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Why Viking Octantis is Unlike Any Other Expedition Cruise Ship

4/21/2022

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A Special Operations Boat returns to The Hangar on Viking Octantis after a scenic tour in the Caribbean.
By John Roberts 
Viking Cruises made the plunge into the fast-growing expedition cruise segment with the launch of Viking Octantis. Sister ship Viking Polaris is coming, too, and these new 378-passenger cruise ships have a mix of innovation and comforts that make exotic and rugged destinations like Antarctica, the Arctic regions and the fjords of Chile more attainable for travelers who previously had been wary of the physical requirements of an adventure journey.  
Viking has created The Hangar, a revolutionary enclosed marina that provides a stable launch of excursion boats from an 85-foot slipway that allows cruisers to embark on "Special Operations Boats" from a flat surface inside the ship, shielded from wind and waves. This makes expedition cruising more accessible than ever for older people and those with physical limitations.  
I sailed on one of the early voyages of this exciting new ship, a cruise from Barbados to NYC, as Viking Octantis repositioned for its first season on the Great Lakes. 
The ship offers the first-of-its-kind launch system, "paddle-free kayaks" and two submarines, in addition to several other features that cruisers will love. 
Viking Octantis is the first expedition ship from Viking Cruises.  
This vessel brings together much of what is familiar to and adored by loyal Viking cruisers who have sailed on the line's river and ocean ships.  
The ship also delivers a leveled-up adventure cruise experience, unlike anything we've seen before on an expedition ship.  
The larger size (I've sailed on adventure ships that typically hold 60 to 200 cruisers) and space ratio allows Viking to offer so many extras that make traveling to remote destinations a more comfortable trip filled with new ways to enjoy expedition voyages. 
Life onboard while you sail is comfortable. Viking Octantis features an elegant and luxurious feel with the line's traditional Scandinavian decor that has been the trademark on the river and ocean ships.  
Viking's first expedition ship (a second, Viking Polaris, joins the fleet in 2022) feels much like a mini maritime museum, too, with public spaces, hallways and various nooks and out-of-the-way spots filled with books, artwork, photos, models, engravings, inscriptions and other interesting items that tell tales of legendary expedition journeys to the polar regions and other places across the globe. 
The food and service meet the extremely high standards for Viking Cruises, and all of the fellow passengers we sailed with during our 10 days onboard our "Caribbean Connections" voyage from Barbados to New York raved about their onboard experience.  
However, it's what this exciting new ship combines with the traditional cruise experience that makes Octantis a special expedition ship, indeed. 
Here are seven things we think you'll look forward to enjoying on Viking Octantis. (There are many more, of course, but these are the features that truly stand out.)

The Aula

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The Aula is the ship's main theater space. The Aula has the look of the most elegant university lecture hall you can imagine, and you'll definitely want to come here to learn all about the regions where Viking Octantis sails, as experts discuss the history, landscapes and wildlife. Viking's expedition team and scientists give presentations and enrichment talks in The Aula to highlight the destinations and give your daily activities greater context.  
We joined for discussions about whales and harmful algae blooms, among other topics. 
The Aula features massive windows that let the sunlight and scenery stream into the theater located at the aft of the ship. The views are stunning. Window shades come down to create the right lighting for presentations, and the shades are covered with reproductions of Edvard Munch frescos that Viking received permission to display from the partnership with the University of Oslo, which is home to the Oslo University Aula venue for which the space is named. 
Viking also shows movies here on a massive screen that drops from the ceiling. We saw documentaries and recent-release feature films on the program during our sailing.

The Hangar and The Landing

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The Hangar and The Landing represent two busy facilities at the bottom of the ship on Deck A. This is where it all happens for your expedition adventures. The Landing is located midship, and cruisers depart here on tenders and zodiacs used for landings and exploration ashore. 
The Hangar holds two yellow submarines and two Special Operations Boats. These are used for spectacular tours in destinations such as the Great Lakes and the polar regions of the Arctic and Antarctica. 
The Special Operations Boats (SOBs) are especially revolutionary because they allow for easy and safe boarding and departures during all kinds of conditions. The boats are rolled off the back of the ship though a kind of large garage door structure. These are military-grade boats that can go at high speeds and handle all types of sea conditions.  
Octantis carries two six-passenger subs, Yellow Submarines called John and Paul, that offer rides for all passengers (included in your fare, but reserve a spot early online before you cruise). These are fun excursions that can take you up to 300 meters under the oceans and lakes where you visit. 
Excursions include kayaking, and the 16 kayaks onboard can be set up as pedal-powered kayaks on smooth waters, so less-experienced paddlers can easily participate. 
This space also offers the Science Lab, where resident expert scientists invite passengers to help with research and data-collection projects, covering topics like micro plastics in the oceans and water acidity. 
The Science Lab features microscopes, white lab coats, filters, slides and computerized analyzers, so that cruisers can really get a feel for how Viking Octantis has taken a lead position among passenger vessels for aiding scientific research missions during the ship's voyages. 

World Cafe

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The chef prepares a meal at The Grill at World Cafe on Viking Octantis.
World Cafe is much more than a buffet restaurant, despite its initial appearance. World Cafe offers a wide variety of fresh-made cuisine, and its large space on Deck 5 gives cruisers all kinds of comfortable seating options as they wander to choose their dishes.  
You can indulge in wonderful breads and pizzas baked right in front of you.  
There is also a sushi bar and The Grill, which are essentially two separate eateries. The Grill features burgers, hot dogs and other sandwiches during lunch and transforms into a steak restaurant for dinner, with a range of prime cuts made to order.  
Plus, there are salad stations with all kinds of additional hot and cold food choices. 
Desserts include large cookies, cakes, tarts and the gelato stand, where you can get mix-ins like cookies and candies added to your gelato. 

Explorers' Lounge

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Explorers' Lounge is another standard for Viking's ocean ships, and the Explorers' Lounge on Viking Octantis is situated at the front of the ship on Decks 4 and 5. The inviting and cozy space includes fireplaces and comfy chairs and couches.  
Decor and books located around the space highlight seafaring history and exploration. The lounge features windows with views all around the bow of the ship, and you can walk outside on Deck 4 to catch wildlife, sunsets or fresh air. 
A musical duet performs here, and Pap's bar keeps the drinks flowing as cruisers cap their nights with music, dancing and chatting with new friends. 

LivNordic Spa and Fitness

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LivNordic Spa has long been my favorite included amenity on Viking's ocean ships, and the spa and fitness center on Viking Octantis offers everything you could imagine for an expedition ship -- and more.  
The massive facility features stunning views through floor-to-ceiling windows, so you can enjoy the scenery from lounge chairs or the big thalassotherapy pool that runs the length of the room.  
The spa also has a badestamp warm tub, a sauna, steam room, snow grotto, an experience shower and a cold bucket room.  
Heated loungers are also available in a quiet room off to the side. 
The spa features a menu of massages and other treatments. Plus, there is a hair salon. 
The gym is well equipped with cardio and resistance training machines, and a separate studio is attached for individual or group classes. You can ask a spa staff member to load a workout class of your choice into an app and displayed on the big screen for your individual sessions in the studio area. 

Finse Terrace and Aquavit Terrace

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Finse Terrace is located on the back of the ship on Deck 2, connected to The Aula. It's a lovely garden-like space with sunken areas surrounded by hedges that make wonderful conversation spots around the "fire pits." This is a wonderful place to enjoy sailaways and scenic viewing of wildlife. 
There are also prime viewing spots at The Bow on Deck 3 and up top on Deck 6, which offers couches and loungers for enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.  
Aquavit Terrace is an indoor-outdoor venue at the aft on Deck 5 that offers a small swimming pool and a series of plunge pools. 
The heated swimming pool is indoors, but it connects with the outdoors Tepidarium pool, which sits next to the Frigidarium (cold) and Caldarium (hot) plunge pools. These infinity-style pools feature stunning views of the wake and are my favorite spots for a drink and end-of-day rejuvenation. 

The Hide

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The Hide is a little gem of a space on Viking Octantis. Hard to find at first -- and made that way on purpose -- The Hide is a kind of speakeasy after dark, when a bartender rolls in a cart of fine liquors and spirits at 8:30 p.m. Post-dinner drinks flow alongside good conversation in this cozy and dimly lit space filled with couches and seating areas on Deck 1 at the bow of the ship. 
The Hide is open all day, though, and is a wonderfully quiet space to read a book or play a game of cards with friends. Keep a lookout through the angled windows for any creatures at play just above the water line. You could spot dolphins or seabirds -- or maybe even polar bears on the ice when visiting remote Arctic regions. 

Videos Tours of Viking Octantis

Viking Octantis is a welcome addition to expedition cruising that people will love to consider when seeking out an exotic adventure for their next trip.

Thanks for reading, and happy travels!
JR
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Viking's New Expedition Cruises on Viking Octantis, Viking Polaris

11/12/2021

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Viking Octantis, the first Viking expedition cruise ship, debuts with voyages in Antarctica in 2022.
By John Roberts
Viking's new expedition Polar-class ships Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris are set to wow adventure-seekers with their innovative features, sleek design and package of wonderful and luxurious inclusions when they debut in 2022. 
The exciting new 378-passenger ships bring more spectacular options for travelers who increasingly are craving expedition voyages in special destinations around the world. They will sail their inaugural seasons in the Artic, Antarctica and the Great Lakes. 
These voyages are selling fast, but Viking has released a new slate of expedition journeys for 2023 that cruisers can get excited about.  
For the summer 2023 season, Viking's expedition voyages include a two-week itinerary in the Great Lakes -- as well as additional offerings in North and South America. Debuting in June 2023, the new 15-day Great Lakes Collection itinerary sails between Toronto and Duluth, Minnesota, offering a complete view of the region and all five Great Lakes.  
Viking has also announced 2023 sailing dates for four existing Great Lakes expedition voyages: the 8-day Niagara & the Great Lakes, Great Lakes Explorer and Undiscovered Great Lakes itineraries, as well as the 13-day Canadian Discovery itinerary. 
Three additional expedition voyages in North and South America will also debut in summer 2023. A 16-day Canada & the Atlantic Coastline itinerary navigates the St. Lawrence River and Atlantic coastline, featuring destinations like Quebec City, Trois-Rivieres, Norfolk, Charleston and others. A really exotic sailing lets you discover the natural beauty of Patagonia while sailing from Santiago to Ushuaia on the new 14-day Patagonian Shores & Chilean Fjords itinerary. 
And if you're looking to explore destinations in North America, Central America and South America, you might like the 18-day itinerary called Panama & Scenic South America. 
"We are offering curious travelers the opportunity to visit some of the most pristine destinations on earth in the most responsible way possible," said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking. "As we prepare to welcome our first guests on board for voyages to Antarctica this coming winter, we are also pleased to unveil even more new journeys closer to home for summer 2023."

Highlights of Viking's new 2023 itineraries include: 
Great Lakes Collection: On this 15-day itinerary, you sail the historic waterways of all five Great Lakes. Sailing between Toronto, Canada and Duluth, Minnesota, cruisers are set to experience culture-rich urban centers and admire the natural power of Niagara Falls. Along the journey, you can also explore the granite islands and sheltered inlets of Georgian Bay and traverse the famous Soo Locks. On Lake Superior and Lake Michigan, study the aquatic ecosystems of the lakes and venture into the dense boreal forests that line the shores. 

Canada & the Atlantic Coastline: A 16-day itinerary during which you sail along the legendary St. Lawrence Seaway and the Atlantic coast of the United States on a memorable voyage that combines scenic landscapes and storied cities between Toronto and Ft. Lauderdale. Led by a team of experts, you will explore the unspoiled wilderness near Trois-Rivieres, Louisbourg and Lunenburg by land and water. Experience bustling New York City, and immerse yourself in the rich histories of Quebec City, Norfolk, Virginia, and Charleston, South Carolina. 

Patagonian Shores & Chilean Fjords: This 14-day itinerary discovers the rugged and untamed natural beauty of Patagonia while sailing from Santiago to Ushuaia. Admire soaring peaks and towering ice shelves while navigating the iceberg-crowded channels of the Chilean Fjords. Follow your team of onboard experts for an up-close encounter with the blue-tinged glaciers that dominate the landscape and gain insight into Patagonian life during stops in the towns of Tortel and Castro on this unforgettable voyage through the wild and remarkable region.

Panama & Scenic South America: On this 18-day itinerary, you get to explore some of the most fascinating cultures and intriguing landscapes of the Americas. On the journey between Santiago, Chile and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, you discover the secrets of ancient civilizations of the Yucatan Peninsula and transit between two oceans through the famous Panama Canal. Immerse yourself in lively Lima and enjoy the charms of Iquique, nested between the Atacama Desert and the Pacific. 

The Viking Expedition Ships 
The new Polar Class Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris will hold up to 378 passengers in 189 staterooms. Designed by the same nautical architects and engineers who designed Viking's award-winning ocean ships, the Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris are optimally sized and built for expeditions -- 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.  
The ships offer public spaces that are familiar to Viking's ocean cruisers but that have been reimagined for expeditions. They feature public spaces created specifically for expeditions. Straight bows, longer hulls and state-of-the-art fin stabilizers will allow the ships to glide over the waves for the calmest possible journey; ice-strengthened Polar Class hulls will provide the safest way to explore; and U-tank stabilizers will significantly decrease rolling by up to 50 percent when the ships are stationary. Viking's expedition ships will feature modern Scandinavian design with elegant touches, intimate spaces and attention to detail.  

Onboard Spaces and Amenities 
The Hangar: An industry first, The Hangar brings true comfort to expedition voyages. This enclosed, in-ship marina permits the launch of small excursion craft through the ship's multiple shell doors. The Hangar's most innovative feature is an 85-foot slipway that allows passengers to embark on excursion craft from a flat, stable surface inside the ship, shielded from wind and waves. There is also a FerryBox, a set of instruments continuously collecting and displaying data on water quality, oxygen content, plankton composition and more. 

The Science Lab: Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris will also be working research vessels with an onboard team of scientists working on a variety of studies during these voyages. Developed in consultation with Cambridge University and Viking's other academic partners, The Science Lab, at 380 square feet, is designed to support a broad range of research activities and is equipped with wet and dry laboratory facilities, a sample processing area, fume cupboard, freezer and cool storage, comprehensive microscope optics and extensive bench space for analysis-specific instruments.  
You can have supervised access to The Science Lab, which is located in a glass-enclosed mezzanine above The Hangar, to learn from and participate with scientists undertaking primary research, an experience unique to Viking. 

Expedition Equipment: These cruises offer a number of ways to experience the destinations, according to your particular interests and craving for activity, at no extra charge. With a robust program of complimentary experiences, expedition equipment available on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris will include a fleet of skiff boats designed for professional use in the harshest of environments; a fleet of two-seater sea kayaks; and two 12-seater convertible Special Operations Boats.  
Each ship will also feature two six-passenger submarines that feature revolving seats and 270-degree spherical windows for an incomparable undersea experience. A Viking Expedition Kit is provided and contains items like boots, binoculars and waterproof pants; and all cruisers will receive complimentary use of excursion gear, which includes specialty items like trekking poles, snowshoes and skis. 

The Aula and Finse Terrace: Viking has created the world's most advanced venue for learning at sea with The Aula, a stunning panoramic auditorium at the stern. Inspired by the University of Oslo's famed ceremonial hall where the Nobel Peace Prize was historically awarded, The Aula will offer a dynamic venue for lectures and entertainment, with floor-to-ceiling windows and 270-degree views.  
Adjacent to The Aula is the Finse Terrace, an outdoor lounge area at sea level with comfortable couches and warming lava rock "firepits" -- perfect for panoramic views of the surroundings. Together, the two spaces can be combined to create an unmatched indoor-outdoor al fresco experience. 

Nordic Balcony: A first for polar expedition cruise vessels, all staterooms on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris feature a Nordic Balcony, a sunroom that converts into an al fresco viewing platform. This creates your own in-stateroom wildlife observatory at sea. The Nordic Balcony's floor-to-ceiling, distortion-free glass at the very edge of the ship allows you to savor the views while keeping the elements out. The top of the panoramic glass lowers to transform the stateroom into a sheltered lookout, with an observation shelf at elbow level to stabilize binoculars or a camera.  
Six stateroom categories range from 222 square feet to 1,223 square feet. All staterooms also feature a king-size bed and large bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor and anti-fog mirror. They also offer a floor-to-ceiling drying closet that circulates warm air to dry and store clothing and expedition gear. 

Expedition Ship Suites: Nordic Junior Suites (322 square feet) and Explorer Suites (580 square feet) on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris feature wood detailing and amenities that include additional storage and seating, an expanded bathroom with extended shower and double sinks, welcome Champagne, a stocked mini-bar replenished daily, complimentary laundry and shoeshine services, priority restaurant reservations and more. Explorer Suites feature two separate rooms, a Nordic Balcony and a full outdoor veranda. Additionally, each ship features one Owner's Suite, which at 1,223 square feet, is twice the size of the Explorer Suites. With the most exclusive accommodations and amenities onboard, it features two separate rooms -- a living room with a six-seat dining table and a bedroom -- as well as a 792 square-foot private garden with a traditional Norwegian badestamp (wood-sided hot tub) and outdoor dining table. 

Aquavit Terrace and Pools: Located at the stern and featuring a retractable glass dome, this indoor-outdoor heated sanctuary allows you to be surrounded by your destinations while swimming and lounging in three different temperature-controlled pools, including an "inside-out" swimming experience. 

The Nordic Spa and Fitness Center: In keeping with Viking's Nordic heritage, The Nordic Spa on board is designed with the holistic wellness philosophy of Scandinavia in mind -- with a thermal suite that features a sauna, snow grotto and lounges, as well as a warm hydrotherapy pool and hot tub, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows. A state-of-the-art fitness center provides the latest equipment and workout gear. 

Explorers' Lounge: The two-deck Explorers' Lounge at the bow of the ship offers the perfect spot for taking in stunning scenery. You can gaze through double-height windows while sipping a mug of mulled wine or glass of Norwegian aquavit. 

Dining Options: Viking's expedition ships offer an array of dining options that build on the successful venues from Viking's ocean ships but which have been redesigned for expeditions. The Restaurant will offer fine dining featuring regional cuisine and always-available classics; the casual World Cafe will be a new "market" concept that offers live cooking, an open kitchen, bakery, grill and premium seafood and sushi choices, as well as a wide range of international flavors; Mamsen's, named for “Mamsen,” the Hagen family matriarch, serves Scandinavian-inspired fare; Manfredi's offers Italian cuisine; and 24-hour room service will be complimentary. 

Enrichment Program: Connecting with your destinations through authentic experiences is central to an expedition voyage. Viking's exclusive partnerships with the Scott Polar Research Institute at Cambridge University and The Cornell Lab of Ornithology will match leading researchers and educators with each expedition. 
The expedition program is designed to prepare you for the onshore experiences, with more than 25 experts accompanying each journey -- the Viking Expedition Team (expedition leader and staff, photographer and submarine pilots) and Viking Resident Scientists (biologists, botanists, geologists, glaciologists, oceanographers, ornithologists, polar experts and researchers).
Onboard, you get daily briefings and world-class lectures about the destination -- and you can engage with working scientists from renowned academic institutions in The Laboratory or participate directly in citizen science programs.  
Ashore, assist in field work or interact through experiential activities during landings -- such as monitoring birds to help identify migratory patterns. You can also accompany scientists to collect samples; or explore alongside a professional photographer to learn how best to capture scenic landscapes. 

Sustainable Features: Compliant to all guidelines and regulatory requirements from AECO, IAATO, the Antarctic Treaty System and the Governor of Svalbard, Viking's expedition ships minimize environmental impact and meet the most stringent emissions and biosecurity standards. Additionally, the straight bow reduces fuel consumption, and a dynamic positioning system enables the ship to hover over the seabed without anchoring, allowing access to pristine environments without damage. 
 
Thanks for reading, and we'll see you onboard! 
JR

Video Feature: A Northern Lights Cruise in Norway with Viking Sky

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Viking's Expedition Ship Viking Octantis Hits the Water

1/5/2021

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Viking Octantis was floated out, a key milestone in its construction. Viking's first expedition ship will be filled with innovative spaces, offering cruisers and comfortable and immersive way to explore some of the world's most interesting destinations.
By John Roberts
Viking has celebrated an exciting step in the development of its first expedition ship.
The innovative and highly anticipated 378-passenger Viking Octantis was "floated out" in mid-December at Fincantieri's Vard Shipyard in Norway, marking a major construction milestone and the first time that the new ship has touched water. Viking Octantis is scheduled to debut in early 2022 and will spend its inaugural season sailing voyages to Antarctica and North America's Great Lakes.
A second, identical expedition ship, Viking Polaris, is set to debut in summer 2022 and will sail journeys to Antarctica and the Arctic.
Viking has also developed a series of short videos about the new Viking expedition voyages, ship design and prestigious scientific partnerships.
"Working with Fincantieri over the last eight years, we have built the world's most beautiful ocean ships," Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen said. "We are pleased to continue our partnership with Fincantieri's VARD and celebrate this important milestone in the construction of our first expedition vessel.
"We are perfecting polar expedition cruising, and we will usher in a new era of comfortable exploration in the heart of North America."
Hagen says that Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, will allow cruisers expand their exploration -- "to the ends of the earth as well as closer to home."
The float out is significant because it denotes a ship moving into its final stage of construction. The ship was then moved to a nearby location to continue construction and work on the interior design.
Explorers Liv Arnesen and Ann Bancroft will be honored as ceremonial godmothers to Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, respectively. Arnesen, a native Norwegian, became the first woman in the world to ski solo and unsupported to the South Pole in 1994. Bancroft is the first woman to successfully ski to both poles. Arnesen and Bancroft also became the first women to ski across Antarctica in 2001. Together, they co-founded Bancroft Arnesen Explore/Access Water, an initiative that is working on environmental conservation and sustainability projects related to water access around the world.

About Viking' New Expedition Ships
The new Polar Class 6 Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris will carry up to 378 adventurers in 189 staterooms. These expedition ships are designed by the same architects and engineers who designed Viking's wildly popular 930-passenger ocean ships.
The Viking expedition ships are optimally sized and built for unique exploration -- 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. The ships feature public spaces that are familiar to Viking's ocean cruisers, but these spaces have been reimagined for the expeditions. Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris also will feature new public spaces created specifically for expeditions.
Straight bows, longer hulls and state-of-the-art fin stabilizers allow the ships to provide the calmest possible journey. Ice-strengthened Polar Class 6 hulls will provide the safest way to explore; and U-tank stabilizers will significantly decrease rolling by up to 50 percent when the ships are stationary.
Viking's expedition ships will feature modern Scandinavian design with elegant touches, intimate spaces and attention to detail.

Check Out the Design and Public Space Highlights:
The Hangar: 
An industry first, The Hangar brings an astonishing level of comfort to your expedition cruise. The Hangar is an in-ship marina that allows the launch of small excursion boats. The most innovative feature is an 85-foot slipway that allows you to load into the boats from a flat, stable surface inside the ship, shielded from wind and waves. There is also a FerryBox, a set of instruments continuously collecting and displaying data on water quality, oxygen content, plankton composition and other interesting marine data about your location.

The Laboratory: Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris also will serve as research vessels with onboard teams of Viking Resident Scientists working on a variety of studies. Developed in consultation with Cambridge University and Viking's other academic partners, The Laboratory, at 430 square feet, is designed to support a broad range of research activities and is equipped with wet and dry laboratory facilities, a sample processing area, fume cupboard, freezer and cool storage, comprehensive microscope optics and extensive bench space for analysis-specific instruments.
Curious passengers can enjoy supervised access to The Laboratory, which is located in a glass-enclosed mezzanine above The Hangar, to learn from and participate with scientists undertaking primary research, an experience unique to Viking.

Expedition Equipment: Viking offers numerous ways for to experience the destinations. These expeditions will feature a complete program to please cruisers who seek out all kinds of activities of levels of action, all at no extra charge.
Expedition equipment on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris will include a fleet Zodiacs designed for use in even the harshest environments; a fleet of two-seater Arctic-tested kayaks; and two 12-seater convertible RIBs (rigid inflatable boats). Each ship will also feature two six-passenger submarines that have revolving seats and spherical windows for 270-degree views and an incomparable undersea experience.
Your Viking Expedition Kit will contain items like boots, binoculars and waterproof pants; each excursion will carry a full range of safety equipment, such as satellite phones, VHF radios, ropes, life jackets and a comprehensive shore-survival kit; and all cruisers receive complimentary use of excursion gear, which includes specialty items like trekking poles, snowshoes and skis.

The Aula & Finse Terrace: Viking has created an immersive venue for learning at sea with The Aula, a stunning panoramic auditorium at the stern. Inspired by the University of Oslo's noted ceremonial hall where the Nobel Peace Prize was historically awarded, The Aula 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 viewing the surroundings of your destinations. Together, the two spaces can be combined to create an unmatched indoor-outdoor experience.

Nordic Balcony: All staterooms on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris feature a "Nordic Balcony," a sunroom that quickly can be converted into an outdoors viewing platform. The balcony's floor-to-ceiling glass at the very edge of the ship lets passengers savor the views, while keeping out the harsher elements. However, if you want to step into the outdoors, the top of the glass lowers to transform the stateroom into a sheltered lookout, with an observation shelf at elbow level (this shelf is great to stabilize your binoculars or camera).  
The ships offer six stateroom categories that range from 222 square feet to 1,223 square feet of space: Nordic Balcony, Deluxe Nordic Balcony, Nordic Penthouse, Nordic Junior Suite, Explorer Suite and Owner's Suite.
All staterooms feature the "Nordic Balcony," as well as a king-size bed and large bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor and anti-fog mirror. Your cabin is also equipped with a unique floor-to-ceiling drying closet that circulates warm air to dry and store clothing and expedition gear.

Expedition Ship Suites: The Nordic Junior Suites (322 square feet) and Explorer Suites (580 square feet) on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris rival those on Viking's fleet of sleek ocean ships, with abundant wood detailing and amenities that include additional storage and seating, an expanded bathroom with extended shower and double sinks, welcome Champagne, a fully stocked mini-bar replenished daily, complimentary laundry and shoeshine services, priority restaurant reservations and more.
Explorer Suites also feature two separate rooms and a full outdoor veranda. Additionally, each ship features one Owner's Suite at 1,223 square feet, which is twice the size of the Explorer Suites. With the most exclusive accommodations and amenities on board, it features two separate rooms -- a living room with a six-seat dining table and a bedroom -- as well as a 792 square-foot private garden with a traditional Norwegian badestamp (wood-sided hot tub) and outdoor dining table.

Aquavit Terrace & Pools: Located at the stern and featuring a retractable glass dome, the Aquavit Terrace is an indoor-outdoor heated sanctuary allowing cruisers to be surrounded by the beauty of the destination -- as they lounge in the space or swim in three different temperature-controlled pools, including an "inside-outside" swimming experience.

The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center: In keeping with Viking's Nordic heritage, The Nordic Spa onboard is designed with the Scandinavian holistic wellness philosophy in mind. The thermal suite features a sauna, snow grotto and chaise lounges, as well as a warm hydrotherapy pool and badestamp (hot tub), surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows. A state-of-the-art fitness center features a full array of workout equipment and machines.

Explorers' Lounge: Similar to Viking's ocean ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris offer a two-deck Explorers' Lounge at the bow of the ship. This is the ideal space relaxing, enjoying a cocktail or coffee and a book while taking in the stunning scenery through double-height windows.

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. The Restaurant will offer fine dining featuring regional cuisine and always-available classics; the casual World Cafe will be a new "market" concept that offers live cooking, an open kitchen, bakery, grill and premium seafood and sushi choices, as well as a wide range of international flavors; Mamsen's, named for "Mamsen," the matriarch of the founder of the cruise line, Torstein Hagen, serves Scandinavian-inspired fare; Manfredi's offers the best of Italian cuisine; and 24-hour room service is included in your cruise fare.

A Journey of Enrichment: Viking is striving to create "the thinking person's expedition." This means connecting passengers to the destinations through authentic experiences.
As part of that commitment to destination-focused learning, Viking's exclusive partnerships with the Scott Polar Research Institute at Cambridge University and The Cornell Lab of Ornithology will match leading researchers and educators with each expedition. The onboard expedition program is designed to prepare you for your onshore experiences, with more than 25 experts accompanying each journey -- the Viking Expedition Team (expedition leader and staff, photographer and submarine pilots) and Viking Resident Scientists (biologists, botanists, geologists, glaciologists, oceanographers, ornithologists, polar experts and researchers).
Onboard, daily briefings and world-class lectures will inform cruisers about the places they visit. You get to engage with working scientists from renowned academic institutions in The Laboratory, or you can participate directly in citizen science programs. Onshore, passengers can assist in fieldwork or interact through experiential activities during landings -- such as monitoring birds to help identify migratory patterns; accompanying scientists to collect samples; or working alongside a professional photographer to learn how best to capture scenic landscapes.

Sustainable Features: Compliant to all guidelines and regulatory requirements from AECO, IAATO, the Antarctic Treaty System and the Governor of Svalbard, Viking's expedition ships minimize environmental impact and meet the most stringent emissions and biosecurity standards. Additionally, the straight bow reduces fuel consumption, and a dynamic positioning system enables the ships to hover over the seabed without anchoring, allowing access to pristine environments without damage.

These ships look certain to offers a rich and immersive expedition experience. We're especially excited to explore the world again on a Viking expedition cruise, as we already know they have a knack for making river and ocean cruising quite memorable.

Thanks for reading,
JR
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