Travel + Leisure: This New Ship is the Perfect Way to Explore the Mediterranean, with a Nordic Spa, Excellent Dining, and Included Excursions in Every Port

June 20, 2026 — I was instantly impressed with the ship’s understated Scandinavian design, and after a quick visit to my comfortable stateroom for a shower, I felt refreshed. I could also quickly see why Viking has been voted one of the world’s best cruise lines by T+L readers: Vesta is one of the newest ships in the brand’s lineup, a slightly bigger version of its standard ocean-going vessels, with nine decks and an airy, chic aesthetic and 499 staterooms that can accommodate a maximum of 998 passengers. (There’s a crew of 480.) Viking Vesta also has six restaurants, five bars, a Nordic Spa and fitness center, and two pools, one in the middle of Deck 7 with a retractable roof, the second a smaller infinity pool with a hot tub in the aft.

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Fodor’s Travel: Can a Cruise Change Your Perspective on Travel?

June 17, 2026 — This eight-day cruise aboard the Viking Vesta took me through Greece and Turkey with stops in Athens, Crete, Rhodes, Ephesus, Troy, and Istanbul and somehow made one of the most history filled trips I’ve ever taken feel completely stress free—and that’s what stood out the most. Not having to think about logistics for once was a welcome change of pace for someone who travels often.

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The Points Guy: Included Tours, No Dining Charges: Why I Love Viking's 'No Nickel-and-Diming' Philosophy — and You Will, Too

June 2, 2026 — But, to me, there is one perk that is even more alluring: The tour isn't costing us a thing. It's included in the fare for the Viking Eastern Mediterranean cruise we are on. Unlike most other cruise lines that operate ocean voyages, Viking includes tours in every port in its fares. And it's not the only thing that Viking includes in its pricing. From meals in every onboard restaurant and beer and wine with lunch and dinner, to internet access and spa access, Viking includes an unusually high number of things in its fares that often come with an extra charge at other cruise brands. It's all part of a 'no-nickel-and-diming' philosophy that has been one of the core principles of the brand since its founding nearly 25 years ago — and that, in my opinion, makes Viking trips a particularly good value.

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Parade: You Can Now Take a 5-Day African Safari in the Middle of This Epic New Cruise

June 1, 2026 — If your ultimate travel bucket list is a constant battle between wanting a relaxing ocean cruise and wanting to head deep into the wilderness on an African safari, a massive new voyage announcement just solved your dilemma. Viking has officially opened bookings for its spectacular 2028-2029 World Cruise itineraries, and they are packing a pretty wild twist.

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TIME: TIME100 Most Influential Companies of 2026

April 30, 2026 — Viking was recognized in the “Disrupters” category, highlighting companies that are redefining industries and challenging conventional approaches. Viking was also named to the TIME100 Companies: Industry Leaders list for Travel & Tourism, which highlights the 10 most influential companies shaping the sector in 2026.

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Condé Nast Traveler: Best New Cruise Ships in the World: 2026 Hot List

April 23, 2026 — Don’t wait for a sea day to visit the spa—go early and return often. You don’t need to have a treatment booked for the water circuit, comprising a snow grotto, sauna, steam room, cold plunge, and hydrotherapy pool, which is an irresistible draw for the wellness-minded and an excellent discovery for those not yet initiated. A bonus on Viking Vesta: an extra treatment room with a sand bed massage table, a perk of the ship’s slightly larger footprint and one brought over after the amenity’s success on Viking’s expedition ships.

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Fox Business: Viking is a 'Different Animal' from Cruise Lines, CEO Says

April 15, 2026 — Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen discusses the demand for sailing American rivers and lakes, favorite destinations and what sets them apart on 'Varney & Co.'

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CNBC: Viking Holdings CEO Torstein Hagen goes one-on-one with Jim Cramer

April 14, 2026 — 'Mad Money’ host Jim Cramer sits down with Torstein Hagen, the chairman and CEO of Viking Holdings.

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Good Housekeeping: My First Cruise Completely Surprised Me—Especially the Food

April 12, 2026 — When food and hospitality are handled with care, everything else falls into place. And that kind of travel—intentional, unrushed, and genuinely nourishing—is something I didn’t know I’d been missing. Now I’m counting down the days until my next cruise.

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Women's Health: The 2026 Women’s Health Travel Awards

March 25, 2026 — Sailing through the Mediterranean and beyond, Viking’s latest ship, the Vesta, pairs cultural discovery with a slower, more reflective pace of travel. Ports of call like Istanbul and Ephesus in Turkey, and Rhodes, Crete, and Athens in Greece anchor the journey, with expert-led excursions that bring civilizations spanning thousands of years to life. Days often include plenty of walking—through ancient ruins, coastal towns, and historic villages—before returning to Viking Vesta’s elegant, thoughtfully designed interiors and private-balcony staterooms. Service is warm and attentive: The crew quickly learns guests’ names, remembers preferences, and makes small but meaningful adjustments throughout the voyage.

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Parade: Viking Just Launched a Massive World First for 2026

March 22, 2026 — If you've been following the world of cruising lately, you know that the industry is in the middle of a major glow-up. We aren't just talking about bigger water slides or better buffets; we're talking about a massive shift toward "green" travel that actually feels good to book. Viking—the brand we already love for its elegant, "no-kids-allowed" atmosphere—just took a giant leap forward by launching the Viking Libra at the Ancona shipyard in Italy.

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Fodor’s Travel: Fodor's Expert Review: Viking Vesta

March 4, 2026 — Viking’s newest ocean ship, Vesta, proudly embodies the line’s core principles of exceptional service, calming Nordic decor, and understated elegance. Though Viking doesn’t use the term luxury, that is how many describe it. Similar to other ships in its ocean fleet, Vesta’s main public area is called The Living Room. Unlike some cruises where the atrium lobby is bustling with excitement, The Living Room has the refined feeling of a luxurious home, where comfortable, high-end furnishings create welcoming seating areas for conversation or playing cards and other board games while live musicians perform nightly on the grand piano.

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Toronto Star: Exploring beyond beautiful (but touristy) Dubrovnik, I took a nostalgia-tinged tour in Croatia

February 12, 2026 — By going beyond Dubrovnik’s beautiful but touristy city centre, we had seemingly stepped back in time, to a place where life was slower, batches were smaller, and things were still mostly made by hand. I likely wouldn’t have stumbled across these moments of pure travel gold on my own; they were all part of an add-on shore excursion arranged by the Viking Vela, a 998-passenger cruise ship that first set sail in Dec. 2024.

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Travel Weekly: Viking's Ship Design strategy: Strength is in Repetition

January 19, 2026 — "If you've seen one, you've seen them all." More than once, Viking founder and CEO Torstein Hagen has said this about his river and ocean ships, which are famous for their sameness: the same public spaces, the same Scandinavian-inspired design and decor. It's a mark of predictability and consistency -- brand pillars that make Viking, well, Viking, no matter where the line is sailing in the world.

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Condé Nast Traveler: Review: Viking Vesta

January 17, 2026 — Despite its massive reach and status as a publicly traded company, Viking has the look and feel of a family business in many ways. A palpable sense of community and Nordic spirit can be felt across the large fleet, which may have something to do with the brand's impressive number of repeat guests. Stroll one of the 100+ ships and you'll come across Scandinavian design, family photos, recipes, and public spaces named after friends and family. (Mamsen’s, named after CEO Torstein Hagen’s mom, is known for her famous heart-shaped waffle.) Dubbed a cruise line for “the thinking person,” there's less splash and pizzazz than the big guys, focused instead on creating an educational and enriching experience.

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Condé Nast Traveler: A Guide to Viking's Ancient Mediterranean Treasures Cruise, On and Off the Ship

January 8, 2026 — A new ship sometimes needs time to work out the kinks, but at this point—more than 100 vessels later—Viking has the routine down pat. In early November, I boarded the Viking Vesta, the line's 12th ocean vessel, in Istanbul, a few months into service. It marked my first Viking sailing and first time to Türkiye. I was instantly charmed by the line's size and Nordic-inspired spaces. The ships are nearly the same across each category, both in design and onboard experiences, though this one has the distinction of being the largest (998 passengers verses 930). This sameness has its plusses, as they've clearly figured out a nice setup: The lounge areas feel spacious but also cozy and homey, with endless corners to curl up with a good book or simply sit and watch the waves go by. This isn't a go-go-go type of line, where you're racing to visit every last dining venue or lining up for rides—instead, it welcomes and fosters a more restorative type of trip.

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Condé Nast Traveler: A Guide to Viking’s Ancient Mediterranean Treasures Cruise, On and Off the Ship

January 8, 2026 — A new ship sometimes needs time to work out the kinks, but at this point—more than 100 vessels later—Viking has the routine down pat. In early November, I boarded the Viking Vesta, the line's 12th ocean vessel, in Istanbul, a few months into service. It marked my first Viking sailing and first time to Türkiye. I was instantly charmed by the line's size and Nordic-inspired spaces. The ships are nearly the same across each category, both in design and onboard experiences, though this one has the distinction of being the largest (998 passengers verses 930). This sameness has its plusses, as they've clearly figured out a nice setup: The lounge areas feel spacious but also cozy and homey, with endless corners to curl up with a good book or simply sit and watch the waves go by.

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Forbes: Forbes Travel Guide’s 10 Most Anticipated Luxury Cruise Ships Of 2026

December 30, 2025 — Kicking off her inaugural season in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, the Viking Mira will welcome up to 998 guests. All 499 staterooms boast private verandas, heated bathroom floors and the understated elegance of Viking’s signature Scandinavian design. The destination sits at the center of the onboard experience, inspiring the seven restaurants, immersive itineraries and programming.

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Canadian Geographic: Why Viking’s Ancient Mediterranean Treasures Cruise is Perfect for History Lovers

December 20, 2025 — On this week-long Ancient Mediterranean Treasures Viking Cruise, from Istanbul, Turkey, to Athens, Greece, I feel as if I am crossing not just the Aegean Sea, but time itself. Each stop unfolds like a living museum, revealing unexpected connections to a past shaped by ancient battles and shifting powers.

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Skift: Viking CEO’s Luxury Cruise Strategy: No Private Destinations, No ‘Opulence’

December 5, 2025 — Viking CEO Torstein Hagen isn't afraid to chart his own course. A strategy of no kids, no casinos, and no private islands makes his cruise brand distinctive. While major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, and Norwegian race to acquire private islands and build artificial destinations in the Caribbean for resort-style shore days, Viking is heading in the opposite direction.

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Travel + Leisure: This Popular Cruise Line Started Sailing to Mainland China—and I Went Along for the Ride

November 23, 2025 — I, too, felt like I’d won the travel lottery, getting to see places that had been closed to Westerners (and indeed many Chinese people) for years because of COVID restrictions. By sailing with Viking, I suddenly had the keys to some of China’s most interesting cities. What’s more, I never once had to wait in line, buy tickets, arrange transportation, make restaurant reservations, or handle any other logistics.

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Forbes: Viking Reaches Historic 100-Ship Fleet Milestone—And It’s Not Stopping There

November 21, 2025 — Nothing could wipe the smile off Viking founder, chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen’s face last week in Basel, Switzerland — not a sudden mid-ceremony burst of rain or even a premature bottle smash on the hull of the nearly finished Viking Dagur — as the cruise brand he started 28 years ago achieved the major milestone of becoming the first line to amass a 100-ship fleet.

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U.S. News & World Report: Cruise Line Rankings

November 18, 2025 — U.S. News has made it easier to find the cruise that's right for you with our Best Cruise Lines rankings, which identify the best cruise lines for a variety of traveler types in a range of regions.

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Cruise Critic: Viking Vesta Review

November 17, 2025 — The 12th ocean cruise ship in Viking’s fleet, Viking Vesta has all the trappings that have come to define the line: Scandi-luxe design; thoughtfully designed cabins and suites; an outstanding onboard enrichment program and the best thermal spa at sea. Along with Viking Vela, Viking Vesta is larger than its predecessors, both in the number of passengers and the physical dimensions of the ship. But while these two ships have 998 guests, as opposed to 930, they don’t seem crowded. Rather, you still sometimes wonder where everyone is, especially since Viking’s itineraries tend to be port intensive.

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Cruise Critic: 12 Reasons I Love Viking’s Ocean Cruises

November 9, 2025 — Once I’ve been on a ship or cruise line, I’m on to the next one, meaning that I’m not really able to revisit vessels that I enjoy. So lucky for me that Viking’s ocean ships, which rate among my favorites, are almost all identical. Boarding Viking Vesta, the newest of the line’s fast-growing fleet, on the line’s Ancient Mediterranean Treasures itinerary in Istanbul, felt like seeing an old friend who recently received a glow up.

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CNN Quest Means Business: Viking CEO Tor Hagen On Their No-Kids Cruise Policy

October 27, 2025 — "We had a vision that we should establish a serious cruise line for serious people." Viking CEO Tor Hagen on their no-kids cruise policy.

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The Points Guy: Fast-Growing Viking Hits Major milestone with 100th Cruise Ship

October 22, 2025 — By one measure, at least, Viking now rules the cruise world. The fast-growing cruise brand officially welcomed nine new ships to its fleet on Tuesday during an upbeat naming ceremony in Basel, Switzerland, bringing its total to 103. The addition of the new vessels, all designed for river cruising, puts Viking firmly ahead of cruise giant Carnival Corporation for the title of the cruise company with the most ships.

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Travel Weekly: Viking Celebrates a Milestone Moment, Naming Its 100th Ship

October 22, 2025 — With a push of a button and a smash of Norwegian aquavit, Viking named its 100th ship. It was one of nine river vessels Viking welcomed into its fleet on Oct. 21, in ceremonies across six countries and three continents. The company now has 100-plus ships across its river, ocean and expedition categories. Viking is known for its big, multi-ship naming ceremonies. In 2014 Viking broke its own Guinness World Record when it christened 16 ships in a 24-hour period -- and then inaugurated two more in Portugal.

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CNBC: Viking Holdings CEO Torstein Hagen Goes One-On-One with Jim Cramer

October 21, 2025 — Viking Holdings CEO Torstein Hagen joins ‘Mad Money’ host Jim Cramer to discuss the milestone of naming the 100th ship, the growth of their ocean business, the strength of the consumer, and more.

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The Points Guy: Sophisticated Design, Elegant Service: Why I Love Viking Ocean Ships for Cruising Around the Globe

September 15, 2025 — It just might be the perfect cruising moment — at least for me. As I write this, I am sitting in the stylish, glass-walled lounge at the front of the Viking ocean ship Viking Saturn, my travel companion at my side. Awaiting our lips, in Schott Zwiesel crystal glasses, are martinis made with gin from Highclere Castle, a Viking partner — garnished at our server’s recommendation with orange twists to match the spirit’s citrus overtones. In the background, classy orchestral music plays. Not too softly. Not too loudly.

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The Wall Street Journal: The Luxe Cruise Company That Bans Kids, Casinos and Fancy Umbrella Drinks—and Is Thriving

September 3, 2025 — Viking executives say the company’s strictness on what its vacations will and will not be helps keep ships full in the face of new competition in the river space and a sea of larger, kid-friendly boats teeming with entertainment and rides. Guests on Viking ships attend lectures about their trip’s destinations from resident historians and listen to classical music. Rather than pool parties and waterslides, a Viking cruiser steps into quieter pools and snow grottos, small glass-enclosed rooms filled with man-made snow. “There are very successful floating entertainment palaces,” said Chief Executive Tor Hagen, referring to other cruise operators. “We are really a place where we take grown-ups to interesting places, where they can continue to educate themselves.”

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Condé Nast Traveler: Review - Viking Vela

August 29, 2025 — Viking has carved out a niche as the cruise line for the culturally curious. With no casinos, no children under 18, and no garish poolside entertainment, it’s the go-to for those who’d rather attend a lecture on Norse mythology than a limbo contest (though you might find yourself signing up for a surprisingly spirited pub quiz or a bracing polar plunge). Still primarily owned by its founder and chairman, Torstein Hagen, the company blends Nordic understatement with intellectual enrichment, delivering destination-focused itineraries and a calm, unhurried onboard atmosphere.

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Forbes: Viking Cruises Are A Calming Dose Of Vitamin Sea Where You Can Eat, Drink—And Think

August 24, 2025 — If you’re looking to sail on a stupendous big ship where there’s a casino, a Jumbotron at the pool, children on board, thousands of passengers, artwork for sale, formal nights, gold-chains-by-the-yard – and long lines everywhere (especially at the elevator) – Viking Cruises is not for you. It will not be your cup of (chamomile) tea. Instead, the world-class, award-winning, six-star ships of Viking are famous for the fact that they are really meant for sophisticated cruisers who desire a dynamic journey filled with fascinating lectures, super-interesting excursions, first-class on-board activities, and books everywhere – all augmented and complemented with gourmet cuisine, and beautiful live classical music performed live by gifted musicians throughout the day and into evenings, (especially in the beautiful atrium).

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The Points Guy: I Extended My Viking Cruise with a Multiday Land Tour — Here's Why You Should, Too

July 30, 2025 — I am here thanks to Viking, the fast-growing cruise company. This train ride, along with almost every other element of my visit to Norway, from my pickup at the airport in Oslo to hotel stays, guided tours and museum admissions in each city I am visiting, was arranged by Viking as part of a multiday precruise land tour. Viking, it turns out, isn't just one of the fastest-growing cruise lines in the world. It's a growing land tour company, too. With an ever-increasing array of multiday land tours and hotel stays designed to be seamlessly added on to one of its cruise itineraries, the line is making it easier than ever for cruise-loving travelers to custom-design the perfect extended vacation — all while only dealing with a single company that arranges everything from start to finish.  

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Condé Nast Traveler: 10 Best Spas on Cruise Ships With Thermal Suites, Salt Therapy Rooms, and Snow Grottos

June 25, 2025 — The first snow grotto on the silver seas (there is even a snow-making machine) is just one example of how every aspect of Viking’s therapeutic experience ties back to the brand's Nordic roots. There’s a simplicity to the LiVNordic spa—much like a folk melody—and the trick here is to allow your body to adjust to rapid hot and cold temperature changes in the sauna and cold pool. With treatments neatly divided into categories to promote mindfulness, rest, and detox, you can customize your treatments and float, spirited and carefree like a Norse god or goddess.

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Forbes: Viking’s Panama Canal Passage Is A Luxury Cruise Through History

June 17, 2025 — This itinerary also featured fascinating lectures and presentations about the Canal, the Panama hat, the horses of the Conquistador, the rare birds of Costa Rica, the real pirates of the Caribbean and so much more. For me, sea days are synonymous with spa days and Viking’s spa is my favorite place to relax and rejuvenate. I always get at least one massage and I take advantage of the entire Nordic-inspired thermal suite (another included Viking perk), going back and forth between the sauna, steam, hot tub, snow grotto and ice bucket. I consider it self-care.

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Forbes: Viking’s Panama Canal Passage Is A Luxury Cruise Through History

June 17, 2025 — One of the best things about travel, besides getting to visit new places and experiencing different cultures, is introducing other people to your favorite finds. So, when I decided to finally plan a Panama Canal cruise with a friend who also had always wanted to sail through the famous waterway, I made sure we booked Viking’s 11-day Classic Panama Canal Passage itinerary. My husband and I have taken more than a dozen cruises on Viking and are so at home on their ships, the crew feels like family. So I felt like a proud parent as we stepped aboard the Viking Mars and I saw my friend’s wide-eyed expression. She couldn’t stop ooh-ing and ah-ing over the casually elegant Scandinavian design, our spacious staterooms with their balconies and all the thoughtful little details for which Viking is famous.

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Forbes: How This Luxury Cruise Line Is Leading The Way In Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Voyages

April 30, 2025 — Viking stands out as a leader in balancing luxury with genuine sustainability. As a frontrunner in the clean maritime travel sector, Viking has set the standard by ensuring all of its ocean liners have minimal environmental impact and expeditions that prioritize preservation.

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Condé Nast Traveler: Hot List 2025: Viking Vela

April 23, 2025 — There may be no better place to take in views of some of Europe’s most enchanting ports and coastlines than from the seventh deck of Viking Vela. The Norwegian line’s newest ocean ship has made its home continent its primary focus, and introduced a range of new itineraries to keep pace. It spent much of this winter on Viking’s new northern lights-themed sailings, whisking passengers from London to the far north of Norway in search of the aurora borealis.

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Virtuoso: This Cruise Opens the Door to Some of China’s Less-Visited Ports

April 14, 2025 — Viking’s sailings along the southeast coast go beyond the headlines. On a cloudy morning in Zhujiajiao, a familiar green-and-white logo touched a nerve during my first trip back to China since 2019. I’d joined a cruise along the southeast coast, and this shore excursion would plunge me straight into the beauty, history, and contradiction that a visit to the Middle Kingdom promises. As we arrived at the canal-laced town, 28 miles inland from Shanghai, firecrackers rattled loudly in the morning air.

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Upscale Living Magazine: Mediterranean Odyssey Cruise with Viking is the Best of All Worlds

March 17, 2025 — Viking Cruises offers first-time and repeat cruisers the Best of All Worlds with their six-country, 13-day European itinerary. Sailing a course to the ancient civilizations and visiting historic ports is a history lover’s dream. Begin in Barcelona or Chioggia (Venice) and discover the pleasures of visiting ten unique cities without unpacking. Many passengers, like us, opt for pre- or post-excursions, giving the embarkation or disembarkation destinations further review. We flew into Venice before our cruise and spent a glorious few days strolling the enchanting canal waterways and back streets lined with specialty shops.

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Condé Nast Traveler: The Best Adult-Oriented Cruise Lines to Sail this Year

March 5, 2025 — On this adults-only cruise line, choose between river, ocean, and expedition vessels. Viking ships sail all seven continents. Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris explore the poles but also sail Niagara, the Great Lakes, and Chilean fjords. While categorized as upper premium, Viking’s ocean and expedition fleet includes many amenities, such as one shore excursion per port, all dining, afternoon tea, beer and wine with lunch and dinner, spa Thermal Suite access, Wi-Fi, and 24-hour room service.

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Travel Weekly: Viking Yi Dun Sailing Steeped in Chinese Tea Traditions

February 15, 2025 — Drinking green tea has been part of my ritual most mornings for the past 20 years, but I had never given much thought to how that hot beverage had gotten from a plant to my cup. That changed, though, during an eye-opening shore excursion, a break from my recent cruise aboard the Viking Yi Dun, the cruise line's inaugural coastal China voyage for English speakers. China has been making tea for thousands of years, and here I was, standing in the birthplace of Tieguanyin tea, a type of oolong tea, and I was about to pick it myself. My fellow passengers and I had spent the past few days immersing ourselves in Chinese culture and rituals during this 10-day cruise from Shanghai to Shenzhen in September.

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The Boston Globe: Why Winter is the New Best Time For Mediterranean Cruises

February 7, 2025 — Viking introduced its first “Quiet Season Mediterranean” sailing in 2015 and remains a leader in the industry when it comes to winter sailings in Europe. It currently has 21 different itineraries for winter sailings in Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Malta, Turkey, Monaco, Portugal, Croatia, and Montenegro, typically offered from late October through mid-March. “Quiet Season Mediterranean continues to be one of our key offerings, with a variety of dates and itinerary options and a dedicated place on our website,” says Richard Marnell, Viking Executive Vice President of Marketing. “During the upcoming 2025 to 2026 fall to spring season, we’ll have five ocean ships in the Mediterranean full-time and one additional ocean ship sailing select itineraries.”

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Canada.com: Step Into A New Era of All-Inclusive Luxury On This Adults-Only Cruise Around Europe

February 5, 2025 — After busy days ashore, we are always ready to be back on board. Few ships can match the quiet sophistication of Viking’s ocean going vessels. With its neutral Scandi-chic design, Venus feels more like a home than a ship. With only 930 guests, the public spaces are never crowded.

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Travel + Leisure: This Midsize Ship Explores Lesser-visited Ports in Scandinavia, Like the Faroe Islands, Iceland's Picturesque Waterfalls, and Norway's Most Charming Towns

December 29, 2024 — But sweltering summer temperatures in Greece this year had me — and a growing number of people who are seeking “cool-cations” — looking for an escape. I found mine on a 13-day voyage through Iceland and Norway aboard Viking Saturn, the 465-cabin ship that is the newest ocean-going vessel from Viking, a favorite of Travel + Leisure readers. And while many cruise lines travel the seemingly endless coastlines of Norway, Viking is one of only a few that calls the country home, a fact that’s evident the moment you step aboard.

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Canadian Geographic: Iceland: The Must-See Nordic Island Nation

November 14, 2024 — Viking Saturn, a 745-foot, 930-passenger ship launched in 2023. For four days, we sailed around Iceland before heading east to the Faroe Islands, and then on to Norway during this 14-day journey. The small-ship’s elegant minimalist all-veranda design makes it the perfect platform to visit these remote places once trodden by the Vikings. Unlike the Vikings, however, guests can unwind and recalibrate after a long day of adventure in cozy leather armchairs with fur throws and then relax in the ship’s extensive Scandinavian spa.

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New York Times: Fewer Crowds, Bargain Prices: ‘Quiet Season’ Cruising in the Mediterranean

November 11, 2024 — With multiple routes and departures, Viking has emerged as a leader in what it calls the “quiet season” in the Mediterranean. Founded as a European river cruise line in 1997, Viking began offering winter sailings in the region when it added its first oceangoing ship, the 930-passenger Viking Star, in 2015. This winter, Viking is stationing three ships full time in the Mediterranean and will increase the fleet dedicated to the region to five in the 2025-26 winter season. “We recognized past travelers would appreciate traveling in the Mediterranean during a time period in which it was still very, very temperate,” said Richard Marnell, the executive vice president of marketing at Viking. Midwinter temperatures in Barcelona tend to run from the high 40s to the low 60s.

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AFAR: I Was on Viking’s Inaugural China Cruise—Here’s What I Loved and What I Wish I’d Known Before the Sailing

October 15, 2024 — The line’s new sailings on the 930-passenger Viking Yi Dun hug the country’s southeastern coast, from Shanghai to Shenzhen, stopping in ports that were part of the Maritime Silk Road, a series of historic trading ports. It marks the first time international passengers can explore coastal China with an English-speaking cruise line; other cruise lines drop into Shanghai as a port of call, typically on multicountry itineraries around Asia, but Viking’s new 10- to 20-day itineraries (including land-based extensions) operate fully within China.

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Canadian Geographic: Exploring 1,200 Years of History in the Faroe Islands

October 1, 2024 — But it is this combination of isolated geography and bracing weather that has preserved the peninsula of eighteen islands from the ravages of mass tourism. Our port call aboard the elegant new Norwegian-flagged and Nordic-spirited Viking Saturn – the only cruise ship to visit that day and one of only six large cruise ships that month – not only allowed us to get a measure of the islands’ isolation, but our approach and sail away gave a longboat-eye perspective of the sheer beauty of the place.

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Condé Nast Traveler: The Ultimate Guide to Cruising Alaska

September 25, 2024 — Viking’s ocean-going ships are a bit of a departure from the norm for Alaska cruises. Designed with clean Nordic lines and the aesthetic of a land-based luxury hotel, these ships are well-suited for understated exploring—you won’t find a casino onboard here. The 11-day itinerary from Vancouver calls at Alaska’s collection of “Greatest Hits” ports like Ketchikan, Sitka, and Juneau, but also overnights in Seward before passengers disembark, giving them a chance to check out rescued wildlife at the fascinating Alaska SeaLife Center or take an excursion in Kenai Fjords National Park.

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Cruise Critic: Viking Yi Dun Dining

September 21, 2024 — Food on Viking Yi Dun is excellent both in terms of quality and variety. It includes Chinese dishes and those that appeal to more Western tastes. Many passengers will end up trying a few new foods, and Viking Yi Dun makes it easy for them, holding themed events and clearly explaining what is in the items they’re trying.

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Cruise Critic: What it’s Like Sailing on a Viking Cruise in China

September 19, 2024 — The cruise line weaves in a bit of China everywhere. Lectures take a look at history and culture, classes like intro to Mahjong or beginner Tai Chi are offered, and entertainment includes things like classic shadow puppetry. Menus, too, blend Western and Eastern tastes in every venue. I loved breakfast at the main restaurant, where I could order a Chinese breakfast, and waiters wheeled around dim sum carts with items like purple sweet potato buns and shrimp shumai. Other guests did too, delighting in trying congee for the first time.

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CNBC: Viking Holdings CEO: We Appeal To a Totally Different Segment and Have a Different Product

August 22, 2024 — Viking Holdings Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen joins ‘Mad Money’ host Jim Cramer to talk quarterly results, affordability and pricing, and more.

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Cruise Critic: What to Expect on a Viking Iceland Cruise

August 14, 2024 — A Viking Iceland cruise might be the ideal way to explore the Land of Fire and Ice -- and not only from a logistical point of view. The cruise line’s respect for all things Norwegian make it a perfect partner for exploring Iceland’s Norse heritage along with its remarkable landscape and modern culture. When it comes to Iceland cruises on Viking Ocean ships, you’ll be able to choose from plenty of choices. There are several Viking cruise ships to consider, all offering one- to multi-week sailings.

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The Points Guy: 10 Best Asia Cruises for a Bucket-list Trip

August 8, 2024 — For many, walking along the Great Wall is a dream. For passengers aboard Viking Yi Dun on the Classic China and the Coast cruise, it's a reality. Viking sets itself apart with a China-focused cruisetour that combines a five-night precruise land stay in Beijing and Xian with a nine-night cruise through the East and South China Seas. You can choose from multiple fall 2024 departures. In Beijing, you can visit the Forbidden City and Great Wall before flying to Xian to admire the famous Terra Cotta Warriors archeological site.

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The Points Guy: Best First-Time Cruises for All Types of Travelers

August 1, 2024 — For a first Viking river cruise in Europe, you can't go wrong with the Danube. The line operates a variety of eight-day segments along the river, allowing you to start or finish in such cities as Amsterdam, Vienna and Budapest. Immersive shore experiences include tours of historic palaces and castles, wine tastings, bike and e-bike city tours, and cooking classes. If ocean cruising appeals to you, first-time cruisers can cruise almost anywhere on the globe with Viking. A good first choice is a Mediterranean cruise that allows you to see such iconic cities as Athens, Rome, Barcelona and Venice.

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The Points Guy: 11 Best Cruises to Canada & New England

July 31, 2024 — Viking's fans love the ships' serene Scandinavian-inspired decor, complimentary spa thermal area and pricing that includes wine and beer with lunch and dinner, gratuities and one free shore excursion per port. The ships do not have an onboard casino, but two pools (one with a retractable roof) offer relaxation during sea days.

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The Points Guy: Best Mediterranean Cruises in 2024 and 2025

July 10, 2024 — True history lovers will not be satisfied with only a week in this rich landscape. Choose Viking for your Eastern Mediterranean cruise, and look for longer itineraries, such as the 15-day "Ancient Mediterranean Antiquities" sailings throughout 2024, 2025 and 2026. The one-way sailing between Rome and Istanbul hits most of the ancient civilization highlights: Naples and Sicily, Italy; Rhodes, Crete and Athens, Greece; and Ephesus, Troy and Istanbul, Turkey.

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Travel + Leisure: Readers' 10 Favorite Midsize-ship Ocean Cruise Lines of 2024

July 9, 2024 — When you get on a Viking ship, you know what to expect. There are familiar surroundings, no kids onboard, no casinos, no nickel-and-diming, just overall excellence, say T+L readers. With 10 identical 465-cabin ships and a 11th, 499-cabin ship debuting later in 2024, Viking delivers a winning formula of all-inclusive fares that combine meals, beverages, Wifi, gratuities, and a shore excursion in every port with standout itineraries, too. Those destinations include the Caribbean, Alaska, Southeast Asia, China, South America, Australia, and Scandinavia.

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The Points Guy: Our 7 Favorite Summer Cruises For All Types of Travelers

June 27, 2024 — Viking ships make seeing the incredible sights of Scandinavia not only possible but comfortable. At the end of a day ashore — sometimes spent on excursions skimming across the waters of fjords in rigid inflatable boats or exploring tiny fishing villages near, or even above, the Arctic Circle — you'll return to relax in one of the best complimentary thermal suites at sea. If that's not enough, you'll also dine on extraordinary cuisine without worrying about extra costs.

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AFAR: Don’t Want to Cruise With Kids? Sail on These Adult-Focused Cruise Ships

June 25, 2024 — Whether you cruise with Viking on one of the company’s many 190-passenger river cruise vessels in Europe, on the line’s 930-passenger ocean cruise ships that sail around the world, or on one of its two 378-passenger expedition ships, you’ll be treated to a fine-tuned cruising experience geared strictly to adults. You need to be age 18 and up to get aboard to enjoy the many perks covered in the all-inclusive fares. Those perks consist of shore excursions in every port, free wine and beer, all meals (including numerous restaurant experiences and nightly seafood buffets), engaging lectures hosted by historians and other experts, and Nordic spas complete with hot sauna, steam room, and a chilly snow grotto.

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PureWow: The 10 Best Cruise Lines for Adults, According to a Kid-Free Cruiser

June 22, 2024 — Viking currently has over 60 ships in their fleet that travel all around the world. You can take an iconic Western Mediterranean trip (Barcelona to Rome), a Grand European tour (Budapest to Amsterdam) or a Great Lakes voyage (Toronto to Minnesota). While many of the ships feature pools, restaurants, a library room and theater, most travelers go for the thrilling excursions and even participate in lectures specifically found on the expedition ships (Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris) that are great for the curious scientist or animal lover.

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Travel + Leisure: 10 Best Cruises to Hawaii – From Luxury Sailings to Expedition Ships

June 7, 2024 — This 17-day voyage from Los Angeles takes place aboard the Viking Neptune, an all-veranda small ship that carries a maximum of 928 guests. After five days at sea, the first stop is the Big Island, where guests can view Kilauea by helicopter, visit waterfalls, or explore Hilo Bay by kayak. The next port is Oahu, where guests can tour by helicopter, hike Diamond Head, attend a luau, or more. On Kauai, excursions range from an ATV tour of the island to snorkeling along the South Shore. On day 10 in Maui, highlights include Haleakala National Park, snorkeling, and a visit to Maui Ocean Center. The ship then sails to Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can indulge in wine tastings, e-bike tours, and ATV adventures in the Guadalupe Valley. The Viking Neptune returns to Los Angeles the next day.

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Cruise Critic: A 7-Day Iceland Cruise: The Shore Excursions You Shouldn't Miss

June 5, 2024 — The Golden Circle is a circular road trip from Reykjavik that can be done in a day. Viking seven-day Iceland cruises include an overnight in Reykjavik, allowing time for an eight-hour excursion on the Golden Circle. The tour includes examples of Iceland’s top geological wonders, including its most famous waterfall, Gullfoss and the Strokkur geyser.

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Porthole: The Five Best Cruise Lunches

June 1, 2024 — Mmmmmm…Mamsen’s! Sure, aboard Viking Ocean ships, you can grab lunch at the buffet, the grill or in the dining room but sometimes you just crave the wholesome and healthy—yet undeniably delicious—Norwegian dishes available at Mamsen’s. Tucked into the corner of The Explorer’s Lounge, this serene space is the perfect setting to indulge in fragrant pea soup (with or without ham), and open-faced sandwiches like shrimp/tomato/cucumber, gravlox and red onion, roast beef and more, each served with its own delectable dipping sauce. Warm dishes like fish cake on rye are also available. But don’t feel too virtuous!  Mamsen’s serves its heart-shaped waffles all day long along with an eye-popping assortment of cakes, tarts and pastries.

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All Things Cruise: Review: Viking Mars: Transatlantic... and Terrific!

April 28, 2024 — The smoky sweetness of Manfredi’s Viking Bistecca. The delectable soft shell crab sushi which, along with other sushi varieties and a vast hot and cold buffet, is available nightly at World Café. The rich split pea soup and delightful Scandinavian open-faced sandwiches of Mamsen’s. The Chef’s Table’s delicate seared halibut in a pool of California olive and herb vinaigrette resting atop crumbled roasted cauliflower and buttered panko. The tender and cheesy oysters Rockefeller and crispy wiener schnitzel at The Restaurant. Afternoon tea, each table bearing a tiered tray heavy with the sweet and the savory, and The  Pool Grill’s salads, grilled selections and those heavenly chicken wings. Viking Mars may not have over 40 restaurants like one newly launched megaship boasts, but with choices as outstanding and varied as Viking Mars’, who cares?

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Food & Wine: 10 Top Cruises for Food and Drinks, According to the Experts

April 2, 2024 — Viking commands attention on all waters, with riverboats, ocean liners, and expedition ships plying every continent. So many touches sum up Viking’s willingness for menus to reflect itineraries, and regional dishes and wines are a given. Flourishing herb gardens allow riverboat chefs to pluck the freshest herbs to grace dishes daily. On ocean-going vessels, specialty restaurant Manfredi’s excels in Italian cuisine (bistecca alla Fiorentina is legendary), and Mamsen’s triumphs the line’s Nordic heritage — all bow to the signature waffles.

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Fodor’s Travel: This Might Be the Best Way to Travel With Your Mom

March 15, 2024 — Eating well is one of the best parts of travel. With multiple dining options onboard the Viking Venus, sure to satisfy the pickiest of palates, dining on the cruise was another ideal feature. My mom and I tried all the different restaurants throughout the 11-day excursion. We especially loved the Italian favorites at Manfredi’s (epic bread basket) and the Nordic brunch at Mamsen’s (still dreaming of the waffles). The Chef’s Table was another specialty eatery with elegant plating for a five-course tasting menu.

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U.S. News & World Report: 6 Top Luxury Alaska Cruises for 2024 & Beyond

March 7, 2024 — Viking's destination-focused itineraries are curated for travelers who are interested in history, science, culture and cuisine, as they feature onboard enrichment like lectures by Viking's resident historians. You'll also find regionally inspired dishes in The Restaurant and special access to unique tours and excursions ashore.

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USA Today: All aboard! 10 bucket-list cruise vacations to take this year

February 29, 2024 — Board Viking Sky to circumnavigate the globe — the ultimate cruise. A Dec. 19 departure from Fort Lauderdale ends up in New York City three months later. In between, you’ll visit 37 countries with the possibility of 83 guided, culturally immersive tours, from Panama and Los Angeles to Tahiti, New Zealand, Vietnam, and Turkey. Although more commonly aligned with river cruises, Viking boasts ocean liners with the same small-ship (930 guests max) nimbleness and sleek, Scandinavian design. Viking Sky’s staterooms garner praise for their private verandas and understated elegance.

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Condé Nast Traveler: The 11 Best Cruise Lines for Adults

February 28, 2024 — On this adults-only cruise line, choose between river, ocean, and expedition vessels. Viking ships sail all seven continents. Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris explore the poles but also sail Niagara, the Great Lakes, and Chilean fjords. While categorized as upper premium, Viking’s ocean and expedition fleet includes many amenities, such as one shore excursion per port, all dining, afternoon tea, beer and wine with lunch and dinner, spa Thermal Suite access, WiFi, and 24-hour room service.

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Cruise Critic: 6 Reasons to Take a Northern Lights Cruise to Norway in Winter

February 23, 2024 — Once you’ve gone outside and frozen yourself stiff, there’s nothing like returning to the warm lights (and warmer service) of your ship. In every port, Viking Venus shone like a beacon in the darkness. Crew put out electric lights to illuminate a path to the ship, creating what Scandinavians call “hygge” – a feeling of coziness – before passengers even step back aboard. And when you brave the polar winds that swirl around the steel gangway and finally step into the warmth of the ship’s interior, Viking’s crew were waiting with hot chocolate and hot toddies to warm passengers up.

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Cruise Critic: I Cruise with My Mom on Viking. I Wasn't Alone.

February 21, 2024 — There’s the old adage that says you get what you pay for. Viking slays that by consistently delivering more than you’d expect – more amenities, better quality and graceful service, the latter being harder to come by these days in the travel industry.

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Forbes: Forbes Travel Guide’s 2024 Star Award Winners

February 7, 2024 — Viking Neptune: A floating home-away-from-home has never been as luxurious as the stalwart digs found aboard the recently debuted Viking Neptune. In keeping with the luxury cruise line’s ever-popular small-ship formula, the 930-passenger Viking Neptune ticks all the sumptuous seafaring boxes with its all-veranda makeup and sleek Scandinavian style. Viking Sky: Exploring the world is an endeavor worth undertaking on the luxurious Viking Sky — especially when sumptuous staterooms come standard with king-sized beds and private ocean-view verandas. Like the vessels crewed by its namesake explorers, the intimate Viking Sky was built to navigate smaller rivers and fjords rather than just vast open seas. A voyage on this 930-passenger ship affords access to more exclusive ports that don’t permit larger liners.

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Condé Nast Traveler: These 7 Transoceanic Cruises Revive the Splendor of the Oceanliner Era

February 5, 2024 — Traverse the Pacific and tour some of the most interesting ports in Asia on this 37-day journey with Viking. Passengers depart Hong Kong in September 2024 on an epic voyage through 20 ports in Taiwan, Japan, Alaska, and Canada. The ports offer immersive activities like exploring temples and shrines in Kyoto and bear watching on Alaska’s Kodiak Island. But it’s the sea days that could prove to be the most scenic. The itinerary takes travelers through some of the most breathtaking stretches of the Pacific, including Japan’s Tsugaru Straits, as well as the glacier-laden Yakutat Bay and Glacier Bay in Alaska before navigating the Inside Passage. Onboard, you’ll also enjoy free access to the ship’s Nordic spa and complimentary 24-hour room service.

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Travel + Leisure: This Popular Cruise Line Is Dedicating a Ship to China for the First Time — With 3 New Itineraries in 2024

January 19, 2024 — Viking is launching three new cruise and land tours in China this year, just as the country is making it easier for American travelers to visit. The cruise company announced it will launch a series of 10- to 20-day trips with stops built in for some of China’s most popular cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.

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