VIKING OCTANTIS
The Thinking Person's Expedition. A purpose-built scientific vessel that retains the comfort of Viking's ocean ships while delivering serious exploration capabilities.
- Guests
- 378
- Tonnage
- 30,150
- Launch
- 2022
- Crew
- 256
The Prodigy Verdict
Expedition, Refined.
Viking Octantis is not a converted ferry or a rugged icebreaker; it is a luxury hotel that happens to be Polar Class 6 certified. It brings the familiar "Viking Nordic Comfort" (heated floors, Nordic Spa, Manfredi's) to the ends of the earth. The engineering marvel is "The Hangar," an enclosed marina that allows passengers to board Special Operations Boats (SOBs) inside the ship, shielded from the wind and waves—a game changer for comfort and safety in Antarctica.
- Curious Minds: Guests who want to participate in real science (weather balloon launches, micro-plastic studies).
- Comfort Seekers: Those who want Antarctica without the "roughing it" aspect.
- Submarine Fans: The two yellow subs (Paul and George) are included, no extra charge.
- Balconies: The "Nordic Balcony" is a drop-down window, not a walk-out veranda.
- Pace: It is rigorous. Early wake-ups for landings and late lectures mean it's not a "relax by the pool" trip.
- Age: Strictly 18+. No children or teenagers are allowed on board.
The Science
This ship is a working research platform. Guests are invited to observe and participate in the scientific process.
The Hangar
An enclosed, in-ship marina. It allows you to board zodiacs and Special Operations Boats (SOBs) from a flat, stable surface inside the ship.
The Aula
A stunning panoramic auditorium inspired by the University of Oslo. The glass walls retract to open the room entirely to nature.
Submarines
Octantis carries two six-person submarines. Dives are complimentary (subject to weather) and offer a rare look beneath the ice.
Expedition Central
The hub where guests meet the expedition team, view microscopic samples, and plan the next day's activities.
Nordic Spa
Complimentary for all guests. Features a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, snow grotto, and heated ceramic loungers. Essential after a polar landing.
SOBs
"Special Operations Boats." Military-grade 12-seaters that are fully enclosed and suspended, offering a smoother ride than Zodiacs.
Dining & Provisions
There is no extra charge for any dining venue on Viking Octantis. The quality is uniformly excellent.
Manfredi's
Italian
The best Italian restaurant at sea. The Bistecca Fiorentina (steak) is legendary. Reservations are required but free.
The Restaurant
Main Dining
Fine dining with open seating. The menu changes daily, focusing on regional specialties of the destination.
World Café
Live Cooking
A market-style buffet featuring open kitchens where chefs prepare dishes to order. The "Grill" station prepares fresh seafood perfectly.
Mamsen's
Norwegian Deli
Traditional Norwegian comfort food. Don't miss the heart-shaped waffles with brown cheese and berries for breakfast.
Where It Sails
Viking Octantis is built for polar regions but spends its summers exploring the North American Great Lakes.
- Antarctic Explorer (Ushuaia Roundtrip)
- Great Lakes Collection (Thunder Bay/Milwaukee)
- Longitudinal World Cruise (Pole to Pole)
The Great Lakes voyages are unique because the ship fits through the Welland Canal, allowing it to sail from Toronto to Duluth.
Check Availability
See current pricing for Viking Octantis sailings.
Check DatesAffiliate disclosure: outbound booking links may earn CruiseProdigy a commission.
Cost Reality
Viking has a high sticker price, but it includes almost everything. There is very little nickel-and-diming on board.
- All Dining Venues
- Beer/Wine with Lunch/Dinner
- Nordic Spa Access
- Submarine & SOB Excursions
- Premium Silver Spirits Package
- Kayaking (Optional in some ports)
- Crew Gratuities (added daily)
- Retail Shop Items
Book your submarine dive on "Day 0" via the MyVikingJourney portal. Slots are limited and weather-dependent, so getting an early slot is crucial.
The Vibe Check
Is this ship for you? It is quiet, intellectual, and deeply comfortable.
Think "Floating Library." There are no casinos, no art auctions, and no photographers interrupting dinner. It is serene and educational.
Well-traveled, predominantly 55+, and physically active. Guests are here to learn and explore, not to party.
Ready to explore? Check pricing below.
Cabin Recon
Every cabin is a "Nordic Balcony" stateroom or suite. There are no inside rooms.
Nordic Balcony
Instead of a door, the entire top half of the window winds down. This turns your room into an al fresco space without sacrificing square footage.
Penthouse Junior Suite
Offers significantly more storage and living space. Includes priority booking for excursions and spa treatments, which is key on expedition trips.
Explorer Suite
A true two-room suite with a private garden lounge area. Located at the front or back corners for maximum viewing angles.