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Why cruise on this ship?
First, we invented modern river cruising. Then, we redefined ocean cruising. Now, experience all the comfort and elegance of our award-winning fleet with an expedition ship built specifically to explore the world's most remote destinations and allow you to immerse yourself in these regions.
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Reviews for Viking Polaris
Viking Polaris Customer Reviews
Dining
Choose from six dining options, all at no additional charge.
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The World Cafe
With live cooking, an open kitchen and premium seafood/sushi choices and a grill, the casual World Café provides a vibrant interactive experience and a wide range of international flavors.
Features
- Experience: Complimentary
- Food type: Cafe
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Mamsen's
Named for “Mamsen,” the Hagen family matriarch, this venue offers Norwegian specialties including waffles according to Mamsen’s original recipe, open-faced sandwiches and split pea soup.
Features
- Experience: Complimentary
- Food type: Varies
The Restaurant
Our elegant dining venue, The Restaurant offers our ultimate onboard dining experience. Regional cuisine and always-available classics are served surrounded by sweeping views.
Features
- Experience: Complimentary
- Food type: Varies
Manfredi's
Inspired by Italy’s beloved trattorias, Manfredi’s offers the best of Italian cuisine as well as a private dining room—a perfect opportunity to have an intimate meal with family or friends.
Features
- Experience: Complimentary
- Food type: Italian
24-Hour Options
Our bakery offers a variety of delicious breads and pastries at any hour. Or enjoy many of our signature dishes in the comfort of your stateroom with 24-hour room service.
Features
- Experience: Complimentary
- Food type: Room
Entertaining
Innovative, light-filled spaces where comfort meets discovery.
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Explorers' Lounge
A favorite location on our ocean ships, the Explorers’ Lounge is inspired by epic journeys of discovery. Two levels high and surrounded by panoramic windows, this inviting space is the perfect place to relax with friends, while taking in the scenery.
Features
- Lounge
The Pools
This trio of pools, each at different temperatures, including an indoor-outdoor pass-through swimming experience. The heated main pool is a calming oasis in any weather, protected by a retractable roof for year-round use.
Features
- Pool Deck
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Aquavit Terrace & Bar
Settle in to the Aquavit Bar and share stories with fellow travelers while enjoying an Irish coffee or ship-matured aquavit surrounded by “trees” inspired by Yggdrasil, Norse mythology’s tree of life. The al fresco Aquavit Terrace is directly beyond, surrounding The Pools in the aft of the ship and boasts outstanding views.
Features
- Bar
- Lounge
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The Living Room
Located high on the ship to maximize views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, here guests can listen to classical music or a soothing piano sonata. With Nordic furnishings, relevant and engaging books, and a wall mural of a variety of whales represented to scale, guests will find both comfort and enrichment.
Features
- Library
- Bar
- Lounge
The Library
Tucked in a private alcove of The Living Room, the Library is a literary traveler’s dream. Select from a broad range of titles from world histories to biographies—all curated specifically for these journeys by legendary bookseller, London’s Heywood Hill.
Features
- Library
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Finse Terrace
Named after the village high on the mountain plateau of Hardangervidda, Norway, here you will find an outdoor paradise with comfortable seating, 270° views of nature around you, and two heated lava stone “firepits” to keep you warm.
Features
- Lounge
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Embarkation
More information coming soon.
Features
- Expeditions
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Shore Excursions
Viking offers a variety of excursions, virtually all included in your cruise fare, from RIB sailings and zodiac landings to tranquil kayak outings and underwater submarine dives. Hike through magnificent landscapes and access remote areas, all led by an experienced team of experts skilled in operating in rugged and polar environments. Or try a unique experience with one of our exclusive, limited-capacity optional excursions.
Encounter some of nature’s most fascinating wildlife north of the Arctic Circle, from polar bears to walruses, whales, ringed seals and Svalbard reindeer. In Antarctica, guests are likely to see seals and whales, as well as a variety of penguin and migratory bird species. The Great Lakes also house abundant wildlife diversity: moose, black bears, beavers, grey wolves, bald eagles, and a wide range of bird species can be commonly found.
Features
- Excursions
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Expedition Central
Manned by our Expedition Team, Expedition Central is a key onboard area for guests at which they can plan and book their excursions, verify landing and “go to gate” times or get answers to questions about upcoming excursions and landings. Guests can also learn more about their destination by viewing a real-time ship tracker, examining the chart table highlighting the areas through which we sail, and reviewing AECO and IAATO information about landing regulations and biosecurity standards for the sensitive environments to which we sail.
Features
- Expeditions
The Laboratory
This well-appointed laboratory, developed in consultation with Cambridge University and other academic partners, supports a range of research activities and is equipped with wet-dry laboratory facilities, a sample-processing area, comprehensive microscope optics, and space for analysis-specific instruments. Guests will receive supervised access to learn from and participate with scientists undertaking primary research, an experience unique to Viking.
Features
- Education
Explorers' Desk
More information coming soon.
Features
- Education
Submarines
On board expedition ships sailing our polar, Great Lakes and Grand Journeys itineraries are two 6-seater submarines custom-designed to explore underwater in various regions. Trips are approximately 1 hour in total length (30 minutes underwater, plus time to embark and disembark). Submarines may not be available or allowed to be deployed on all itineraries. Learn more about our expedition equipment.
Features
- Submarine
Kayaks
We do on board expedition ships sailing our polar, Great Lakes and Grand Journeys itineraries. We have a fleet of custom designed, easy to operate 2-seater kayaks that feature a pedal system which lets you glide through the water hands-free, maximizing your photo opportunities. (Optional paddles are available, and the seat can be removed and reconfigured for a single guest if requested.)
Features
- Kayaks
Zodiacs
We have a fleet of military Pro zodiacs on board our expedition ships sailing polar, Great Lakes and Grand Journeys itineraries.
Features
- Zodiacs
The Aula
The world’s most advanced venue for learning at sea, The Aula is a stunning panoramic al fresco auditorium inspired by the University of Oslo’s famed ceremonial hall, the former venue for the Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony. Used for lectures, daily briefings, and films, this unique space features an 8k laser-projected panoramic screen which can retract to expose floor-to ceiling windows and 270° views. In addition, the large bottom windows of the stage wall slide open, providing al fresco access and an indoor-outdoor experience with nature taking center stage.
Features
- Lectures
The Studio
This onboard area offers a multipurpose space facilitating enrichment experiences with the Viking Resident Scientists. On the wall are felt replicas of the primary avian species that inhabit or migrate to the locations we visit. Here, guests can learn to identify different birds, practice photography techniques, or learn more about their various habits with The Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s ornithologists—part of our Viking Resident Scientists program.
Features
- Education
Viking Resident Photographer
Part of our Viking Expedition team, our onboard photographer will accompany shore landings and RIB/zodiac excursions, as well as offering lectures and workshops to provide insight and techniques for capturing wildlife and landscapes in the remote locations we visit, so guests can optimize their images.
Features
- Lectures
- Workshops
Viking Resident Scientists
Selected by our academic partners, the University of Cambridge’s Scott Polar Research Institute and The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, a group of scientists will be on board every journey, providing lectures, advice and insight to guests in areas such as biology, botany, geology, glaciology, oceanography, ornithology.
Features
- Education
- Lectures
Nordic Spa
Relax and take in the scenery from our spa pool, gazing out of floor-to-ceiling windows. Work out in the Fitness Center on a choice of treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes or weight machines. Or, enjoy the sauna, Snow Grotto with its “snow-on-demand” or warming cave.
Features
- Spa
- Wellness
Badestamp
Following Nordic tradition, our onboard badestamp, located in the Nordic Spa, is a traditional wooden-sided hot tub, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. Try the longstanding Scandinavian practice of alternating between hot and cold when bathing to relax and rejuvenate.
Features
- Spa
- Sauna
Kids and teens
There are no children's facilities onboard.Accommodation
Sweeping views are yours from your outside retreat. The staterooms and suites on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris are the most spacious and elegant of any expedition ship afloat, offering you an unparalleled level of comfort as you experience the world’s most remote locations.Warm, Dry & Expedition Ready
Every stateroom and suite includes a floor-to-ceiling drying closet that circulates warm air to dry and store all your Viking Expedition Kit, from your keepsake Viking Expedition Jacket and waterproof pants and boots, and Viking Excursion Gear, so suiting up is always pleasant and you will always be ready for the next discovery.
Viking Suites
Nordic Junior Suites include our Nordic Balcony and more storage and seating than our Nordic Balcony staterooms, plus an expanded bathroom with extended shower and double sinks. Explorer Suites are 80% larger than junior suites, with two separate rooms, a Nordic Balcony and private veranda, spacious bathroom and private access to our Explorer Suites Garden. All suites include welcome champagne, a fully stocked mini-bar, complimentary laundry, priority restaurant reservations and all the amenities of our regular Nordic Balcony staterooms.
Nordic Balcony Staterooms
Our Nordic Balcony is the optimal wildlife observatory at sea. Floor-to-ceiling, distortion-free glass at the very edge of your ship lets you take in the views while keeping the elements out. Should you wish to feel even closer to nature, the top of your panoramic glass lowers to transform your stateroom into a sheltered al fresco lookout, with an observation shelf at elbow level to stabilize binocular viewing or photography. Each stateroom features our king-size Viking Explorer Bed with luxury linens, our floor-to-ceiling drying closet for your Viking Expedition Kit, and elegant bathroom with a spacious shower, heated floor and premium amenities.
Owner's Suite
- Largest suite on board: 1,223 sq. ft. with a 792 sq. ft. private garden lounge area with badestamp
- All amenities of the Explorer Suite, plus:
- Priority stateroom access
- Floor-to-ceiling drying closet
- Four guaranteed priority reservations at each alternative restaurant (100 days prior to departure)
- First priority expedition activity reservations (107 days prior to departure)
- First priority booking of spa treatments (100 days prior to departure)
- Dinner & guided tour with ship officers (subject to availability)
- Large master bathroom, plus one guest bathroom
- Separate dining area/board room that seats six guests
- Private library, wine & music collections curated by Chairman Torstein Hagen
- And more; ask for details
Features
- Double or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Shower
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
Explorer Suite
Size including Nordic Balcony & private veranda: 580 sq. ft.
- 11 AM stateroom access
- Floor-to-ceiling drying closet
- Priority expedition activity reservations (97 days prior to departure)
- Three guaranteed priority reservations at each alternative restaurant (90 days prior to departure)
- Priority booking of spa treatments (90 days prior to departure)
- Mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water & snacks, replenished once daily
- In-suite binoculars, coffee & Marius-weave blanket
- Laundry, dry cleaning, pressing & shoe shine services
- Welcome bottle of champagne
- Exclusive access to shared Explorer Suite private garden lounge area
Features
- Double or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Shower
- Free Mini Bar
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
Nordic Junior Suite
Size including Nordic Balcony: 322 sq ft
- 11 AM stateroom access
- Floor-to-ceiling drying closet
- Priority expedition activity reservations (87 days prior to departure)
- Three guaranteed priority reservations at each alternative restaurant (80 days prior to departure)
- Priority booking of spa treatments (80 days prior to departure)
- Mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water & snacks, replenished once daily
- In-suite binoculars, coffee & Marius-weave blanket
- Laundry, dry cleaning, pressing & shoe shine services
- Bottle of champagne
Features
- Double or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Shower
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
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Nordic Penthouse
Size including Nordic Balcony: 269 sq ft
- 1 PM stateroom access
- Floor-to-ceiling drying closet
- Priority expedition activity reservations (77 days prior to departure)
- Two guaranteed priority reservations at each alternative restaurant (70 days prior to departure)
- Priority booking of spa treatments (70 days prior to departure)
- Mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water & snacks, replenished once daily
- In-suite binoculars, coffee & Marius-weave blanket
- Pressing & shoe shine services
- Bottle of champagne
Features
- Double or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Shower
- TV
- Safe
- Telephone
- Desk
Deluxe Nordic Balcony
Size including Nordic Balcony: 222 sq ft
- 2 PM stateroom access
- Floor-to-ceiling drying closet
- Priority expedition activity reservations (67 days prior to departure)
- One guaranteed priority reservation at each alternative restaurant (60 days prior to departure)
- Priority booking of spa treatments (60 days prior to departure)
- Mini-bar with soft drinks, water & snacks, replenished once daily
- In-suite binoculars, coffee & Marius-weave blanket
Features
- Double or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Shower
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
Nordic Balcony
Size including Nordic Balcony: 222 sq ft
- 3 PM stateroom access
- Floor-to-ceiling drying closet
- Expedition activity reservations (60 days prior to departure)
- Mini-bar with soft drinks, water & snacks
- In-suite binoculars & Marius-weave blanket
Features
- Double or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Shower
- TV
- Safe
- Telephone
- Desk
Deck plans
Deck A
- The Hangar
- Medical Center
- Embarkation
- Lifts
Deck 1
- The Hangar
- The Science Lab
- Manfredi's Italian Restaurant
- Guest Services
- Bathrooms
- The Hide
- The Restaurant
- Lifts
Deck 2
- The Aula
- Hair Salon
- Fitness Center
- The Nordic Spa
- Finse Terrace
- Expedition Central
- Lifts
- Nordic Balcony Staterooms
Deck 3
- The Aula (upper level)
- The Nordic Shop
- Travel Consultant
- The Shelter
- The Bow
- Deluxe Nordic Balcony
- Lifts
Deck 4
- Explorers' Lounge
- Bar
- Deluxe Nordic Balcony
- Nordic Junior Suite
- Nordic Penthouse
- Lifts
Deck 5
- Aquavit Terrace
- The Pools
- Bar
- World Cafe
- Mamsen's
- Promenade Deck
- Bar
- The Living Room
- The Library
- Explorers' Lounge
Deck 6
- Owner's Suite & Garden
- Explorer's Suite & Garden
- Open Deck
- Bridge
- Lifts
Ship facts
Passengers
378
Crew
260
Launched
2022
Last refit
Tonnage
30150t
Length
205m
Width
21
Speed
18kts
Decks
6
Wheelchair cabins
No
Currency
EUR
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