Viking Octantis

Viking Octantis launched Viking’s expedition line in 2022, combining the comfort of the ocean ships with a polar-class hull and serious exploration gear. Her most distinctive space is The Hangar, an enclosed marina at water level where guests board Zodiacs and special operations boats without climbing down an outside gangway. She carries two six-guest submarines, a science laboratory and a large expedition team. Viking Octantis sails Antarctica in the austral summer and has also sailed the Great Lakes, an unusual combination that lets you see two very different wildernesses on the same ship.

Best for: Comfort-loving explorers who want Antarctica or the Great Lakes with scientists and submarines, not roughing it.

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.