026 after repurchasing over three million shares since June 2022 for $20.01 million. Despite relying on external borrowing for funding, earnings are projected to grow by over 30% annually, suggesting potential growth opportunities amid financial challenges. Dive into the specifics of Concrete Pumping Holdings here with our thorough valuation report. Review our historical performance report to gain insights into Concrete Pumping Holdings''s past performance. Simply Wall St Value Rating: ★★★★★☆ Overview: Cable One is a broadband communications provider offering cable television services, with a market capitalization of approximately $4.92 billion. Operations: Cable One's revenue model primarily revolves around its cable TV services, generating significant income. The company has experienced fluctuations in net income margin, which was -1.30% as of March 31, 2025. Operating expenses play a substantial role in the cost structure, with general and administrative expenses being a notable component. Gross profit margin stood at 73.64% during the same period, highlighting efficient management of direct costs relative to revenue generation. PE: -42.1x Cable One's recent initiatives, like the launch of FlexConnect and Lift Internet, highlight its focus on flexible and affordable internet solutions. However, financial challenges are evident with Q1 2025 revenue at US$380.6 million, down from US$404.31 million a year prior, and net income dropping significantly to US$2.61 million from US$37.35 million. Despite these hurdles, insider confidence is notable as Wallace Weitz purchased 4,000 shares for approximately US$982K in February 2025. The company's reliance on external borrowing poses risks but also underscores potential growth opportunities as earnings are projected to grow by nearly 20% annually. Click here to discover the nuances of Cable One with our detailed analytical valuation report. Evaluate Cable One's historical performance by accessing our past performance report. Simply Wall St Value Rating: ★★★★★☆ Overview: Methode Electronics is a company that designs and manufactures custom-engineered solutions for the automotive, industrial, and interface markets, with a market capitalization of approximately $1.49 billion. Operations: The company generates revenue primarily from its Automotive and Industrial segments, with the Automotive segment contributing $554 million and the Industrial segment $501.5 million. Over recent periods, gross profit margin has shown a declining trend, reaching 16.90% in early 2025. PE: -2.9x Methode Electronics, a small company in the U.S., has caught attention due to insider confidence, with President Jonathan DeGaynor purchasing 32,733 shares worth US$211K. Despite recent volatile share prices and a net loss of US$14.4 million in Q3 2025 compared to US$11.6 million the previous year, earnings are forecasted to grow significantly at 131% annually. The company faces higher risk funding from external borrowing but remains optimistic about future sales growth and profitability for fiscal 2026. Get an in-depth perspective on Methode Electronics' performance by reading our valuation report here. Examine Methode Electronics' past performance report to understand how it has performed in the past. Take a closer look at our Undervalued US Small Caps With Insider Buying list of 110 companies by clicking here. Are these companies part of your investment strategy? Use Simply Wall St to consolidate your holdings into a portfolio and gain insights with our comprehensive analysis tools. Take control of your financial future using Simply Wall St, offering free, in-depth knowledge of international markets to every investor. Explore high-performing small cap companies that haven't yet garnered significant analyst attention. Fuel your portfolio with companies showing strong growth potential, backed by optimistic outlooks both from analysts and management. Find companies with promising cash flow potential yet trading below their fair value. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include NasdaqCM:BBCP NYSE:CABO and NYSE:MEI. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@ Sign in to access your portfolio
Travel Weekly
19-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Weekly
Lindblad Expeditions CEO Natalya Leahy on expanding into Europe river cruising
Lindblad Expeditions will launch river cruises on the Rhine next year in partnership with charter-only operator Transcend Cruises. The cruises will sail under the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions brand and will be its first time sailing on Europe's rivers. River cruise editor Brinley Hineman spoke with Lindblad Expeditions CEO Natalya Leahy about the company's foray into the market and what it hopes will be just the beginning of the venture. Natalya Leahy Q: Lindblad is known for expedition cruising. How will you apply that approach to the Rhine? A: We don't just take people to places, we show them how to see it. Everywhere we go, we surround people with true experts who can explain and guide our guests on how to see the place, how to fully appreciate the history, the cultures and nature, the wildlife of the location, how to photograph it. And that extends onboard, as well. Q: How will this differ from other Rhine cruises? A: I really believe it's going to be a very unique experience. Sophisticated travelers are looking for very authentic, intimate experiences of the destinations when they go to places like this, and I think that's exactly what we are planning to offer: an intimate, sophisticated, enriching destination and experience, both off and on the ship. Q: You already operate river cruises on the Nile and the Amazon. What led you to expand to Europe? A: River cruising is something that we know from extensive research that our guests desire, but they don't want to do it on this mass product that's available. They want to do with the intimacy of a small ship and, really, in that National Geographic way, when they're in a small group with true experts from destinations. The company, even before I joined, had been sort of thinking through this. I also had been intrigued for awhile, even before I joined Lindblad, because I do think there is something about creating a more intimate, more in-depth experience that is not yet on the market. ... The European rivers are just a natural extension of what we have already done, and that desire to experience the history and the culture of the place with National Geographic experts has been confirmed multiple times. Q: What led you to charter with Transcend Cruises? A: It just makes sense to partner with a great partner who already has a perfect ship for us, rather than invest our own capital. That's the reason we did a long-term agreement, because we really do believe that this is a long-term commitment to the destination and will continue to grow. It's important for our partner that it's a long-term relationship, but it's also important for us because we can really invest behind it and promote the destination. ... It just makes sense to have it through charter. It's significantly faster execution but also enables us to really synchronize it with the other destinations we offer to our guests so they don't conflict. Q: The plan you announced calls for two Rhine itineraries, each with four departures, starting in 2026. Are you considering expansion? A: For sure, 100%. That's why it's a three-year agreement. So we plan to start with eight voyages that we are publicizing now, and for sure the ambition is in '27 to offer more, and '28, hopefully, to offer more. We want to expand summer and then, hopefully, some winter. I think that people will love Christmas markets.
