After more than 15 years sailing the Yangtze River, Viking has announced three new, irst-of-their-kind itineraries that will give guests a brand new way to explore the very best of China.

In addition to iconic cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong, each itinerary also includes a domestic sailing of China’s coast, featuring rarely-seen destinations and ports that have never before been offered to international visitors and that only Viking has access to. 

Ranging from 10-20 days, the new voyages will operate from September to November on the Viking Yi Dun (formerly the Viking Sun), a sister ship that features the same award-winning design and service as all other ocean ships in Viking’s fleet. It offers 465 staterooms with verandas to accommodate 930 guests, plus light-filled public spaces and al fresco dining options.

The Chinese-flagged Viking Yi Dun will be the first ship dedicated specifically to the foreign market to operate domestic sailings in China. Each voyage will offer ‘The Viking Way’ of exploration, with immersive experiences, insightful lectures, Chinese-inspired cuisine and destination experts.

To celebrate the new itineraries, from now through Jan. 31, 2024, Viking is offering North American travellers the ‘Discover More’ sale, with up to free international airfare, special fares and a $25 deposit – with additional savings for both new and returning guests – on all-inclusive river, ocean and expedition voyages, including the new coastal China itineraries. Space is limited for 2024 departures. 

The three new itineraries are as follows:

• Wonders of China (20 days, Beijing roundtrip): This comprehensive cruisetour itinerary includes a meet-and-greet with a Tibetan family at their home, a walk along the Great Wall and a visit to the Terra Cotta Warriors. Guests will also experience the scenic coast of Dongtou and get the chance to explore Gulangyu Island in Xiamen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as Shenzhen, a UNESCO city of design.
   
• Classic China & the Coast  (15 days, Beijing, Xian – Hong Kong/Shenzhen): This voyage combines the experiences of Viking’s 10-day ‘China Discovery’ voyage with the chance to see the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terra Cotta Warriors and other iconic landmarks.
   
• China Discovery (10 days, Shanghai – Hong Kong/Shenzhen): This 10-day itinerary allows guests to explore the Buddhist shrines of Zhoushan and the cliffs of Dongtou. They’ll also follow the steps of 19th-century European diplomats on Gulangyu Island in Xiamen, or try Cantonese dim sum in Shenzhen.

Viking has published two new videos featuring Executive Vice President Karine Hagen and Vice President of Product Development Joost Ouendag who provide an in-depth overview of the new voyages. To watch the videos click here and here.

Source: Travelweek