Viking expedition sellout

A LIMITED pre-release to past passengers of the new Viking Cruises expedition product (TD breaking news) has seen the first Antarctic season of the new Viking Octantis already sold out.

Last night’s unveiling of the highly anticipated Viking vessels showcased a wide range of new features, including two on-board submarines which are offered to guests at no additional cost.

In another expedition cruising first, Viking’s passengers will be able to board Zodiacs and Rigid Inflatable Boats in comfort no matter what the conditions, via an elevated “Hangar” in the belly of the ship which then launches the small boats via an automated slipway.

There’s also innovation in itineraries, with Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen announcing that the first of the ships will explore the Great Lakes of North America during the northern summer season, taking in Milwaukee, Toronto, Niagara Falls & Ontario.

Octantis is scheduled to debut in Jan 2022, while sister ship Viking Polaris will arrive seven months later.

Both ships will also explore the polar regions, and all expedition voyages including the new Great Lakes itineraries are now available to past Viking guests to book during a two-week exclusive preview, followed by a general release effective from 01 Feb.

Hagen said the addition of expedition cruising was a natural evolution of the Viking brand.

“Our guests are curious explorers... they want to continue travelling with us to familiar and iconic destinations, but they would also like to travel further.”

Viking is serious about the scientific side of expeditions also, announcing an on-board laboratory with resident experts and a full research program with several key academic partners.

All-inclusive 13-day Antarctic cruise fares start at AU$20,995.

The new product is showcased on today’s TD cover page, with more Viking expedition details in today’s issue of Cruise Weekly.