Viking Octantis Reviews & Sailings | CruiseHuddle - CruiseHuddle

Viking Octantis Cruises & Community

Connect with fellow travelers on Viking's ice-strengthened expedition ship exploring remote ocean destinations.

Viking Octantis

The Story

The Viking Octantis represents Viking Ocean Cruises' bold entry into expedition cruising, offering an intimate way to explore some of the world's most remote ocean destinations. Launched in 2021, this purpose-built expedition vessel combines Viking's signature Scandinavian design with ice-strengthened VARD-6 hull construction, allowing it to venture into polar and remote regions that traditional cruise ships cannot reach.

With a capacity of just 378 passengers and 30,150 gross tons, the Viking Octantis delivers an uncrowded expedition experience without sacrificing comfort. The ship features specialized expedition equipment including submarines and Zodiacs for close-up exploration, while maintaining the elegant public spaces and all-veranda staterooms Viking is known for. The ice-strengthened hull and advanced maneuvering systems enable safe navigation through challenging waters, opening up itineraries to Antarctica, the Great Lakes, and other expedition-style destinations.

This ship appeals to curious travelers who want to explore beyond typical cruise ports while enjoying refined amenities and expert-led enrichment programs. The smaller size creates an intimate atmosphere where passengers can easily connect with fellow explorers and expedition staff. Whether you're drawn to polar wildlife, dramatic coastal landscapes, or remote island cultures, the Viking Octantis provides a sophisticated base for ocean expedition adventures.

Connect with other Viking Octantis cruisers on CruiseHuddle to share cabin tips, excursion recommendations, and expedition experiences from this unique vessel.

Onboard Highlights

🔬

The Science Lab

A dedicated onboard laboratory lets guests join real research alongside embedded scientists and specialists.

🛶

Expedition Launch Hangar

Special ops boats and kayaks deploy from an in-ship marina for up-close polar and coastal exploration.

🍽️

The Restaurant

The main dining venue serves refined multi-course menus with panoramic views of passing seascapes.

🍜

Mamsen's Comfort Kitchen

This cozy Norwegian-inspired eatery serves waffles, soups, and family recipes from the Viking founder's mother.

🧖

Nordic Spa Circuit

A snow grotto, sauna, and infinity plunge pool create a Scandinavian-style thermal wellness experience.

🥂

Explorers' Lounge

Floor-to-ceiling windows and globe-inspired decor make this lounge an elegant spot for evening cocktails.

By the Numbers

Ship Specifications

📅 Year Built

2021

👥 Passengers

378

👨‍✈️ Crew

260

🏢 Decks

7

🛏️ Cabins

189

⚖️ Gross Tonnage

30150 gt

📏 Length

203 m / 666 ft

↔️ Beam

24 m / 79 ft

⚡ Speed

18 kn / 33 km/h / 21 mph

🏳️ Flag

Norway

🔧 Builder

VARD shipyards (Tulcea Romania and Soviknes-Alesund Norway)

🏷️ Ship Class

ice-strengthened expedition ship (VARD-6)

🎀 Christened By

Liv Arnesen

⚓ Sister Ships

Viking Polaris

Questions

Viking Octantis is an ice-strengthened expedition ship designed for remote destinations. It features specialized equipment like submarines and Zodiacs for exploration, plus hull reinforcement that allows safe navigation through polar waters and challenging conditions that standard cruise ships cannot handle.
Viking Octantis accommodates 378 passengers, creating an intimate expedition experience. This smaller capacity allows for more personalized service, easier embarkation for shore excursions via Zodiac, and a close-knit community atmosphere among travelers exploring remote destinations together.
Viking Octantis specializes in expedition-style ocean itineraries to remote regions including Antarctica, the Great Lakes, and other destinations requiring ice-strengthened capabilities. These voyages focus on wildlife viewing, scenic cruising through dramatic landscapes, and accessing ports beyond the reach of conventional ships.
The ship features two submarines for underwater exploration, multiple Zodiacs for landings and wildlife viewing, and an expedition team providing lectures and guidance. Despite the expedition focus, Viking Octantis maintains elegant public spaces, all-veranda staterooms, and refined dining venues characteristic of Viking's style.
Viking Octantis was built in 2021, making it one of Viking's newest vessels. As a purpose-built expedition ship, it incorporates modern technology, environmental systems, and safety features specifically designed for navigating remote ocean regions and challenging polar environments.
Beyond the fare

What Viking Ocean Cruises actually costs

These rates apply fleetwide across Viking Ocean Cruises.

Verified July 2026
Gratuities are included in the fare

Unlike most mainstream lines, Viking Ocean Cruises folds crew gratuities into the ticket price — so a fare that looks expensive next to a budget line may not be.

Gratuities included; Viking also includes Wi-Fi, beer/wine at lunch and dinner, and one shore excursion per port.

Published rates, not a quote. Cruise pricing changes frequently — confirm with the cruise line before booking.

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