Viking has announced three new, first-of-their-kind itineraries that will provide guests with exclusive access to China in 2024. The Chinese-flagged Viking Yi Dun – formerly the Viking Sun -- will be the first ship dedicated specifically to the foreign market to operate domestic sailings in China.
The new voyages range from 10 to 20 days and explore iconic cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong.
Each itinerary also includes a domestic sailing of China’s coast that highlights rarely-seen destinations and ports to which only Viking has access -- something that has never before been offered for international visitors.
The new voyages will operate from September to November on the Viking Yi Dun -- a sister ship featuring the same award-winning design and service as all other ocean ships in Viking’s fleet.
Each voyage will offer ‘The Viking Way’ of exploration, with immersive experiences to introduce guests to the people, history and culture of China, including insightful lectures, Chinese-inspired cuisine and destination experts.
Viking Cruises founder and chairman Torstein Hagen. (Photo Credit: Viking Cruises)
“We are proud that Viking will be the first to operate domestic sailings in China for international travellers. Our guests are curious travellers who are interested in experiences that broaden their mind -- and China, with one of the richest cultures in the world, has been inspiring travelers for centuries,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking.
“For more than 15 years, our Yangtze River voyages were among our highest-rated itineraries. We brought guests to China’s Yangtze River, to Beijing, to the Great Wall, to the Terra Cotta Warriors and to many other iconic places in this captivating nation. We introduced the real China to our guests, and visiting local school children was always a particular highlight. Now, we are delighted to offer such encounters once again with new voyages to a destination that never ceases to capture the imagination.”
New Viking China Voyages
Wonders of China — 20 days; Beijing roundtrip — This comprehensive 20-day cruisetour itinerary delivers China’s main highlights. Guests can meet a Tibetan family at their home, walk on the Great Wall and see the Terra Cotta Warriors. Additionally, guests will experience the scenic coast of Dongtou and have opportunities to explore Gulangyu Island in Xiamen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Shenzhen, a UNESCO city of design.
Classic China & the Coast — 15 days; Beijing, Xian – Hong Kong (Shenzhen) — This voyage combines the experiences of Viking’s 10-day China Discovery voyage with opportunity to see the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terra Cotta Warriors and other iconic landmarks. While sailing China’s coastline, guests can experience a phenomenal diversity in languages, cultures and cuisines.
China Discovery — 10 days; Shanghai – Hong Kong (Shenzhen) — This 10-day itinerary allows guests to experience the Buddhist shrines of Zhoushan and the cliffs of Dongtou, follow the steps of 19th-century European diplomats on Gulangyu Island in Xiamen, or try Cantonese dim sum in Shenzhen.
Shanghai skyline at sunset. (Photo Credit: iStock/Getty Images E+/ASMR)
To learn more about the itineraries and why China is such a captivating destination, Viking has also published two new videos: Executive Vice President Karine Hagen invites travellers to learn more about these exclusive-to-Viking China voyages here, and Viking Vice President of Product Development Joost Ouendag provides an in-depth overview of the new voyages and the unique opportunity to be immersed in the history, culture and natural wonders of the Middle Kingdom here.
From now through January 31, 2024, Viking is offering North American travellers the Discover More sale, with up to free international airfare, special fares and a $25 deposit -- with additional savings for both new and returning guests—on all-inclusive river, ocean and expedition voyages, including the new coastal China itineraries. Space is limited for 2024 departures.
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