Expedition cruising: Your questions answered
Interested in a polar cruise, but not sure what to pack or how fit you need to be? Read on to discover the answers you need.
Explore The Arctic and Antarctica
The Arctic and Antarctica: Discover the untouched beauty and pristine wilderness of some of the earth's harshest climates. This is polar expedition cruising to the ends of the earth - the Arctic and Antarctica - the ultimate adventure for true explorers, and the best way to get up close and personal with nature at her wildest.
Discover the Ends of the Earth on an Expedition Cruise
Exploring the world's most extraordinary regions - the Arctic and the Antarctic - is an opportunity to go where few have been before, following in the footsteps of famed polar explorers like Roald Amundsen, Sir Edmund Hillary and Ernest Shackleton.
Modern-day explorers who choose to journey to the remote, rugged regions of Antarctica and the Arctic by polar cruise are rewarded with awe-inspiring scenery and the chance to observe incredible migratory wildlife in their natural habitat. A polar expedition voyage takes you closer to nature at her wildest, in some of the harshest climate conditions known to mankind.
On an Arctic cruise to Svalbard - the northern Norwegian archipelago of frozen tundra, dramatic fjords and remote human settlements - wildlife watchers will relish the opportunity to witness animals like polar bears, arctic foxes and reindeer. This icy landscape at the top of the world may seem inhospitable, however it's guaranteed to deliver an incredibly rich travel experience. The best time to take an Arctic expedition cruise is during the northern summer from June to September, when the sun shines 24 hours a day.
If it's an Antarctic cruise you are seeking, prepare to witness towering glaciers, snow-covered landscapes, immense icebergs and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife viewing. On the Last Continent - the world's last truly wild frontier - you'll discover a world where penguins, whales and leopard seals reign. Prepare for a truly profound experience the moment you first set eyes upon Antarctica. The best time to cruise the Antarctic is during the southern summer, from November - January.
Viking's purpose-built ships will set a new standard for expedition cruising to the polar regions. When Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis launch in 2022, they'll feature a number of firsts, including the Laboratory, where you can partake in citizen science experiments with experts; the Hangar, for smooth, under-cover entry and exit from smaller watercraft; and not one, but two yellow submarines to explore the deep - and all included in the fare.
On this page, you'll find inspiration about these destinations, our brand new expedition vessels, as well as information to help you plan your expedition cruise adventure. Explore the possibilities of polar expedition cruising today.
TRAVEL GUIDES & TIPS
The best way to experience a destination is with the guidance of a local, and that’s exactly how Viking helps you explore. Here you’ll find our handy destination guides, as well as our top tips to help you plan your visit.
VIKING'S EXPEDITION VESSELS
In 2022, Viking will set the standard for expedition cruising with the launch of two purpose-built ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris. Bringing true comfort to the ends of the earth, they will feature a number of industry firsts. We invite you to discover how our vessels will take you closer to the heart of the Arctic and the Antarctic.
HISTORY
Like you, Viking believes that understanding a destination’s past is fundamental to appreciating it’s present. Here you will find a window into the historical record of the forces that have shaped this destination, and continue to play an important role in the cultural fabric you see today.
ART, MUSIC, FILM & LITERATURE
Appreciating a destination’s art tells the stories of its people, and its soul. It has been said that the basic condition required to appreciate art in all its many forms is a chair, a statement that’s never rung truer than right now. We hope you enjoy this virtual journey into the wonderful world of art, music, films and literature.
CRUISE THE ARCTIC AND ANTARCTICA WITH VIKING
THE ARCTIC & ANTARCTICA EXTENSIONS & TOURS
More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities.
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A variety of ways to explore, at no extra charge
Discover what's included in a Viking Expedition fare both on board and on the ice - including not one, but two yellow submarines for underwater exploration.
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Animal Attraction
Though their climates are harsh, the polar regions are home to some spectacular creatures. Learn which animals you can expect to find at each end of the earth.