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From the Arctic to Antarctica

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 Cruise Length
44 Days
 Cruise Starts
Tromso
 Cruise Finishes
Ushuaia
Cruise Line
Viking
Ship
Passengers
378
Crew
260
Launched
2022
Cruise Code
VKFAA

Overview

Traverse the globe from the far north to the extreme south on this ultimate global journey. Start in Norway’s northernmost town and continue past rugged peaks and quaint fishing villages to rolling landscapes of Scotland’s Shetland Islands and Ireland’s green shores. Next, cross the equator on your trans-Atlantic voyage to arrive in Rio de Janeiro, then further on to Buenos Aires and finally—to the “Last Continent”—to be amazed by the otherworldly scenery, pristine nature and abundant penguins, seals and other wildlife few will ever see.

Itinerary

Search for wildlife as you sail by RIB across turquoise seas that contrast the barren mountains and red-hued homes of fishermen that dot the landscape. Vaerøy has the mildest climate in the Arctic Circle and is a bird-watchers' paradise. Immerse yourself in nature as you witness sea eagles, puffins, cormorants and other species while you explore the Lofoten Islands and its surroundings from your Viking Expedition ship.

As you cruise to our next port of call, spend the day savoring the amenities of what your ship has to offer. Indulge in Nordic-inspired spa treatments in The Nordic Spa, join a yoga session in the gym, listen to an enriching lecture or watch a documentary on our giant screen in The Aula theater.

The Shetland Islands archipelago is characterized by cultural traditions and dramatic landscapes. Drive through a rolling countryside, come face-to-face with Shetland ponies, explore the ruins at Jarlshof, perfect your photography techniques or join a hike through an incredibly scenic land. Experience the destination with one of our many included Viking exploration activities.

Discover a dramatic island landscape, Gaelic culture and historic traditions. Although it may sound like two separate islands, Lewis and Harris are actually two parts of one island, with Stornoway, the largest town of the island group, located on the east coast. As you arrive, you will soon be amazed by the ever-changing mix of terrain; from mountains and lunar-like rocky plateaus to meadows, rugged coastlines and white-sand beaches.

Known as 'The Cradle of Christianity' in Scotland, the tiny island of Iona is home to little more than 100 permanent residents. Visit this sacred isle and its 12th-century abbey, believed to be the origin of the Book of Kells. Learn about the age-old tradition of hand-weaving wool and create your own fabric of the Hebrides.

Killybegs is a natural harbor and the largest fishing port in Ireland. You can see many fishing boats, carrying freshly caught fish, in port from all over the world. The town has also long been associated with the tweed and knitwear industries. Since the 19th century, this trade became a cottage industry featuring homespun yarn as well as hand-dyed woolen and tweed textiles.

The island of Inis Mór (Inishmore), meaning the big island, is one of Ireland's most-visited destinations. It is internationally renowned with more than 50 different monuments of Christian, pre-Christian and Celtic mythological heritage. Hike or bike along island trails as you explore the fortress and other historic sites.

Dingle is known for its rugged scenery, hiking trails and sandy beaches. The peninsula is dominated by the range of mountains that form its spine, running from the Slieve Mish Mountains to Mount Brandon, Ireland's second highest peak. Admire stunning scenery during a kayaking trip or explore the quaint harbor in the heart of Ventry.

According to Arthurian legend, the Isles of Scilly are all that remain of Lyonnesse, a land off Cornwall that vanished beneath the Atlantic. Meander through Tresco Abbey Gardens, where an astounding variety of subtropical plants flourish. Or explore Peninnis Head, a headland which is within the Isles of Scilly Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Ireland's charismatic second city is brimming with charm and has a long-standing history of challenging claims to authority, earning it the nickname of 'Rebel City.' In Kinsale, discover Cork's well-known culinary scene. Or visit Blarney Castle; kissing the Blarney Stone will bring the gift of eloquence.

Enjoy a second day along the banks of the Lee River, with time to explore Cork's well-known culinary scene. Visit the Jameson Distillery Midleton for a behind-the-scenes look at the world of whiskey, complete with a sampling of this famous spirit. Or, travel through the emerald countryside to the seaside town of Kinsale for an opportunity to sample delicious local cuisine.

Attend lectures by Viking Resident Scientists; cross the equator into the Southern Hemisphere. Learn more about oceanic currents and ecosystems as you travel across the world's second-largest ocean.

The Cidade Maravilhosa, or 'Marvelous City,' is blessed with a stunning setting so unique that UNESCO gave it World Heritage Site status. Gaze at the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue perched atop Corcovado mountain and admire the azure-blue waters as they lap against the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. Take a cable car to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain and marvel at the panoramic vistas below.

Enjoy a second day to discover more of Rio de Janeiro and its beautiful surroundings. Hike a steep trail to the summit of looming Morro Dois Irmãos, where sweeping views of Rio await. Paddle by kayak to Cotunduba Island, along the way getting a water-level perspective of the city's many iconic landmarks.

Cruise to idyllic Ilha do Mel, where you can enjoy a rainforest hike to the Encantadas Cave or take in the striking ocean vistas of Praia de Fora. Or, explore the biodiversity of the Atlantic Forest while hiking the Salto Morato Natural Heritage Reserve.

Enjoy your Viking Expedition vessel as you cruise the South Atlantic Ocean. Relax, mingle with fellow travelers and share your experiences.

Argentina's capital is a vibrant and eclectic mix of Latin and European influences. Enjoy an overnight stay to explore the city and spend the evening savoring a three-course Argentine dinner during a home-hosted visit with a local resident. Or depart Buenos Aires to enjoy an overland tour to marvel at the natural beauty of the magnificent Iguazú Falls.

Enjoy more of Buenos Aires as you bike through its expansive system of parklands, through historic neighborhoods such as Recoleta and past iconic landmarks. You can also get a bird's-eye view of the city during a panoramic helicopter ride that will take you north to Tigre, gateway to the Paraná Delta, and south over the colorful neighborhood of La Boca.

Uruguay's capital city boasts perhaps the highest quality of living of any city in South America. Rich in parks, sweeping vistas and architectural styles, Montevideo is blessed with a subtropical climate, guaranteeing warm summers and mild winters. Discover the iconic monuments and historic residences.

While cruising to our next port of call, you can spend the day learning more about oceanic currents and ecosystems as you travel across the world's second-largest ocean. Join the Viking Resident Scientists to deepen your understanding of our planet.

While cruising to our next port of call, you can spend the day learning more about oceanic currents and ecosystems as you travel across the world's second-largest ocean. Join the Viking Resident Scientists to deepen your understanding of our planet.

More than 300 miles off the coast of South America lies the rugged archipelago of the Falkland Islands. Some 60 distinct bird species breed on the islands, including five different species of penguins and some of the world's largest colonies of albatross. Spend two days exploring these sparsely inhabited islands; a canvas of unspoiled nature and diverse fauna.

Spend an additional day exploring these remote islands, viewing stunning wildlife up close. See the gentoo penguin, with a vivid white stripe across its head and a bright orange bill. You will soon discover why the Falkland Islands refer to themselves as the 'Penguin Capital of the World.'

Named after its discoverer, Sir Francis Drake, this legendary route takes you from the tip of South America into the Antarctic Convergence, where sea temperatures plunge to near freezing in just a few hours' sailing. Here, in the solitary beauty of the Southern Ocean, you may glimpse your first iceberg. Relax, enjoy one of many onboard dining options and take part in briefings by your Viking Expeditions Team as you prepare for the adventures ahead.

Explore the 'Last Continent,' covered in ice and teeming with penguins, seals, whales and other wildlife. On exposed land, colorful lichens, basalt cliffs and rocky beaches provide refuge for a variety of breeding petrels and penguins. Stand within sight of Antarctica's majestic mountains. Watch glaciers calve into the sea while seals nap and penguins squabble as they tend to their stony nests. From the comfort of your ship, simply marvel at the majesty of your surroundings.

Bid farewell to Antarctica by again crossing the Drake Passage, a rite of passage for all polar explorers. As you sail, you may wish to learn more about this historic waterway, continue your studies about Antarctica, simply relax in The Nordic Spa or share your experiences with fellow guests in the Aquavit Bar.

Often referred to as the 'End of the Earth,' Ushuaia is the world's southernmost city. Depart Ushuaia by charter flight to Buenos Aires. Continue your journey home or choose to explore more with one of our post-cruise land extension packages.

Life Onboard Viking Polaris

Viking Polaris
Viking Polaris

Launched in 2022, the Viking Polaris is Vikings' newest expedition ship, part of a fleet of award winning, state of the art ships built for exploration in sensitive environments. Read more

The Thinking Person's Cruise
The Thinking Person's Cruise

Viking are destination experts. With no casinos or children on board, you can be assured that the focus is firmly on enrichment and education. Read more

And Relax
And Relax

After a day of exploration or just to enhance the relaxation of a day at sea, the on-board Spa will leave you feeling recharged and revitalized. Read more

Best Dining Options at Sea
Best Dining Options at Sea

Viking offer six on board dining options. Beer, wine and soft drinks are available with lunch and dinner at no additional charge of fee. Read more

All Inclusive
All Inclusive

Viking proudly includes all that you need and nothing you do not. A variety of features and services are standard inclusions on your cruise. Read more

Expedition Experiences
Expedition Experiences

Viking include one complimentary shore excursion in every port of call. Enjoy included experiences around the world. Read more

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Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Viking. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Viking. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.