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A Tradition of Exploration

Norwegian pioneers throughout history

The Viking Age

From 800 to 1066 AD, the Vikings journeyed in their longships to explore and establish trade around Europe. Boldly, they also sailed across the open ocean to settle Iceland and Greenland, even landing in North America—becoming the first Europeans to do so.

Heroic Age of Exploration

In the late 19th and early 20th century, intrepid adventurers set out for the polar regions. Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen became the first man to reach the South Pole in December 1911, and in 1926, he led the first flight over the North Pole.

Heritage of Firsts

Curiosity and wonder continue to drive us today. Building on Norway’s maritime legacy, Viking continues to innovate, first inventing modern river cruising, then reinventing ocean cruising, and now perfecting expedition cruising.