Highclere Behind the Scenes: Gwyn, “The Butterfly Lady”

Join Karine to meet one of the longest serving residents on the Highclere Castle estate. And join them on a journey of joy and firsts, taking delight in the smaller things in life.

Be Curious: Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen discusses his trip to Antarctica

Discover what a journey to Antarctica is really like during this exclusive conversation between Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen and award-winning British photographer Alastair Miller. Learn more about the magnificent landscapes and majestic wildlife Tor encountered during his own expedition to the “White Continent” on board the Viking Polaris. Follow along as our chairman shares the intriguing story of how his lifelong passion for travel and interest in far-flung destinations began during his childhood, when he sent a letter to Ushuaia from his home in Norway.

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The Viking Difference: Ocean Voyages

Learn more about what it is like to explore the world from the comfort of an elegant award-winning small ship.

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The Viking Saturn Naming Ceremony

On June 6, 2023, Viking named its newest identical ocean ship, the Viking Saturn, during a special ceremony in New York City. As part of the event, the ship’s ceremonial godmother, Ann Ziff, the esteemed philanthropist and Chairman of the Metropolitan Opera, a longtime Viking cultural partner, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship—a naval tradition that dates back thousands of years.

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Named "World's Best" for Oceans, Rivers & Expeditions

In a special recorded message, Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen thanks our extended Viking family of guests and colleagues, following the July 11, 2023 announcement that Viking has been voted to the top of our categories for oceans, rivers and expeditions by the readers of Travel + Leisure in the 2023 World's Best Awards.

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Viking: 25 Years of Exploration

In celebration of our 25th anniversary, learn more about Viking’s history and some of the key partners who have contributed to our success.

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Viking’s 26th Anniversary

In this special video message, Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen marks our 26th anniversary and the destination-focused approach that has helped make us the world’s leading exploration company. Learn more about our offerings on all seven continents, as well as the historic recognition we have received from the readers of  Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler.

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Named #1 for Both Rivers & Oceans

Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen thanks our extended Viking family of guests and colleagues, following the July 12, 2022 announcement that Viking has been voted the world’s #1 for both rivers and oceans by Travel + Leisure as well as Condé Nast Traveler. Where do we go next? Onwards.

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Onwards

Viking has been voted the world’s #1 for both rivers and oceans by Travel + Leisure as well as Condé Nast Traveler. Our newest national television commercial, “Onwards,” celebrates these prestigious awards.

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Viking Neptune Naming Ceremony

On January 8, 2023, Viking named its newest identical ocean ship, the Viking Neptune, during a special ceremony in Los Angeles. As part of the event, the ship’s ceremonial godmother, retired NASA astronaut and aquanaut Nicole Stott, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship—a naval tradition that dates back thousands of years.

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Viking’s 25th Anniversary

Chairman Torstein Hagen marks Viking’s 25th anniversary and reflects on key milestones since the company was founded on August 5, 1997.

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Be Curious

Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen shares three things his family encouraged while growing up in Norway-kindness, honesty, and hard work. And the fourth that he has come to add over time: be curious.

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Viking Mars Naming Ceremony

On May 17th, 2022, Norwegian Constitution Day, Viking named its newest identical ocean ship, the Viking Mars, during a private ceremony in Valletta, Malta. As part of the event, the ship’s ceremonial godmother Lady Fiona Carnarvon, the Countess of Carnarvon, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship—a naval tradition that dates back thousands of years.

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Chairman Torstein Hagen’s Presentation

On January 15, 2020, Chairman Torstein Hagen provided an update on our river and ocean cruise business before officially unveiling the details of Viking Expeditions and our new journeys to the ends of the earth and closer to home.

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Viking 360° Ship Tours

Explore the Scandinavian designed spaces of our award-winning ocean and river ships with our engaging 360° ship tours, which allow you to step into the heart of our vessels virtually from the comfort of home.

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Welcome Back to the World

We invite you to reawaken your spirit of discovery and celebrate our return to sailing. Join us in exploring the world in comfort…once again.

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Viking: Celebrating Exploration and Growth

First, Viking invented modern river cruising. Then, we reinvented ocean cruising. Now, we are perfecting expedition cruising with journeys to the ends of the earth and closer to home.

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The World of Viking

Immerse yourself in intriguing cultures and awaken your senses. Discover new horizons as you spend more time in port, giving you more opportunities to explore. This is the World of Viking.

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Viking Jupiter Naming Ceremony

January 15, 2020. Amid a festive celebration that paid tribute to the spirit of exploration, our sixth ocean vessel was officially named in Los Angeles, California. The ship’s godmother, world-renowned Norwegian soprano and crossover singer Sissel, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for Viking Jupiter—a naval tradition that dates back thousands of years.

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Viking: Our Norwegian Heritage

Centuries ago, the birth of the Viking Age gave rise to the Norwegian tradition of exploration. Today, Viking proudly carries on this tradition, providing a glimpse into the spirit of Norway with elegant ships built for discovery. Join Karine Hagen, Sr. Vice President of Viking, as she reveals Norwegian influences thoughtfully integrated throughout our ocean ships.

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Viking Curated Libraries

Learn the story behind our onboard libraries, specially curated by London bookshop Heywood Hill to enrich and enhance your experience both at your destination and on the ship.

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Cruising for Explorers

Join us as we usher in a new era of ocean cruising by taking the innovative thinking behind our award-winning river cruises and bringing it to the epic setting of the sea.

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Top 10 Reasons to Reserve a Viking Ocean Suite

Our award-winning Viking ocean fleet not only provides serene Scandinavian spaces, but also the first-ever true (two-room) suites—some of the largest at sea. When you reserve a Viking Suite, you enjoy added benefits, from more space and comfort to early check-in and priority reservations. Learn more about what the Viking Suite Collection has to offer.

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Our Highly Rated Penthouse Veranda

Our spacious Scandinavian-inspired Penthouse Verandas are 25% larger than our Veranda Staterooms, with ample amenities to enhance your voyage. A welcome bottle of champagne, stocked mini-bar, plush linens and more are also included.

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Viking Orion Naming Ceremony

June 14, 2018. Amid a spectacular celebration that paid tribute to the spirit of exploration, our fifth ocean vessel was officially named in Livorno, Italy. The ship’s godmother, retired NASA astronaut Dr. Anna Fisher offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for Viking Orion—a naval tradition that dates back thousands of years.

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Earth: Our Beautiful Planet

Broaden your horizons with retired NASA astronaut and godmother of Viking Orion, Dr. Anna Lee Fisher, as she shares her insights about exploring our magnificent world—and the vast space beyond.

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Viking Jupiter Float Out

May 10, 2018. The 930-guest Viking Jupiter—the sixth Viking ocean ship—touches water for the first time during its “Float Out” in Ancona, Italy. Join Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen and Norwegian soprano Sissel Kyrkjebø, the ship’s godmother, as they celebrate this major construction milestone.

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A Star Is Born

Expand your horizons on an elegant Viking ship thoughtfully designed by experienced nautical architects and designers to bring you closer to your destination in every way.

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Viking: Reinventing Ocean Cruising

We launched Viking Ocean Cruises to reinvent the category. And it didn’t take long for us to rise to the top. If you prefer an elegant, serene ship ambiance, more time in each port and an inclusive experience complete with exquisite dining and thoughtfully curated shore excursions, the world’s best ocean cruise line was created for you.

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Time

Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen shares his philosophy on time and the importance of spending it wisely.

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Advice

Join Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen as he shares his insights on travel and the benefits of engaging with new cultures.

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The Viking Way

Go beyond the expected and experience The Viking Way. Engage in Local Life, learn about the Working World and enjoy Privileged Access to people and places otherwise difficult to visit.

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Curated Libraries & Recommended Reading

We are pleased to partner with the iconic London bookshop Heywood Hill in the creation of our onboard libraries and Expeditions Recommended Reading lists. Chairman Nicky Dunne explains the history of this literary institution and the value of reading carefully selected books before embarking on your journey.

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Jørn Henriksen: Recommended Reading

Jørn Henriksen, Director of Expedition Operations, shares his favorite book selections related to Svalbard and our Arctic itineraries.

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Viking Star: Built to Be Green

Viking Star and her sister ships feature energy-efficient hybrid engines, a hydrodynamically optimized streamlined hull for maximum fuel efficiency and equipment that limits exhaust.

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Viking Sky Christening

June 22, 2017. Viking Sky, the third elegant sister ship in our ocean fleet, is christened in Tromsø, Norway, a popular destination for viewing the Northern Lights—and a key port of call on our Into the Midnight Sun itinerary.

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King Haakon of Norway’s Daring Escape in WWII

Follow the riveting story of King Haakon, who evaded the Nazis during their invasion of Norway, then continued to lead his people from the UK throughout the conflict.

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Explore Chavenage House, the home from the PBS series “Poldark”

The friendly, very personable, longtime owners of Chavenage House, welcome you into this quintessential English estate, tucked away in the picturesque Cotswolds.

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Tutankhamen and Highclere Castle

Uncover the fascinating history behind the discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb by archaeologist Howard Carter and George Herbert, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, and get an exclusive look at Highclere Castle’s collection of Egyptian relics.

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Explore Britain’s Great Homes, Gardens and Gin

Step inside the iconic British estates well known to PBS viewers, including Highclere Castle, the “real Downton Abbey”; Wolf Hall’s Broughton Castle; and Chavenage House, better known as Trenwith in Poldark. Beyond these impressive homes, learn the story behind the legendary Bombay Sapphire gin at its historic distillery.

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Norwegian National Romanticism

Trace Norway’s inspiring journey to full independence—a pursuit that gave rise to the Norwegian National Romanticism, a movement that came to define what it means to be Norwegian.

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The Distinctive Bunad, A Statement of Norwegian Pride

The traditional Norwegian bunad is one of the country’s most iconic expressions of cultural identity. Join Karine as she explores the history behind this unique attire.

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Follow in the Path of the Vikings on Scotland’s Orkney Islands

The Vikings ruled these rugged landscapes from the 9th to 13th century. Join Karine and learn more about their presence, as well as other Neolithic civilizations that date back 5,000 years.

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The Northern Lights Explained

Join Dr. E.C. Krupp, the director of Los Angeles’s Griffith Observatory, on a journey into a deeper cultural and scientific understanding of the surreal aurora borealis, the natural phenomenon known as the northern lights.

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Highclere Behind the Scenes: Gwyn, “The Butterfly Lady”

Join Karine to meet one of the longest serving residents on the Highclere Castle estate. And join them on a journey of joy and firsts, taking delight in the smaller things in life.

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Highclere Behind the Scenes: Pat the Painter

Meet Pat Withers, one of the castle’s favorite, most colorful characters, who came to Highclere as a teenager and never left. As the longest serving staff member at Highclere, she’s worked for three generations of the Carnarvon family.

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At Home at Highclere

Join Karine as she speaks with the Countess of Carnarvon about her new book, At Home at Highclere. Learn about what it is like to live in this stately castle, and its history, delicious food and dedicated staff.

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Highclere Behind the Scenes: Mike the Beekeeper

Join Karine and Finse as they explore the world of bees with Mike Withers, a thirty-year member of the Highclere staff, whose passion for these hard-working, misunderstood insects spans 60 years.

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Malta's Marsovin Winery

Join Karine Hagen at the Marsovin estate in Malta to learn about the winery's rare vintages and inspiring story with CEO and fourth-generation vintner, Jeremy Cassar. Get a behind-the-scenes look at what makes Maltese wine so unique and discover how Jeremy has helped Marsovin achieve recognition on an international scale.

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Flavors of the Mekong

History, culture and friends—all rolled into one delicious and creative feast. Explore the floating markets along the Mekong Delta and master the culinary art of rolling your very own Vietnamese Spring Rolls with Karine.

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2022–2023 Viking World Cruise

Embark on an extraordinary 138-day exploration of the world and discover a treasure trove of cultural riches as we visit 6 continents and 28 countries over the course of one epic voyage on board our newest ocean ship, Viking Neptune.

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2023 Viking World Journeys

Join us in 2023 on board our newest ocean vessel, Viking Neptune, as we set sail from Los Angeles to explore the world’s most iconic destinations during a 121-day journey of grand discovery.

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A Year in Books

Give the gift of knowledge with a special book subscription service from iconic London bookseller Heywood Hill, curator of Viking ships’ onboard libraries.

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Across the Bay of Bengal

This 16-day journey from Mumbai to Bangkok introduces the rich history and culture of five fascinating countries—India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand—including overnight stays in Mumbai, Colombo and Bangkok.

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Adriatic & Mediterranean Sojourn

This 22-day journey from Rome to Istanbul (or the reverse) opens a window into the deep-rooted history and fascinating cultures of the region as it brings together the best of three iconic Mediterranean itineraries.

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Alaska & the Inside Passage

This 11-day cruise from Vancouver to Seward (or the reverse) delves deep into seldom-visited gold rush ports, highlighting their Tlingit and Russian culture, and reveals the breathtaking wonders of the Inside Passage and the Yakutat Bay.

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Amazon & Caribbean Adventure

This 13-day cruise from San Juan to Manaus (or the reverse) opens a window into the vibrant indigenous cultures, European colonial legacies, and inspiring natural wonders of the Caribbean, Brazil and the Amazon River.

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Ancient Adriatic Treasures

This 15-day cruise from Venice to Istanbul (or the reverse) delivers you to some of the most intriguing coastal cities of the Adriatic and Aegean, showcasing well-preserved Old Towns, remnants of ancient civilizations, picturesque squares and more.

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Ancient Mediterranean Treasures

This 8-day journey from Istanbul to Athens (or the reverse) showcases the most important sites of antiquity in Turkey and Greece, providing insight into how some of the greatest moments in Western civilization unfolded.

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Antoni Gaudí’s Architecture

Step into the mind of Antoni Gaudí, the colorful Barcelona artist whose passion for nature led him to create astounding biomimetic architecture and seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

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Aquavit: A Taste of Norway

Aquavit means “water of life” and is Norway’s national spirit. Join Karine to learn more about this old favorite and find out which vegetable is a key ingredient.

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Armagnac: Cognac’s Cousin

Join Karine in the fertile Gascony region, where Armagnac is home to France’s oldest brandy. Learn more about this delightful spirit and its ties to the Torshavn venue on our ocean ships.

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Australia & New Zealand

This 15-day cruise from Sydney to Auckland (or the reverse) sails the southern seas to charming ports offering a unique blend of European and Māori culture, as well as fascinating wildlife and picturesque settings.

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Baci: the Original Chocolate Kiss

Karine joins Chocolate Master Massimiliano Guidubaldi at the Perugina School of Chocolate to learn to make Baci, Italy’s original chocolate “kiss,” invented on Valentine’s Day in 1922.

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Bangkok, Bali & Beyond

This 13-day cruise from Bangkok to Bali (or the reverse) reveals the juxtapositions of Southeast Asia, delving into the bustling cultural capitals of Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia while providing insight into their long-held traditions.

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Barcelona’s Palau de la Música

Look beyond Barcelona’s grand icons and you will discover the unusual music venue of Palau de la Música. Join Karine inside this architectural masterpiece and tribute to Catalonia.

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Beijing Hutongs

To experience an authentic slice of real Chinese life, step into the hidden corners of the hutong alleyways, an ancient maze of traditional courtyard houses linked by narrow corridors.

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Beneath Naples, Mystery Awaits

Step below the historic streets of Naples into its ancient past. Explore a vast labyrinth where relics from the early Greeks and impressive Roman architecture remain amazingly intact.

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Beyond Venice’s Gondolas

Gondolas are icons of Venice, but countless other boats and people keep this car-free city running smoothly. Join Karine for a glimpse at the city’s diverse water-oriented infrastructure.

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Brettos, Athens Locals & Ouzo

Mix colorful bottles of ouzo and other spirits, oak casks full of brandy and a colorful owner, and you get Brettos, an Athens bar like no other. Join Karine at this local treasure.

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British Isles Explorer

This 15-day voyage from Bergen to London (or the reverse) explores the entirety of the British Isles, calling on its most historic ports in Scotland, Northern Ireland, England, Wales and Ireland, with overnight stays in Bergen and Greenwich.

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Canada & New England Scenic Shores

This 15-day voyage from Montreal to Ft. Lauderdale traces the rugged Atlantic coast to reveal charming Canadian cities steeped in history, quaint New England towns full of culture and some of the world’s most mesmerizing waterways.

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Captain of Viking Star

A Telemark, Norway native, Gulleik Svalastog dreamed of the day when he would be captain of his own ship. After years of nautical experience, he saved his best sailing experience for last: commanding Viking Star.

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Caribbean Batik

Using time-honored techniques perfected in the Far East and Africa, island artists produce distinctive batik garments with a Caribbean flair. Discover the steps they take to create elaborate designs on fabric.

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Caribbean Island Treasures

This 12-day journey from Miami to Miami (roundtrip) inspires with port calls on six idyllic isles—each providing insight into the region’s colorful European past along with a wealth of opportunities to experience its natural splendors.

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Catch the Fire of Flamenco

Ignite your soul with flamenco, Spain’s most intriguing dance. Gain an insider’s perspective on what drives the artists to deliver their fiery footwork in this centuries-old tradition.

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Celebrating 24 Years of Exploration

In 1997, we began with four river ships in Russia. Today, as our fleet of river, ocean and expedition ships expands across the globe, we remain committed to exploring the world in comfort.

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Chairman Torstein Hagen’s Welcome Back Message

On April 6, 2021, Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen provided an update on restarting operations and introduced our new Welcome Back voyages.

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Chairman’s Choice: Norwegian Salmon

Join Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen and Corporate Executive Chef Anthony Mauboussin as they compete in a cucumber salad cook-off in The Kitchen Table, our onboard cooking school.

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Chinese Language Lesson

Learn a few useful Mandarin words and phrases with Jessica, your Viking tutor. Nĭ hăo!

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Chinese Medicine

For millennia, the Chinese have balanced their energy with tai chi, acupuncture, herbal medicine and more. Join Karine and learn more about their approach to healthy living.

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Chinese Porcelain

Join Karine as she learns about the history of Chinese porcelain, an art form created during the Han Dynasty and shaped by artisans from the Song, Ming and other dynasties.

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Chinese Superstitions

Why do many Chinese office buildings lack a fourth floor? What color attracts prosperity? Join Karine and learn about some of China’s time-honored beliefs.

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Cities of Antiquity & the Holy Land

This 15-day cruise from Rome to Athens (or the reverse) uncovers the wonders of the ancients, traveling to the heart of the Holy Land to explore the sacred sites of Athens, Jerusalem and Rome, with three days in Israel.

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Classic Panama Canal Passage

Discover the heart of Central America and the Panama Canal on a remarkable 11-day voyage. Begin your journey in Ft. Lauderdale and sail along the verdant shores of Mexico, Belize and Honduras before you make your way through Panama’s captivating canal—an experience you will never forget.

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Videos

Videos

Highclere Behind the Scenes: Gwyn, “The Butterfly Lady”

Related Itineraries

British Isles & Iceland Explorer

British Isles Explorer

Iberian Explorer

Into the Midnight Sun

Scandinavia & the British Isles

Be Curious: Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen discusses his trip to Antarctica

The Viking Difference: Ocean Voyages

The Viking Saturn Naming Ceremony

Named "World's Best" for Oceans, Rivers & Expeditions

Viking: 25 Years of Exploration

Viking’s 26th Anniversary

Named #1 for Both Rivers & Oceans

Onwards

Viking Neptune Naming Ceremony

Viking’s 25th Anniversary

Be Curious

Viking Mars Naming Ceremony

Chairman Torstein Hagen’s Presentation

Viking 360° Ship Tours

Welcome Back to the World

Viking: Celebrating Exploration and Growth

The World of Viking

Viking Jupiter Naming Ceremony

Viking: Our Norwegian Heritage

Viking Curated Libraries

Cruising for Explorers

Top 10 Reasons to Reserve a Viking Ocean Suite

Our Highly Rated Penthouse Veranda

Viking Orion Naming Ceremony

Earth: Our Beautiful Planet

Viking Jupiter Float Out

A Star Is Born

Viking: Reinventing Ocean Cruising

Time

Advice

The Viking Way

Curated Libraries & Recommended Reading

Jørn Henriksen: Recommended Reading

Viking Star: Built to Be Green

Viking Sky Christening

King Haakon of Norway’s Daring Escape in WWII

Explore Chavenage House, the home from the PBS series “Poldark”

Tutankhamen and Highclere Castle

Explore Britain’s Great Homes, Gardens and Gin

Norwegian National Romanticism

The Distinctive Bunad, A Statement of Norwegian Pride

Follow in the Path of the Vikings on Scotland’s Orkney Islands

The Northern Lights Explained

Highclere Behind the Scenes: Gwyn, “The Butterfly Lady”

Highclere Behind the Scenes: Pat the Painter

At Home at Highclere

Highclere Behind the Scenes: Mike the Beekeeper

Malta's Marsovin Winery

Flavors of the Mekong

2022–2023 Viking World Cruise

2023 Viking World Journeys

A Year in Books

Across the Bay of Bengal

Adriatic & Mediterranean Sojourn

Alaska & the Inside Passage

Amazon & Caribbean Adventure

Ancient Adriatic Treasures

Ancient Mediterranean Treasures

Antoni Gaudí’s Architecture

Aquavit: A Taste of Norway

Armagnac: Cognac’s Cousin

Australia & New Zealand

Baci: the Original Chocolate Kiss

Bangkok, Bali & Beyond

Barcelona’s Palau de la Música

Beijing Hutongs

Beneath Naples, Mystery Awaits

Beyond Venice’s Gondolas

Brettos, Athens Locals & Ouzo

British Isles Explorer

Canada & New England Scenic Shores