Viking Ocean Cruises is Launching an Expedition Brand

During the official naming ceremony for Viking Jupiter which was held Wednesday night in Beverly Hills, California, the company announced that they will soon be entering the expedition cruise market.

A large white cruise ship sails in a calm, icy body of water under a clear, sunny sky. Snow and ice are visible on the distant shoreline. A few people are seen on the deck enjoying the view. The ship's name, "VIKING," representing the renowned Viking Ocean Cruises brand, is printed on the bow.
Photo via Viking

“We invented the concept of modern river cruising when we launched in 1997,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking Cruises. “Then we reinvented ocean cruises and became the ‘World’s Best Ocean Cruise Line’ in our first year of operation, as well as every year since then. Now, in creating ‘the thinking person’s expedition,’ we are perfecting polar expedition cruising, and we will usher in a new era of comfortable exploration in the heart of North America,”

The first two vessels, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, will both launch in 2022 and sail the Arctic and Antarctica, as well as Canada/New England, and the Great Lakes region.

Guests can also sail a unique 44-day reposition voyage coined the Arctic to the Antarctic. This voyage will begin in Norway’s northernmost town — above the Arctic Circle — and make its way down to Antarctica.

To develop the new expedition voyages, Viking has partnered with some of the world’s most prestigious scientific institutions.

Notable Ship Features

A well-lit, modern room with inflatable boats raised and stacked on mechanical platforms. The room features industrial design elements like metal railings, exposed pipes, and a skylight. A poster of a Viking Ocean Cruises ship on the ocean is displayed on the right wall, adding an expedition brand feel.
Rendering of Zodiacs and Sub stored within The Hangar on board the upcoming Viking Expedition ships Polaris and Octantis (Photo via Viking)
  • The Hanger, an in-ship marina with launch platforms, complete with a yellow submarine
  • The Laboratory, a working scientific research center with resident scientists
  • Aft-Facing Terraces with retractable glass walls which will allow the space to transform from a frigid outdoors space to a warm, cozy venue within minutes
  • Pool with a retractable dome
  • Staterooms with floor to ceiling glass retractable windows
A modern auditorium with beige seating and a stage is shown. The stage area has large windows offering a view of a snowy, mountainous landscape with water, reminiscent of scenes from Viking Ocean Cruises. The ceiling features wooden beams and numerous stage lights above.
Rendering of the Deck 2 Aft Aula Auditorium on-board the Viking Expedition ship. (Photo via Viking)

Every Viking Expeditions cruise fare will include a Nordic Balcony stateroom or suite, virtually all shore excursions, all onboard meals, as well as all port charges and government taxes.

Just as with Viking’s ocean cruises, guests will also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including beer and wine with lunch and dinner service; premium dining reservations; lectures; Wi-Fi; self-service laundry; access to The Nordic Spa; and 24-hour room service.

As part of their fare, Viking Expeditions guests will also receive charter flights for hard-to-reach locales and the use of Viking Expedition Gear specialty equipment during land and sea excursions. On polar itineraries, guests also receive their own Viking Expedition Kit.

Bookings for sailings aboard the two new vessels are now available.

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Doug Parker

Doug Parker is a cruise journalist known for his no-nonsense reporting and in-depth coverage of cruise news, ship launches, and industry trends. With over a decade of experience, he’s earned a reputation as a trusted source for both travelers and industry insiders.
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