New Viking ship makes Great Lakes debut

Viking Octantis is the largest vessel to transit the Welland Canal

Viking’s new purpose-built ship Viking Octantis has started its maiden season in the Great Lakes of North America.

The 378-passenger Viking Octantis became the largest vessel to transit the Welland Canal, a key section of the St Lawrence Seaway connecting Lake Ontario and Lake Erie.

The ship will remain in the Great Lakes until early October 2022, sailing itineraries between Toronto and Duluth. 

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A second expedition vessel, Viking Polaris, will enter service later this year and join Viking Octantis in the Great Lakes for the 2023 season.

Viking chairman Torstein Hagen said: “Our expedition ships were designed with the Great Lakes in mind. This region has been historically underserved by cruise lines, and we are delighted by the warm and enthusiastic reception we have received from the local communities. 

“With our first season now underway, we are pleased with the strong demand among our guests and look forward to introducing even more curious travellers to these fantastic destinations in 2023.”