National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions will add the Charaidew II to its chartered fleet in 2026. The ship will sail one cruise in India in March 2026 -- guests may sail the entire 18-day itinerary or an 11-day portion.
The cruise departs New Delhi on March 19. The itinerary combines 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 explorations of wildlife reserves. Guests will embark on Jeep safaris through Bandhavgarh and Kaziranga national parks. They will also visit Kolkata and its colorful markets.
Guests can opt for an 11-day itinerary and board in Kolkata. This portion does not include the Taj Mahal and Bandhavgarh National Park.
National Geographic-Lindblad said the Charaidew II boasts an extra-shallow draught and a low profile that allows cruising further upstream than any other ship on the Brahmaputra.
Accommodations on the ship include 17 air-conditioned 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 sundeck, mini-library, saloon and gym.