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As the sun sets on the bustling city of Los Angeles, Viking® stands poised to embark on its third season of exploration in the Great Lakes. The announcement of new voyages for 2026 has sparked a wave of excitement, promising to bring the majestic Viking ships to Chicago for the first time, marking a new chapter in the company’s storied history. The Journey Begins The Viking Octantis® and Viking Polaris®, twin beacons of adventure, have set sail once again, charting a course through the vast expanse of the Great Lakes. These vessels, each a sanctuary for 378 guests, have been meticulously designed to navigate the historic Welland Canal, offering an intimate connection with the region’s natural wonders. New Horizons 2026 heralds the unveiling of two new itineraries that beckon the intrepid at heart. The 10-day Great Lakes Treasures voyage is a roundtrip from Milwaukee that promises encounters with the urban splendor of Chicago and the serene beauty of Canada’s Fathom Five National Marine Park and Benjamin Islands. The 17-day Niagara & Great Lakes Treasures voyage, sailing between Toronto and Milwaukee, includes the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls and the tranquil Point Pelee National Park, culminating in a passage through the Welland Canal. A Commitment to Discovery Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking, envisions the Great Lakes as a treasure trove of cultural and natural riches, a sentiment echoed by the guests who eagerly anticipate the journey. The region’s 10,000 miles of coastline, dotted with world-class cities and untamed wilderness, offer a unique experience that is best savoured from the deck of a ship. Innovation at Sea The return of Viking expedition ships coincides with a groundbreaking scientific endeavour. For the first time, phytoplankton is being genetically sequenced at sea, a testament to Viking’s dedication to environmental stewardship. This pioneering research, supported by UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography and J. Craig Venter Institute, unfolds in the PCR lab aboard the Viking Octantis, where scientists from the Genomics at Sea Programme (GASP) monitor the delicate balance of marine life. Partnerships for the Planet Viking’s collaboration with the NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) underscores its commitment to sustainable ecosystems and informed resource management. The expedition ships also serve as official NOAA / U.S. National Weather Service weather balloon stations, contributing valuable data to the global scientific community. Voyages of Enlightenment The Great Lakes Treasures and Niagara & Great Lakes Treasures voyages are but two jewels in Viking’s crown of itineraries. Each journey invites you to delve into the heart of North America’s wilderness, stand in the mist of Niagara Falls, and trace the footsteps of history along the shores of these storied waters. The Ships That Explore The Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, Polar Class vessels, are sanctuaries of exploration. With more viewing areas than any other expedition vessels, they bring guests face-to-face with the sublime. The Aula, a panoramic auditorium, and the Finse Terrace, an outdoor lounge, are places for contemplation and awe inspired by the legacy of polar explorers. As Viking sets sail for the Great Lakes and beyond, it continues to chart a course for discovery, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Join us on this remarkable journey, where every horizon promises new adventures, and every moment is a treasure waiting to be uncovered. A View from the Bow The Bow serves as a vital forward-viewing platform, where guests can gaze ahead into the vastness of the Great Lakes or the icy expanse of Antarctica. When the weather turns, The Shelter provides a cosy refuge. Before heading back into the wild, guests can warm up with a hot beverage here in the comfort of the ship’s amenities. The Science Lab: A Nexus of Research and Education In partnership with the University of Cambridge and Akvaplan-Niva, The Science Lab aboard Viking’s expedition ships is a 380-square-foot marvel. It supports a wide array of research activities and is equipped with both wet and dry laboratory facilities. Guests are not mere spectators but active participants, as they have supervised access to The Science Lab, learning from and contributing to significant scientific research. Expedition Central: Charting the Course for Discovery At Expedition Central, the heart of the ship’s exploratory spirit beats. Here, the expedition team engages with guests, sharing in-depth knowledge about the destinations and assisting with expedition activities. With tools like 3D printed maps and digital screens, guests can visualise their journey to enrich their experience. Diverse Dining: A Feast for the Senses Viking’s dining options cater to every palate, offering a symphony of flavours. The restaurant provides fine dining with regional specialities, while the World Café offers a more casual atmosphere with its open kitchen and international selections. Mamsen’s delivers Scandinavian-inspired fare, and Manfredi’s presents the best of Italian cuisine, ensuring that every meal is an adventure in itself. The Nordic Spa: A Sanctuary of Wellness After a day of exploration, The Nordic Spa awaits to rejuvenate the weary traveller. With its indoor heated pool and badestamp, the spa is a haven of Nordic wellness traditions, offering a serene space to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries. Social Spaces: The Explorers’ Lounge and The Living Room The Explorers’ Lounge and The Living Room are social hubs designed to maximise the stunning views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Whether sharing stories with fellow travellers or enjoying a quiet moment with a book from the curated library, these spaces offer a tranquil setting for contemplation and camaraderie. Staterooms and Suites: Your Private Retreat Every stateroom on Viking’s expedition ships features a Nordic Balcony, blending the comfort of a sunroom with the thrill of an al fresco viewing platform. The range of staterooms, from cosy retreats to expansive suites, ensures that every guest finds their perfect haven of luxury and privacy. Enrichment and Responsibility: Viking’s Core Values Viking’s commitment to enrichment and environmental responsibility is evident throughout the expedition experience. From the world-class scientific partnerships to the fleet’s environmentally friendly features, Viking sets a new standard for responsible and enriching travel. The company’s dedication to creating experiences for The Thinking Person has earned it top honours from Condé Nast Traveler, a testament to its unwavering pursuit of excellence. As Viking forges ahead, it remains steadfast in its mission to offer unparalleled expeditions that blend discovery, comfort, and responsibility, inviting guests to explore the world in ways they never imagined possible. Join Viking on this extraordinary journey, where every destination is a new opportunity to learn, grow, and be inspired.
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