Sarah Bretz, ContributorViking has announced that for the first time, it will be offering guests destination-focused experiences in Mongolia with its new Spirit of Mongolia extension program. The five-night, fully-guided pre or post-cruise extension will allow guests to further immerse themselves in the region, from the ancient city of Ulaanbaatar to the Gobi Desert.
The Spirit of Mongolia and a variety of other extensions, including in Hong Kong and Beijing, are available for Viking’s new, first-of-their-kind China itineraries: Best of China, China Discovery, Classic China & the Coast, and Wonders of China.
Spirit of Mongolia Extension Program
Guests booked on the five-night Spirit of Mongolia pre or post-cruise extension will begin their journey in the city of Ulaanbaatar, where they will meet their Viking Representative and explore the sites of the city – including the Chinggis Khaan National Museum, Mongolia’s largest and most contemporary cultural institution, then go behind the scenes for a look at fossil specimens and more in the paleontology lab.
After a day exploring the city, travelers will continue on to Dalanzadgad, where they’ll go to 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, guests will enjoy comfortable accommodations in their own “ger,” an authentic yurt updated with modern amenities.
For three days, guests can enjoy lodge activities including archery, a camel safari, or an exploration of the famous Flaming Cliffs. They may also choose to 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.
Alternatively, guests can learn how to make buuz (steamed dumplings) from the lodge’s Mongolian chef.
Following their time in the desert, guests will return to Ulaanbaatar for additional exploration for one night before continuing their journey home or embarking on their Viking cruise in China.
Viking Extensions in China
Viking is also offering four immersive pre and post-cruise extensions in China. These new, fully-guided extensions range from three to four nights and are offered in the cities of Hong Kong and Beijing, as well as Guilin and Suzhou.
Beijing
Delve into the mysteries of Beijing, one of history’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 the city’s eclectic mix of China’s ancient past and bold future. The three-night extension is available on the China Discovery itinerary.
Hong Kong
Delve into one of the world’s most bustling metropolises with an extension in Hong Kong. Admire the beautiful 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 lively southern coast. The three-night extension is available on the Classic China & the Coast and China Discovery itineraries.
Hong Kong & 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 metropolis steeped in commerce and culture, while tranquil Guilin captivates with karst mountains, serene rivers, and ancient caves. The four-night extension is available on the Classic China & the Coast and China Discovery itineraries.
Suzhou & Wuxi
Discover Suzhou and Wuxi, famed for their 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 three-night extension is available on the China Discovery itinerary.
Viking’s China Itineraries
Best of China (20 days roundtrip from Beijing)
This 20-day cruisetour allows guests to see the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and rare giant pandas among other iconic destinations. Guests will enjoy China’s scenic eastern coast, delve into Tibet’s spiritual tradition, and admire the Terra Cotta Warriors while sailing the scenic eastern coast.
Wonders of China (20 days roundtrip from Beijing)
This comprehensive 20-day cruisetour itinerary delivers China’s main highlights. Guests can meet a Tibetan family at their home, walk on the Great Wall, and see the Terra Cotta Warriors. Additionally, guests 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 & the Coast (15 days; Beijing, Xian — Hong Kong (Shenzhen))
This voyage 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, guests can experience a phenomenal diversity in languages, cultures and cuisines.
China Discovery (10 days from Shanghai to Hong Kong (Shenzhen))
This 10-day itinerary allows guests to experience the Buddhist shrines of Zhoushan and the cliffs of Dongtou, follow the steps of 19th-century European diplomats on Gulangyu Island in Xiamen, or try Cantonese dim sum in Shenzhen.
Viking Yi Dun
Dedicated specifically to exploring destinations in China, Viking Yi Dun, (formerly Viking Sun) is a sister ship in Viking’s ocean fleet. It has a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons and can hold 930 guests in 465 staterooms. The vessel features all-balcony cabins, a Scandinavian design, and a variety of included dining options.
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Would you consider taking a cruise with Viking in Asia? Have you ever done a pre or post-cruise extension program with Viking or another cruise line? Drop us an anchor below and let us know!
