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Viking Expeditions will begin sailing in January 2022 with its first vessel, Viking Octantis, embarking on voyages to Antarctica and North America’s Great Lakes.

Viking’s arrival to the Great Lakes will bring the newest and most modern expedition vessels ever to explore this region of North America, visiting the states of Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin, as well as the Canadian province of Ontario.

“Created for curious experienced travellers, these expedition itineraries will offer our guests a unique learning opportunity”, said Michelle Black, Viking ANZ Managing Director. “Viking has partnered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), whose scientists will join expeditions in the Great Lakes to conduct research focused on changes in the region’s weather, climate and ecosystems. NOAA scientists may also offer lectures about the Great Lakes’ unique environment to Viking guests during these voyages.

“In addition, every journey will be accompanied by a team of experts, including our Viking Expedition Team and Viking Resident Scientists, ranging from biologists, botanists, geologists, glaciologists, oceanographers and ornithologists to polar experts and researchers. These scientists will work in our onboard Laboratory and offer guests a unique opportunity to learn about and participate in ongoing research”, she said.

The Viking Way of exploration is designed to provide guests with itineraries that feature our signature Local Life, Working World and Privileged Access experiences.

Sample shore excursions for the Great Lakes itineraries may include

  • Georgian Bay, Canada – With a Viking Resident Scientists, study photographs taken during excursions into the bay to better understand bird migration patterns across the islands.
  • Apostle Islands, Wisconsin, USA  – Discover the spectacular array of sea caves that honeycomb Bayfield Peninsula’s cliffs by kayak.
  • Houghton, Michigan, USA – Discover the geological features that created the world’s richest copper ore deposits in the Keweenaw Peninsula.
  • Point Pelee, Ontario, Canada – Beach a zodiac on the purple-tinted sands of the spit, then embark on a scientist-led hike to discover the various habitats and local wildlife which call Point-Pelee home.

America’s Great Lakes are a little known, unspoilt wonderland boasting diverse natural beauty, scenic wildlife and unique indigenous cultures. Core itineraries in the Great Lakes program include:

  • Undiscovered Great Lakes (8 days; Thunder Bay, Ontario to Milwaukee) – From Northern forests to pristine lagoons, encounter the natural splendour of the Great Lakes. Visit bald eagle and bear habitats that abut charming frontier towns in this remote region of North America; and pass between Lake Superior and Lake Huron via the impressive Soo Locks. Multiple sailing dates between May and September 2022. Inaugural pricing starts at AUD$9,395 per person, twin share.
  • Great Lakes Explorer (8 days; Milwaukee to Thunder Bay, Ontario) – Embark on a true expedition along “the nation’s fourth seacoast,” from Georgian Bay’s granite islands to Thunder Bay’s towering cliffs. Experience the car-free idyllic Mackinac Island, and learn about indigenous cultures and frontier life along the way. Multiple sailing dates between May and September 2022. Inaugural pricing starts at AUD$9,095 per person, twin share.
  • Niagara & The Great Lakes (8 days; Toronto to Milwaukee) – From urban skylines to uninhabited islands, discover the wilderness nestled in the interior of North America alongside world-class cultural attractions in Detroit, Toronto and Milwaukee. Witness the majesty of Niagara Falls, and enjoy scenic cruising past North America’s busiest border as you cross Lake Huron. Multiple sailing dates in April, May, June, July and September 2022. Inaugural pricing starts at AUD$8,495 per person, twin share.
  • Canadian Discovery (13 days; New York to Toronto) – Cruise from Canada’s southeast coast to the St. Lawrence River, where you will learn about the region’s rich past amid stunning natural settings and celebrated cities. Sail along the coasts of New England and Nova Scotia; discover the remote reaches and locally sourced seafood of Prince Edward Island; explore the Saguenay Fjord, home to seals, whales and other sea mammals; and go salmon fishing in Quebec’s Moisie River. Sailing dates in April and October 2022. Inaugural pricing starts at AUD$12,495 per person, twin share.