The Norwegian shipping company Viking is trying to build up another pillar in the luxury expeditions sector. With the “Viking Octantis” a ship that can carry 378 passengers has been taken over. This is equipped with 189 cabins and is therefore significantly smaller than the other cruise ships from this provider.

The Octantis is also equipped with small submarines. Six passengers can sit in these and explore the underwater world. There is also a landing stage that can be used for expedition boats. At least one laboratory should also be available to researchers. Motorized rubber dinghies and kayaks with paddles are available for smaller trips.

However, the offer is not really aimed at professional scientists, but rather at hobby researchers who are willing to put a lot of money on the table. Six types of accommodation are offered on board. Some of the equipment also includes binoculars and jackets. Wireless LAN is offered free of charge via a combination of cellular radio and satellite Internet.

The first exit towards the southern hemisphere is to be accompanied by 36 scientists. During the trip there will be various specialist lectures so that hobby researchers can experience further training, expeditions and luxury cruises together. Several restaurants take care of the physical well-being.

The matter is not cheap, however, because for a 13-day trip from Tromsø to Svalbard at least around 14.000 euros have to be put on the table. For almost 1.000 euros more, you can go to Antarctica. Shorter tours are offered a little cheaper, but Viking generally places the offer in the upper price segment. There seems to be a certain basic demand, because an almost identical sister ship is to be floated in in August 2022.