Viking Cruises

Exploring the World in Comfort®

Introduction
Viking Cruises is a premium travel company specializing in river, ocean, and expedition cruises around the world. Founded in 1997 by Norwegian entrepreneur Torstein Hagen, it focuses on “destination-focused” travel—meaning the emphasis is on cultural experiences, history, and time in port rather than onboard experiences. A key part of its brand is a more refined, adult-oriented experience: ships typically have no casinos, limited crowds, and enrichment programs like lectures, cultural performances, and guided excursions included at each stop.

The Fleet
Viking operates a large fleet of 90–100+ ships sailing across all seven continents, offering itineraries on major rivers, lakes, oceans, and remote expedition routes. Its river fleet—by far the largest, with 70+ vessels—consists mainly of Viking Longships that typically carry about 190 guests, with some smaller regional ships accommodating closer to 80–100 guests depending on the river. Ocean ships are mid-sized and intentionally intimate, each carrying roughly 930 guests—much smaller than mainstream cruise liners—allowing access to more ports and a less crowded onboard experience. Finally, Viking’s expedition ships are even smaller and purpose-built for remote regions like the Arctic and Antarctica, with capacities of about 378 guests. Overall, Viking’s fleet is designed around modest ship sizes that prioritize comfort, destination access, and a more relaxed, immersive travel experience.

Accommodation Choices
Viking ships offer a range of accommodations that are consistent across their river, ocean, and expedition fleets, all designed in a clean, Scandinavian style with an emphasis on comfort and functionality. On river ships, options typically range from standard staterooms with small windows to French balcony and Veranda staterooms, up to larger two-room suites like Veranda and Explorer Suites with separate living areas and full balconies. On ocean and expedition ships, all staterooms are more spacious and include private verandas as standard, with categories progressing from Veranda and Deluxe Veranda rooms to Penthouse Junior Suites and larger Explorer and Owner’s Suites that feature separate bedrooms, living and dining areas, and premium perks. Across all ship types, accommodations emphasize thoughtful details—such as king-size beds, heated bathroom floors, and modern amenities—while higher-tier suites add more space, priority services, and enhanced onboard privileges.

Destinations
Viking Cruises offers an extensive range of destinations worldwide, spanning rivers, lakes, oceans, and expedition routes, with a strong focus on culturally rich itineraries. Its river cruises primarily explore Europe’s major waterways—such as the Rhine, Danube, and Seine—as well as more exotic routes like the Nile in Egypt, the Mekong in Southeast Asia, the Great Lakes in Canada and the Mississippi in the United States. Its ocean cruises cover all major regions, including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, and even full world cruises that cross multiple oceans. In addition, Viking’s expedition voyages travel to more remote and polar regions such as the Arctic and Antarctica. Across all three categories, the line emphasizes immersive, port-intensive itineraries that allow guests to experience local history, culture, and landscapes in depth rather than just passing through destinations.

Dining
Dining on Viking ships is designed to be varied, high-quality, and closely tied to the destinations you’re visiting. Across its fleet, Viking offers multiple complimentary dining venues rather than just one main dining room, giving guests flexibility in both cuisine and setting. The primary venue, The Restaurant, serves open-seating breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a mix of international dishes and regionally inspired cuisine. In addition, there are specialty options like Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant and The Chef’s Table, which offer more curated experiences such as Italian favorites or multi-course tasting menus with wine pairings. Casual options include the World Café, an open-kitchen buffet with global dishes and seafood, as well as relaxed spots like Mamsen’s (a Norwegian-style deli), the Aquavit Terrace for al fresco dining, and the Pool Grill for lighter fare. Afternoon tea is also available in the Wintergarden. Notably, all dining venues are included in the cruise fare, and beverages like wine and beer are typically complimentary with meals, reinforcing Viking’s focus on a refined yet unpretentious, destination-inspired culinary experience.

Relaxation and Wellness
Viking Cruises places a strong emphasis on relaxation and wellness, with facilities designed around Scandinavian traditions and a calm, spa-like atmosphere. A central feature on its ocean and expedition ships is the Nordic-style spa, which includes complimentary thermal suites with saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, cold plunge pools, and even a snow grotto—encouraging the traditional “hot and cold” bathing ritual known for improving circulation and relaxation. Guests can also book additional treatments such as massages, facials, and beauty services for a more indulgent experience. Beyond the spa, ships offer modern fitness centres with ocean views, group classes like yoga or Pilates, and sometimes personalized wellness programs or activities such as Tai Chi. Outdoor amenities—including heated pools, hot tubs, walking tracks, and sports decks—provide further opportunities to unwind or stay active while enjoying the scenery. Overall, Viking’s approach blends physical wellness, relaxation, and mindful travel into a serene, adult-oriented onboard experience.

Entertainment and Programming
Entertainment on Viking Cruises are intentionally low-key, refined, and focused on enrichment rather than large-scale shows or nightlife. Instead of Broadway-style productions or casinos, Viking emphasizes its signature “cultural curriculum,” which brings destinations to life through onboard lectures, expert talks, and interactive learning experiences. Guests can attend presentations by historians, scientists, and guest lecturers covering topics like art, history, geopolitics, and local culture, along with daily port talks that prepare them for upcoming destinations.

Evening and daytime programming often includes destination-inspired performances such as classical music, regional folklore shows, and small live concerts, creating a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. Hands-on activities—like cooking demonstrations, craft workshops, and art talks—add an interactive element, while curated libraries, documentary screenings, and destination-focused films provide quieter options for learning and leisure. 
Overall, Viking’s entertainment is best described as intellectually engaging and culturally immersive rather than high-energy. The experience is designed for travellers who prefer lectures, music, and meaningful programming that complements their itinerary, creating a calm, adult-oriented onboard environment.

To learn more about Viking Cruises or to book your next cruise adventure, contact your cruise travel professional today.