Viking announces unforgettable voyages for 2026 for travelers seeking deep cultural immersion across rivers, oceans and expeditions: Learn more

Posted on November 4, 2025

Viking is unveiling a new range of offerings that will give travelers the opportunity to embark on culturally immersive journeys in 2026 and beyond. With a strong focus on destination-focused itineraries, Viking River, Ocean and Expedition cruises allow travelers to connect deeply with the places they visit, ensuring a transformative travel experience across seven continents.

Founded in 1997 with the goal of providing more meaningful, destination-oriented travel, Viking has grown into a renowned global leader in luxury cruises. Since entering the US market in 2000, Viking has built an impressive fleet of more than 90 vessels, designed to sail the world’s great rivers, oceans and remote wilderness. These ships provide travelers the opportunity to explore new corners of the world while experiencing local cultures through immersive and enriching activities.

What truly sets Viking apart is its commitment to cultural immersion. Each Viking cruise features shore excursions at each port, offering travelers the opportunity to go beyond traditional sightseeing. Whether enjoying local shows, attending cooking demonstrations, or participating in history-rich lectures, each excursion is carefully curated to help guests connect with the culture and history of the area. On board, guests can also enjoy enrichment programs such as art exhibitions and expert-led talks, which enhance their understanding of the places they visit.

For travelers with a sense of adventure, Viking Expeditions offer unparalleled opportunities to explore some of the world’s most remote destinations. From the icy expanses of Antarctica to the rugged wilderness of the Arctic, these trips take guests to some of the most pristine and untouched parts of the world. These trips cater to those looking for extraordinary experiences that go beyond traditional tourist routes, offering stunning landscapes and encounters with wildlife in their natural habitats.

Viking river cruises provide another unique way to explore the world. With itineraries that pass through Europe, Asia and Egypt, travelers can discover the charm of towns and villages located along great rivers such as the Danube, Rhine and Nile. These cruises are designed to offer a closer, more intimate look at the history, arts and culture of the region. From medieval castles in Europe to ancient temples in Asia, Viking River Cruises allow guests to immerse themselves in the essence of each destination while enjoying the comfort and luxury of modern river ships.

On oceans, Viking offers a range of cruises that take guests to iconic destinations throughout Europe, the Mediterranean, Asia and beyond. The company’s smaller ships – which seat between 500 and 2,500 passengers – are specifically designed to provide a more intimate cruising experience. Guests aboard Viking cruises can expect carefully planned itineraries that focus on immersion in the destination. Each stop along the way is an opportunity to explore new cultures, taste regional cuisine, and connect with local communities, ensuring a travel experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

Viking’s dedication to providing outstanding travel experiences has earned the company more than 450 industry awards, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the luxury cruise market. In 2024, the Vikings made history with a win Condé Nast TravelerReaders’ Choice Awards in three categories: #1 River Cruise, #1 Ocean Cruise (for ships ranging in size from 500 to 2,500 berths), and #1 Expedition Cruise. This achievement marks the first time in the awards’ history that a company has received all three honors in consecutive years, highlighting Viking’s commitment to excellence in all aspects of cruising.

Looking forward to 2026, Viking continues to honor its founding vision of delivering rich, destination-driven travel experiences. The upcoming season promises a host of exciting new opportunities to explore the world in a way that connects travelers with local cultures and landscapes like never before. Whether it’s a river cruise that explores the historic heart of Europe, a journey through the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, or an expedition to the ends of the earth, Viking is ready to offer travelers unforgettable moments that will stay with them long after they return home.

For those planning future adventures, Viking’s new offerings provide the perfect opportunity to experience the world on a deeper level. Each trip invites guests to explore new horizons, meet local people and engage with the rich traditions of the places they visit. The 2026 Viking Season ensures that travelers can connect with the world in a way that goes beyond typical travel experiences, creating lasting memories of cultural discovery and exploration. Whether you seek to discover ancient civilizations along the Nile River or experience the majestic landscapes of Antarctica, Viking offers trips that provide not only sightseeing, but also profound experiences of immersion and enrichment.