What to Know About Viking Expeditions' Launch in 2022

The story of Viking is a remarkable one. It was just in 1997 that it first launched to swift fame on the rivers, and it has since expanded successfully into the ocean market. This year, the line will have 78 riverboats and six ocean ships, and many more of each are on the way — in addition to a pair of expedition ships. 

Viking Expeditions effectively marks the line’s third venture, with trips to the Arctic, Antarctica and the Great Lakes on the horizon for 2022. At a time when dozens of new expedition ships are scheduled to launch and compete, the upcoming Viking Octantis (January 2022) and Viking Polaris (August 2022) promise to offer innovative touches that will stand out from the crowd. Each ship will measure 30,150 tons with a guest capacity of 378, resulting in a passenger-space ratio (or ship volume per guest) of 79.8, which is even roomier than the line’s other ocean ships (51.4).

As they are set to head to the icy north and south, both vessels will sport Polar Class 6 strength standards and, most important for those prone to motion sickness, some significant stability features. Traditional fin stabilizers and modern dynamic positioning will be in play, along with a U-tank. This ballast container is shaped like a “U” at the keel and ship sides for liquid to slosh from port to starboard, thus dampening its roll.

In fact, Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking, says that according to model tank testing, the U-tank mitigates roll by around 50%. Meanwhile, the vessels’ substantial length — closer to the proportions of Viking’s signature Longships on the river — should help reduce pitching.

It would altogether seem that Viking has taken the best elements of its riverboats and its ocean ships for Octantis and Polaris, as they will be sized in between both and include seagoing venues such as the celebrated double-decker Explorers’ Lounge.

But the clincher is The Aula and Finse Terrace. Positioned at the back of the ship, the venue — which would otherwise be an inward-facing lecture hall — has the ability to transform 270 degrees worth of wall behind the stage into two-story wraparound windows overlooking an alfresco terrace at the stern. In short, these ships will have a pair of multifunction observation lounges, one at the front and one at the back.

The Nordic Spa will also place a greater emphasis on the outdoor scenery; the spa will feature a hydrotherapy pool positioned lengthwise right along the glass, and Aquavit Terrace will showcase a pool that is uniquely positioned both inside and outside.

A Nordic Balcony in every stateroom continues the theme of bringing the outdoors in. Instead of a chilly outside veranda, floor-to-ceiling glass around the perimeter of the ship — with indoor seating located just behind — offers warm vantage points. The upper pane can open on demand for cruisers to take photos and use binoculars more freely. Rounding out amenities will be Viking’s spacious bathrooms and drying closets for wet gear.

Speaking of gear, expedition equipment will be plentiful, and it will all be complimentary to use — yes, even a pair of Beatles-esque yellow submarines. The Hangar will be the central hub for launching not only the subs, but also kayaks, Zodiacs and rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) in sheltered comfort. The RIBs will be two, 12-seater crafts that can be launched from a stable 85-foot slipway, perfect for those with limited mobility. Besides trekking poles, snowshoes, skis, boots, binoculars and waterproof pants that can be used for free during the trip, guests will receive a complimentary Viking Expeditions jacket to take home.

As expected, all other Viking inclusions will be available to travelers: every onboard meal (main dining room, buffet, Mamsen’s, Manfredi’s and room service); beer and wine with lunch and dinner; self-service laundry; access to The Nordic Spa; Wi-Fi access; lectures; and nearly all shore excursions and charter flights to the most remote destinations.

Itineraries will range from eight days in the Great Lakes to 44 days repositioning between the Arctic and Antarctica. Regional polar routes last 13 or 19 days, with departures from Buenos Aires and Ushuaia in Argentina, and Tromso, Norway. The first season is already sold out to past guests, but all other sailings are open.

The Details
Viking
www.viking.com