Viking Cruise Line
Overview
Viking, founded in 1997, redefined river and ocean travel with its emphasis on adult-only (18+), culturally immersive cruising. Guests tend to be well-traveled singles and couples, with an average age in the 60s to 70s.
Ships/Activities
Its sleek, small-ship vessels—like the newest ocean ships Vela (2024), Vesta (2025), and upcoming Mira(2026) and hydrogen-powered Libra (2026)—prioritize elegant design, inclusivity, and access to exclusive ports Viking’s river offerings span iconic waterways across Europe and beyond, including the brand-new Nerthus on the Seine.
Viking is well known for:
- Culturally immersive design: Scandinavian-inspired décor that emphasizes elegance, comfort, and thoughtfulness. There are no inside staterooms.
- Small-ship scale: Both river and ocean vessels are intentionally sized—under 1,000 guests for ocean cruises and about 200 guests for river cruises—allowing access to ports larger ships can’t reach.
- Destination-rich itineraries: Featuring longer port stays, Viking invites guests to fully engage with local culture, sites, and enrichment.
- Expedition and historic rivers: From the Nile and Mekong to polar routes and river systems across Europe and North America through Viking Expeditions.
Fare packages include accommodations, meals, wine/beer with lunch & dinner, a shore excursion at each port, and Wi-Fi—delivering a seamless, destination-focused journey. There are rates for solo travelers.
Destinations
Viking sails globally:
- Rivers: Europe (Seine, Danube, Rhine), Egypt’s Nile, Southeast Asia’s Mekong, and the Mississippi River.
- Oceans: Scandinavia, the Baltic, Mediterranean, Caribbean, the Americas, Asia, and New Zealand, with itineraries crafted for cultural depth.
- Expeditions: Arctic, Antarctica, and the Great Lakes, blending small-ship access with immersive experiences.
- Seine River special: The new Nerthus will offer architectural and historical sailings from Paris to Normandy.
The itinerary depth and thoughtful onboard value set Viking apart.