As the only line to offer river and expedition ocean cruises, Viking is expanding both in a big way. First, it is adding a new winter river cruise itinerary along the Rhine. And second, the brand will debut three new summer expedition voyages in the Arctic in 2025.
River Expansion: Winter on the Rhine
Beginning in December 2023, Viking’s new “Treasures of the Rhine” itinerary will establish the line as the first to operate year-round European river cruises, according to the brand. Of particular interest is the opportunity to visit the region in winter among fewer crowds.
“The Middle Rhine is one of our most popular destinations — with constantly changing views of hilltop castles, historic towns and terraced vineyards along the steep valley sides, it is a region that will always be best explored by the river,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking. “Many of our guests have sailed the Rhine during other seasons, so we are pleased to offer a new option for those who may be interested experiencing Europe during a quieter time of year.”
The 10-day route will showcase the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its outstanding collection of cathedrals, fortresses, vineyards and medieval towns among gorgeous scenery. Towns (which will be less crowded in winter) along the way will include Amsterdam, Netherlands; Basel, Switzerland; and Cologne, Germany.
Treasures of the Rhine will be available onboard the fleet of Viking Longships, which are identical and consistent from riverboat to riverboat. Signature elements include contemporary Scandinavian design, offset cabin corridors for more efficient use of stateroom space and an alfresco Aquavit Terrace at the bow, plus comfortable lounges, bars, restaurants, libraries and sun decks.
New Expeditions to the Arctic
As for Viking’s expedition cruises, the line already offers voyages to Antarctica and even to the Great Lakes — in addition to longitudinal world cruises — but it will begin sailing to the Arctic, as well, starting in July 2025. Three summer-season itineraries will stretch in length from 13 to 27 days, featuring northern Canada and Greenland.
"Our guests are curious travelers who are eager to explore new and different regions of the world, in Viking comfort,” Hagen said. “From the time of Leif Eriksson and the original Vikings, Greenland and the Canadian High Arctic have fascinated intrepid explorers. Today, there is no better way to experience this pristine area of the world than from the comfort of our purpose-built expedition ships.”
The 13-day “Into the Northwest Passage” route will embark roundtrip from Nuuk, Greenland, exploring the Ilulissat Icefjord and the eastern entrance of the renowned Northwest Passage at Pond Inlet, Canada. Guests will have the opportunity to kayak in the fjord or go for Zodiac cruises and landings among dramatic mountains and glaciers. Eight tours will be included. The itinerary, exploring the Canadian High Arctic below the midnight sun, will be scheduled from July through September 2025.
A bit longer, the 15-day “Canada & Greenland Explorer” will traverse between Toronto and Nuuk, Canada, heading farther south while still emphasizing the Inuit culture and bold landscapes from July to September 2025. Eleven tours will be bundled in.
Or, guests can combine the two with the 27-day “Canada & the Northwest Passage” path, also between Nuuk and Toronto.
The cruises are currently scheduled to take place onboard Viking Octantis. The polar-class ship will provide safe passage along with its exceptional venues, not the least of which are a Nordic Spa with included thermal suite; double-decker Explorers’ Lounge for front-facing observation; The Hide secondary observation lounge, nestled in the bow; the expansive Living Room library and bar; The Hangar, full of expedition equipment and vessels; The Aula scenic theater; and the outdoor Finse Terrace, behind at the stern.
