Viking Polaris
“Octantis's sister expedition ship — polar voyages and Great Lakes cruises.”
Viking Polaris entered service in 2022 as the sister of Viking Octantis, with the same 378-guest, 189-stateroom design built by VARD. She was christened by Arctic explorer Ann Bancroft and sails polar expeditions in Antarctica and the Arctic, as well as the Great Lakes. Like her sister she supports research partnerships with NOAA and others, and is designed to navigate smaller waterways while still being capable in open sea.
A purpose-built expedition ship christened by Arctic explorer Ann Bancroft, equally at home on polar voyages and in the Great Lakes.
What’s Onboard
Dining
- ✓The Restaurant — main dining room
- ✓World Café casual dining
- ✓Manfredi's Italian restaurant
- ✓Mamsen's Norwegian deli
- ✓A private dining room
- ✓Included dining venues with no cover charges
Pools & Recreation
- ✓The Hangar — expedition equipment bay with Zodiacs and kayaks
- ✓Cruise Sub 7-300 yellow submarines named John and George
- ✓Infinity Pool and Nordic Spa
- ✓Fitness center
- ✓Outdoor observation decks
- ✓Expedition landings with Zodiacs
Entertainment
- ✓The Aula — a two-deck auditorium inspired by the University of Oslo ceremonial hall
- ✓Science Laboratory with NOAA and Cornell Lab of Ornithology partnerships
- ✓Weather balloon launches (first civilian ship sanctioned as a launch site)
- ✓Expedition team lectures and enrichment
- ✓Explorers' Lounge and observation lounges
- ✓No casino, by design
Cabins
- ✓189 staterooms, all with private balconies
- ✓Nordic Balcony staterooms
- ✓Explorer Suites and Owner's Suites
- ✓Scandinavian-style design
- ✓Accessible staterooms
Family & Kids
- ✓Adults only — guests must be 18 or older
- ✓No children's clubs
- ✓Small ship with a quiet atmosphere
- ✓No casino
- ✓Expedition focus instead of kids' programs
Video Tour
Viking Polaris Walk-through on an Antarctic Explorer Expedition
- ✦Adults wanting polar and Great Lakes expedition cruising
- ✦Travelers interested in science and wildlife
- ✦Antarctica-bound explorers wanting a purpose-built ship
- ✦Cruisers who like small ships
Families with children (guests must be 18 or older) and travelers wanting a classic multi-pool, casino-and-show cruise.
Expedition voyages cost considerably more than ocean sailings — check Viking for current fares