Viking vs. the Competition: Why This is the ONLY Way to See Australia by Sea

Australia. The name itself conjures a universe of imagery: the sun-drenched arc of the Sydney Opera House, the rugged, wine-drenched landscapes of the south, and the untamed, almost prehistoric beauty of Tasmania. It’s a continent of staggering contrasts, a destination that sits at the very top of so many travel wish lists. And for good reason. But the question isn’t if you should see Australia; it’s how.

The vastness of its coastline naturally lends itself to discovery by sea. A cruise promises the magic of waking up to a new, breathtaking vista each day without the hassle of packing and unpacking. Yet, this promise can quickly become a paradox of choice. The market is flooded with options, from colossal mega-ships that are destinations in themselves to budget lines promising the world for a pittance. They all sail the same waters, but I can tell you with the certainty of two decades spent exploring the globe’s finest travel experiences: they do not offer the same journey.

For the discerning traveler—the one who seeks connection over commotion, enrichment over entertainment, and serenity over spectacle—there is only one choice that truly honors the destination. This is why a Viking Ocean Cruise isn’t just another way to see Australia; it is, quite simply, the only way.

The Overwhelming Choice: Navigating the Crowded Waters of Australian Cruises

Let’s be frank. The typical Australian cruise experience can often feel like a compromise. You board a floating city with thousands of other passengers, navigating queues for buffet dinners and vying for a spot by a crowded pool. The air thrums with the jingle of casino slots and the announcements for bingo tournaments. Shore excursions are often hurried, large-group affairs that barely scratch the surface. You’re charged extra for Wi-Fi, for a decent cup of coffee, for a glass of wine with dinner, for the privilege of dining in a specialty restaurant. You see Australia, yes, but you experience it through a filter of constant upselling and overwhelming noise.

This model serves a purpose, but it is not for the traveler who wants to immerse themselves in the soul of a place. It’s a vacation from reality, not an exploration of it. If your dream of Australia is about quiet moments watching the coastline drift by from your private veranda, engaging conversations about local history, and savoring a meal that reflects the region’s flavors, then you are looking for a different kind of journey. You are looking for Viking.

The Viking Difference: A Paradigm Shift in Ocean Cruising

Viking didn’t just create another cruise line; they redefined the category for a specific type of traveler. They call it "The Thinking Person's Cruise," and it’s a philosophy that permeates every aspect of the experience, creating a stark and welcome contrast to the competition.

Serenity at Sea: The Adults-Only Sanctuary

The most immediate and profound difference is the atmosphere. Viking’s ocean ships are exclusively for guests 18 and older. This isn’t about being anti-family; it’s about being pro-serenity. The result is a calm, sophisticated, and peaceful environment.

• No Children: The decks are quiet, the pools are tranquil, and the lounges are filled with the gentle hum of conversation, not the shrieks of a water park.
• No Casinos: Valuable ship real estate is dedicated to beautiful, light-filled spaces for learning and relaxation—like the magnificent Explorer’s Lounge—not cavernous, windowless casinos.
• No Nickel-and-Diming: The constant pressure to spend more is absent. This creates a more relaxed and gracious social dynamic among both guests and crew.

The Thinking Person's Cruise: Culture and Enrichment

While other lines focus on Broadway shows and rock-climbing walls, Viking invests in your intellect and curiosity. The destination is the star, and the onboard experience is designed to deepen your understanding and appreciation of it. You won't just see Hobart; you'll understand its complex convict history before you even step ashore, thanks to a lecture from the resident historian. You'll learn about Australian wine, ecology, and art from experts who travel with you. This is travel that engages the mind as much as the senses.

All-Inclusive Value, Not All-Inclusive Noise

Viking’s approach to pricing is one of respectful transparency. Your fare includes a remarkable number of amenities that other lines charge a premium for, making it one of the best values in upscale cruising.

• One Included Shore Excursion: In every single port, a well-organized, insightful tour is included, ensuring you get a meaningful overview of the destination.
• All Specialty Dining: Craving the sublime handmade pasta at Manfredi’s or the curated tasting menu at The Chef’s Table? It’s included. No extra charge, no catch.
• Beer, Wine & Soft Drinks: Enjoy a lovely Australian Chardonnay or a robust Shiraz with lunch and dinner, included in your fare.
• Unlimited Wi-Fi: Stay connected and share your incredible journey with friends and family back home.
• Access to the Thermal Spa: Unwind in the stunning LivNordic Spa’s thermal suite, complete with a snow grotto and hydrotherapy pool, at no extra cost.

Your Australian Itinerary, Reimagined by Viking

A Viking itinerary is thoughtfully curated to offer a blend of iconic sights and deeper cultural dives. Imagine joining the popular 15-day "Australia & New Zealand" voyage, which showcases the very best of Australia’s southeastern coast before crossing the Tasman Sea. Let's focus on the Australian ports you'll experience.

Sydney: An Iconic Arrival

There are few arrivals in the world more dramatic than sailing into Sydney Harbour at dawn. You’ll glide past the Heads as the city awakens, the first light catching the "sails" of the Opera House and the majestic arch of the Harbour Bridge. With Viking, you don't just get a fleeting glimpse. You dock and have time to explore. The included tour provides a fantastic orientation, but the real magic lies in using that foundation to explore further, perhaps with an optional climb of the Harbour Bridge or a behind-the-scenes tour of that world-famous opera house. You’ll feel the city’s vibrant, sun-kissed energy, a perfect start to your adventure.

Melbourne: Culture, Coffee, and Coastal Wonders

Melbourne is Sydney’s sophisticated, artistic sibling. The ship docks conveniently, allowing for an immersive discovery of its famous "laneways"—hidden alleys buzzing with world-class coffee shops, vibrant street art, and unique boutiques. It’s a city that rewards wanderers. Beyond the city, Viking offers excursions that showcase the region's diversity, from the stunning coastal scenery of the Great Ocean Road to the rolling hills and cool-climate wineries of the Yarra Valley. You can taste the terroir, meet the makers, and understand the culture in a way a large-bus tour simply cannot replicate.

Hobart, Tasmania: A World Apart

A call in Hobart is, for many, the highlight of the entire voyage. Tasmania feels different—wilder, more remote, with a palpable sense of history. As you sail up the Derwent River, the imposing figure of Mount Wellington provides a stunning backdrop. Here, you can delve into Australia’s poignant convict past at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Port Arthur, a somber and powerful experience. Or, you can embrace Tasmania’s modern identity as a foodie paradise, sampling artisanal cheeses, fresh oysters, and world-renowned Pinot Noir. The air is cleaner, the landscapes are greener, and the experience is unforgettable.

Does this sound like the journey you’ve been dreaming of? Our travel advisors specialize in matching you with the perfect Viking sailing and stateroom. Plan Your Australia Adventure and let us handle all the details.

Life Onboard: Your Scandinavian Home on the High Seas

The destination may be the reason for the trip, but the ship is your home throughout the journey. Viking’s ocean vessels are masterpieces of modern Scandinavian design, built for comfort, discovery, and tranquility.

Understated Elegance: Design and Ambiance

Forget glitz and glamour. Viking ships are studies in understated elegance. Clean lines, natural materials like light wood and slate, and spaces flooded with natural light create an environment that is instantly calming. Whether you’re enjoying a cup of tea in the glass-roofed Wintergarden, reading a book in a quiet corner of The Living Room, or watching the sunset with a cocktail from the double-height Explorer’s Lounge at the bow, you feel a sense of space and peace that is the ultimate luxury.

A Culinary Journey Down Under

Viking’s culinary program is exceptional and, crucially, inclusive. There are no "main" dining rooms and "pay-extra" restaurants. There are simply choices, all of them excellent.

• The Restaurant: The elegant main dining venue offers a menu that changes daily, featuring regional specialties alongside classic favorites.
• The World Café: A refined buffet experience unlike any other, with an incredible array of choices, from fresh-shucked oysters and sushi to grilled steaks and gelato.
• Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant: Widely considered one of the best Italian restaurants at sea, serving authentic, rustic Tuscan and Roman cuisine.
• The Chef’s Table: A multi-course tasting menu paired with wines, centered around a different theme every few nights.

The Stateroom: Your Private Veranda Awaits

On a Viking ocean ship, every single stateroom has a private veranda. This is not a minor detail; it is a fundamental part of the experience. Your stateroom becomes your personal sanctuary, a place to enjoy a quiet breakfast as you sail into a new port or to watch the stars over the Tasman Sea. The rooms are thoughtfully designed with heated bathroom floors, spacious showers, and king-sized beds, ensuring a restful and restorative retreat.

To find the perfect stateroom category and location for your Australian sailing, let our experts provide you with a no-obligation quote. Get a Custom Quote today and see the available options.

Why Viking Isn't Just a Cruise—It's the Destination

Choosing Viking for your Australian adventure is choosing to prioritize the destination. It’s a decision to trade waterslides for world-class lectures, casinos for cultural immersion, and fleeting glances for deep understanding. You are not insulated from the destination in a floating theme park; the ship is a comfortable, elegant, and enriching conduit to the destination.

When you account for the inclusions—the tours, the Wi-Fi, the drinks, the specialty dining, the spa access—Viking often proves to be a more financially sound choice than a cruise that appears cheaper at first glance. It is a complete, premium experience without the constant annoyance of a running tab.

Australia is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. It deserves to be experienced in a way that is respectful, enriching, and deeply memorable. It deserves the Viking way.

Ready to experience Australia as it was meant to be seen? The first step is a simple conversation. Our specialists are waiting to craft your perfect journey. You can explore sailings and check availability right now using the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page, click the 'Chat with us' button for instant answers, or call our dedicated Viking line at 1 (888) 883‑0460 for a personal consultation. For the most detailed and personalized plan, we invite you to Inquire About This Sailing through our custom quote form.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in a Viking Ocean Cruise fare?

Viking offers one of the most inclusive fares in the industry. It includes your stateroom, all onboard meals (including specialty restaurants), beer and wine with lunch and dinner, a guided shore excursion in every port, unlimited Wi-Fi, access to the LivNordic Spa thermal suite, 24-hour specialty coffees and teas, and all port taxes and fees.

Is Viking considered a luxury cruise line?

Viking positions itself in the "upper-premium" category, but many travelers consider it a luxury experience due to the high quality of the ships, service, cuisine, and its destination-focused, inclusive nature. It offers a luxury experience without the formality or price tag of some ultra-luxury lines.

Are there formal nights on Viking cruises?

No, there are no required "formal nights." The dress code is "elegant casual." During the day, it's casual resort wear. In the evening, guests typically dress as they would for a nice restaurant at home—slacks and a collared shirt for men, and a dress, skirt, or nice slacks for women. The emphasis is on comfort and relaxation.

What is the best time of year to cruise to Australia?

The Australian cruise season typically runs from October to April, during the country's spring, summer, and autumn. This period offers the best weather for exploring the coastal regions of the south and east. December through February is the peak of summer, offering warm and sunny conditions ideal for coastal activities.

Who is the typical Viking cruiser?

The typical Viking guest is a curious, well-traveled individual, often 55 and older, who is interested in history, culture, and cuisine. They value learning and enrichment over passive entertainment and prefer a calm, sophisticated onboard environment over a party atmosphere. They are looking to explore the world in comfort and style.