Viking ANZ managing director Michelle Black says despite the current unsettled geopolitical environment, Australian and New Zealand guests are not hesitating to book future cruises.
Speaking to Karryon as Viking prepares to launch its 13th ocean ship, Viking Mira, which sets sail in June 2026, Black says they’re not seeing any slowing in bookings, despite the Middle East crisis.
“We’re seeing an average booking‑to‑departure window of around 380 days, and with our 2028 season now open, that forward‑planning mindset continues. And because plans can evolve, our flexible deposit policy means guests can book early without feeling locked in too soon,” says Black.
“When it comes to destinations, Europe remains incredibly popular. Mediterranean and Scandinavian voyages continue to really resonate with Australian and New Zealand travellers — there’s a huge draw to the history, art, culture and cuisine. Beyond Europe, we’re also seeing growing interest in Alaska.
“At the same time, itineraries closer to home continue to appeal. Voyages like Far East Horizons (China, Japan and South Korea) and Komodo and the Australian Coast are a great fit for travellers who want incredible experiences while staying a little closer to the region.”
She says world cruises, which range from 125 to 170 days in 2027 and 2028, are booked on average 538 days ahead of departure.
“Our longest lead booking was 773 days in advance, which shows how considered and intentional this type of travel is.”
New ships on the horizon
The 998-guest Viking Mira, sets sail in June 2026, and the 14th, Viking Libra – the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship – is due in November 2026.
The company’s strong growth since launching Viking Star in 2015 comes down to clarity, says Black.
“It really comes back to being very clear about who Viking is for. From the start, we never tried to be all things to all people.
“We designed our ocean ships for curious travellers – people who love culture, history, art and great food. We often call it The Thinking Person’s Cruise, and that clarity has made a huge difference.
“Another big factor in our growth has been our all-inclusive approach. It just makes the experience easier and more enjoyable. Shore excursions, enrichment programs, Wi-Fi, dining — plus beer, wine and soft drinks with meals — are all included. Guests don’t have to keep reaching for their wallet, so they can focus on the journey and the destinations.
“And we’ve stayed very true to being destination-led and adults-only. No kids, no casinos. That consistency really resonates with our guests, builds strong loyalty and it’s been key to the steady growth of our ocean fleet over time.”
She says it’s also always been consistent with the design of its ships.
“They are intentionally designed to feel familiar,” she explains.
“There’s a sense of calm and continuity when you step onboard — clean lines, light-filled spaces, natural materials — and that Scandinavian design has been consistent from Viking Star right through the fleet. It means guests can walk onto any Viking ship and immediately feel at home.
“Of course, as we continue to innovate, there have been some evolutions. With Viking Libra, we’ve been able to make considered refinements to the layout, including accommodating additional staterooms. These changes support new technology and efficiencies, while still staying true to the Viking experience our guests know and love.
“From a guest perspective, the look, feel and experience remain unmistakably Viking. We focus on timeless design, so our ships feel just as serene and relevant years from now as they do today.”
Another trend Viking is leading is JOMO – the joy of missing out (on over-loved destinations). Ships are docking in smaller, less-visited ports, particularly on its Viking Homelands itineraries. These are typically 15 days and visit Sweden, Estonia, Poland, Germany, Denmark and Norway. ‘Quiet season’ in the Mediterranean is another success story, one that other cruise lines are now picking up on.
“The Mediterranean’s quiet season, from November through to March, is when many of our voyages really shine,” says Black.
“You’re visiting well-known destinations, but without the intensity of peak-season crowds. Everything feels calmer and more immersive, and it’s often when smaller ports and more subtle moments can really come into their own.
“I love how that quieter rhythm carries through the whole journey. Museums are easier to enjoy, markets feel more local, and you can wander, linger and explore at your own pace, whether that’s over a long lunch or walking neighbourhood streets without feeling rushed.
“We’re seeing a real appetite for this style of travel more broadly. Guests are actively seeking out fewer crowds, more meaningful experiences and exploring lesser-known ports.”
A personal journey
As you would expect, Black has cruised the world during her career in the top echelons of the travel industry, so what are some of her most memorable destinations?
“Into the Midnight Sun, a 15-day sailing between London and Bergen, is one of my favourite itineraries,” Black says.
“With endless sunshine, you get to immerse yourself in Norway – sailing into Geiringer Fjords was breathtaking, beautiful and serene. I loved my king crab shore excursion. We caught live crabs, which were then prepared and cooked for us, and I don’t think I’ll ever taste crab that good again.
“I also loved visiting Orkney and Shetland. Orkney is home to Neolithic ruins that pre-date the Egyptian pyramids. The itinerary includes time in Edinburgh, and because our ships are small, you’re able to sail along the Thames into Greenwich.
“It was pretty amazing to be on board as the ship navigated its way up the river. I’ve done the itinerary twice, and one of the highlights is sitting on the deck at around 1am, watching the sun hit the horizon and come back up.
“Next on my wish list is the In Search of the Northern Lights, which sails from London to Tromsø, in the northern winter. I can’t wait to experience Norway in the cold and dark.”
For more information, visit Viking Cruises
