The Cruise Line Perspective

Before You Go
Before travel, we provide materials to help guests get the most out of their journey, from destination-specific photography advice by professionals to filmographies that inspire wanderlust and recommended reading that enlightens.

On Board
Our enrichment program is designed for the thinking traveler. On board, activities include daily briefings and world-class lectures. Guests can also engage with working scientists in our Science Lab or participate in citizen science programs. On shore, guests can assist in fieldwork or interact through experiential activities, such as helping identify migratory patterns, or accompanying scientists to collect samples.

On Shore
Our shore landings invite guests to engage on a deeper level by assisting in fieldwork or interacting in experiential activities. They might track birds to help identify migratory patterns, walk within view of captivating wildlife, or take a camera or field microscope ashore alongside the expedition leader to capture landscapes untouched by human hands.

The Nordic Spa
Experience the ultimate healthy Scandinavian traditions from the Sauna and Snow Grotto to a relaxing massage.

Badestamp
Following Nordic tradition, our onboard badestamp, a traditional wooden-sided hot tub, is 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.

The Living Room
Located to maximize views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, with a library that informs even the best-read explorers. The ideal setting for relaxation and conversation.

Explorers’ Lounge
Inspired by the trade routes of Vikings, the Explorers’ Lounge is the ideal place for guests to share their discoveries over an aquavit or a craft beer while sampling fine Scandinavian fare. Located high on the ship with floor-to-ceiling windows, the Explorers’ Lounge provides guests an ideal space to take in the magnificent scenery, share discoveries with fellow travelers or to enjoy a drink.

The Pools
A sanctuary of three different temperature pools (caldarium, tepidarium, frigidarium), including an “inside-outside” pass-through swimming experience from which guests can admire the surrounding scenery of vast wilderness—from polar ice fields to coniferous forests.

Aquavit Terrace®
Offering mulled wine, hot chocolate or ship-matured aquavit, the Aquavit Bar is an ideal place to relax with new friends in this Viking-inspired, light-filled space while taking in the stunning beauty that surrounds you.

The Library
Located next to the Explorer’s Lounge Upper Level, the Library is specially curated by London bookshop Heywood Hill and Cambridge University (Scott Polar Research Institute) to enrich and enhance your Expedition experience. Feel free to browse and borrow any of the selections; we only ask that you please return them at the end of your cruise.

Finse Terrace
An outdoor lounge area just above sea level with recessed, heated couches and lava rock “firepits,” the Finse Terrace was designed to allow our guests the comforts of the ship al fresco while enjoying the dramatic scenery. Named after the Finse Plateau in Norway, where some of the greatest polar explorers, including Nansen and Amundsen, did their expedition training in preparation for their North and South Pole expeditions.

The Aula
A stunning panoramic 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, documentaries and films, this spectacular venue features a 4k laser-projected screen that retracts to expose floor-to-ceiling windows and 270° views.

Voted #1 for Rivers, Oceans & Expeditions
We are proud to be the first travel company voted #1 across all three categories simultaneously by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler two years in a row.

Technology & Comfort
Our expedition ships have a dynamic positioning mode that allows them to hover in place when anchoring is difficult, providing guests with more comfortable small craft embarkation for excursions. To further enhance guest comfort, our ships feature both fin stabilizers that reduce rolling while sailing and a U-tank stabilizer that reduces rolling by nearly 50% when the ships are stationary.

Sized for Discovery
Our expedition ships are optimally sized for expeditions: small enough to navigate remote areas, yet large enough to provide speed, superior handling, and stability in the roughest seas. This is the latest in our legacy of award-winning ships including our Viking Longships®, built for Europe’s great rivers, and ocean ships, designed to dock in ports where larger ships cannot.

Designed for Views
With more indoor and outdoor viewing areas than other expedition vessels, guests are as close as possible to the most magnificent scenery on earth. Public rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, and the Aula, our panoramic auditorium, offers 270° views. Staterooms are also designed to maximize observation, from our Nordic Balcony Staterooms to Explorer Suites with verandas and gardens.