Viking Unveils New 2026-2027 World Cruise Itineraries
Viking (NYSE: VIK) has unveiled its highly anticipated 2026-2027 World Cruise itineraries, offering travelers an extraordinary opportunity to embark on a grand journey around the globe. Among the exciting offerings is the Viking World Voyage III, a remarkable 170-day adventure that spans six continents, explores 41 countries, and includes 82 guided tours with overnight stays in 18 cities. Set to depart from Fort Lauderdale on December 22, 2026, this immersive experience aboard Viking’s award-winning 930-guest ship, the Viking Sky®, will culminate in Stockholm on June 10, 2027.
According to Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking, the company’s philosophy has always centered on destination-focused travel, ensuring that guests can experience the world in an enriching and immersive way. “Our approach in everything we do has always been to focus on the destination, from our thoughtfully curated itineraries to our elegant small ships, which are designed to bring guests closer and enable exploration,” Hagen stated. “Extended voyages like our World Cruises allow curious travelers to experience dozens of destinations, iconic landmarks, and rich cultures in one seamless journey, making them truly the adventures of a lifetime.”
A Global Journey Unlike Any Other
Guests embarking on Viking’s 2026-2027 World Cruise can look forward to visiting some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations, each offering a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance. The voyage will take travelers to Hawaii, the South Pacific, New Zealand, Australia, Asia, and Africa before concluding in Europe.
For those looking for a shorter expedition, Viking also offers alternative itineraries that provide similarly immersive experiences:
- Viking World Voyage IV (153 days): Departs from Los Angeles on January 8, 2027, visiting 37 countries with 18 overnight stays, ending in Stockholm.
- Viking World Cruise 2026-2027 (142 days): Travels from Fort Lauderdale to London, covering 31 countries.
- Viking World Discoveries (125 days): Departs from Los Angeles, visiting 27 countries before reaching London.
Highlights of Viking’s 2026-2027 World Cruise Itineraries
Viking’s newest World Cruise itineraries combine visits to iconic metropolises and hidden gems, ensuring a dynamic and diverse journey. These itineraries feature extended stays in notable destinations such as Sydney, Zanzibar, Cape Town, Casablanca, and Lisbon, allowing travelers to fully immerse themselves in the local culture.
Additionally, the itinerary introduces stops along Africa’s western coast, including Lagos, Nigeria, as well as Accra and Takoradi in Ghana, providing a unique opportunity to explore the rich histories and traditions of these regions.
Onboard, Viking’s Resident Historian® program enhances the journey with expert-led lectures and cultural presentations, ensuring guests gain deeper insight into the destinations they visit. Moreover, travelers can enjoy Privileged Access® experiences, which provide exclusive entry to renowned cultural institutions and historic sites.
Destinations to Remember
The 2026-2027 Viking World Cruise promises an incredible variety of destinations, each offering its own unique history, culture, and natural wonders. Some of the standout stops along the journey include:
Kauai (Nawiliwili), Hawaii
Often referred to as “The Garden Island,” Kauai is the oldest and greenest of the Hawaiian Islands. Lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches define this breathtaking destination. Unlike the more developed Hawaiian islands, Kauai maintains a deep connection to its ancient traditions, and strict building ordinances ensure that its natural beauty remains unspoiled. Visitors can hike through verdant landscapes, explore historic sites, and experience the unique mana (spiritual energy) of the island.
Cairns, Australia
Located in Queensland, Cairns serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the largest continuous coral reef system in the world. Guests can embark on excursions to snorkel or dive among vibrant marine life or venture inland to explore the Daintree Rainforest and Kuranda National Parks, home to diverse ecosystems and rare wildlife. Cairns itself is a lively coastal city, offering a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor markets, and waterfront promenades.
Mombasa, Kenya
A historic trading hub, Mombasa is a melting pot of African, Middle Eastern, and European influences. Its old town is characterized by ornate Swahili architecture, historic mosques, and bustling markets. As Kenya’s chief port, Mombasa remains a vital economic center, but its appeal extends beyond commerce—travelers can explore Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or take in the natural beauty of nearby beaches and marine parks.
Agadir, Morocco
Located along the Atlantic coast, Agadir is known for its vibrant Amazigh culture. The Indigenous Amazigh people (also called Berbers) have a rich history that predates the arrival of Arab influences in North Africa. Visitors to Agadir can enjoy stunning beaches, bustling souks, and traditional music and dance performances. The nearby Atlas Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for excursions into remote villages where centuries-old customs endure.
Phuket, Thailand
Phuket’s pristine beaches and lush landscapes make it a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration. Once a major trade stop between India and China, Phuket was historically known as Junk Ceylon by early explorers. The island’s history is reflected in its Sino-Portuguese architecture and diverse culinary traditions. Visitors can explore Buddhist temples, take part in traditional cooking classes, or sail through the stunning Phang Nga Bay.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s rich maritime history dates back to the Age of Discovery, when Portuguese explorers set sail to chart the unknown. The city’s cobblestone streets, historic tram lines, and picturesque waterfront create an old-world charm that captivates visitors. Highlights include the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the vibrant Alfama District, where guests can enjoy traditional fado music while savoring local cuisine.
London (Greenwich), England
Greenwich, home to the Royal Observatory, is famous for being the location of the Prime Meridian, which sets the global time standard. Travelers can visit the historic Cutty Sark, one of the last surviving tea clipper ships, or venture into central London to see Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London. The city offers a fascinating blend of history, modern innovation, and world-class entertainment.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm, known as the Venice of the North, is an elegant city spread across 14 islands connected by graceful bridges. Its well-preserved medieval old town, Gamla Stan, is a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and charming cafés. Stockholm is also home to impressive museums, royal palaces, and scenic waterfront esplanades, making it the perfect final destination for Viking’s grand voyage.
Viking’s Award-Winning Fleet
Viking continues to set industry standards with its exceptional fleet, earning top accolades across multiple categories. In the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, Viking was ranked #1 for Oceans, #1 for Rivers, and #1 for Expeditions. It was also recognized as a “World’s Best” by Travel + Leisure’s 2024 Awards, making it the only travel company to achieve such honors two years in a row. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report named Viking the Best Luxury Line, Best Line for Couples, and Best Line in the Mediterranean for the fourth consecutive year.
With its unparalleled focus on destination-driven travel, immersive experiences, and elegant small ships, Viking’s 2026-2027 World Cruise promises to be an adventure of a lifetime, redefining global exploration for discerning travelers.