Viking Offers a Range of China Cruises with Extensions to Mongolia, Hong Kong and More
Viking Yi Dun docked in Shanghai. (Courtesy Viking)
Viking is offering travelers on its China cruises new destination-focused experiences in Mongolia with the Spirit of Mongolia extension program.
The five-night, fully guided pre- or post-cruise extension gives travelers the chance to enhance their trips by experiencing the rich traditions of the region. Imagine exploring the ancient city of Ulaanbaatar and the Gobi Desert.
The Spirit of Mongolia and a variety of other pre- and post-cruise programs, including Hong Kong and Beijing, are available for Viking’s new China cruise itineraries: Best of China, China Discovery, Classic China & the Coast and Wonders of China.
“We were proud to announce our new China ocean voyages recently, and we are now pleased to offer guests our first experiences in Mongolia,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking. “With its geographic diversity and incredible history, Mongolia is an extraordinary destination, making it a natural extension to our new China itineraries.”
Cruisers who choose to join the five-night Mongolia extension begin their journey in Mongolia’s capital city Ulaanbaatar, where they will meet their Viking guide and explore the sites of the city -- including the Chinggis Khaan National Museum, the country’s largest and most contemporary cultural institution. You get a chance to step behind the scenes for a look at fossil specimens and more in the paleontology lab.
From there, you continue the journey by heading to Dalanzadgad, where you stay at the award-winning Three Camel Lodge, an eco-lodge nestled in the foothills of the Altai Mountains in the Gobi Desert near the Gurvan Saikhan National Park.
At the lodge, you’ll stay in a traditional yurt updated with modern amenities. Lodge activities include archery, a camel safari and an exploration of the famous Flaming Cliffs. You also can join fellow early risers for a sunrise trek through the desert hills with a naturalist guide or take in panoramic views of the steppe from Bulagtai Mountain to examine ancient petroglyphs. The program also offers the chance to learn the secrets of making buuz (steamed dumplings), led by the lodge’s chef. After your time in the Gobi Desert, you’ll return to Ulaanbaatar for one night before continuing the journey home or embarking on your Viking cruise in China.
Viking also offers four other immersive pre- and post-cruise extensions in China. These range between three and four nights and are offered in the iconic cities of Hong Kong and Beijing, as well as tours exploring the natural beauty of Guilin and Suzhou.
Viking China Cruise Extensions
Beijing
Delve into the mysteries of Beijing, one of the world’s great capitals and home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Forbidden City and Great Wall. Optional excursions offer an opportunity to be immersed in this multilayered city’s eclectic mix of China’s ancient past and bold future. The 3-night extension is available on the “China Discovery” cruise itinerary.
Hong Kong
Venture through one of the world’s foremost metropolises with an extension in Hong Kong. Admire the captivating cityscape and soak up its blend of tradition and modernity, culture and commerce. An optional excursion to Macau allows for more opportunities to experience China’s southern coast. The 3-night extension is available on the “Classic China & the Coast” and “China Discovery” itineraries.
Hong Kong and Guilin
Explore two versions of China -- the urban spectacle of Hong Kong and the enchanting natural beauty of Guilin. Admire the towering skyscrapers and energy of Hong Kong, a city filled with enchanting culture, food and night life. Conversely, tranquil Guilin captivates with karst mountains, serene rivers and ancient caves. The 4-night extension is available on the “Classic China & the Coast” and “China Discovery” itineraries.
Suzhou and Wuxi
Discover Suzhou and Wuxi, popular destinations to see the exquisite gardens, canals and embodiment of ancient charm. Visit UNESCO-listed classical gardens, stroll ancient alleyways, gain insight into the region’s legacy of silk making, cruise the scenic Grand Canal and view one of China’s largest Buddha statues. The 3-night extension is available on the “China Discovery” cruise itinerary.
Viking’s China Voyages
Best of China
This cruise is 20 days roundtrip from Beijing and allows travelers to see the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and rare giant pandas among other iconic destinations. Cruisers will enjoy China’s scenic eastern coast, ponder Tibet’s spiritual tradition, and admire the Terra Cotta Warriors while sailing the scenic eastern coast.
Wonders of China
This cruise covers 20 days roundtrip from Beijing and delivers China’s main highlights. You’ll meet a Tibetan family at their home, walk on the Great Wall and see the Terra Cotta Warriors. Additionally, travelers experience the scenic coast of Dongtou and have opportunities to explore Gulangyu Island in Xiamen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Shenzhen, a UNESCO city of design.
Classic China and the Coast
This voyage lasts 15 days and travels from Beijing, Xian, to Hong Kong (Shenzhen). The trip combines the experiences of Viking’s 10-day China Discovery voyage with opportunity to see the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terra Cotta Warriors and other iconic landmarks. While sailing China’s coastline, cruisers can experience a phenomenal diversity of languages, cultures and cuisines.
China Discovery
This is a 10-day cruise from Shanghai to Hong Kong (Shenzhen) that allows travelers to experience the Buddhist shrines of Zhoushan and the cliffs of Dongtou. You also can follow the steps of 19th-century European diplomats on Gulangyu Island in Xiamen or try Cantonese dim sum in Shenzhen.
The Cruise Ship: Viking Yi Dun
Viking Yi Dun (formerly Viking Sun) is dedicated to exploring destinations in China, with an onboard experience that complements the discoveries ashore.
Viking Yi Dun is a sister ship in Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet, with 465 staterooms to carry up to 930 passengers. Viking Yi Dun features all veranda staterooms, Scandinavian design, light-filled public spaces and abundant al fresco dining options.