Viking Mars

Viking Mars joined the fleet in 2022 and shares the elegant, adult-oriented design that runs through every Viking ocean ship. Her appeal is reliability: identical public rooms to her sisters, all-veranda accommodations, a generous included package and a crew trained to Viking’s consistent standard. She feels calm and uncluttered, with no casino, no art auctions and no loud pool-deck parties, which leaves room for reading, lectures and long dinners. Viking Mars has sailed the Mediterranean, northern Europe and longer multi-region voyages, and her steady, unfussy rhythm makes her a good pick for extended time at sea.

Best for: Couples and solo travelers who want a peaceful, no-surprises ship for a long or multi-region voyage.

Viking is an adults-only (18+) cruise line for curious travelers, running river cruises in Europe, Egypt, Asia and the US alongside small, elegant ocean and expedition ships. Fares include a shore excursion in every port, wine and beer with meals, Wi-Fi and specialty dining, and there are no casinos, kids or upsell-heavy extras. It suits older, culturally minded travelers, less so anyone wanting nightlife or family fun.