Viking has opened bookings for its 2028–2029 expedition voyages, unveiling new departures across Antarctica, the Arctic and the Great Lakes aboard its purpose-built expedition fleet.
New expedition sailings released
The expanded deployment includes additional departures for several of Viking’s most popular itineraries, including the company’s Longitudinal World Cruises and the increasingly sought-after Into the Antarctic Circle voyage.
The program will operate aboard Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, with bookings now open globally.
Antarctica and Arctic voyages lead expansion
Among the standout itineraries is the 15-day Into the Antarctic Circle voyage, offering guests the opportunity to cross the 66°33′ latitude line into the Antarctic Circle — a milestone traditionally associated with polar exploration.
The itinerary combines Zodiac cruising, kayaking and onboard scientific programs alongside experts from organisations including:
- University of Cambridge’s Scott Polar Research Institute
- UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography
- J. Craig Venter Institute
Viking has also expanded longer exploratory voyages, including the 81-day Arctic to Antarctic Explorer itinerary and the 62-day Longitudinal World Cruise IV from Milwaukee to Ushuaia.
Great Lakes itineraries continue growing
The company is further building its presence in North America with additional Great Lakes voyages, including:
- Great Lakes Treasures
- Great Lakes Collection
The itineraries explore all five Great Lakes while incorporating cultural, ecological and scientific experiences throughout the journey.
Expedition cruising demand remains strong
Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen said the new season reflects growing demand for immersive, educational travel experiences.
“Our guests are curious travellers who seek meaningful experiences and a deeper connection to the destinations they visit,” Hagen said.
“Our expedition voyages are designed to bring them closer to the natural world through immersive exploration and discovery.”
Purpose-built expedition ships at centre of strategy
Viking’s Polar Class expedition ships carry 378 guests across 189 staterooms and have been specifically designed for remote exploration.
The vessels feature extensive indoor and outdoor viewing spaces, alongside expedition equipment including Zodiacs, kayaks and submarines.
The expansion reinforces Viking’s continued investment in the premium expedition sector as demand for polar and remote destination cruising continues to grow globally.
