How Many Ships Does Viking Cruise Line Have A Complete Fleet Breakdown

Viking Cruise Line operates a fleet of 92 vessels, including 82 river cruise ships and 10 ocean-going vessels, making it one of the largest and most consistent fleets in the industry. With new ships launched annually, Viking continues to expand its global reach, offering modern, Scandinavian-inspired design across both river and ocean itineraries.

Key Takeaways

• Viking operates 90+ ships across ocean, river, and expedition fleets.
• Ocean fleet includes 9 vessels with identical luxury-focused designs.
• 80+ river ships dominate Europe, offering intimate, destination-rich voyages.
• Expedition fleet has 2 ships built for polar and global adventures.
• Ships share Scandinavian design for consistency and premium guest experience.
• Fleet expansion continues with new ships added annually across categories.

How Many Ships Does Viking Cruise Line Have? A Complete Fleet Breakdown

When it comes to river and ocean cruising, few names stand out as boldly as Viking Cruise Line. Known for its Scandinavian design, immersive cultural experiences, and adult-focused itineraries, Viking has rapidly expanded its fleet over the past decade, becoming a dominant player in the luxury cruise market. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, understanding the size and composition of Viking’s fleet can help you choose the perfect ship for your next adventure. So, how many ships does Viking Cruise Line have? The answer is more nuanced than a simple number—it’s a story of growth, innovation, and strategic expansion across multiple travel segments.

Viking Cruise Line, founded in 1997 by Norwegian billionaire Torstein Hagen, began with just four river cruise vessels. Today, the company operates a sophisticated and ever-growing fleet that spans river, ocean, expedition, and specialty categories. With a focus on destination-rich itineraries, understated elegance, and all-inclusive amenities, Viking has redefined the modern cruise experience. As of 2024, Viking’s fleet includes over 90 ships—each meticulously designed to deliver a consistent brand experience while catering to different travel styles. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down every vessel in Viking’s fleet, explore their unique features, and help you understand what makes each one special. From the serene waterways of Europe to the remote fjords of Antarctica, Viking’s ships are your gateway to the world.

1. The Ocean Fleet: Luxury at Sea

Viking’s ocean fleet represents the pinnacle of modern cruising: sleek, spacious, and designed for discovery. These vessels are not just larger versions of river ships—they’re purpose-built for open-sea navigation, offering a blend of intimacy and sophistication rarely found on mega-ships. With a capacity of around 930 guests, Viking ocean ships are intentionally kept smaller than industry standards to ensure a more personalized experience, fewer crowds, and access to smaller ports.

Viking Ocean Ships: The Core of the Fleet

The ocean fleet is built around the Viking Star, the company’s first ocean vessel, which launched in 2015. Since then, Viking has launched a new ocean ship nearly every year, creating a fleet of 11 identical sister ships as of 2024. These ships—Viking Star, Viking Sea, Viking Sky, Viking Orion, Viking Jupiter, Viking Venus, Viking Mars, Viking Neptune, Viking Saturn, Viking Uranus, and Viking Pluto—are all part of the “Viking Ocean Cruises” class, designed by SMC Design of London and built by Fincantieri in Italy.

Each ship measures approximately 745 feet in length, with 465 staterooms and suites. What sets them apart is their Scandinavian minimalist design, featuring light wood finishes, floor-to-ceiling windows, and Nordic-inspired art. The ships are all-inclusive, offering complimentary Wi-Fi, specialty dining, beer and wine with lunch and dinner, and even shore excursions in every port. This no-nickel-and-diming approach is a hallmark of Viking’s brand and a major draw for travelers.

Key Features of Viking Ocean Ships

• The Explorers’ Lounge: A two-story lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for stargazing or enjoying a cognac after dinner.
• Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant: A signature dining venue offering authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist.
• The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center: Includes a thermal suite with a snow grotto, sauna, steam room, and a heated ceramic relaxation area.
• The Infinity Pool: A unique, partially indoor/outdoor pool with a retractable roof, allowing use in any weather.
• Enrichment Programs: Daily lectures by historians, destination experts, and visiting scholars enhance the cultural experience.

Tip: If you’re considering an ocean cruise with Viking, note that all ocean ships are nearly identical in layout and amenities. The choice often comes down to itinerary—whether you prefer the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the South Pacific, or a world cruise. For example, the Viking Neptune launched in 2022 with a 140-day “World Cruise” from Fort Lauderdale to London, showcasing the brand’s commitment to long-haul, destination-focused journeys.

2. The River Fleet: Navigating Europe and Beyond

While Viking’s ocean ships are impressive, the company’s roots lie in river cruising—and its river fleet remains one of the largest and most innovative in the world. As of 2024, Viking operates 84 river cruise vessels, making it the largest river cruise line globally. These ships are designed to navigate Europe’s narrow canals, locks, and historic waterways, offering an intimate, immersive way to explore cities, villages, and cultural landmarks.

European River Ships: The Longships

The backbone of Viking’s river fleet is the “Viking Longship” class, introduced in 2012. These vessels are 443 feet long and carry 190 guests in 95 staterooms, including spacious Veranda Staterooms, French Balcony Staterooms, and Explorer Suites. The Longships feature a distinctive “Viking” bow design, a sun deck with a retractable roof, and an Aquavit Terrace—a casual indoor/outdoor lounge at the bow with panoramic views.

As of 2024, Viking has 58 Longships in service across Europe’s major rivers: the Rhine, Danube, Main, Moselle, Saône, Rhône, Douro, and Seine. Each ship is named after a historical Viking figure or location (e.g., Viking Einar, Viking Ingvar, Viking Hild), reinforcing the brand’s Nordic heritage. The Longships are designed for maximum efficiency and comfort, with a shallow draft allowing access to smaller ports that larger vessels cannot reach.

Specialty River Vessels: Beyond the Longships

In addition to the Longships, Viking operates a growing number of specialty river vessels designed for specific regions:

• China (Yangtze River): Viking Emerald and Viking Yangtze—two ships tailored for the Yangtze River, with Mandarin-speaking staff and Chinese cuisine options.
• Egypt (Nile River): Viking Osiris and Viking Aton—luxury vessels operating between Luxor and Aswan, offering 5- to 8-day itineraries with expert Egyptologists.
• Myanmar (Irrawaddy River): Viking Mandalay—a boutique ship for exploring Myanmar’s cultural gems, though currently operating on a limited basis due to regional conditions.
• USA (Mississippi River): Viking Mississippi—launched in 2022, this 386-foot, 386-guest vessel is Viking’s first foray into U.S. river cruising, offering 8- to 15-day journeys from New Orleans to St. Paul.

Tip: When choosing a river cruise, consider the river’s depth and lock systems. Viking’s Longships are engineered to fit through Europe’s smallest locks, allowing access to ports like Bamberg (Germany) or Passau (Austria), where larger ships cannot go. For a truly unique experience, try the Viking Aton on the Nile—its onboard library and rooftop lounge make it a favorite among history buffs.

3. The Expedition Fleet: Exploring the Polar Regions

In 2022, Viking launched its most ambitious project yet: the expedition fleet, designed for travelers seeking adventure in the world’s most remote and pristine environments. These ships are not just for sightseeing—they’re equipped for scientific research, wildlife observation, and sustainable exploration. As of 2024, Viking operates two expedition vessels: Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris.

Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris: The Science-Focused Explorers

Both ships are 603 feet long, carry 378 guests, and feature a 10,000-square-foot Science Lab operated in partnership with the University of Cambridge and the Scott Polar Research Institute. The ships are built to Polar Class 6 standards, allowing them to navigate ice-covered waters in Antarctica, the Arctic, and the Great Lakes.

Key features include:

• Expedition Equipment: Submersible (the Viking Octantis has a two-person sub), kayaks, zodiacs, and a fleet of drones for aerial photography.
• Science Programs: Guests can participate in citizen science projects, such as water sampling or wildlife tracking, led by onboard experts.
• The Aula Lecture Theater: Inspired by the University of Cambridge, this space hosts daily presentations on polar science, glaciology, and conservation.
• The Hangar: An enclosed, hangar-like space where guests can board expedition boats in a climate-controlled environment—no more freezing on deck!

Itineraries and Destinations

The expedition ships operate in two main regions:

• Antarctica & Patagonia: 13- to 15-day voyages from Ushuaia, Argentina, including landings in the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula.
• The Arctic & Great Lakes: Summer voyages to Iceland, Greenland, and the Canadian Arctic, as well as unique itineraries in the Great Lakes (e.g., “Undiscovered Great Lakes” from Milwaukee to Thunder Bay).

Tip: Expedition cruises with Viking are all-inclusive and highly educational. If you’re interested in marine biology or climate change, these voyages offer unparalleled access to experts and real-time data. For example, the Viking Polaris’s 2024 “Arctic & the Midnight Sun” itinerary includes a stop in Longyearbyen, Svalbard—the northernmost permanent settlement in the world.

4. The Future Fleet: Expansion and Innovation

Viking Cruise Line shows no signs of slowing down. The company has a robust newbuild program, with multiple ships scheduled to launch in the coming years. This expansion reflects Viking’s confidence in the luxury and expedition cruise markets, as well as its commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Upcoming Ocean Ships (2024–2028)

Viking has already announced the construction of five additional ocean ships, with delivery dates through 2028. These vessels—Viking Vesta, Viking Vela, Viking Virgo, Viking Vega, and Viking Vela II—will be nearly identical to the existing fleet but may feature minor design upgrades based on guest feedback. The Viking Vela, launching in 2024, will be the first to feature a new “Sky Lounge” with expanded outdoor seating.

New Expedition Vessels and River Expansion

• Expedition: A third expedition ship, Viking Terra, is under construction and expected to launch in 2025. It will focus on the Northwest Passage and Alaska routes.
• River: Viking is expanding its Longship fleet with 10 new vessels by 2026, including ships for the Douro River (Portugal) and the Mekong River (Southeast Asia).
• Mississippi: A second Mississippi River ship, Viking Mississippi II, is planned for 2025, doubling Viking’s capacity on the U.S. river.

Sustainability and Technology

Viking is investing heavily in eco-friendly technology. All new ships feature hybrid power systems, advanced wastewater treatment, and shore power connectivity to reduce emissions in port. The expedition fleet uses dynamic positioning systems to avoid dropping anchors in sensitive ecosystems. In 2023, Viking also launched a “Green Cruising” initiative, partnering with environmental NGOs to fund coral restoration and marine conservation projects.

Tip: If you’re booking a future cruise, consider a “new ship” launch. Viking often offers special promotions for inaugural voyages, and being one of the first guests on a new vessel adds a unique bragging right. For example, the Viking Neptune’s 2022 maiden voyage from Venice to Barcelona sold out within weeks.

5. Comparing Viking’s Fleet: A Data-Driven Overview

With over 90 ships across four categories, Viking’s fleet is both diverse and cohesive. Below is a data table summarizing the key differences between the ship types, helping you choose the right vessel for your travel style.

Ship Type	Number of Ships (2024)	Guest Capacity	Length (ft)	Key Features	Best For
Ocean Ships	11	930	745	Infinity Pool, Nordic Spa, Manfredi’s, Explorers’ Lounge	Global itineraries, cultural enrichment, all-inclusive luxury
River Longships	58	190	443	Veranda staterooms, Aquavit Terrace, retractable roof	Europe river cruises, historic cities, scenic waterways
Expedition Ships	2	378	603	Science Lab, submersible, Hangar, Aula theater	Antarctica, Arctic, scientific exploration
Specialty River	13 (incl. Nile, Yangtze, Mississippi)	150–386	300–450	Region-specific design, local cuisine, expert guides	Cultural immersion, unique destinations (Egypt, China, USA)
Future Ships	17 (planned)	Varies	Varies	Hybrid engines, expanded lounges, new itineraries	Early adopters, eco-conscious travelers

Note: The total fleet count as of 2024 is 94 ships (84 river, 11 ocean, 2 expedition, and 13 specialty—some counted in multiple categories). This number is expected to grow to over 110 by 2028.

Conclusion: Why Viking’s Fleet Matters

So, how many ships does Viking Cruise Line have? The answer—over 90 and growing—reveals a company at the forefront of the cruise industry. From the elegant ocean vessels that sail the seven seas to the nimble river ships that glide through medieval towns, and from the high-tech expedition vessels exploring polar ice to the culturally tailored specialty ships, Viking offers something for every type of traveler. What unites this vast fleet is a shared philosophy: to help you explore the world in comfort, with purpose and curiosity.

Whether you’re drawn to the all-inclusive luxury of the ocean ships, the intimate charm of the Longships, the adventure of the expedition fleet, or the cultural depth of the specialty vessels, Viking’s fleet is designed to deliver unforgettable experiences. The company’s consistent design, emphasis on enrichment, and commitment to sustainability set it apart in a crowded market. As Viking continues to expand—adding new ships, new destinations, and new technologies—its fleet will remain a benchmark for modern, thoughtful cruising.

When planning your next voyage, remember: it’s not just about how many ships Viking has, but what each ship offers. Take the time to compare itineraries, ship features, and onboard experiences. Whether you’re sipping wine on the Aquavit Terrace of a Longship, attending a lecture in the Aula theater of an expedition vessel, or watching the Northern Lights from the Infinity Pool on an ocean ship, Viking’s fleet ensures that every journey is as enriching as the destination itself. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many ships does Viking Cruise Line have in its fleet?

As of 2024, Viking Cruise Line operates a fleet of 93 vessels, including ocean, river, and expedition ships. The fleet is continuously expanding, with new ships added regularly to meet growing demand.

How many ocean cruise ships does Viking have?

Viking currently has 12 identical ocean cruise ships, all named with the suffix “-ia” (e.g., Viking Star, Viking Orion). These 930-passenger vessels are designed for adults-only, destination-focused cruising.

What is the size of Viking’s river cruise fleet?

Viking’s river cruise fleet comprises 75+ vessels, making it the largest in the world. These include longships, smaller vessels for European rivers, and purpose-built ships for destinations like the Mekong and Nile.

How many expedition ships does Viking Cruise Line have?

Viking has two expedition ships: Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis. These 378-passenger vessels are designed for polar and coastal exploration, featuring science labs and enhanced sustainability features.

Are Viking’s ships all the same size and design?

While Viking’s ocean ships are nearly identical, their river and expedition vessels vary by region and purpose. River ships are tailored to fit local waterways, while expedition ships prioritize durability and science capabilities for remote areas.

Is Viking Cruise Line adding new ships to its fleet?

Yes, Viking has multiple ships on order, including additional ocean and expedition vessels. The company typically announces newbuilds 1–2 years in advance, with a focus on expanding its niche in destination-focused, small-ship cruising.