Viking is celebrating its historic return to China because the Viking Yi Dun accomplished her first voyage from Shanghai to Hong Kong (Shenzhen). Viking’s new itineraries embrace a home crusing of China’s coast that highlights rarely-visited locations and ports to which solely Viking has entry—one thing that has by no means been provided for worldwide guests. The itineraries function from September to November on the 930-guest Viking Yi Dun—previously the Viking Solar—a sister ship that includes the identical award-winning design and repair as all different ocean ships in Viking’s fleet.
“With its historical historical past and wealthy tradition, China is an exceptional vacation spot that many curious vacationers haven’t but had the chance to expertise,” stated Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “For 15 years, we launched China to company on our Yangtze River itineraries. Now, we’re proud to supply these unique home sailings in China, and we sit up for welcoming individuals to this a part of the world within the Viking approach.”
The launch of Viking’s new China itineraries was commemorated in Shanghai, the place a celebration was held with native officers. Friends had been handled to cultural performances, each shoreside and on board the ship, providing an introduction to the nation’s wealthy traditions. Given the historic nature of the inaugural voyage, the Viking Yi Dun was welcomed to port with fanfare from native companions and residents in Zhoushan, Dongtou, Pingtan, Xiamen and Shenzhen. And, on the finish of the voyage, company supplied enthusiastic suggestions about their time in China.
“To have the ability to have admission into this nation that you simply hear a lot about and see so many treasures and work together with individuals, in a guided approach…it’s been extraordinary in each approach. I’m going to go dwelling and wish to learn and be taught extra. I wish to come once more.” —Cheryl W.
“It’s the help of the Viking staff that has enabled us to maneuver by means of this door into China and expertise it. The expertise has been so great each on and off [the ship]. I really feel actually privileged, and I’m going again extra curious in some ways.” —Paul S.
“What I’ve loved most about this voyage is the individuals—not solely our fellow vacationers, however the individuals of China and the workers. I don’t assume I’ve met nicer individuals in your complete world. I believe the individuals of China have been so gracious and sort; it has actually proven me the humanity of China.” —Marion D.
“I’ve all the time been fascinated with China. It’s really easy to see a whole lot of attention-grabbing areas and locations as a result of [Viking] makes it really easy for you. All of the experiences we’ve had have been great. I’ll positively suggest this journey to my associates.” —Donald M.
New Asia Voyages in 2025
Viking has additionally not too long ago introduced the corporate will increase the Asia program in 2025, with new itineraries that embrace Japan. Crusing September by means of November, Viking’s 2025 Asia voyages embrace:
- NEW Jewels of Japan & China (15 days; Beijing to Tokyo) — Embark on a 15-day voyage to find the historical past, tradition and delicacies of the Far East. Immerse your self within the German heritage of Qingdao and marvel at Shanghai, a metropolis that completely blends custom and modernity. Admire the pure great thing about Jeju and Miyazaki and soak up majestic views of Mt. Fuji in Shimizu. In a single day stays in vibrant Hiroshima and Osaka give you extra alternatives to discover the intriguing cities of the Far East.
- NEW Traditional China Discovery (20 days; Hong Kong to Beijing) — Be part of us for a completely escorted sojourn as you deepen your understanding of China’s tradition, customs and traditions. Discover basic treasures, tracing timeworn steps alongside the Nice Wall of China, and marvel at Xi’an’s Terra Cotta Warriors, every distinctly carved. Admire distinctive structure, presenting a world of historical instances and forward-thinking modernity, and immerse your self in native life throughout calls to quaint locales, with significant encounters alongside the best way.
- NEW Pearls of Japan & China (22 days; Tokyo to Beijing) — Set sail with Viking, delving into the colourful historical past, multifaceted cultures and delectable delicacies of the Far East and past throughout a completely guided journey. Gaze upon majestic Mt. Fuji from Shimizu and revel in in a single day stays in Osaka and Hiroshima. Chill out within the pure splendor of Miyazaki and Jeju and immerse your self within the dynamic cityscape of Shanghai. Cap your memorable voyage discovering the legendary wonders of Tibet (Xizang), Xi’an and Beijing.
- NEW Gems of China & Japan (22 days; Beijing to Tokyo) — Be part of Viking for a completely guided exploration of the wealthy historical past, numerous cultures and attractive delicacies of the Far East and past. See the affect of German settlers in Qingdao and take within the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. Experience the great thing about Jeju and Miyazaki and admire Mt. Fuji looming grandly over Shimizu. An included land package deal reveals the enduring treasures of Xi’an, Tibet (Xizang) and Chengdu, immersing you additional into the fascinating Jap world.
- NEW 2025 Wonders of China (22 days; Beijing roundtrip) — Embark on a grand voyage to China on a completely guided sojourn. Be captivated by bustling Shanghai and delve into numerous landscapes, from the isles of Pingtan to trendy Shenzhen, with in a single day stays that can help you totally discover. Immerse your self in nature within the mountains of Tibet (Xizang) and think about the spectacular Potala Palace. Uncover Beijing and go to one of many New Seven Wonders of the World, the Nice Wall of China.
- NEW 2025 Better of China (22 days; Hong Kong to Beijing) — Immerse your self in a completely guided cruisetour to see all of the highlights China has to supply. Sail China’s scenic jap coast and delve into the various cultures, cuisines and landscapes of this distinctive nation. View the enduring large panda and journey into the Himalayas, the place historical traditions infuse each facet of life in mountainous Tibet (Xizang). Admire the Terra Cotta Warriors and discover the Forbidden Metropolis and the Nice Wall of China throughout your memorable sojourn.
The Viking Yi Dun
Devoted particularly to exploring locations in China, with an onboard expertise that enhances company’ discoveries ashore, the Viking Yi Dun is a sister ship in Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet. Categorised by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” Viking’s ocean vessels have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, with 465 staterooms that host 930 company; the ships function all veranda staterooms, Scandinavian design, light-filled public areas and plentiful al fresco eating choices.
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