From the moment I stepped on board, I was struck by the ship’s refined beauty and thoughtful design. Viking’s Scandinavian aesthetic shines through—sleek lines, warm tones, and an atmosphere of serene sophistication. But what truly sets Viking Polaris apart is its commitment to sustainability. The ship boasts an innovative food recycling facility that transforms food waste into plant fertiliser, a pioneering system that helps achieve a zero-waste goal. Every four hours, the galley replaces all food, ensuring freshness and minimising waste—an inspiring and forward-thinking initiative. And yes, Viking even has its own onboard vodka! A delightful surprise, it became a highlight of our onboard experience, perfectly complementing the luxurious dining and warm hospitality.
Life aboard Polaris is refreshingly different from larger ships. There’s no loud music blaring in public spaces—just a peaceful, relaxed ambience, where staff and guests alike greet each other with friendly smiles. By the second day, the crew knew my name and my travel companion’s—we were affectionately nicknamed the “Dynamic Duo!” That level of personal connection made us feel like part of the Viking family.
Exploration is at the heart of the Polaris experience. Shore excursions were the highlight of each day—whether kayaking along untouched shorelines, venturing into the depths in one of the ship’s two submarines, or simply marvelling at the natural beauty of the Great Lakes.
Back on board, the ship offered an array of enrichment opportunities. Daily lectures by onboard professors delved into the geology, marine biology, and conservation efforts of the Great Lakes. We even stargazed through telescopes, hoping for a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The ship’s science lab, daily seminars, and fascinating documentaries kept us engaged and inspired.
Our Deluxe Nordic Balcony stateroom on Deck 3 was a perfect retreat. Spacious, with a double basin marble bathroom, ample wardrobe storage, and clever suitcase space under the bed, it blended comfort with style. Every detail, from the plush bedding to the sweeping views of the lakes, spoke of understated luxury.
Dining on Polaris was a culinary delight. From the specialty restaurants to the casual eateries, every meal was a celebration of global flavours—paired with an exceptional wine list, all included in the cruise fare. We wined and dined in style, savouring dishes that spanned continents, all prepared with care and creativity.
Sailing through the Great Lakes felt like uncovering a secret world. The vastness of these freshwater seas is awe-inspiring—some mornings, I had to remind myself I wasn’t at sea! We marveled at ancient rock formations, kayaked through Silver Inlet, and witnessed the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks. Each day brought a new discovery, a deeper understanding of the ecosystems, and a profound appreciation for conservation efforts in these unique waters.
If you’re considering an expedition cruise—whether to Antarctica, the Arctic, the Great Lakes, or beyond—Viking Polaris offers an unforgettable experience. The ship’s small guest capacity, world-class enrichment, sustainability focus, and warm atmosphere make it a standout in the world of cruising.
