Viking Polaris – Expedition Voyages with Luxury and Discovery

Viking Polaris is an advanced expedition ship designed for luxury adventure travel to some of the most remote destinations on Earth. As one of Viking’s two custom-built expedition vessels, she is purposefully crafted for voyages to Antarctica, the Arctic, and the Great Lakes, offering an unparalleled blend of exploration and comfort.

With space for just 378 guests, Viking Polaris provides an intimate small-ship experience that prioritises discovery, wildlife encounters, and scientific engagement. Equipped with a reinforced Polar Class 6 hull, state-of-the-art stabilisers, and a suite of high-tech exploration tools, she is built for seamless navigation in extreme environments.

Onboard, guests enjoy Viking’s signature Scandinavian design, world-class dining, and a robust enrichment programme featuring scientists, naturalists, and historians who bring each destination to life. Whether kayaking past icebergs, embarking on a Zodiac landing in Antarctica, or exploring the fjords of Norway, Viking Polaris offers a truly extraordinary expedition experience.

Viking Polaris Accommodation

All staterooms aboard Viking Polaris feature a private Nordic Balcony—a unique sunroom with floor-to-ceiling glass that transforms into an open-air viewing platform, offering uninterrupted views of the polar and wilderness landscapes. Designed with minimalist elegance and practical comfort, accommodations offer a tranquil retreat after a day of exploration.

  • Nordic Balcony Staterooms – Featuring a floor-to-ceiling glass sunroom that converts into an outdoor observation space.
  • Deluxe Nordic Balcony Staterooms – Offering additional space, a larger seating area, and priority dining reservations.
  • Penthouse Nordic Balcony Staterooms – More spacious accommodations with upgraded amenities, a larger balcony, and an expanded bathroom.
  • Explorer Suites – Expansive suites with a private Nordic Balcony, a separate living and dining area, and heated bathroom floors.
  • Owner’s Suite – The most luxurious accommodation onboard, featuring a wraparound balcony, a private library, and a personal concierge.

All accommodations come with king-size beds, a fully stocked minibar, interactive entertainment systems, and in-room binoculars for wildlife spotting.

Viking Polaris Dining

Dining aboard Viking Polaris is a celebration of regional flavours and fine cuisine, with menus inspired by the destinations explored. Every meal is prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and served in beautifully designed venues.

The Restaurant

The ship’s elegant main dining room, offering a menu that evolves with the voyage, featuring destination-inspired dishes and international favourites.

World Café

A relaxed, buffet-style venue with an open kitchen, showcasing fresh seafood, made-to-order global dishes, and a plant-based selection.

Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant

A popular specialty dining venue serving classic Italian dishes, handmade pasta, and an extensive selection of Italian wines.

The Chef’s Table

An exclusive, multi-course tasting menu experience featuring innovative cuisine paired with expertly selected wines.

Mamsen’s

A Norwegian-inspired café offering Scandinavian specialities such as warm waffles, open-faced sandwiches, and traditional soups.

Afternoon Tea & Room Service

Guests can enjoy afternoon tea in the Explorers’ Lounge with breathtaking views or take advantage of 24-hour room service, perfect for in-suite dining.

Expedition Experience & Onboard Facilities

Viking Polaris is designed to bring travellers closer to nature, science, and adventure, with a suite of onboard facilities that enhance exploration and learning.

During The Day

  • Zodiac Excursions & Shore Landings – Experience polar landscapes up close with expert-led Zodiac landings and guided nature walks.
  • Kayaking & Submarine Tours – Paddle through glacial waters or dive below the surface in a high-tech submarine for an unforgettable underwater experience.
  • The Science Lab – A working research facility where guests can participate in real-world scientific projects alongside resident experts.
  • Guest Lectures & TED Talks – Learn from leading explorers, marine biologists, and historians about the regions being explored.
  • Explorers’ Lounge – A beautifully designed observation lounge with panoramic views, ideal for wildlife spotting and reflection.

Onboard Facilities

  • The Hangar – An industry-first enclosed marina allowing for smooth and comfortable embarkation onto expedition vessels.
  • Expedition Central – A hub for planning and discussing daily expeditions with Viking’s scientific and naturalist teams.
  • Nordic Spa & Fitness Centre – Experience the full Nordic wellness ritual, including a snow grotto, sauna, hydrotherapy pools, and massage treatments.
  • Library & Cultural Centre – A curated collection of books, maps, and interactive exhibits focused on environmental science and polar history.

When Night Falls

Evenings aboard Viking Polaris are designed for relaxation and enrichment. Guests can unwind in the Explorers’ Lounge with a cocktail, attend a cultural performance in the theatre, or join an informal discussion with onboard scientists and expedition leaders.

The ship’s planetarium offers guided night-sky observation sessions, allowing guests to marvel at the celestial wonders of the Southern and Northern Hemispheres, including the Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis.

Signature Destinations

Viking Polaris embarks on immersive voyages to some of the most extraordinary destinations on the planet.

  • Antarctica – Explore the untouched wilderness of the White Continent, encountering massive glaciers, emperor penguins, and breaching whales.
  • The Arctic & Svalbard – Venture into the land of the polar bear, where dramatic ice formations and remote Arctic settlements await.
  • The Great Lakes & North America – Discover the freshwater wonders of the Great Lakes, from towering cliffs to charming historic towns.
  • South America & Patagonia – Journey through the stunning fjords of Chile, witness the dramatic landscapes of Patagonia, and sail around Cape Horn.

Book Your Viking Polaris Expedition with Us

If you are interested in an expedition aboard Viking Polaris and would like more information, or if you would like a quotation for an upcoming voyage, call our Voyage Consultants on 0800 008 6677. Alternatively, please make an online enquiry for your preferred sailing.