This year Viking will be celebrating its 25th anniversary and the 10th year since starting its ocean offering, with 11 new ships launching and two ships in Australia and New Zealand for 2022/2023.
In 1997 Viking began operations with four ships and a vision that travel could be more destination-focused and culturally immersive. The company wanted to offer experiences designed for the thinking person—for curious travellers.
Their mission at the time is the same today: “Exploring the world in comfort.”
Since inception, Chairman Torstein Hagen has built an award-winning fleet of over 80 river, ocean and expedition ships. In 2022, Viking celebrates its 25th anniversary and a year that is shaping up to be the biggest yet.
In January, Viking ushered in a new era of exploration, welcoming its first expedition ship Viking Octantis to the fleet, with a second vessel, Viking Polaris, on the way.
With the launch of Viking Expeditions, the cruise line is now officially exploring all seven continents.
Viking has also announced that two of their award-winning ocean ships will arrive in local waters for the 2022-2023 Australia and New Zealand cruise season to round out the year.
Viking Orion will return to her seasonal Sydney and Auckland home ports between November 2022 and March 2023.
While Viking Mars, launching in May, will spend her maiden season sailing itineraries in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean before embarking on voyages in Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
She is scheduled to arrive in Sydney on 27 December 2022 before departing on a special New Year’s Eve sailing from Sydney to Auckland.
Michelle Black, Viking ANZ Managing Director, said this is the first time two Viking ships will be in the region.
“We are excited to have two of our ocean ships in local waters later this year. Having two ships deployed to the region shows our ongoing commitment to supporting cruising in our local market. We cannot wait to welcome Viking Orion back,” she said.
Viking’s 2022/23 Australia and New Zealand itineraries include:
- 15-day Australia & New Zealand
- 17-day Komodo & the Australian Coast
- 29-day South Pacific Sojourn
- 31-day Australia, New Zealand & Indonesia
Book before 31 March 2022 to enjoy Viking’s Risk-Free Guarantee.
For more information, visit viking.com.