Viking Cruises Launches 2027–2028 Voyages with New Antarctic Itinerary and Viking Lyra Debut
Viking Cruises has officially opened bookings for its 2027–2028 ocean and expedition programs, unveiling an expanded collection of voyages across all seven continents. The schedule introduces new itineraries, additional departure dates, and the highly anticipated debut of Viking’s newest ocean ship, the Viking Lyra, set to join the fleet in 2028.
The company’s founder and chairman emphasized that Viking guests are curious travelers who seek meaningful cultural, historical, and natural connections with the destinations they visit. The upcoming seasons will offer a greater variety of routes and timings to cater to this demand.
Fleet Designed for Immersion
Viking’s fleet features elegant, all-veranda ocean ships and advanced Polar Class expedition vessels. Together, they operate more than 100 carefully curated itineraries spanning the world’s oceans and most remote regions. Each voyage is designed to deliver destination-focused experiences with cultural enrichment, expert lectures, and locally inspired cuisine.
New Highlight — Into the Antarctic Circle
The standout addition for 2027 is the Into the Antarctic Circle itinerary, a 15-day expedition from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. This rare voyage crosses the 66°33′ south latitude into one of the planet’s least visited regions. Guests will explore the pristine wilderness by Zodiac, witness extraordinary wildlife such as penguins, seals, and seabirds, and learn from leading scientists and researchers onboard.
Expanded and Returning Itineraries
Alongside the Antarctic Circle voyage, the 2027–2028 program includes both new and beloved itineraries:
- South America & the Chilean Fjords (18 days; Buenos Aires – Santiago): Discover the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires, visit the penguin-filled Falkland Islands, navigate the icy waters of the Strait of Magellan, and finish in Santiago.
- Viking Homelands (15 days; Stockholm – Bergen): Experience the cultural and natural beauty of Scandinavia and the Baltic. The route includes overnight stays in Stockholm, Oslo, and Bergen, plus visits to Tallinn, Gdańsk, Stavanger, and Eidfjord.
- Australia & New Zealand (15 days; Sydney – Auckland): Delve into indigenous traditions, colonial heritage, and breathtaking natural landscapes, with visits to Dunedin, Christchurch, and Napier.
- British Isles Explorer (15 days; Bergen – London): Sail to the Highlands of Scotland, the Orkney and Shetland Islands, and key cities in Ireland, Wales, and England, concluding in maritime-rich Greenwich.
- Great Lakes Collection (15 days; Toronto – Duluth): Cross all five Great Lakes, witness the power of Niagara Falls, and explore unique destinations along North America’s inland seas.
- Far Eastern Horizons (15 days; Hong Kong – Tokyo): Immerse in the cultural contrasts of Asia, with time in Taiwan, Nagasaki, Hiroshima, and Tokyo, plus bustling markets and historic sites.
- Into the Northwest Passage (13 days; roundtrip Nuuk): Journey through Greenland and the Canadian High Arctic, navigating fjords and glaciers, with opportunities for kayaking and meeting Inuit communities.
Additional voyages for the 2027–2028 season will include Alaska & the Inside Passage, the Classic Panama Canal Passage, Empires of the Mediterranean, Iceland’s Natural Beauty, and Iconic Western Mediterranean routes.
The Debut of Viking Lyra
The Viking Lyra will become the latest addition to the ocean fleet in 2028, accommodating 998 guests in all-veranda staterooms. The ship’s design will allow access to smaller ports, offering guests more intimate cultural encounters. Its maiden season will focus on Mediterranean and Scandinavian itineraries, combining rich history, stunning coastlines, and Viking’s hallmark service.
Award-Winning Standards
Viking’s commitment to excellence has consistently been recognized by major travel publications and industry awards. Its ocean, river, and expedition cruises are regularly ranked among the world’s best for service, enrichment programs, and destination-driven itineraries.
Booking Offers and Incentives
Bookings for the new voyages are open now, with limited-time incentives that include reduced fares, possible complimentary international airfare, and low-deposit offers for early planners.
A World of Opportunities
From sailing beyond the Antarctic Circle to gliding through the Norwegian fjords or exploring Japan’s cultural treasures, Viking’s 2027–2028 voyages promise immersive, educational, and unforgettable experiences. With the debut of Viking Lyra and an expanded global itinerary list, the line continues to set a benchmark for destination-focused cruising, offering travelers opportunities to connect deeply with the world’s history, cultures, and natural wonders.
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