Sail to the ends of the earth - Antarctica and the Arctic - the ultimate adventure for true explorers, and discover the untouched beauty and pristine wilderness of some of the earth's harshest climates.
DISCOVER THE ENDS OF THE EARTH
Exploring the world's most extraordinary regions - the Antarctic and the Arctic - is an opportunity to go where few have been before, following in the footsteps of famed polar explorers like Roald Amundsen, Sir Edmund Hillary, Robert Falcon Scott and Sir Ernest Shackleton.
Modern-day explorers who choose to journey to the remote, rugged regions of Antarctica and the Arctic by ship are rewarded with awe-inspiring scenery and the chance to observe incredible migratory wildlife in their natural habitat. A polar expedition takes you closer to nature at its wildest and in some of the harshest conditions known to mankind.
On an Antarctic expedition voyage, prepare to witness towering glaciers, snow-covered landscapes, immense icebergs, and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife viewing. On the White 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 from November to January in the southern summer.
If it's an Arctic expedition to the polar north that you are seeking, in the Canadian High Arctic and Greenland you will see towering icebergs, expansive icefields and deep-blue fjords that are rich in marine life. You will also explore towns dotted with colourful wooden houses and get a glimpse of life in Inuit communities, learning about traditions that have been sustained for generations. The best time to take an Arctic expedition voyage is during the northern summer from June to September when the midnight sun shines 24 hours a day.
Viking's purpose-built ships have set a new standard for expedition cruising to the polar regions. Our expedition ships, the Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, feature several firsts, including the Science 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. Each stateroom features a Nordic Balcony, and you will also enjoy having six dining venues to choose from plus complimentary access to the Nordic Spa.
On this page, you'll find inspirational information about both polar destinations, you will learn about our award-winning expedition ships, as well as discover tips to help you plan your exploration of the poles.
WILDLIFE & LANDSCAPES
Are you drawn to wildlife and landscapes? Our videos will give you a taste of the rich education you’ll receive from our scientists and experts on board, the fascinating native animals you can expect to see and the magnetic sights – and magical photo opportunities – that await on your Viking Antarctic or Arctic expedition voyage.
HISTORY
Like you, Viking believes that understanding a destination’s past is fundamental to appreciating its present. Here you will find a window into the historical record of the forces that have shaped these destinations and continue to play an important role in the cultural fabric you see today.
DISCOVERY
Viking has set the standard for expedition cruising with award-winning purpose-built ships. Packed with unique revolutionary features, they are perfect for exploration and discovery whilst bringing true comfort to the ends of the earth. We invite you to discover how we will take you closer to the heart of Antarctica and the Arctic.
ART, MUSIC, FILM & LITERATURE
Appreciating a destination’s art tells the stories of its people and its soul. We hope you enjoy this virtual journey into the wonderful world of art, music, films and literature.
VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSIONS
Discover the world of Viking by joining one of our Virtual Information Sessions - free to watch in your own time. Enjoy enriching presentations that will take you deeper into the destinations of your choice.
CRUISE ANTARCTICA & THE ARCTIC WITH VIKING
ANTARCTICA & THE ARCTIC EXTENSIONS & TOURS
More days mean more to discover with extension tours you can add before or after your Viking expedition voyage. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting locations.
Want to learn more? Read our 64-page e-book that will provide an in-depth look at the wildlife, landscapes and history of Antarctica and the Arctic. Discover how we have re-imagined expedition voyages to not only facilitate exploration but scientific discovery too and learn more about our ships that have been purpose-built for exploring these remote areas of the world in comfort. Brimming with information and inspiration, this e-book is sure to ignite your explorer spirit.
Travel writer Peter Lynch gives a comprehensive account of his expedition voyage to Antarctica. He shares his experience using the facilities on board our comfortable purpose-built ships and the extraordinary landscapes and wildlife he bears witness to which sees him return home as an ambassador of this pristine region.
When travel writer Kristie Kellahan embarks on an Antarctic expedition voyage on board the Viking Polaris she soon discovers that our ships are much more than polar exploration vessels, they are fully equipped to conduct scientific research that guests can participate in.
Writer Brook Sabin shares his unforgettable experience in Antarctica. Sailing on board new ship the Viking Polaris he discovers state-of-the-art ship toys, enjoys wildlife encounters worthy of a David Attenborough narration and is witness to the discovery of a new penguin colony.
Travel writer, Justin Meneguzzi, discovers there is a lot to learn on a Viking Antarctica expedition. After becoming an eye-witness to an undiscovered Gentoo penguin colony and participating in meaningful citizen science research, he finds that what started out as a journey of discovery becomes a hands-on educational experience.
Please note: Effective for all sailings embarking on and after 1 June 2023 the Submarine Dive excursion on Viking expedition ships will become an optional excursion and are no longer included in the fare.
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