# Viking Cruises ## 公式／バイキング・クルーズ | 2025年日本発着クルーズ ## [Viking celebrates the end of a successful 2026 season and announces 2028 Homeported cruises on the Viking Neptune](https://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com/en/ocean/news/2026/06/02/viking-celebrates-the-end-of-a-successful-2026-season-and-announces-2028-homeported-cruises-on-the-viking-neptune/) TOKYO (June 2, 2026) – Viking® (www.viking.com) (NYSE: VIK) today celebrated the successful conclusion of its 2026 sailing season for the Japanese market on board the Viking Yidun. The 2026 season has boasted record numbers of Japanese passengers sailing with Viking, including many loyal repeaters who have enjoyed multiple Viking voyages since the launch of the Japan cruises. At the same time, Viking is excited to announce its highly anticipated return to Japan in 2028 with voyages on board the Viking Neptune. Dedicated 100% to the Japanese market, the 2028 Japan season will again offer Viking’s award-winning cruise experiences tailored specifically for Japanese guests. In addition to meticulously curated Japan-focused itineraries, the ship will boast more Japanese-speaking crew members than any other international cruise line, ensuring an unparalleled level of comfort and hospitality. "We are truly thrilled to celebrate the outstanding conclusion of our 2026 season alongside so many of our loyal, returning guests on board the Viking Yidun” said Trey Hickey, Head of Viking Japan. “As we look to the future, our commitment to the Japanese market remains stronger than ever. We look forward to welcoming our guests back in 2028 on board the Viking Neptune, where they will experience the very essence of travel created For The Thinking Person.” Further details, including specific schedules and itineraries, are expected to be announced this summer. **_Viking Neptune:_****A Small Ocean Ship Designed for Large Discoveries** The _Viking Neptune_ is a sister ship in Viking’s fleet of award-winning, small ocean ships, specially designed to enable immersive voyages. With a capacity of just 930 guests in 465 staterooms, the ship offers a relaxed and comfortable experience. Its smaller size allows it to visit ports that larger vessels cannot access. Built in 2022 by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, the _Viking Neptune_combines contemporary Scandinavian design with world-class amenities. The ship features all-veranda staterooms, light-filled public spaces, and a diverse range of dining options, including both Japanese-inspired as well as international cuisine to enhance the onboard experience. ![](blob:https://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com/1f07d76c-d397-49ee-8f88-b866dc1a76d3) Viking Ocean Ship **Viking Japan** Viking established its Japan office in 2024, led by industry veteran Trey Hickey.  **About Viking**  Viking (NYSE: VIK) is a global leader in experiential travel with a fleet of more than 100 ships, exploring 21 rivers, five oceans and all seven continents. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Executive Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences For The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers and #1 for Oceans five years in a row by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated a “World’s Best” by Travel + Leisure—no other travel company has simultaneously received such honors by both publications. For additional information visit [www.vikingcruisesjapan.com](http://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com).   For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit [www.viking.tv](http://www.viking.tv). ## [Media Coverage: CRUISE Traveller Spring 2026](https://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com/en/ocean/news/2026/03/25/media-coverage-cruise-traveller-spring-2026/) Viking was featured in the cruise specialty magazine "CRUISE Traveller Spring 2026." Under the theme "Scandinavian aesthetics and comfort with Viking Cruises," the feature explores the appeal of Viking's Japan homeported voyages. The issue also includes a firsthand report from LiLiCo, the film commentator and wide-ranging media personality, who experienced a Viking cruise for herself. **Read the article (Japanese):** [https://www.cruisetraveller.jp/?p=6857](https://www.cruisetraveller.jp/?p=6857) ## [Media Coverage: Asahi Shimbun Digital Magazine "&Travel"](https://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com/en/ocean/news/2026/01/31/media-coverage-asahi-shimbun-digital-magazine-travel/) Viking Yidun's cruise experience was featured in "Sumiko Ueda's Invitation to Cruising," a series in the Asahi Shimbun digital magazine "&travel." Set aboard a cruise departing from Kobe, the article showcases the refined Scandinavian elegance of the onboard spaces, the festive touches unique to the Christmas season, and the rich variety of sightseeing experiences at each port of call. It also takes a closer look at the hallmarks that set Viking apart, from all-veranda staterooms to art inspired by Scandinavian culture, the spa, exceptional dining, and attentive service. Discover the appeal of a refined cruise that satisfies your intellectual curiosity, easily enjoyed from Japan, in the full article. **Read the article (Japanese):** [https://www.asahi.com/and/travel/article/16299481](https://www.asahi.com/and/travel/article/16299481) ## [Viking Appoints Atsushi Kobayashi as Managing Director of Viking Japan](https://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com/en/ocean/news/2025/09/12/viking-appoints-atsushi-kobayashi-as-managing-director-of-viking-japan/) _Kobayashi to oversee all sales and marketing activities in Japan_ Tokyo (September 12, 2025) — Viking (www.viking.com) (NYSE: VIK) today announced the appointment of Atsushi Kobayashi as Managing Director of Viking Japan. Kobayashi will lead the company’s Japan office and oversee all sales and marketing activities in the country. With Kobayashi’s appointment, Viking further strengthens its presence in the Japan market and reinforces its readiness to deliver its award-winning experiences to Japanese guests. Kobayashi brings more than 20 years of senior management experience in the Japanese travel industry, and throughout his career he has driven business growth and built a strong record of leading sales and marketing organizations. Drawing on his deep experience and leadership, Viking Japan will continue to advance its business development in the Japan market in a steady and deliberate manner. ## **Japan Round-Trip Cruises Tailored for Japanese Guests** Viking’s Japan round-trip cruises offer curious and well-traveled Japanese guests a meaningful, relaxed travel experience — combining in-depth exploration of culturally and historically rich ports of call with the comfort of the line’s award-winning onboard amenities. Guests are able to forge a deeper connection with each port through insightful cultural lectures, dining tailored for the Japanese palate (including Japanese cuisine), and the expert perspective of Viking’s Destination Guides. Each itinerary embodies Viking’s signature travel style: “exploring the world in comfort while engaging with the history and culture of each destination.” In its inaugural season, more than 6,000 guests sailed with Viking, and onboard surveys returned an overall satisfaction rating of 96%. Viking has already established itself firmly as a destination-focused cruise line in the Japan market. For its 2025–2026 Japan round-trip program, Viking will operate a total of 21 voyages aboard Viking Eden, including charter cruises. Itineraries will visit ports rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, with calls at UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, Mt. Koya, Himeji Castle, and the Hidden Christian-related sites of Amakusa. The line will also operate a Grand Asia Cruise calling at Hong Kong, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Singapore, and other ports. ![](https://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/027-Himeji-AdobeStock_375722567-1100x700-1.jpg) _Himeji Castle (Himeji)_ ## **Viking Eden: A Compact Ocean Ship Designed for Greater Discovery** Viking Eden offers nearly the same specifications as Viking’s award-winning ocean cruise ships, purpose-designed to deliver immersive journeys. Compact in size with 465 staterooms and a maximum capacity of 930 guests, the ship provides a more relaxed and comfortable environment, and her dimensions allow her to enter ports that larger vessels cannot. Built in 2017 by the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, Viking Eden blends refined Scandinavian modern design with world-class amenities. Every stateroom features a private veranda, public spaces are bright and open, and a diverse range of dining options — including Japanese cuisine — further enriches the onboard experience. ![](https://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-2.jpeg) _Viking Ocean Ship_ ## **About Viking Japan** Viking opened its Japan office in 2024. Trey Hickey, a longtime cruise industry veteran, serves as its head, and the office has established distribution partnerships with major Japanese travel agencies, enabling Japanese guests to book Viking voyages through familiar channels. ## **About Viking** Viking (NYSE: VIK) is a global leader in experiential travel with a fleet of more than 100 ships, exploring 21 rivers, five oceans and all seven continents. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences For The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers and #1 for Oceans five years in a row by _Condé Nast Traveler_ in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated a “World’s Best” by _Travel + Leisure_—no other travel company has simultaneously received such honors by both publications For more information, please visit viking.jp. For more information, please visit www.vikingcruisesjapan.com. Viking’s award-winning culture channel is available at www.viking.tv. ## [Viking Yidun Achieves 96% Guest Satisfaction in Inaugural Japan Round-Trip Season](https://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com/en/ocean/news/2025/08/06/viking-yidun-achieves-96-guest-satisfaction-in-inaugural-japan-round-trip-season/) _Tailored for the Japan market, the program earned high scores across every category_ ![](https://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-1.jpeg) _Viking Yidun_ Viking (www.viking.com) (NYSE: VIK) conducted a survey of guests who sailed Viking Yidun during her inaugural Japan season from November 2024 through May 2025, and received an exceptionally high overall satisfaction score of 96%. Staff were rated at 95% and the Guest Services Desk (reception) at 94%, with guests citing the attentiveness and warmth of the crew as a defining element of the experience. Dining, featuring fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients, was also highly rated, achieving a satisfaction score of 84%. Compared with other modes of transport, Viking Yidun scored 88%, and compared with other cruise vacations, 92%; both notable results. The ship itself was rated at 87%, staterooms at 85%, and public spaces at 87%. The survey assessed overall satisfaction, staff service, dining, facilities, staterooms, the Guest Services Desk, and comparisons with other travel and cruise experiences. The season’s itinerary was specifically tailored for Japanese guests. Trey Hickey, Head of Asia Business Development at Viking, commented: _“We are proud to have received such a high level of satisfaction from our guests during Viking Yidun’s inaugural Japan season. Viking is committed to delivering destination-focused, culturally rich journeys. These results show that our approach built on quality service, thoughtful experiences, and attention to detail resonates deeply with Japanese guests.”_ With more than 450 industry honors, Viking has earned a wide range of globally recognized awards. Most recently, in the Condé Nast Traveler 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards, Viking was ranked #1 in the River Cruise category, #1 in the Ocean Cruise category, and #1 in the Expedition Cruise category — sweeping all three categories for the second consecutive year, a first for any single company. In the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, Viking has also been named “World’s Best” across the river, ocean, and expedition categories. No other single company has received simultaneous honors of this stature from both publications. In addition, U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best Cruise Lines recognized Viking as “Best Luxury Cruise Line,” “Best Cruise Line for Couples,” and “Best Cruise Line for Mediterranean Cruises.” Women’s Health magazine’s 2024 Travel Awards named Viking “Best Adventure Cruise Line,” and Men’s Health’s 2024 Travel Awards selected Viking as the “World’s Best Expedition Cruise Line.” Viking’s ocean cruise ships also received a “Recommended” rating in the Forbes Travel Guide 2024 Star Awards, the independent assessment program for luxury travel brands. Furthermore, in Cruise Critic’s 2024 Best in Cruise Awards, Viking received a total of seven awards across the Luxury (Ocean), River, and Expedition categories. ## **Viking 2025–2026 Japan Round-Trip Cruises** Viking Yidun’s Japan cruise program (viking.jp) is scheduled to operate from November 2025 through May 2026, offering unforgettable journeys. Itineraries visit ports rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, with calls at UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Kumano Kodo, Mt. Koya, Himeji Castle, and Hoi An. New ports of call have also been added — including Amakusa, home to the Sakitsu Village that forms part of the UNESCO-listed “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region” (which also encompasses Amakusa), and Moji — bringing deeper engagement with Japanese culture. Guests can look forward to a meaningful, culturally rich experience aboard this voyage. ### **November and December Departures: Special Christmas-Themed Cruises** Cruises departing in November and December feature a magical, Christmas-themed voyage wrapped in elegant Scandinavian-style décor and uplifting holiday music. Highlights include caroling alongside Viking’s crew and staff, servings of fragrant mulled wine (Glühwein), and a range of seasonal Christmas activities — heartwarming experiences crafted for the holidays. Set against the sea, this special holiday cruise delivers joy, charm, and unforgettable travel memories. ### **_Featured Itineraries_** - West Japan Culinary & Cultural Treasures (7 nights / 8 days: Yokohama to Kobe) - Kyushu & Shikoku: Mystic Islands and Historic Romance (7 nights / 8 days: round-trip Kobe) ### **_Christmas Cruise Promotions_** Viking is currently offering a special promotion that makes its appealing Christmas cruises easier to book. Solo travelers are warmly welcomed. Benefits include: - Included shore excursions: a complimentary basic sightseeing tour at each port is bundled with the cruise fare - Single Occupancy Promotion: select stateroom categories available for single occupancy at no additional supplement - Repeat Guest Benefit: 10% discount on the cruise fare plus a complimentary drinks package For detailed schedules, please refer to the Viking Yidun Itinerary Booklet. ## **About Viking** Viking (NYSE: VIK) is a global leader in experiential travel with a fleet of more than 100 ships, exploring 21 rivers, five oceans and all seven continents. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences For The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers and #1 for Oceans five years in a row by _Condé Nast Traveler_ in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated a “World’s Best” by _Travel + Leisure_—no other travel company has simultaneously received such honors by both publications For more information, please visit viking.jp. Viking’s award-winning culture channel is available at www.viking.tv. ## **About Viking Yidun** Viking Yidun — originally christened Viking Sun — was designed as a sister ship to Viking’s ocean cruise vessels and was purpose-built to deliver immersive journeys. All 465 staterooms feature a private balcony, and the ship’s compact maximum capacity of 930 guests creates a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere while allowing her to call at ports too small for larger vessels — a notable point of distinction. Built in 2017 by the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, Viking Yidun blends refined Scandinavian modern design with world-class amenities. Bright, open public spaces and dining venues serving a diverse range of international cuisines — including Japanese — further enrich the onboard experience. Viking Yidun began coastal cruises in China and Japan in September 2024, and in November 2024 launched her Japan round-trip program tailored for Japanese guests, which has already earned high marks from many of her guests. ## **About the Viking Japan Office** Viking opened its Japan office in 2024. Trey Hickey, a longtime cruise industry veteran, serves as its head, and the office has established distribution partnerships with major Japanese travel agencies. Bookings and inquiries are handled through Viking’s travel agency partners. ## [Viking Celebrates First Voyage for Japanese Travelers](https://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com/en/ocean/news/2024/12/02/viking-celebrates-first-voyage-for-japanese-travelers/) **TOKYO (December 2, 2024)**Viking® ([www.viking.com](http://www.viking.com)) (NYSE: VIK) today announced the successful completion of its first domestic coastal voyage tailored for Japanese travelers.  Today’s announcement celebrates the work over the past 12 months to bring Viking’s award-winning destination-focused small ship experience to Japan and shows Viking’s dedication to delivering a truly unique experience tailored to the Japanese market. “We are very pleased to introduce Japanese guests to the Viking experience,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “Japan has one of the world’s most fascinating cultures, as well as incredible natural beauty. We look forward to offering our Japanese guests the opportunity to rediscover their homeland and beyond in ‘the Viking way.’ Since our founding in 1997, Viking has focused on providing culturally immersive, destination-focused experiences, and we are delighted to bring this same approach to Japan.” For the 2024-2025 season, Viking is offering a series of 30 cruises onboard the Viking Yi Dun, reaching coastal destinations such as Yokohama, Kobe, Sukomo, Hiroshima, Wakayama, Shimonoseki, and Matsuyama, as well as a Grand Asia voyage visiting Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore and Hong Kong.  ![A pagoda with a tall pointy roof surrounded by trees and water Description automatically generated](blob:https://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com/7afa4c02-ce23-4cbe-a654-5eaf55383666) Itsukushima Shrine  (Hiroshima), Japan **Viking’s Voyages for Japanese Travelers ** Viking’s Japan voyages offer enriching and relaxing experiences for curious, seasoned Japanese travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of the local destinations, while enjoying the amenities on board an award-winning ship. Guests will enjoy a deeper connection to each destination, with a strong focus on cultural enrichment, through insightful lectures, destination focused cuisine, and the expertise of Viking’s destination guides. Each voyage reflects the Viking way of travel—exploring the world in comfort, while connecting with each destination’s history and culture. ![](https://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-1024x410.jpeg) Viking Ocean Ship **_Viking Yi Dun:_****A Small Ocean Ship Designed for Large Discoveries** The _Viking Yi Dun_, originally named the _Viking Sun_ and an identical sister-ship in Viking’s fleet of award-winning, small ocean ships, is specially designed to enable immersive voyages. With a capacity of just 930 guests in 465 staterooms, the ship offers a relaxed and comfortable experience. Its smaller size allows it to visit ports that larger vessels cannot access. Built in 2017 by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, the _Viking Yi Dun_ combines contemporary Scandinavian design with world-class amenities. The ship features all-veranda staterooms, light-filled public spaces, and a diverse range of dining options, including both Japanese-inspired as well as international cuisine to enhance the onboard experience. For additional information about the _Viking Yi Dun_, please visit [www.vikingcruisesjapan.com](http://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com). **Viking Japan** Earlier this year Viking established an office in Japan, led by industry veteran Trey Hickey. Over the past year, Viking has successfully established partnerships with most of the leading travel agents in Japan, including Japanet, HIS, Cruise Planet, JTB, and many other valued partners, through which Japanese travelers can book their Viking journey. **Media Assets** For more information about Viking, please contact [viking-pr@parthenonjapan.com](mailto:viking-pr@parthenonjapan.com).  **About Viking**  Viking (NYSE: VIK) was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences For The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans and #1 for Expeditions by _Condé Nast Traveler_ in the 2023 and 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated a “World’s Best” for rivers, oceans and expeditions by _Travel + Leisure_. No other travel company has simultaneously received the same honors by both publications. For additional information visit [www.vikingcruisesjapan.com](http://www.vikingcruisesjapan.com).   For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit [www.viking.tv](http://www.viking.tv).