Viking Expedition Cruises

Introducing Viking Expeditions that will allow you to explore Antarctica, North America’s Great Lakes and the spectacular coasts in-between on board their two purpose-built, state-of-the-art expedition ships – Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris.

They have set a new standard in expeditions with a number of innovative industry firsts including an in-ship marina, working scientific laboratory, floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the ship and a fleet of sophisticated expedition equipment – at no extra charge.

From the moment you step foot on board, you’ll discover a distinctly Viking experience. Their expedition ships feature all the comforts of their award-winning ocean ships – serene Scandinavian design, refined finishes and panoramic views from any spot on the ship.

The Thinking Person’s Expedition

When they set out to create Viking Expeditions, they did so with an intention to redefine an industry. Just as they challenged what it meant to experience a river cruise and ocean cruise, their expedition voyages chart a course for a new style of exploration that has long been missing.

Viking Expeditions make intrepid voyages to destinations such as Antarctica and North America’s Great Lakes a possibility for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level. They believe adventure and comfort should not be mutually exclusive and their unique expeditions have been designed to be not only more inclusive, but also safer, more seamless, more flexible and more comfortable.

Optimally-sized, expertly designed ships

If your idea of a perfect expedition voyage is admiring spectacular landscapes from the warmth and comfort of the ship – then Viking Expeditions is for you. Their custom-built ships have been ingeniously designed with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, transforming every corner of the ship into an observation platform so you don’t miss a thing. In fact, you’ll be so immersed in your destination that you could never leave the ship and still feel like you’ve stepped foot on land or ice.

Their expedition ships are also optimally-sized to offer a faster, smoother and more stable journey, while still being nimble enough to take you into the heart of every breathtaking location.

Designed For Discovery

Viking Expeditions moves beyond the concept of a landing being the single metric of a day in the polar regions, taking their curious guests further and deeper into each destination while offering an unparalleled selection of up to two to three daily excursions when conditions permit. They may not be able to dictate the weather or animal migration, but they can explore with the flexibility to seize the remarkable moments when they happen.

Whether you’re called to see the wildlife, marvel at the breathtaking vistas, follow in the footsteps of the great explorers, or tick the seventh continent off your list, The Viking Way of exploration means you not only observe the world but thoroughly engage with it.

Every Room Is A Viewing Platform

State-of-the-art Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris don’t possess viewing platforms – because the ships are viewing platforms in and of themselves. Inspired by the architecture and design of Norway’s bird hides and harnessing the Norwegian reverence for light, every room is an observation room thanks to floor-to-ceiling, windows throughout the ship. And with more indoor and outdoor viewing areas than any other expedition vessel, guests will feel like they are fully immersed in the most incredible sceneries on Earth.

The panoramic views continue into your stateroom thanks to their innovative Viking Nordic Balconies. Also featuring floor-to-ceiling, distortion-free glass, the Nordic Balcony takes you to the very edge of the ship to take in the views while keeping the elements out. No veranda impeding your view, no intrusion on your elegant living space. And should you wish to feel even closer to nature, the top of your glass balcony lowers to transform your stateroom into a sheltered al fresco lookout.