Name: Mediterranean Explorer
Brand: Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking began as a river cruise line and entered the ocean-cruise market with the launch of the 930-guest Viking Star.

Viking has already made an indelible mark on the sector with its fleet of stylish, near-identical, adult-only ships.

The cruise line currently has 10 ships in its fleet.

Cruise Itinerary

Days 1-2

Lisbon

In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.

Day 3

Leixões

Nestled along Portugal's picturesque coastline, Leixoes beckons with its maritime legacy. Once a bustling fishing village, it evolved into a vibrant port city, etching its name in seafaring lore. The climate here, with its gentle sea breezes and mild temperatures, creates an idyllic setting for exploration. Unlike typical tourist destinations, Leixoes offers an authentic glimpse into Portuguese coastal life, where locals mingle with visitors in quaint cafes and seafood eateries. Beyond its charming streets, Leixoes boasts one of Europe's largest cruise terminals, serving as a gateway to Portugal's enchanting cities and historic landmarks, making it an essential port of call for discerning travelers.

Day 4

La Coruña

Day 5

Bilbao

Bilbao, once an industrial heartland, has transformed into a hub of modern architecture and art, exemplified by the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The climate here is temperate and inviting, with mild temperatures that make year-round visits pleasant. Cruise lines such as Norwegian and Holland America offer excursions that allow travelers to explore not just the famous museum, but also lesser-known areas like the historic Casco Viejo, or Old Quarter, providing a more rounded glimpse into Bilbao's rejuvenation and traditions. Interestingly, Bilbao is also known for its unique linguistic contribution, being a stronghold of the Basque language, which predates most European languages and adds a layer of mystique to this vibrant city.

Days 6-7

Bordeaux

Ships dock close to the centre, making it easy to explore on foot. The UNESCO-listed old town is packed with neoclassical buildings, lively cafés and riverside walks. Landmarks like Place de la Bourse, the water mirror and the gothic cathedral are all within easy reach.Bordeaux is also home to La Cité du Vin, a futuristic wine museum with interactive exhibits and a panoramic tasting area. You can also hop on a tram to explore the Chartrons district, once home to wine merchants and full of vintage shop and galleries.Cruise excursions might include vineyard visits, bike tours or food tastings. Some itineraries even offer evening moorings here so you can enjoy dinner in town or take a night-time stroll along the Garonne.

Day 8

Ships dock close to the centre, making it easy to explore on foot. The UNESCO-listed old town is packed with neoclassical buildings, lively cafés and riverside walks. Landmarks like Place de la Bourse, the water mirror and the gothic cathedral are all within easy reach.Bordeaux is also home to La Cité du Vin, a futuristic wine museum with interactive exhibits and a panoramic tasting area. You can also hop on a tram to explore the Chartrons district, once home to wine merchants and full of vintage shop and galleries.Cruise excursions might include vineyard visits, bike tours or food tastings. Some itineraries even offer evening moorings here so you can enjoy dinner in town or take a night-time stroll along the Garonne.

Day 9

Honfleur

Honfleur is one of Normandy’s most charming ports, often topping the list of favourite stops on Seine cruises. Set on the estuary where the Seine meets the Channel, Honfleur’s appeal lies in its narrow cobbled streets, slate-fronted houses and historic harbour.The Vieux Bassin, or Old Dock, is the heart of Honfleur, with its tall, narrow buildings and the cafés and galleries that line the quay. Nearby, the Church of Sainte-Catherine, built in the 15th century, is one of France’s few remaining wooden churches.Honfleur’s artistic heritage is another draw. Painters, including Monet and Boudin, were inspired by the town.

Day 10

Dover

Dover, famed for its iconic white cliffs, is steeped in a past that stretches back to Roman times, offering visitors a living glimpse into England's strategic importance through the centuries. Cruise lines like Holland America and Princess Cruises frequently utilize Dover as a port of call due to its historical significance and proximity to unique attractions. The temperate climate makes it an ideal stop for exploring the lush landscapes and historic sites at a comfortable pace. Dover Castle, a commanding presence over the town, provides panoramic views and tales of ancient fortifications. A unique tidbit about Dover is its wartime tunnels, hidden beneath the castle, which played a crucial role during World War II.

Days 11-12

London (Greenwich)

At the heart of London's labyrinthine streets lies a tapestry of tales spun through the ages. From the grandeur of Buckingham Palace to the cobblestone alleys of the East End, every corner whispers secrets of kings and commoners alike. The city's temperate climate offers respite from extremes, allowing leisurely exploration year-round. Dive into the authentic pulse of London's markets, where the aroma of freshly baked pies mingles with the chatter of vendors. For those seeking serenity, Hyde Park's tranquil lakes beckon, providing a sanctuary amidst the urban bustle. And did you know? London is home to the world's oldest underground railway, a testament to its pioneering spirit.

Days 1-2

Lisbon

In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.

Day 3

Leixões

Nestled along Portugal's picturesque coastline, Leixoes beckons with its maritime legacy. Once a bustling fishing village, it evolved into a vibrant port city, etching its name in seafaring lore. The climate here, with its gentle sea breezes and mild temperatures, creates an idyllic setting for exploration. Unlike typical tourist destinations, Leixoes offers an authentic glimpse into Portuguese coastal life, where locals mingle with visitors in quaint cafes and seafood eateries. Beyond its charming streets, Leixoes boasts one of Europe's largest cruise terminals, serving as a gateway to Portugal's enchanting cities and historic landmarks, making it an essential port of call for discerning travelers.

Day 4

La Coruña

Day 5

Bilbao

Bilbao, once an industrial heartland, has transformed into a hub of modern architecture and art, exemplified by the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The climate here is temperate and inviting, with mild temperatures that make year-round visits pleasant. Cruise lines such as Norwegian and Holland America offer excursions that allow travelers to explore not just the famous museum, but also lesser-known areas like the historic Casco Viejo, or Old Quarter, providing a more rounded glimpse into Bilbao's rejuvenation and traditions. Interestingly, Bilbao is also known for its unique linguistic contribution, being a stronghold of the Basque language, which predates most European languages and adds a layer of mystique to this vibrant city.

Days 6-7

Bordeaux

Ships dock close to the centre, making it easy to explore on foot. The UNESCO-listed old town is packed with neoclassical buildings, lively cafés and riverside walks. Landmarks like Place de la Bourse, the water mirror and the gothic cathedral are all within easy reach.Bordeaux is also home to La Cité du Vin, a futuristic wine museum with interactive exhibits and a panoramic tasting area. You can also hop on a tram to explore the Chartrons district, once home to wine merchants and full of vintage shop and galleries.Cruise excursions might include vineyard visits, bike tours or food tastings. Some itineraries even offer evening moorings here so you can enjoy dinner in town or take a night-time stroll along the Garonne.

Day 8

Bordeaux

Ships dock close to the centre, making it easy to explore on foot. The UNESCO-listed old town is packed with neoclassical buildings, lively cafés and riverside walks. Landmarks like Place de la Bourse, the water mirror and the gothic cathedral are all within easy reach.Bordeaux is also home to La Cité du Vin, a futuristic wine museum with interactive exhibits and a panoramic tasting area. You can also hop on a tram to explore the Chartrons district, once home to wine merchants and full of vintage shop and galleries.Cruise excursions might include vineyard visits, bike tours or food tastings. Some itineraries even offer evening moorings here so you can enjoy dinner in town or take a night-time stroll along the Garonne.

Day 9

Honfleur

Honfleur is one of Normandy’s most charming ports, often topping the list of favourite stops on Seine cruises. Set on the estuary where the Seine meets the Channel, Honfleur’s appeal lies in its narrow cobbled streets, slate-fronted houses and historic harbour.The Vieux Bassin, or Old Dock, is the heart of Honfleur, with its tall, narrow buildings and the cafés and galleries that line the quay. Nearby, the Church of Sainte-Catherine, built in the 15th century, is one of France’s few remaining wooden churches.Honfleur’s artistic heritage is another draw. Painters, including Monet and Boudin, were inspired by the town.

Day 10

Dover

Dover, famed for its iconic white cliffs, is steeped in a past that stretches back to Roman times, offering visitors a living glimpse into England's strategic importance through the centuries. Cruise lines like Holland America and Princess Cruises frequently utilize Dover as a port of call due to its historical significance and proximity to unique attractions. The temperate climate makes it an ideal stop for exploring the lush landscapes and historic sites at a comfortable pace. Dover Castle, a commanding presence over the town, provides panoramic views and tales of ancient fortifications. A unique tidbit about Dover is its wartime tunnels, hidden beneath the castle, which played a crucial role during World War II.

Days 11-12

London (Greenwich)

At the heart of London's labyrinthine streets lies a tapestry of tales spun through the ages. From the grandeur of Buckingham Palace to the cobblestone alleys of the East End, every corner whispers secrets of kings and commoners alike. The city's temperate climate offers respite from extremes, allowing leisurely exploration year-round. Dive into the authentic pulse of London's markets, where the aroma of freshly baked pies mingles with the chatter of vendors. For those seeking serenity, Hyde Park's tranquil lakes beckon, providing a sanctuary amidst the urban bustle. And did you know? London is home to the world's oldest underground railway, a testament to its pioneering spirit.