It is hard to believe that a place as beautiful as Seward exists. Surrounded on all sides by Kenai Fjords National Park, Chugach National Forest, and Resurrection Bay, Seward offers all the quaint realities of a small railroad town with the bonus of jaw-dropping scenery. This little town of about 2,750 citizens was founded in 1903, when survey crews arrived at the ice-free port and began planning a railroad to the Interior. Since its inception, Seward has relied heavily on tourism and commercial fishing. It is also the launching point for excursions into Kenai Fjords National Park, where it is quite common to see marine life and calving glaciers.
It is hard to believe that a place as beautiful as Seward exists. Surrounded on all sides by Kenai Fjords National Park, Chugach National Forest, and Resurrection Bay, Seward offers all the quaint realities of a small railroad town with the bonus of jaw-dropping scenery. This little town of about 2,750 citizens was founded in 1903, when survey crews arrived at the ice-free port and began planning a railroad to the Interior. Since its inception, Seward has relied heavily on tourism and commercial fishing. It is also the launching point for excursions into Kenai Fjords National Park, where it is quite common to see marine life and calving glaciers.
Since Icy Strait Point opened in 2004, Hoonah has attracted more visitors, particularly those who arrive by cruise ship. The port is centered around the restored salmon cannery, which now houses a museum, local arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and a mid-1930s cannery line display. Outside is the world’s largest and highest zip line at 5,330 feet long, featuring a 1,300-foot vertical drop—a thrilling ride with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and ocean. If you're looking for more relaxing mountaintop views, book a gondola ride that will whisk you up into the mountains for some leisurely hiking and stellar sightseeing. Icy Strait Point houses several restaurants where visitors can dine on freshly caught seafood while taking in the waterfront views. A range of excursions are available at Icy Strait Point catering primarily to cruise ship passengers, from Alaska Native dance performances to bear viewing and whale watching.
Located at the northern terminus of the Inside Passage, Skagway is a one-hour ferry ride from Haines. By road, however, the distance is 359 miles, as you have to take the Haines Highway up to Haines Junction, Yukon, then take the Alaska Highway 100 miles south to Whitehorse, and then drive a final 100 miles south on the Klondike Highway to Skagway. North-country folk call this sightseeing route the Golden Horseshoe or Golden Circle tour, because it passes a lot of gold-rush country in addition to spectacular lake, forest, and mountain scenery.The town is an amazingly preserved artifact from North America's biggest, most-storied gold rush. Most of the downtown district forms part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, a unit of the National Park System dedicated to commemorating and interpreting the frenzied stampede of 1897 that extended to Dawson City in Canada's Yukon.Nearly all the historic sights are within a few blocks of the cruise-ship and ferry dock, allowing visitors to meander through the town's attractions at whatever pace they choose. Whether you're disembarking from a cruise ship, a ferry, or a dusty automobile fresh from the Golden Circle, you'll quickly discover that tourism is the lifeblood of this town. Unless you're visiting in winter or hiking into the backcountry on the Chilkoot Trail, you aren't likely to find a quiet Alaska experience around Skagway.
Juneau, Alaska's capital and third-largest city, is on the North American mainland but can't be reached by road. Bounded by steep mountains and water, the city’s geographic isolation and compact size make it much more akin to an island community such as Sitka than to other Alaskan urban centers, such as Fairbanks or Anchorage. Juneau is full of contrasts. Its dramatic hillside location and historic downtown buildings provide a frontier feeling, but the city's cosmopolitan nature comes through in fine museums, noteworthy restaurants, and a literate and outdoorsy populace. The finest of the museums, the Alaska State Museum, is scheduled to reopen in May 2016 on its old site as the expanded Alaska State Library, Archives, and Museum (SLAM) following several years of planning and exhibit research. Another new facility, the Walter Soboleff Center, offers visitors a chance to learn about the indigenous cultures of Southeast Alaska–-Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian. Other highlights include the Mt. Roberts Tramway, plenty of densely forested wilderness areas, quiet bays for sea kayaking, and even a famous drive-up glacier, Mendenhall Glacier. For goings-on, pick up the Juneau Empire (www.juneauempire.com), which keeps tabs on state politics, business, sports, and local news.
It's hard not to like Sitka, with its eclectic blend of Alaska Native, Russian, and American history and its dramatic and beautiful open-ocean setting. This is one of the best Inside Passage towns to explore on foot, with St. Michael's Cathedral, Sheldon Jackson Museum, Castle Hill, Sitka National Historical Park, and the Alaska Raptor Center topping the must-see list.Sitka was home to the Kiksádi clan of the Tlingit people for centuries prior to the 18th-century arrival of the Russians under the direction of territorial governor Alexander Baranof, who believed the region was ideal for the fur trade. The governor also coveted the Sitka site for its beauty, mild climate, and economic potential; in the island's massive timber forests he saw raw materials for shipbuilding. Its location offered trading routes as far west as Asia and as far south as California and Hawaii. In 1799 Baranof built St. Michael Archangel—a wooden fort and trading post 6 miles north of the present town.Strong disagreements arose shortly after the settlement. The Tlingits attacked the settlers and burned their buildings in 1802. Baranof, however, was away in Kodiak at the time. He returned in 1804 with a formidable force—including shipboard cannons—and attacked the Tlingits at their fort near Indian River, site of the present-day 105-acre Sitka National Historical Park, forcing many of them north to Chichagof Island.By 1821 the Tlingits had reached an accord with the Russians, who were happy to benefit from the tribe's hunting skills. Under Baranof and succeeding managers, the Russian-American Company and the town prospered, becoming known as the Paris of the Pacific. The community built a major shipbuilding and repair facility, sawmills, and forges, and even initiated an ice industry, shipping blocks of ice from nearby Swan Lake to the booming San Francisco market. The settlement that was the site of the 1802 conflict is now called Old Sitka. It is a state park and listed as a National Historic Landmark.The town declined after its 1867 transfer from Russia to the United States, but it became prosperous again during World War II, when it served as a base for the U.S. effort to drive the Japanese from the Aleutian Islands. Today its most important industries are fishing, government, and tourism.
Ketchikan is famous for its colorful totem poles, rainy skies, steep–as–San Francisco streets, and lush island setting. Some 13,500 people call the town home, and, in the summer, cruise ships crowd the shoreline, floatplanes depart noisily for Misty Fiords National Monument, and salmon-laden commercial fishing boats motor through Tongass Narrows. In the last decade Ketchikan's rowdy, blue-collar heritage of logging and fishing has been softened by the loss of many timber-industry jobs and the dramatic rise of cruise-ship tourism. With some effort, though, visitors can still glimpse the rugged frontier spirit that once permeated this hardscrabble cannery town. Art lovers should make a beeline for Ketchikan: the arts community here is very active. Travelers in search of the perfect piece of Alaska art will find an incredible range of pieces to choose from.The town is at the foot of 3,000-foot Deer Mountain, near the southeastern corner of Revillagigedo (locals shorten it to Revilla) Island. Prior to the arrival of white miners and fishermen in 1885, the Tlingit used the site at the mouth of Ketchikan Creek as a summer fish camp. Gold discoveries just before the turn of the 20th century brought more immigrants, and valuable timber and commercial fishing resources spurred new industries. By the 1930s the town bragged that it was the "salmon-canning capital of the world." You will still find some of Southeast's best salmon fishing around here. Ketchikan is the first bite of Alaska that many travelers taste. Despite its imposing backdrop, hillside homes, and many staircases, the town is relatively easy to walk through. Favorite downtown stops include the Spruce Mill Development shops and Creek Street. A bit farther away you'll find the Totem Heritage Center. Out of town (but included on most bus tours) are two longtime favorites: Totem Bight State Historical Park to the north and Saxman Totem Park to the south.
Ketchikan is famous for its colorful totem poles, rainy skies, steep–as–San Francisco streets, and lush island setting. Some 13,500 people call the town home, and, in the summer, cruise ships crowd the shoreline, floatplanes depart noisily for Misty Fiords National Monument, and salmon-laden commercial fishing boats motor through Tongass Narrows. In the last decade Ketchikan's rowdy, blue-collar heritage of logging and fishing has been softened by the loss of many timber-industry jobs and the dramatic rise of cruise-ship tourism. With some effort, though, visitors can still glimpse the rugged frontier spirit that once permeated this hardscrabble cannery town. Art lovers should make a beeline for Ketchikan: the arts community here is very active. Travelers in search of the perfect piece of Alaska art will find an incredible range of pieces to choose from.The town is at the foot of 3,000-foot Deer Mountain, near the southeastern corner of Revillagigedo (locals shorten it to Revilla) Island. Prior to the arrival of white miners and fishermen in 1885, the Tlingit used the site at the mouth of Ketchikan Creek as a summer fish camp. Gold discoveries just before the turn of the 20th century brought more immigrants, and valuable timber and commercial fishing resources spurred new industries. By the 1930s the town bragged that it was the "salmon-canning capital of the world." You will still find some of Southeast's best salmon fishing around here. Ketchikan is the first bite of Alaska that many travelers taste. Despite its imposing backdrop, hillside homes, and many staircases, the town is relatively easy to walk through. Favorite downtown stops include the Spruce Mill Development shops and Creek Street. A bit farther away you'll find the Totem Heritage Center. Out of town (but included on most bus tours) are two longtime favorites: Totem Bight State Historical Park to the north and Saxman Totem Park to the south.
Vancouver is a delicious juxtaposition of urban sophistication and on-your-doorstep wilderness adventure. The mountains and seascape make the city an outdoor playground for hiking, skiing, kayaking, cycling, and sailing—and so much more—while the cuisine and arts scenes are equally diverse, reflecting the makeup of Vancouver's ethnic (predominantly Asian) mosaic. Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the world's most livable cities, and it's easy for visitors to see why. It's beautiful, it's outdoorsy, and there's a laidback West Coast vibe. On the one hand, there's easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, a fabulous variety of beaches, and amazing parks. At the same time, the city has a multicultural vitality and cosmopolitan flair. The attraction is as much in the range of food choices—the fresh seafood and local produce are some of North America's best—as it is in the museums, shopping, and nightlife.Vancouver's landscaping also adds to the city's walking appeal. In spring, flowerbeds spill over with tulips and daffodils while sea breezes scatter scented cherry blossoms throughout Downtown; in summer office workers take to the beaches, parks, and urban courtyards for picnic lunches and laptop meetings. More than 8 million visitors each year come to Vancouver, Canada's third-largest metropolitan area. Because of its peninsula location, traffic flow is a contentious issue. Thankfully, Vancouver is wonderfully walkable, especially in the downtown core. The North Shore is a scoot across the harbor, and the rapid-transit system to Richmond and the airport means that staying in the more affordable ’burbs doesn't have to be synonymous with sacrificing convenience. The mild climate, exquisite natural scenery, and relaxed outdoor lifestyle keep attracting residents, and the number of visitors is increasing for the same reasons. People often get their first glimpse of Vancouver when catching an Alaskan cruise, and many return at some point to spend more time here.
Expand your horizons on this comfortable, award-winning ship, intimate and thoughtfully created by experienced nautical architects and designers to enrich your interaction with your destination in every way.
The ship offers multiple restaurant venues and unique dining experiences, from casual cafés and pool grills to wine-pairing menus and regional specialties.
There is no such thing as a typical evening onboard, nor shortage of entertainment. Whether it’s a cabaret, opera, classical or popular music concert, the theatre is home to an inspiring choice of productions. Film fans can feast on classic movies and the latest blockbusters in one of the cinemas. Or take in the breeze as you take in a film at the open-air cinema.
When the stars come out, so does the entertainment. From sipping an artisan gin and exchanging stories with newfound friends in Paps, the Explorer’s Bar, to enjoying the sounds of the guitarist, pianist and singer in one of the lounges. Take a seat in the plush theatre for a dazzling show, or dance the night away in Torshavn nightclub. Sing along to a band, or lie back by the pool under the night sky to watch a movie on the giant screen – the popcorn is on the house. However you choose to spend your evenings on board, being bored is never an option
Viking believe the best way to understand a country is through enrichment. Each cruise is thoughtfully curated with hand-picked itineraries so you can immerse yourself in history, music, art, cuisine—everything you need to know about your destination. And before you step foot on shore, you will glean insights from history experts and academic luminaries in our theater, chosen by the Viking Enrichment Board.
Your journey is about feeling good all over. Onboard you’ll find plenty of ways to reconnect with yourself. Mind, body and soul.
Make a splash in the Infinity Pool. Do laps or just lap up the sun in the main pool. With its retractable roof it’s the perfect pool even if the weather is not.
Tai Chi in Tallinn? Pilates in Provence? Staying fit isn’t about breaking records, it’s about whatever makes you happy, and our inspiring choice of classes, state of-the-art gym and outside studio will help restore your vitality.
Viking Cruises welcomes disabled guests but wishes all guests to understand that challenges will exist onboard and during shore excursions. The ocean vessels have elevators, but there may still be thresholds that could make movement difficult. Shore excursions may require movement over cobblestones or up and down stairs; accordingly, a physically challenged guest will require the services of a responsible adult since crew availability is limited. Guests need to provide their own wheelchairs, except in an emergency. Motorized scooters are not typically suited on international cruises and cannot be accommodated. Viking does not accommodate animals except for certified therapy or Seeing Eye dogs on our international itineraries.
When you make your reservation, please let them know of any disability that will require special attention while you are on your Viking Ocean Cruise itinerary. Should you have any medical, physical or other special needs, check the deck plans to gain an understanding of the layout of any particular ship, and should contact Viking Cruises, Inc., at 0800 298 9700 directly with additional questions and to obtain a copy of their policy statement.
In most cases Viking can accommodate special dietary needs. Every meal has vegetarian options and chefs will make reasonable efforts to accommodate requests. Guests requiring special diets (low salt, diabetic, gluten-free and low cholesterol) should alert Viking 90 days prior to departure and remind the Maître d’ when onboard.
Due to the nature of the cruises, Viking do not maintain specific facilities or services for children aboard cruise vessels. On all cruises children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by and share a cabin with a parent, legal guardian or other responsible adult over the age of 21. Viking are unable to accommodate children under the age of 12 and reserve the right to limit the number of children onboard any particular vessel between the ages of 12 and 18.
During the day onboard and ashore, dress is casual including shorts, jeans and comfortable shoes for walking tours. Swimsuits, brief shorts, cover-ups and exercise attire should be reserved for the pool and Sports Deck. For evenings, while there are no “formal nights,” the recommended dress is elegant casual for most restaurants, performances or other special events. Suggested attire for ladies includes a dress, or a sweater or blouse worn with a skirt or slacks; for gentlemen, trousers and a collared shirt. A tie and jacket are optional, but not required. Dinner in The Restaurant remains casual, with daytime dress deemed appropriate.
Along with comfortable walking shoes and dressier shoes, we suggest that you pack a collapsible umbrella/lightweight rain gear, a lightweight jacket or warm sweater; sunglasses, a sun hat or visor, and sunscreen; and toiletries. And depending on the season, you may also want to add a warm coat, gloves and water-resistant footwear.
Viking offer complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner, plus specialty coffees and teas are available 24 hours a day. For those who would like premium cocktails or wines and spirits, Viking offers the Silver Spirits beverage package. Ask for details onboard or when making your reservation.
All Viking ship interiors, staterooms and balconies are nonsmoking except for the designated outdoor smoking area on the starboard side of Deck 8. Smoking restrictions also apply to e-cigarettes.
Sleep easy in a comfortable king-size bed with fine cotton linens for the sweetest dreams. Elegant décor and calm colours create the perfect sanctuary (because lazy days are often the best days). Wake up to breakfast in bed (24-hour room service is complimentary). Tune in to the latest technology, with free Wi-Fi and TV with movies on demand. Your generous ensuite has a shower that drenches you, heated floor and fluffy towels to warm you and indulgent lotions to pamper you. Bathroom bliss.
Whichever stateroom you choose, you can look forward to a private sanctuary of understated elegance, one that features all the comforts of home and your own spacious veranda.
Unique and exclusive, the lavish Owner’s Suite is, quite simply, the best accommodation onboard. An incredible 1,448 sq. ft. it offers one-of-a-kind features personally selected by Torstein Hagen, including his favourite wines and recommended reads. As a guest in the Owner’s Suite you will want for nothing.
From 757 to 1,163 sq. ft., Explorer Suites are perfect if you want to push the boat out. Viking's most spacious and luxurious accommodation, these suites feature a large wraparound veranda to take in the incredible views. You can look forward to all the inclusions of the previously mentioned staterooms as well as priority main dining room reservations 90 days before departure, and three guaranteed reservations in each speciality restaurant. There are just 14 Explorer Suites, and it is advised that you book yours early.
Looking for even more space and more treats? At 405 sq. ft. these lovely suites boast all the inclusions of the previously mentioned staterooms. You can also look forward to a welcome bottle of Champagne, and complimentary dry cleaning and laundry service. And you can settle in to your room earlier at 11am, and enjoy priority reservations in the main dining room 80 days prior to departure, as well as three guaranteed reservations in each speciality restaurant. There are only 32 suites in this category, so be sure to reserve yours soon.
If you like a little more space, our Penthouse Veranda is even larger at 338 sq. ft. and features a generous sitting area. You’ll enjoy even more extras, including a mini bar with alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, water and snacks that is restocked daily, and complimentary shoe shine and pressing service. Your room will be available from 1pm, and you’ll enjoy priority reservations in the main dining room 70 days before departure, as well as two guaranteed reservations in each speciality restaurant, also 70 days before departure.
Treat yourself to the little extras that make a big difference. Our Deluxe Veranda Stateroom is the same size as the Veranda Stateroom and offers the same features, as well as a mini-bar of soft drinks, water and snacks that is replenished daily. In-suite binoculars, a coffee maker and luxurious cashmere blanket all add to the pleasure. You can also look forward to priority room availability from 2pm, and preferred choice for dining, with priority reservations in the main dining room 60 days prior to departure, as well as one guaranteed reservation in each speciality restaurant.
Relax in our welcoming and comfortable Veranda Stateroom. At 270 sq. ft. including a 46 sq. ft. veranda, it is wonderfully spacious and inviting. This stateroom features a king-size bed with luxury linens, and a beautifully appointed ensuite with heated floor and indulgent toiletries. Your host of complimentary extras includes soft robes and slippers, flat- screen TV with movies on demand, 24-hour room service, and Wi-Fi. You can check in from 3pm.