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In Kinderdijk and Amsterdam, explore Holland’s famous windmills and waterworks. Set off for Norway’s dramatic fjord landscapes, journeying from vibrant Oslo and history-rich Kristiansand to cosmopolitan Stavanger and spectacularly scenic Flåm. We call them Ocean & River Voyages, an innovative marriage of our award-winning river and ocean cruises. We set out in mid-February on a 12-day cruise that took us from Bergen, Norway to Tilbury, England with stops along Norway's west coast. This is the first time Viking Ocean Cruises has offered a winter itinerary to Norway in search of the northern lights, and the voyages saw brisk sales to passengers from all around the world. (Our cruise featured mostly Americans along with a healthy dose of Brits and fun-loving Aussies.) Viking has already committed to more sailings in 2020 and is looking ahead to 2021 and beyond.
Pre: Oslo & Scenic Train
Discover these 15 unforgettable things to see and do on a Viking river or ocean cruise in Europe. A mesmerising view at the perfect time of day, a natural phenomenon that must be seen to be appreciated, or a heart-pumping activity in a place rarely visited. Travel back in time with a visit to charming Rønne, the medieval center of Bornholm. Explore Stockholm’s archipelago from the water or perhaps visit one of the city’s museums.
Viking’s Top 15 European Cruising Experiences
The vessels offer a clean-lined, Scandinavian-influenced design that mimics the look of Viking's Europe-based vessels. In all, the line accounts for about half of all river cruises taken by North Americans in the region. The next biggest player in Europe river cruises for North Americans, AmaWaterways, is less than half the size. Here are the five best Viking cruise destinations where the line can truly offer you a memorable vacation.
Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority Issues Viking Sky Report - Cruise Industry News
Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority Issues Viking Sky Report.
Posted: Tue, 19 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Iceland & Norway’s Arctic Explorer
Browse the fish market and fortress of Kristiansand, stroll among Stavanger’s remarkably preserved wooden buildings and marvel at the magnificent fjord setting of tiny Flåm. Join us on this richly rewarding journey into Scandinavia’s most scenic and fascinating corners. Viking Osiris is the first of four sister ships that Viking plans to launch on the Nile by 2025 as it doubles its footprint in Egypt.
Traverse the remarkable Main–Danube Canal and sail the legendary Danube into Austria’s vineyard-laden Wachau Valley, with overnights in Vienna and Budapest. A longer version of the trip features 13 nights on board one of the ships and extra days in Antarctica. Another incredible experience in this region is to cruise across the Arctic Circle where sunlight shines 24 hours a day during Norway’s summer. At midnight, locals embrace the everlasting sunset by going to the beach or kayaking under a golden sky.
Head to a husky farm on the outskirts of Longyearbyen to embark on a thrilling experience in the Arctic Tundra. Meet your guide and team of huskies who love to run through the wilderness, pulling a wheel-equipped sled across the snow. Take your seat and set off into the Advent Valley as your expert driver picks the best route. The epic 29-day Greenland, Iceland, Norway and Beyond voyage traverses the far northern seas to reach distant shores, where you will learn about Canadian Inuit traditions as you revel in the history of Viking exploration. Even without the side shows of the Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights, Norway’s scenery is spectacular.
Rhine & Viking Shores & Fjords
The lights are unpredictable, but we booked knowing a sailing at this time of year would offer our best shot to see them. Onboard a Viking Ocean Cruises ship, you'll find an array of amenities and services to enhance your Northern Europe cruise. Indulge in world-class dining experiences, with a variety of culinary options that showcase regional specialties and international flavors. Unwind in luxurious staterooms and suites, each elegantly appointed with thoughtful amenities and comfortable furnishings. Enjoy onboard activities such as cultural enrichment programs, live performances, and informative lectures that provide insights into the destinations you'll visit.
Viking is, quite simply, the giant of river cruising in Europe — at least among lines that cater to English speakers. The company operates around 70 river ships on a broad swath of the continent's rivers — far more than any other river line catering to North Americans. The trips include voyages focused specifically on the Western Mediterranean or Eastern Mediterranean and some that include stops across both areas. Viking has a particularly large footprint when it comes to European river itineraries, with a wide range of sailings on nearly every European river of any note, from the Douro in Portugal to (until recently) the Volga in Russia. For any cruises listed, Cruise Critic does not guarantee any specific rates or prices.
The Norwegian Fjords are steeped in fascinating history and vibrant local culture. Ancient tales of seafaring Vikings echo through the fjord's valleys, adding a layer of mystery to the awe-inspiring landscape. Lectures about the Sami, the indigenous people of Norway, provide insight into their traditional way of life and strong connection to the land.
Norway's rocky coastline and deep spectacular fjords are some of the top sights to see on a cruise to the Scandinavian country. Plus, with several ports along the way such as Stavanger, Molde, Alesund, Oslo and Bergen, the shore excursion opportunities are endless. Whether you spend your day taking a walking tour from the Alesund port or pick up some goods and souvenirs on a market tour from Bergen, there's no shortage of ways to experience Norway. Experience a land where dawn and twilight merge on the edges of the long Arctic night. Sailing far north during Norway’s winter, witness snow-covered landscapes dotted with rugged mountains and steep fjords, and seek out the brilliant aurora borealis dancing in the night sky. Delve into Sami legends and World War II history, and pilot a dog sled or snowmobile to further immerse yourself in the Norwegian Arctic as you join us on this illuminating voyage.
Explore the archipelago’s quaint fishing villages, distinct mountain scenery and scenic bays. Uncover the cultural riches of Norway’s capital, including native son, painter Edvard Munch. Take a journey along Amsterdam’s network of canals or perhaps browse one of the city’s museums.
Dubbed Viking Octantis, the first of these vessels began sailings to Antarctica in February 2022. The second ship in the series, Viking Polaris, has just joined its sister in Antarctica this year. Together, the two ships are already making waves in the market for Antarctica cruises, in part because they have several new and unusual features. The cruise portion of the tour includes visits to the historic temples of Luxor, Karnak, Esna, Dendera and Abu Simbel as well as a visit to the iconic Valley of the Kings. The stay in Cairo brings a visit to the pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum and other sites. Among 10 different itineraries on the Rhine River alone, offerings range from a seven-night "Rhine Getaway" from Amsterdam to Basel, Switzerland, to a 22-night "European Sojourn" from Amsterdam to Bucharest, Romania.
Those who dared brave the cold to soak in the views were rewarded with a glass of sparkling wine upon entering the hot tub and hot towels when they finally emerged back out into the frigid temperatures. Everyone we spoke with was happy with their excursions, whether they booked premium selections or opted for the included panoramic city tours. Maritime traditions are part of virtually every big sailing, and ours, which took us into the Arctic Circle, was no exception. To celebrate Viking Sky's crossing, the staff put on an Order of the Blue Nose Crossing Ceremony the day we made it into the region. This river cruise gives you all the highlights of the legendary Rhine in just 8 days. In another first for polar expedition cruise vessels, every cabin on both Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris has floor-to-ceiling glass walls that slide partially open from the top to create a balcony-like feel.
Typically, cruise lines operate either ocean cruises or river cruises but not both. Among the delights of Viking’s 16-day Malta, Morocco and the Mediterranean cruise is an underground expedition inside Spain’s Nerja Caves. Follow your guide around this archaeological marvel, where artefacts indicate human and animal habitation as far back as 25,000 BC. Examine enormous stalagmites and stalactites, the world’s widest column found in a cave, and a natural amphitheatre used as a concert venue.
Air fare offer applies to select gateways; air fare offer may vary across gateways and itineraries; call for details. Stroll Europe’s northernmost capital, admire views from “The Pearl” or visit the Blue Lagoon. Explore the history and beauty of the Westfjords, visit small villages and see wildlife. Enjoy charming Bergen, a historic city full of colorful architecture and a lively atmosphere. Explore Germany’s fabled Black Forest region and admire verdant hills amid stunning scenery. Notably, the ship features an entire deck of sprawling suites that rival anything else found on the Nile for luxury and comfort.
Take a dip in the infinity pool, relax in the spa, or stay active in the fitness center. With Viking Ocean Cruises, there are endless opportunities to make the most of your time onboard. Span the continent from the pristine shores of Norway to the cultural riches of Budapest. Along the Rhine River, pause to sample Germany’s finest vintages and explore elegant palaces and impressive castles.
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