Built specifically to explore the world’s most remote destinations
Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris launched Viking’s entry into the expedition market in 2022, having been built specifically to explore the world’s most remote destinations, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the regions they visit.
Viking Octantis made her debut in Antarctica in February, while her identical sister followed seven months later.
The new Polar Class 6 vessels, which host 378 guests in 189 staterooms, are small enough to navigate remote polar regions and the St Lawrence River, while large enough to provide superior handling and stability in the roughest seas.
They feature Viking’s familiar public spaces with modern Scandinavian design and elegant touches, intimate spaces and attention to detail, but all reimagined for expeditions.
Straight bows, longer hulls and state-of-the-art fin stabilisers allow the ships to glide over the waves for the calmest possible journey, while ice-strengthened Polar Class 6 hulls provide the safest way to explore
Highlights include:
The Hangar: An industry first, this enclosed, in-ship marina permits the launch of small excursion craft through the ship’s multiple shell doors, with an 85ft slipway allowing guests to embark on RIBs from a flat, stable surface inside the ship, shielded from wind and waves.
The Laboratory: Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, while hosting guests, will also be working research vessels with an onboard team of Viking Resident Scientists working on a variety of studies. Guests will have supervised access to The Laboratoryto learn from and participate with scientists undertaking primary research.
The Aula & Finse Terrace: This stunning panoramic auditorium at the stern is inspired by the University of Oslo’s famed ceremonial hall where the Nobel Peace Prize was historically awarded.It will offer a dynamic venue for lectures and entertainment, with floor-to-ceiling windows and 270-degree views. Adjacent to The Aula through sliding glass walls is the Finse Terrace, an outdoor lounge area with comfortable couches and warming lava rock “firepits” – perfect for panoramic views of the surroundings.
Nordic Balcony: All staterooms on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris feature a Nordic Balcony, a sunroom that converts into an al fresco viewing platform. Guests can choose from six stateroom categories that range from 222 sq. ft to 1,223 sq. ft: Nordic Balcony, Deluxe Nordic Balcony, Nordic Penthouse, Nordic Junior Suite, Explorer Suite and Owner’s Suite. All staterooms feature a a king-size bed and large bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower.
The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center: Designed with the holistic wellness philosophy of Scandinavia in mind, The Nordic Spa features a Sauna, Snow Grotto and chaise lounges, as well as a warm hydrotherapy pool and hot tub, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows. A state-of-the-art Fitness Center will also provide the latest equipment and workout gear.
Explorers’ Lounge: A two-deck Explorers’ Lounge at the bow of the ship offers the perfect spot for taking in stunning scenery through double-height windows over a mug of mulled wine or glass of Norwegian aquavit.
Dining Choices: Viking’s expedition ships will offer an array of dining options that build on the successful venues from Viking’s ocean ships, but which have been redesigned for expeditions.
