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Viking Unveils 80-Voyage Ocean Program for 2028-29

Viking’s long-range schedule shows how premium cruise lines are betting on culturally focused routes and deeper regional coverage to capture demand beyond peak-season Europe.

Updated August 10, 2026

Viking has opened its 2028-29 ocean voyages for booking, with more than 700 new departure dates across 80 voyages calling at 301 ports in 84 countries and six continents. Viking describes the program, which runs from May 2028 through September 2029, as its largest ocean deployment to date.

Season scope: 80 voyages across six continents

Viking's deployment spans Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, North America and Alaska, South America, Australia, and the Caribbean. The company said the itineraries continue its approach of pairing new destinations with ports recognized for cultural and historical significance, including UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Voyages range from eight-day itineraries to extended World Voyages, and some are designed to be combined for longer trips.

"With our largest ocean deployment to date, we are pleased to offer guests even more opportunities to explore the world in Viking comfort," said Leah Talactac, president and chief executive officer of Viking. "From new itineraries to our two newest ocean ships, this deployment reflects our continued commitment to providing destination-focused voyages for curious travelers," added Talactac.

Two new itineraries headline Alaska and the Mediterranean

The 2028-29 schedule adds two new voyages: Alaskan Fjords & the Inside Passage and Mediterranean, Malta & North Africa.

Alaskan Fjords & the Inside Passage adds new calls for Viking

The new 15-day itinerary Alaskan Fjords & the Inside Passage will operate one-way from Vancouver to Whittier on Viking Orion and Viking Venus. Viking said the sailing adds Klawock and Yakutat Bay as destinations new to its Alaska program, while also calling at Ketchikan, Wrangell, Haines, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Valdez, Homer, Seward, and Kodiak.

Mediterranean, Malta & North Africa features an overnight in Valletta

Viking's new 16-day Mediterranean, Malta & North Africa itinerary sails roundtrip from Rome and includes an overnight stay in Valletta, Malta, giving passengers more time ashore in the UNESCO-listed city. Viking said the voyage also calls at ports across the region, including stops in Morocco, Italy, and the French Riviera.

Additional Japan Discovery departures scheduled for summer 2028 and 2029

Viking also expanded its Asia offering by adding departures of its Japan Discovery itinerary in the summers of 2028 and 2029. The 15-day cruise sails roundtrip from Tokyo, visits nine destinations, and is scheduled to operate on Viking Neptune. The company tied the added sailings to early passenger response after the itinerary was introduced.

Fleet additions tied to the 2028-29 deployment window

Viking's program coincides with new capacity arriving before and during the 2028-29 season. The deployment details reference three ocean newbuilds under construction at Fincantieri — Viking Libra, Viking Astrea, and Viking Lyra — scheduled to enter service between 2026 and 2028.

Two additional ocean ships, Viking Leda and Viking Vega, are expected to join the fleet during the deployment period. Each ship will measure 54,300 gross tons and accommodate 998 guests in 499 all-veranda staterooms. Viking said the ships will feature Scandinavian design, light-filled public spaces, and outdoor dining options.

Hydrogen-powered ships planned for 2027 and 2028

Viking said Viking Astrea and Viking Lyra are set to be the cruise industry's first hydrogen-powered ships, with planned introductions in 2027 and 2028. The company said the vessels are intended to operate with zero emissions using containerized fuel technology.

Anniversary Sale runs through August 31

Viking's Anniversary Sale is available to North American travelers through August 31, 2026. The offer includes reduced fares and up to free international airfare on select all-inclusive river, ocean, and expedition itineraries, along with a $25 deposit for all itineraries.

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