
Viking Polaris
Viking Polaris
The Viking Polaris is a purpose-built luxury-expedition vessel that combines sleek Scandinavian sophistication with cutting-edge polar capability. Launched in 2022 and designed for just 378 guests with a crew of 256, it delivers personalized service and immersive experiences across remote destinations such as Antarctica, the Arctic, and the Great Lakes. Outfitted with a Polar Class 6 hull, submersibles, Special Operations Boats, and a scientific research lab, the ship invites travelers to engage with the natural world through exploration and discovery. All staterooms offer ocean views, and the adult-only, all-veranda ship emphasizes environmental stewardship, refined comfort, and cultural enrichment at every turn.
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Ship Statistics

2010
Launch Year

10944
Gross Tonnes

142
Length

18
Width

EUR
Currency

14
Max Speed (Knots)

264
Capacity

145
Crew

132
Cabins
Facilities
Accommodation
The onboard living experience emphasizes refined comfort and minimalist Scandinavian design, with expansive views and thoughtful amenities. Most staterooms feature floor‑to‑ceiling “Nordic Balcony” windows, and select suites offer expanded space and concierge-level service.
Suite and Stateroom Categories
- Owner’s Suite (≈ 115 m² / 1,238 ft²) — A multi-room suite featuring a private Nordic Balcony, dedicated living and dining areas, and top-tier concierge service.
- Explorer Suite (≈ 51 m² / 548 ft²) — A two-room layout with separate living space, private Nordic Balcony, and enhanced storage and amenities.
- Nordic Junior Suite (≈ 30 m² / 322 ft²) — Generously sized stateroom with Nordic Balcony (floor-to-ceiling glass), lounge seating, and premium finishes.
- Nordic Penthouse (≈ 25 m² / 269 ft²) — Stylish suite with a Nordic Balcony and elevated location, ideal for guests seeking comfort and value.
- Deluxe Nordic Balcony (≈ 21 m² / 222 ft²) — Upgraded balcony stateroom with premium amenities and private Nordic-style balcony.
- Nordic Balcony (≈ 21 m² / 222 ft²) — Entry-level balcony stateroom featuring floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to fresh air and expansive views.
Dining
Culinary Philosophy
Dining aboard Viking Polaris embraces destination-driven ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and international flair. Menus emphasize freshness, allergy-friendly accommodations, and dishes inspired by local specialties and global cuisine.
Onboard Restaurants & Bars
- World Café: A casual venue with buffet and made-to-order stations, including a sushi bar and grill, open all day.
- The Restaurant: Refined à la carte main dining with seasonal menus and international cuisine.
- Manfredi’s: An Italian specialty venue offering handmade pastas and aged steaks.
- Mamsen’s: Cozy Nordic café serving traditional open-faced sandwiches and pastries.
- The Hide: Intimate, speakeasy-style bar located near the waterline, ideal for quiet cocktails and views.
Onboard Facilities
Public areas aboard Viking Polaris are designed for exploration, education, and quiet luxury, combining Nordic simplicity with expedition functionality.
Indoor & Outdoor Common Areas
- The Aula: A panoramic, two-story auditorium hosting expert-led lectures, film screenings, and presentations.
- Expedition Central: Briefing hub for daily excursions, scientific programs, and destination insights.
- The Hangar: Enclosed marina bay for boarding Zodiacs and storing kayaks, with sheltered embarkation.
- The Lab: Fully equipped wet and dry labs supporting real-time environmental and DNA research.
- Finse Terrace, The Bow & The Shelter: Heated outdoor observation platforms with lava rock firepits, ideal for wildlife viewing.
- The Nordic Spa: Includes a sauna, cold plunge, hydrotherapy pool, steam room, and hot tubs.
- The Living Room: Lounge with curated books, sea views, and inviting Scandinavian furnishings.
Deck Plans
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More Information About Viking Polaris
Ship Overview
Entertainment & Onboard Activities
Health, Fitness & Wellness
Family, Kids, and Special Traveler Services
Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship
Testimonials & Passenger Reviews
Brand Heritage
Viking Cruises, renowned for its ocean and river voyages, expanded into expedition cruising in 2022 with the launch of Viking Octantis, followed shortly by her sister ship Viking Polaris. Both vessels reflect the brand’s hallmark Scandinavian design, educational enrichment, and commitment to sustainability in remote exploration.
Design Description
Designed by VARD and finished with Viking’s minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic, Polaris features a straight bow for fuel efficiency and U‑tank stabilizers for exceptional comfort. Interiors are adorned in pale woods, soft textures, and warm lighting, creating serene spaces designed for quiet luxury and scenic immersion.
Unique Features
- Polar Class 6 Ice‑Strengthened Hull: Enables safe navigation in icy waters.
- Two six-passenger submersibles: Offer rare undersea experiences, including shipwreck and jellyfish sightings (Antarctica).
- Special Operations Boats & Zodiacs: Used for guided landings and coastal exploration.
- Citizen Science Lab & Real-Time Research: Guests contribute to ongoing environmental studies.
- Panoramic Viewing Areas: Including The Bow and Finse Terrace for unobstructed wildlife and scenery observation.
Viking Polaris blends cultural enrichment with science-focused programming and relaxed entertainment tailored to inquisitive travelers.
- Live Music: Classical and jazz performances in lounges and social venues.
- Cultural Workshops: Covering photography, crafts, and storytelling rooted in destination themes.
- Film Screenings: Documentary and expedition films shown in The Aula and other gathering spaces.
- Lectures & Expert Panels: Naturalists, scientists, and historians offer daily insights.
Expedition and wellness activities are woven into daily life aboard:
- Zodiac, kayak & submersible excursions: Led by expedition staff for close encounters with wildlife and landscapes.
- Photography sessions: Guidance from professionals on wildlife and landscape shooting.
- Wellness classes: Yoga, stretching, and mindfulness offered on deck or in indoor spaces.
Wellness Facilities
- The Nordic Spa: Includes sauna, steam room, snow grotto, hydrotherapy pool, and hot tubs.
- Fitness Center: Equipped for cardio and strength training with optional group classes.
Medical & Safety
- Medical Clinic: 24/7 care from licensed medical professionals.
- Safety Protocols: Includes expedition safety briefings, gear fittings, and emergency drills.
Viking Polaris is designed for adult travelers but offers services to ensure comfort and inclusion for solo passengers and those with accessibility needs.
- Solo Traveler Support: Special pricing and social programs designed for independent guests.
- Accessible Cabins: Staterooms equipped for mobility needs, including wheelchair access.
- Dietary Accommodations: Menus accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free, kosher, and allergy-specific needs.
Eco Practices
- Efficient Hull Design: The straight bow and stabilizers reduce fuel use and emissions.
- Real-Time Research Labs: Guests contribute to marine and climate science projects.
- Polar Biosecurity Measures: Rigorous environmental protocols protect sensitive ecosystems.
Certifications & Partnerships
- Polar Class 6 Certified: Engineered for safe travel in icy waters.
- Scientific Collaborations: Partnered with the NOAA, University of Cambridge, and others to support global research.
- Overall Experience: “In Viking Polaris, the second expedition ship from Viking… The ship has all the programming, scientific equipment and expedition staff to bring the wild places it goes to life.” – Editor review, Cruise Critic (source)
- Scientific & Excursions: “Viking Polaris features amongst other things, two yellow submarines – George and Ringo; vast passenger‑to‑space ratio and an ice‑strengthened hull.” – Member review, Cruise Critic (source)
Viking Polaris´s itineraries
Emblematic Antarctica
Discover the highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula on this 10-night luxury expedition aboard L’Boreal.
- 8 days
- Le Boréal