Advisor Story: Sailing the Viking Homelands

Travel Associates recently stepped back in time to explore Viking lands with Viking Cruises, uncovering the fascinating heritage of Scandinavia's most legendary seafarers.

Travel advisor and cruise specialist Candice Free from Travel Associates Geelong has recommended countless voyages to her clients. But experiencing the Viking Neptune first-hand revealed something remarkable: a journey that brings Viking heritage to life in the most luxurious way possible.

Swapping a traditional longship for an exquisite, state-of-the-art, all-veranda small-ship, she embarked on the cruise of a lifetime – one that would transport her back through centuries of Viking storytelling. Over 15 unforgettable days, Candice and her fellow travellers circumnavigated the Baltic Sea, tracing the footsteps of Norse explorers while experiencing the very best of modern luxury cruising. From the cobblestone streets of medieval towns to the dramatic fjords that shaped Viking culture, this voyage weaved together history, culture and indulgence in equal measure.

Discover the Homelands of the Vikings

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Stockholm’s serene waterfront was once a Viking thoroughfare of adventure and trade in the past.

The "Viking Homelands" itinerary is Viking Cruises' signature ocean voyage: a thoughtfully curated journey from Stockholm to Bergen that delves into the very heart of Viking territory and traditions. This unique cruise explores the deep-rooted cultural ties of Scandinavia, connecting travellers with the heritage of the Norse people through carefully selected destinations across Northern Europe.

"The itinerary was spectacular," says Candice. "How amazing to experience a Viking ocean ship which itself is filled with Viking heritage, and stop at destinations steeped in Viking tradition, each telling an interesting part of the original Vikings' story."

What sets this voyage apart is the seamless integration of history and exploration. "I love that each port has included tours, often walking tours of a city or medieval UNESCO-listed old town sections of a city," Candice explains. This immersive approach transforms sightseeing into something far more meaningful, where travellers get to experience a genuine connection with Viking heritage.

Walking in the Footsteps of the Vikings

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Tallinn Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval city centres.

The journey began in Stockholm, where an overnight stay allowed travellers to ease into their voyage while exploring Sweden's captivating capital. Spread across 14 islands connected by 57 graceful bridges, Stockholm's crown jewel is Gamla Stan, the remarkably preserved 13th-century old town where Viking influence forged the city's earliest foundations. From there, Viking Neptune sailed to Tallinn, Estonia, where the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town remains protected by imposing 17th-century fortifications – evidence of the region's long history of maritime defence dating back to Viking times.

Gdańsk, Poland revealed its past as a prosperous Hanseatic League city, its beautifully restored old town showcasing the wealth accumulated through Baltic trade routes first established during Viking times. After a relaxing day at sea, travellers arrive to discover amber treasures and Gothic cathedrals that speak to centuries of seafaring history. Next, the Danish island of Bornholm offered a glimpse into traditional Baltic maritime life. In the picturesque village of Rønne, cobblestone lanes wind past timber-framed houses, creating an atmosphere unchanged since the era of Viking traders.

Berlin provides a compelling contrast: a city rebuilt and reunified, now thriving as a centre of art, culture and architectural innovation. Museum Island celebrates the artistic spirit that has flourished in this region for millennia.

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Copenhagen's vibrant Nyhavn waterfront is filled with colourful buildings, cosy cafes, and lively restaurants.

Copenhagen, Denmark's character-filled capital, has served as an important Scandinavian port since the Viking Age. Its collection of grand palaces, historic castles and the iconic Little Mermaid statue overlooking Langelinie harbour makes it one of Europe's most enchanting destinations. In Ålborg, travellers discover a city founded as a Viking trading post in the late 900s, now home to some of Denmark's finest Renaissance architecture, including the striking Jens Bang's House from 1624.

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The Great Fountain at Vigeland Park is a mesmerising centerpiece where Oslo’s art and nature meet.

In Norway, Oslo showcases its rich Viking heritage throughout the city, from the medieval Akerhus Fortress to world-class museums dedicated to Norse seafaring. An overnight docking allows time to fully explore this waterfront capital framed by forested hills. Stavanger, once a powerful Viking base, welcomes visitors with its cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved wooden buildings in Gamle Stavanger. The city is also seen as the gateway to the dramatic Lysefjord, a 42-kilometre-long fjord surrounded by towering mountains that would have inspired awe in Viking sailors just as they do today.

The charming mountain hamlet of Eidfjord provides access to Hardangervidda, Europe's largest mountain plateau, where wild reindeer roam as they have for thousands of years. The Viking-themed cruise concludes in Bergen, home to the Hanseatic League's only remaining kontor (trading enclave) and the UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, where colourful timber warehouses line the picturesque Vågen Harbour.

One-of-a-Kind Viking Excursions

Eidfjord to Flåm Full-Day Adventure:

This excursion showcases Norway's most spectacular scenery. Journey across mountain passes and through tunnels carved into cliffsides before boarding the legendary Flåm Railway. Climb nearly 3,000 feet through 20 tunnels and over numerous bridges, experiencing one of the world's steepest railway lines. Continue to Voss, nestled among snowcapped peaks, forests and crystalline lakes, for lunch at its historic hotel before returning through more breathtaking landscapes.

Gdańsk Historical Discovery:

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In Gdańsk, Poland, the architecture reflects a mix of influences shaped by wealthy merchants during the city's Hanseatic golden age.

Touch down in this storied city for a comprehensive walking tour that brings together medieval beauty and significant World War II history. Accompanied by expert local guides, visit the old town's remarkable mix of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, including the Golden Gate, Neptune's Fountain, and the ornate Artus Court. An optional excursion to Stutthof Concentration Camp, approximately 40 miles from Gdańsk, offers a profoundly moving educational experience.

Bergen Seaplane Journey:

"Another excursion I highly recommend is the scenic seaplane journey over the stunning fjords from the waters of Bergen," says Candice. Weather permitting, you’ll soar above the striking Hardangerfjord, glacial blue lakes, and Folgefonna – one of Norway's largest glaciers. This bird's-eye perspective shows off the dramatic landscape that inspired and challenged Viking sailors for centuries.

Culinary Excellence at Every Turn

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Every meal aboard Viking Neptune is crafted with fresh, regional ingredients and served in elegant venues, from fine dining in The Restaurant to al fresco bites on the Aquavit Terrace.

"I was blown away by the quality of the food and the number of choices," Candice enthuses about the onboard dining. "The food was absolutely amazing everywhere we ate."

The Chef's Table delivers an exceptional five-course degustation menu that changes every three days to showcase a different region (advance reservations are highly recommended). Dining here a few times, the group experienced Californian, Lotus (a sophisticated Singaporean fusion menu), and British cuisine with delicious modern takes on the classics.

Manfredi's Italian restaurant quickly became a favourite. "With pasta made fresh daily and what I'd call the most amazing steak at sea, I could have eaten here every evening," Candice recalls. Other dining highlights were the elegant Wintergarden, where afternoon tea is served in a stylish setting accompanied by live musicians, and Mamsen’s, which treats passengers to beautifully-plated Norwegian specialties.

The Nordic Spa: A Sanctuary at Sea

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The Nordic fire and ice spa aboard Viking Neptune makes for the ultimate restorative escape.

Candice shares that the spa experience, included for all guests, is truly exceptional. "There is nothing like it at sea", she says. Following traditional Nordic fire-and-ice principles, the expansive spa features a sauna, cold plunge, snow grotto, Jacuzzi, and heated relaxing chairs. "The spa is huge, and there were rarely many other people there", Candice notes. The Nordic spa cycle (alternating between heat and cold) creates a totally restorative and relaxing experience that she says everyone should try.

Candice adds, "The spa treatments are also some of the best I've ever experienced on a cruise ship." Facials, de-stress treatments and various massage options are all available to book during your Viking cruise.

All Aboard The Viking Neptune

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The Viking Neptune is your perfect base for exploring the Viking homelands.

The Viking Neptune represents the pinnacle of ocean cruise design: a state-of-the-art, all-veranda small ship that marries elegant Scandinavian aesthetics with meaningful cultural exploration. "The ship is beautifully designed, Nordic and spacious, with many beautiful spaces and fascinating Viking artefacts on display," Candice shares.

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Guests will feel right at home onboard Viking Neptune, which has the look and feel of a boutique hotel.

Designed as an upscale floating hotel, Viking Neptune offers a superb all-inclusive experience encompassing enriching shore excursions, spa access, alternative dining venues, and exclusively all-veranda staterooms. The ship's accolades speak volumes: in 2025, Viking was voted #1 for Rivers and #1 for Oceans in Condé Nast Traveler's annual Readers' Choice Awards, and was once again rated a World's Best for oceans, rivers and expeditions by Travel + Leisure readers.

Travel Associates’ Viking Cruises Booking Tips

Silver Spirits Package: Ask your Travel Associates advisor to book the Silver Spirits package as part of your Viking reservation. It provides convenience and a wider selection of beverages beyond the complimentary house wines, beers and soft drinks included with lunches and dinners. The package also covers gratuities for your drinks.

Upgrade to Deluxe Veranda: While the entry-level stateroom is already a Veranda cabin, Travel Associates suggests upgrading to a Deluxe Veranda. "The rooms are similar in size, but Deluxe staterooms offer significant advantages", says Candice. These include earlier access to shore excursion bookings, priority reservations at speciality dining venues, and superior cabin locations usually on higher decks (4, 5, 6). "It's worth it for the pre-booking privileges for dining and spa alone," Candice advises.

Where Happiness Meets Heritage

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From authentic Viking artefacts displayed aboard the ship to the Viking heritage woven into every port of call, the Viking Homelands itinerary brings the rich history of the Vikings to life.

It's no coincidence that the Nordic nations consistently rank among the happiest countries in the world. Perhaps it's the idyllic natural beauty, the rich cultural heritage, or the balanced approach to life that Scandinavians have perfected. Whatever the reason, this happiness is palpable throughout the voyage.

"The combination of being on a Viking ship while journeying through the Viking homelands was the perfect match," reflects Candice. With outstanding service, comfortable staterooms, world-class cuisine, and a spa retreat that rivals the finest establishments back on land, the Viking Homelands cruise delivers an experience that lingers long after you disembark.

This cruise is ideally suited for couples seeking cultural enrichment, multi-generational families wanting to share meaningful experiences, and groups of friends who appreciate active exploration. "It's perfect for active travellers," notes Candice. "The ship docks close to main cities, offering opportunities for morning runs or hikes before your included excursions begin."

Book Your Own Viking Cruise

The Travel Associates team can craft your perfect Scandinavian voyage with Viking Cruises, complete with expert advice on upgrades, excursions, and insider tips to enhance your experience.

Contact your Travel Associates advisor today to begin planning your next Viking cruise.