Sea Otters Glacier Ice Southern Alaska
Sweet Peas Alsek Lake Alaska
Viking Aquavit Terrace
USA & Canada
Book a Viking Ocean Cruise and you can enjoy either COMPANION FREE FLIGHTS up to AU$2500 per booking or SAVE AU$2500 per booking off your cruise. Available on 2026, 2027 or 2028 Sailings. T&C apply.
Sail in style with Viking along Alaska’s legendary Inside Passage, where majestic glaciers, misty fjords, and charming frontier towns reveal the wild beauty of the Last Frontier. From bustling harbours to serene, ice-blue waterways, every moment is a postcard-perfect discovery.
Seward, Alaska, United States
Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. Seward enjoys a magnificent setting between snowcapped peaks and Resurrection Bay, a pristine harbor ringed by mountains. The Alaskan city was named after Abraham Lincoln’s secretary of state who defied public opinion to pursue the purchase of Alaska from Russia. Seward is steeped in marine culture, from its busy fishing port to the excellent exhibits and preservation efforts of the Alaska SeaLife Center. It is also the famed starting point of the Iditarod Trail, the dogsled race route originally laid to link Seward to inland Alaska.
Seward, Alaska, United States
On the outskirts of Seward lies the Kenai Fjords National Park, offering a superb base from which to kayak, take a boat ride or a hike through breathtaking scenery. Rich marine life resides in these waters, home to sea otters, porpoises, sea lions and a variety of whale species. The Harding Icefield is the park’s crowning glory, offering several hundred miles of icy peninsula that is up to a mile thick, and is one of four major ice caps in the Unites States. Active glaciers carve and tumble into the sea with a thundering roar as spectators watch in awe.
Valdez, Alaska, United States
Valdez enjoys a breathtaking setting at the tip of a deep-cut fjord in Prince William Sound. The glacial Chugach Mountains rise up all around the city, adding to its scenic allure. In its early days, the promise of gold attracted explorers and seekers of wealth, but the land proved barren. The town finally experienced its economic boom as North America’s northernmost ice-free port. Today, it is the southern terminus of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline that carries oil south from Prudhoe Bay on the Arctic coast.
Scenic Sailing: Hubbard Glacier, Alaska
Hubbard Glacier is one of Alaska's most dramatic icefields. This towering wall of ice at the water’s edge began its long journey about 400 years ago, in the early 1600s. As it flows to the sea, Hubbard is met by Valerie Glacier. The combined surge pushes a wall of ice toward Bert Point, which threatens to close off Russell Fjord from the bay. The closure has happened before—in 1986 and 2002—transforming the fjord into “Russell Lake.” Each time, runoff and rainwater filled the lake, building up an enormous pressure and breaking through the ice wall with a thundering force.
Icy Strait Point, Alaska, United States
Icy Strait Point is a re-created village outside the small town of Hoonah, a thriving Tlingit community. A former canning and packing station in a coastal woodland setting, Icy Strait Point is steeped in Native American heritage. The charming island hamlet has been beautifully restored by the local Tlingit people to its original character, offering visitors unique insight into traditional life in an Alaskan fishing village. Today, the old canning station is a museum chronicling salmon and subsistence fishing.
Skagway, Alaska, United States
Skagway was once the gateway to the gold-rich Canadian Yukon and is set in a stunning glacial valley. One remnant of its mining past is the narrow gauge railway that follows the original Yukon trail to the historic White Pass high in the surrounding mountains. Completed in 1900 as a means of transit for prospectors to reach goldfields during the Klondike gold rush, the route is preserved as a heritage railway. About 100 of the town’s buildings date from the gold rush era. Legend says that the town was named for a mythical woman who turned herself to stone at Skagway’s bay.
Juneau, Alaska, United States
Juneau is the only capital of the continental US that is inaccessible by car. The dramatic fjord-like terrain of steep, rugged mountains and vast glaciers isolates the city, creating a remote setting with limited access from the rest of the mainland. Its seclusion along the scenic Gastineau Channel also makes it one of the most picturesque cities in the world. In ancient times, the Auke and Taku Tlingit tribes fished these waters. Their descendants have kept artistic and cultural traditions alive throughout a long history of European and Russian explorations.
Sitka, Alaska, United States
Sitka has long been inhabited by the indigenous Tlingit people. Fur trading brought Russian settlers here in 1799 as part of a colonial merchant company. The town grew to become the capital of Russian Alaska, and remains of those days can be found in the Russian Orthodox Cathedral and the Russian Bishop’s House, the latter built by the Tlingit with guidance from Finnish carpenters in the 1840s. Today’s Sitka is a delight to explore by foot, its streets dotted with inviting art galleries displaying artwork inspired by the region’s natural beauty and rich heritage.
Ketchikan, Alaska, United States
Ketchikan is set among the soaring coastal mountains and sloping woodlands of the Tongass National Forest. The gateway into America’s 49th state, it is known to travelers journeying north by ship as Alaska’s “First City” and the “Salmon Capital of the World” for its thriving fishing industry. Ketchikan also embraces its rich and enduring Tlingit heritage; it is home to the most standing totem poles anywhere in the world. The artful icons are sprinkled throughout the town as well as its parks and cultural centers.
Scenic Sailing: The Inside Passage
Stretching some 500 miles along the Alaska Panhandle, the Inside Passage is a pristine wilderness of fjord-like channels. It winds its way through a vast maze of islands laden with emerald-green forests and strewn with glistening glaciers. Nature is at her most magnificent here, tranquil and hushed. Unspoiled waterways weave their way past tiny coastal villages and a breathtaking array of snowcapped mountains and pine-covered hills. Sea lions and otters reside in these waters, and moose and brown bears are often spotted as they wade along the coast.
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Vancouver is one of Canada’s most diverse cities and the influence of its multi-ethnic society is reflected in the city’s multitude of restaurants and public settings, such as the tranquil Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden at the heart of Chinatown. The city’s cultural treasures reflect its indigenous community and embody the influence of European and Asian settlers. Its vibrant institutions run the gamut, from bustling markets to museums that chronicle the region’s anthropology and rich art heritage.
from Auckland
King-size Viking Explorer Bed with luxury linens & pillows. Mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water & snacks (replenished once daily); security safe; hair dryer. Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, double-sink vanity, heated bathroom floor & anti-fog mirror.
Seward
from $A8895 per person based on share twin
Ocean-view stateroom with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to full-size veranda. King-size Viking Explorer Bed with luxury linens & pillows. With standard features and additional Traditional Norwegian Marius-weave blanket Personal coffee machine with premium coffee & tea selections.
Seward
from $A9495 per person based on twin share
Please note: Stateroom images and features are samples only. Actual furniture, fixtures, colors, configurations and window/porthole views may vary.
All cruise packages are based on Twin share, inside cabin and costs are per person. Availability is current as at 05 Sep 25 and deals are available until date shown or until sold out. Space is strictly limited and is subject to availability at time of booking. On board credit where shown is per cabin & must be spent on board and is not refundable in cash. All passengers are bound by the individual cruise lines terms & conditions, please ask your consultant for a full copy. Current Deals must be paid in full at time of booking or deposit dates as shown. All passengers must have a valid passport with more than 6 months validity at the end of their holiday. Travel insurance should be taken out at time of booking to cover in the event of any unforeseen cancellation. Included airfares are based on special non refundable economy fares, ground transfers are not included unless specified, any hotels included are on a room only basis unless specified. Hotels in certain destinations in Europe, USA and Asia may require local tourist taxes or resort fees payable at check in, We aim to give an indication of these where possible, but unfortunately you cannot pre pay this aspect of the hotel rate and must settle at check in. ESTA Visas are required for Itineraries visiting USA ,Canada, India, China, Vietnam, Schengen states & Sri Lanka. Visa costs are not included. Passports must be valid at least 6 months after the end of your holiday, If travelling on a non NZ passport other visas + NZ re-entry permits may also be required, please check with applicable embassy. Passport validity, Visas, Vaccinations and health requirements are the responsibility of the passengers. Individual cruise line T&C will apply based on the cruise line booked.
Viking Ocean Terms & Conditions:
APPLICABLE FOR BOOKINGS MADE BETWEEN 02 SEPTEMBER - 01 DECEMBER 2025 AT 7PM AEDT ON 2026, 2027 & 2028 OCEAN SAILINGS ONLY.
Companion Fly Free Economy Flights up to the value of AU$2,500 when booking flights with Viking.
Companion Fly Free is economy flight(s) for one guest up to the value of AU$2,500 to/from Australia/New Zealand.
If the flight cost exceeds AU$2,500 for that guest, the guest will cover the difference.
If flights are cheaper than AU$2,500 for that guest, the unused portion of the air funds will be waived and cannot be transferred towards any other portion of the booking or any other person.
Flight cost difference is to be paid at the time of flight booking.
A guest can use the AU$2,500 to instead upgrade to business class or premium economy (booked through Viking) with AU$2,500 off business/premium economy airfare, with the difference to be covered by the guest. Upgrade flight cost difference is to be paid at the time of flight booking.
Applicable if flights are booked through Viking and must be booked in conjunction with a selected 2026/2027/2028 Viking Ocean cruise.
Flights are Viking’s choice of airline for selected major gateways in NZ: AKL/CHC/WLG.
Guests must return their air form to Viking within 14 business days of receiving request for flights, otherwise Viking reserve the right to remove the free air promo and apply the respective in lieu of flights discount.
Valid on bookings made between 02 September - 01 December 2025 at 7PM AEDT.
Guest may not request to change to flights included promotion post campaign end date of 01 December 2025.
Viking will reach out to you or your travel advisor once flights are in the date range, at this point you may nominate your preferred departure/arrival dates.
Both guests must be on the same airline booking (PNR) and fly together in both directions.
Solo guests for Ocean can use up to AU$2,500 towards their flights. Any unused portion of the air funds will be waived and cannot be transferred towards any other portion of the booking or any other person or booking.
Flight offers and the deposit amount varies for World Cruises and Grand Journeys.
Companion Fly Free offer excludes the Australia & New Zealand, Komodo & the Australian Coast, Grand Australian Circumnavigation and Viking World Cruise/Discovery/Journey/Voyage itineraries.
Save AU$2,500 and book flights independently.
Guest booking is eligible to get a total discount of AU$2,500 per booking off the cruise fare at the time of booking in lieu of the Companion Free Economy Class flights.
Solo travelers will receive a dollar discount of AU$2,500 per booking off the cruise fare instead of the free companion flights.
Guests book their own flights independently of Viking.
Valid on bookings made between 02 September - 01 December 2025 at 7PM AEDT, excluding the Australia & New Zealand, Komodo & the Australian Coast, Grand Australia Circumnavigation and Viking World Cruise/Discovery/Journey/Voyage itineraries.
Guest may not request to change to flights included promotion post campaign end date of 01 December 2025.
Let us help you find the perfect holiday or deal. Here’s how to get in touch...
How do I choose which type of cruise is right for me
There are three main types of cruising
Ocean Cruises
There is a wide range of itineraries, cruise lines and cruise ships to choose from for those seeking an ocean experience, or an exciting adventure across many countries. Ocean cruising is an amazing holiday where everything you could possibly need is within easy reach.
River Cruises
A leisurely cruise along the world’s waterways is a relaxing, and luxurious, way to travel. Whether you’re navigating across Europe or cruising Southeast Asia’s Mekong River, each new day on a river cruise brings a new experience.
Luxury Cruises
Luxury beyond belief. Soak up Michelin-star fine dining restaurants, butler service, and luxurious suites. Luxury cruising appeals to those travellers demanding an unparalleled, all-inclusive travel experience away from the hustle and bustle of the large crowds
What types of cruises are there?
There are cruises tailored to every type of traveller ie; adults only, couples, families, retirees, singles, large groups etc. Depending on the cruise line will depend on the type of cruise available and what is best suited to the experience you want.
Most offer a full range of activities and facilities to participate in as a family. Kids clubs are also offered in some ships and are focused on keeping children entertained. Be prepared, some are more “kid-friendly” than others -always check with your HOT travel consultant
Many cruise lines have adults only areas, and some are even fully adults only cruise ships. The larger the ship, the more space you will have. If you are looking for something a little smaller and more intimate, your cruising specialist will help you find that.
Can I go on a cruise if I’m travelling alone?
Yes - taking a cruise is a great way to relax and see the world at your own pace. A cruise is a fun and safe environment to meet other people, or just soak up the experience solo. Ask your cruise consultant about what’s best for solo travel and find out about the special add on rates for single occupancy of double staterooms.
Should I check in before I go
YES - we highly recommend checking in online ahead of time. While the process differs between cruise lines, you will usually need to create an account and enter your personal and booking details. It’s a must to do this in advance as you will be provided with a lot of important information to ensure you are fully prepared. This takes the stress out of the boarding process.
You may be offered a choice of a few different boarding times, although some cruise lines do pre-allocate this for you. Your check in process will also outline when your bags are likely to be available once you are on board. This is important as it may not be immediately so you might want to reconsider what you take as carry-on so you have some essentials on hand
What happens when I embark
Like all travel, ensure you arrive at your embarkation port on time (preferably a little earlier) for your allocated boarding time. Make sure you have your boarding passes printed, your luggage tags securely attached to your bags and your passport on hand ready to go.
Look out for your designated terminal, drop off your bags, then make your way through the security process. This is very similar to an airport, with metal detectors and x-rays for smaller carry-on bags.
Once through security, you will approach the check-in counter, where you will have your photo taken and receive your onboard card, which will serve as your cabin key, onboard payment method and onboard ID. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin during embarkation.
Is cruising expensive?
Like all travel, the cost is dependent on a lot of factors – things like the length of cruise, destination(s), the type of cruise line or room type. But because there is so much variety, there will be a cruise to suit everyone's budget. It can work out to be great value for money compared to a regular fly/stay holiday.
Will I get seasickness?
Most modern cruise ships have stabilizers in place to ensure passenger comfort. Plus, cruise ships will alter their routes in advance to avoid any adverse weather patterns and storms etc.
But if you are prone to motion sickness, you could find yourself getting seasick on your cruise holiday. You could try natural remedies or over-the-counter prescribed medicines to counter motion sickness.
Do I need a passport or visa to cruise
You will require a passport to cruise internationally. Some close to home domestic sailings will only require a valid driver’s license. It is always recommended to have a valid passport whilst cruising and is your responsibility to ensure you have the applicable photo identification. Some countries do require you to obtain a visa in advance if you wish to disembark the ship in port. You will need to check the visa requirements for the countries visited on your cruise itinerary. Countries such as China, Russia, India, Canada and the USA require all New Zealand passport holders to obtain a visa. Always check with your HOT travel consultant and they will direct you to the right information.
Will I save money if I book at the last minute or early?
We recommend that if you are looking for a great deal book your cruise early. Some cruise lines offer great incentives for the early booking travellers. Thery could be things like complimentary room category upgrades, bonuses and discounted prices. Some even do airline flight credits! But these deals are normally for a limited time and will not last. Join our HOT cruise newsletter / email database, and we will let you know when there are offers or special deals available.
Cruise pricing, like most things, reflects supply and demand. The more demand there is for a particular cruise the higher the price will be. Demand could be determined by factors such as the destination, seasons & duration of the cruise holiday.
Like anything, waiting till the last minute does involve risk. If you wait, your cruise may have sold out. Then there is also the possibility of getting the cruise but in a room category that you don’t want. Our expert advice is - book early!
Is there a dress code on board
It will depend on what cruise line you are sailing with. As a rule, casual dress is accepted during the day, with smart casual or formal attire being required at night. Most cruise lines do not accept caps, jandals, bare feet, swimwear or sleepwear in formal dining venues.
Some cruise lines enforce a stricter dress code, with men required to wear jackets and women cocktail attire at dinner. If you do not comply with your cruise line’s dress code, you may be asked to leave a particular venue. Make sure you check with your HOT travel consultant - you don’t want to get caught out
Do cruise ships cater for passengers with accessibility requirement?
Yes, most cruise lines have accessibility assistance in place for passengers with disabilities. Cruise ships typically offer a range of wheelchair-accessible cabins, however, the number of these may be limited. You must advise at time of booking – make sure you speak to your HOT travel consultant and outline any requirements for you or your travelling companions
Some ocean ships can be large, which at times can be difficult for passengers with mobility problems to navigate. To make things easier, on some cruise ships you can rent a scooter or wheelchair for the duration of your cruise. Always check in advance with your HOT travel consultant
Can I smoke onboard a cruise ship?
All cabins and public areas onboard cruise ships are strictly non-smoking / vaping. You can, smoke/ vape in the ship’s designated smoking zones only
If in doubt, ask the staff onboard your ship.
Are my valuables safe on board?
If you bring valuables with you, they are best to be kept in your in-room safe. We also recommend you keep your passport, and any important documents locked in the your safe also.
Are gratuities or tips included?
This depends on the cruise. Your cruise consultant will outline this as part of the booking process. Some holidays include gratuities in the total price, whilst others might require you to pay once you are onboard.
How much luggage can I bring on the cruise?
Cruise lines are not generally concerned about how much luggage you bring onboard, so there are largely no luggage restrictions on cruise ships. But be aware, some staterooms have limited closet space! But remember, if you are travelling by air etc to your departure port, all airlines have weight and ‘number of bag’ restrictions.
Don’t get caught out – make sure you check the details carefully and be aware of any restrictions. Airlines do charge for oversize or excess baggage. Be prepared, check the restrictions with your travel consultant or the airline carrier directly before you book your flights.
Should I book shore excursions or do my own sightseeing?
Talk to your HOT travel consultant, it depends on what you want to do. You have options – you can do the shore activities arranged directly by the ship, as the quality and service offered is guaranteed. A bonus, if the tour is delayed the ship will wait for you before it sets sail again.
You can, however, book shore excursions, whilst on board, or in advance if you want a more structured adventure. Doing your own local sightseeing can be exciting, however you’ll have to pay close attention to time as the ship will not wait for you if you are running late.
What currency is used onboard?
This varies depending on cruise line and destination. You can almost guarantee that the currency on most cruise lines will not be in NZD. Ships based in Australia will usually have AUD onboard. Ships that cruise in a variety of destinations will have a currency to reflect their company's ownership, which could be currencies such as USD or Euro. Make sure you ask your HOT travel consultant in advance, so you are prepared.
What if I require a special diet?
If you have special dietary requirements, you should advise your HOT travel consultant at time of booking. If you do have special requirements, make sure you arrange your meals in advance. However, if you do forget, you can arrange it onboard.
What room type should I book?
A lot of first-time cruisers choose an inside room (internal without a window) mainly due to the cost. However, it is normally only a small difference per day to upgrade to an oceanview room (with a view).
Or investigate an upgrade to a balcony/veranda room which offers floor to ceiling windows that open to allow the fresh ocean air in. Check with your HOT travel consultant
Can I take visitors on board?
Think of a cruise ship like an airplane. No you can’t. Due to immigration and security reasons only registered guests are permitted onboard at all times.
Is there babysitting on board?
Babysitting is available at extra cost on some ships. Many cruise lines will offer popular kids club facilities onboard, and some cater better than others. But if you are on a cruise that is targeted at families will be spoilt for choice for ways to entertain the whole family
Is there WiFI and mobile reception?
Yes you can. Most ships offer Wi-Fi throughout the ship, whilst some only offer in designated areas. Most cruise ships have internet cafes on board. Charges do apply for the use of broadband & because it is based on satellite
Phone Reception is generally only available in ports. Some cruise lines have agreements with land-based phone service companies. If you chose to use this service, you will be paying international roaming rates for these calls. Find out before you go – your HOT travel consultant can help
How do I pay for on board expenses?
Just like many hotels, an onboard account will be set up for you prior to departure. This means all your onboard purchases can be charged to this account. Payment will be made at the end of the cruise.
Are there laundry services on board?
Laundry and cleaning services are always available. It’s either self-service laundry facilities or a professional laundry service. You will find washing machines, dryers, ironing boards, irons and detergent on board. Self-service washing machines & dryers generally tend to be coin operated.
Can I bring alcohol onboard the ship?
You are not allowed to bring alcohol onboard the ships. Duty free and personal alcohol purchased onshore will be collected upon your check in and can be collected on the last day of your cruise. Any Duty- and Tax-Free alcohol purchased on the ship will be held for safekeeping and can be collected on the last day of the cruise.
Not to worry - cruise lines largely offer drink packages so you can purchase drinks onboard. If not, your drinks can be charged to your cruise card.
Can I place a deposit for a cruise booking?
At time of booking you can choose to pay for the cruise in full or pay the minimum per person deposit amount.
When do I need to pay for my cruise in full?
If you have chosen to pay a deposit only, your full payment deadline will be determined by the cruise you book, so please check your Invoice for the final payment due date.
What is included in the price of a cruise?
Cruise holidays are one of the most value for money holidays you could go on. Your transportation, accommodation and main meals are included whilst onboard. Selected activities and entertainment are also included in the price.
There are some additional activities that you may have to pay separately for, like special restaurants & shows. Ask your HOT travel consultant for a full list of inclusions and added extras you can pay for separately
Do I need travel insurance?
YES – we absolutely recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance at the time you book your cruise. Your HOT travel consultant can organise a quick and simple quote for you.
Can I book my complete holiday including a cruise?
Your local HOT travel consultant will be able to curate you the perfect holiday making sure that it all works like clockwork. We can organise your flights, transfers, an amazing cruise, then accommodation and add in extras like a tour, car hire or sightseeing etc. This is where using a HOT travel consultant is critical – it’s complex and our consultants are expert and making it the best holiday ever.
How can I cancel or make changes my cruise booking?
We know ‘life’ happens. To cancel your booking, get in contact with your HOT travel consultant as soon as you can. Please note that cancellation fees will apply. Similarly, if you need to make any changes or amendments, we can help, but again, be prepared, change / amendment fees will apply. Some of your booking may be non-refundable.
When is my final payment due?
Your final payment will be due approximately four to five months before departure. You can find all payment amounts and due dates on your Booking Advice.
When will I receive my travel documents?
Approximately one to two weeks before your departure date. These documents will be sent directly to your email. If in doubt, ask your HOT travel consultant. You would have already received your online passenger information to complete well in advance.
Can I hold a cruise booking?
Pricing for cruises is dynamic and is subject to change. Talk to one of our HOT travel consultants and they can talk you through how it can / does work.
How do I book a cruise for more than 4 people, or book multiple staterooms?
Contact a HOT consultant if you are travelling with more than 4 people, you may need two or more rooms – there are also limitations around the age of children being in rooms by themselves etc –ie; children may not be booked in a room on their own. Children must be accompanied by an adult (over the age of 21) in a room.
What if I am cruising with children?
There are various restrictions imposed by cruise liners around ages of children travelling. If you are travelling with a child under the age of 12 months, make sure you let your HOT travel consultant know. There are also some restrictions around travelling if you are pregnant and will depend on what stage you are at, again, contact your travel consultant to find out more as these can vary by cruise liner
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