Viking Oceans Cruises – NEW! From the Caribbean to the Amazon (Puerto Rico, Barbados, French Guiana, Brazil, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Lucia, Antigua & Barbuda, U.S Virgin Islands) 22 Days

San Juan, Puerto Rico
Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. San Juan is a city of white-sand beaches, lush rainforests and inspiring Spanish colonial architecture. Compact and elegantly planned, Old San Juan spans the centuries. El Morro fortress has been standing watch over San Juan Bay since the 16th century and its formidable cannons peer out to sea. The streets of the centuries-old UNESCO World Heritage Site are paved with steel-blue adoquín stone, used to ballast the Spanish galleons that brought settlers here. These colorful, narrow byways lead to picturesque multihued facades and townhouses with neoclassical balconies.

San Juan, Puerto Rico
Throughout San Juan, there is evidence of the city’s Spanish influence. Centuries-old, two-story houses line the streets of the Old Town, many of them brightly hued with pastel facades. Some of the city’s most historic structures have been transformed into cultural venues. In the stately Ballajá Barracks, built to house troops in the mid-1800s, the Museum of the Americas chronicles the region’s heritage. The metallic-blue 16th-century La Fortaleza, once a defensive citadel, is the oldest continually used executive mansion in the Americas, today home to the city’s governor.

Shore Excursions – Historic Old San Juan by Foot
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Explore the important monuments and plazas of historic Old San Juan by foot. Begin your guided walk over the quarter’s cobblestone streets to Fort San Cristóbal, the largest fortress built by Spain in the New World, where you can pause for photos of the mighty citadel and its stunning Caribbean backdrop. Enjoy sweeping views of the bay and the governor’s mansion at the Plazuela de la Rogativa, which commemorates the city’s miraculous evasion from sacking by the British during the 16th century. Pass the San Juan Gate, an impressive remnant of the three-mile-long wall that once encircled the city. Admire the historic, neoclassical-style Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, the oldest cathedral in the US. Stroll to the Plaza de Armas, where you will view the Four Seasons Fountain and its four 19th-century marble statues, then return to your ship.

Shore Excursions – San Juan Old & New
Duration: 3 hours
Set out on a scenic drive through San Juan, taking in the sights of the modern city and Old San Juan. Travel through modern San Juan, passing the neighborhoods of Isla Verde, Condado and the 17th-century Fort San Gerónimo en route to Old San Juan. Within the old city, appreciate some of the quarter’s few remaining blue-black glazed cobblestone streets and the architecture and ironwork of this 500-year-old city; learn the history of Fort San Cristobal and Fort El Morro, and their role in defending the island throughout the years. Learn more about the city’s history during your drive as you pass various plazas, sculptures and historic buildings. After, you will have an opportunity for independent exploration of the old city. View the nearby historic sights, or browse the many interesting shops, boutiques and art galleries that line the streets, before returning to your ship.

Shore Excursions – Historic Old San Juan Sunset Stroll
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Admire the monuments and plazas of historic Old San Juan at sunset during a guided walk. Enjoy sweeping views of the bay and the governor’s mansion at the Plazuela de la Rogativa, which commemorates the city’s miraculous evasion from sacking by the British during the 16th century. Pass the San Juan Gate, an impressive remnant of the three-mile-long wall that once encircled the city. Admire the historic, neoclassical-style Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, the oldest cathedral in the US. Stroll to the Plaza de Armas, where you will view the Four Seasons Fountain and its four 19th-century marble statues. During your walk, you will pause for refreshments and take in the spectacular sunset views over the Caribbean Sea. After your tour, return to your awaiting ship.

Sail the Caribbean Sea
Sail through turquoise waters where legends of marauding pirates, swashbucklers and tales of hidden treasures were born. Admire the views as you sail today and enjoy an al fresco dining experience. The Aquavit Terrace serves a range of International fare and casual dining favorites, as well as a range of superb cocktails inspired by our destinations.

Bridgetown, Barbados
Barbados is rich in British history and spectacular sandy beaches. Home to the Commonwealth’s third-oldest parliament, Barbados is often called “Little England” for its lasting British influence. Bajans, as islanders are known, exude a hearty love of their small island country and delight in sharing its culture. Cricket matches and afternoon tea are as common here as surfing and sunning on the beach with family and friends. And a bottle of the island’s native Mount Gay Rum, accompanied by a conkie, a pumpkin-coconut cake steamed in banana leaves, are never far out of reach.

Shore Excursions – Views of Barbados
Duration: 3 hours
Discover the charms and natural beauty of Barbados during a panoramic drive across the island. Start your journey with a drive along picturesque Brandons Beach for a chance to capture stunning photos of this stretch of Barbados’s famous West Coast. Then drive inland towards the heart of the island, passing sugarcane fields, charming villages and plantations en route to Gun Hill Signal Station. Built in 1818, it was part of a network of signal stations used to relay messages across the island using flags and lanterns. Perched on a hill, it offers panoramic views of the countryside and coastline. After driving by the famous limestone lion carved by the British Military, travel to Hastings Rocks with its gazebo and boardwalk. After time for photos and a short stroll, continue to the Barbados Museum, housed in the historic Garrison—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, enjoy a refreshing drink, surrounded by historic architecture and cultural exhibits, then return to your ship.

Sail the Atlantic Ocean
Sail the Atlantic Ocean, divided in half, north to south, by the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Longer than the Rockies, the Himalayas and the Andes combined, this underwater mountain range is the longest on Earth. As you sail, take advantage of the array of delicious cuisine offered on board. You may visit Mamsen’s, our casual gourmet deli, any time from early morning to late at night for a taste of traditional Norwegian fare. Or, dine at Manfredi’s and savor an authentic Italian meal, with options ranging from Milanese risotto to Tuscan inspired classics.  

Sail the Atlantic Ocean
Sail legendary waters, where medieval Europeans believed “there be dragons” beyond the ocean’s horizon. Renew your body, mind and spirit in our Scandinavian-inspired Spa, a Nordic sanctuary of holistic wellness, today while at sea. Whether you unwind in the Sauna, refresh in the Snow Grotto or take a dip in the Thermal Pool, you will feel recharged and revitalized.

Sail the Mouth of the Amazon River
The largest river in the world by volume, the Amazon feeds the world’s largest and densest rainforest, known as “the lungs of the world” for the oxygen it produces. Near the mouth, the Amazon has been called the “river sea” for its vast width, the accumulated waters of more than 1,000 tributaries. In this breathtaking river, one of nature’s most fascinating natural phenomena unfolds: the Meeting of the Waters, where the dark waters of the Black River run side by side along the brown waters of the Amazon.

Santarém, Brazil
Santarém lies at the confluence of the Tapajós and Amazon Rivers. The Tapajós River’s crystalline waters host inviting beaches that have earned it the nickname “the Caribbean in Brazil.” Bathers on these freshwater sands are likely to see families plying the waters in small boats, as most nearby villages can be reached only by river. Santarém’s religious center is the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady of Conception, a colonial gem topped with two graceful towers. Its vibrant market overflows with produce from the surrounding countryside, handicrafts and local wares.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Santarém
Duration: 3 hours
Explore local history and culture in Santarém, a major port defined by the Amazon tributaries that wind through it. You will see the confluence of rivers where the clean, clear Rio Tapajós meets the muddy Amazon. In the busy downtown area you will see the Nova Orla Fluvial promenade in the redeveloped port area, visit the city’s cathedral, and see the Town Hall Museum with its displays of ancient ceramics from the region. Continue your tour to Casa da Farinha, an old cassava flour mill where local people once produced flour using traditional rustic methods. Now an agricultural farm, it is home to native trees of the region; witness how latex is extracted from rubber trees during a demonstration. At the end of your tour, enjoy a scenic ride back to your ship.

Parintins, Brazil
Parintins sits on Tupinambarana, a group of four adjacent islands surrounded by a convergence of four rivers. Their endless surging current divided the once singular island into four. The sleepy town centers around its Square of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, home to the eponymous church and a thriving market. But it is perhaps best known for its folk theatrical tradition known as Boi Bumbá. This extravagant performance, part of an annual folklore festival held each June, is Brazil’s largest celebration after Carnival in Rio de Janeiro.

Shore Excursions – Boi Bumbá Folkloric Performance
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Experience the heart-pounding music, Carnaval-style costumes, and kaleidoscopic choreography of Boi Bumbá. This folk celebration comes only once a year, but is being celebrated today for you. We will walk from the pier to the Parintins Convention Center, where the Boi Bumbá Festival singers and dancers recreate Parintins’ annual Boi Bumbá, or “Bull Festival.” This annual event is Brazil’s second-largest celebration, and it recounts a folk tale about the rivalry between two bulls whose teams (one red and one blue) strive to outperform one another. The tension mounts until the appearance of a shaman results in a joyous celebration of the bull’s life. As with Carnaval, the festival features ornate floats built by competing teams. You will be exhilarated by the show and then toast the Boi Bumbá spirit with a delicious caipirinha cocktail made of cachaça (fermented sugarcane juice), sugar and lime.

Manaus, Brazil
European-flavored Manaus is one of Brazil’s largest cities. Its remote situation in the Amazon rainforest is so isolated, the unique culture of native Brazilian tribes has been largely preserved. Nowhere is this more visible than in the historic markets. Behind the pink and yellow facade of the Mercado Municipal, inspired by the famed Les Halles in Paris, a wide array of colorful tribal handicrafts can be found alongside medicinal plants and locally grown produce. But the market’s main attraction is the bustling fish market overflowing with freshly caught Amazon species.

Shore Excursions – Scenic Manaus by Motor Coach
Duration: 3 hours
Ride through the capital of the Amazon, a hub of cosmopolitanism built by wealthy rubber barons. The city is located right where two rivers—the black Rio Negro and the light brown Rio Solimões—meet to form the mighty Amazon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it contains most of Amazon’s ecosystems. See some of the most historic buildings in the city, such as the ornate Palácio Rio Negro, a cultural center that was originally the home of a German rubber baron, and the riverside Mercado Municipal, a bustling marketplace that sells fish, produce and medicinal herbs. Pause for photos at the opulent Teatro Amazonas, or Manaus Opera House. Then, drive to the Indian Museum, where you will learn about the history of the Amazon’s Indigenous peoples through the museum’s collection of artifacts, costumes and weapons. Afterward, you will return to your awaiting ship.

Sail the Amazon River
Set sail into the mouth of the mighty Amazon River. The Amazon is largest river in the world by volume and feeds its famed rainforest, know as “the lungs of the world.” As you sail today, relax in the Explorers’ Lounge, inspired by epic journeys of discovery. Marvel at the views through the two-story panoramic windows as you share a cocktail with friends, or settle down to read a book.

Belém, Brazil
Hugging the mouth of the Amazon, bustling Belém is known for the many mango trees that grace its boulevards and parks. Fascinating vestiges of Portugal line its streets, rich with architecture and intricately painted azulejotiles inspired by the elegant designs of 17th-century Lisbon. The waterfront Ver-o-Peso market, the largest open market in Latin America, brims with all manner of local goods, from fruits to medicinal plants. Ice cream flavored with cupuaçu fruit juice is the perfect accompaniment to an exploration of Belém.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Belém
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Take a scenic journey through vibrant Belém, passing its historic sites and iconic buildings. The “Gateway to the Amazon River,” the city became the region’s first European colony upon its founding by the Portuguese in 1616. Board your motor coach by Ver-o-Peso, the bustling waterfront market that is almost as old as the city itself. Drive past the 18th-century Our Lady of Grace Cathedral and the imposing stone facade of the Forte do Presépio, built at the time of the city’s founding to protect it from attacks by the French and Dutch. Head into the heart of the old city to see the Emílio Goeldi Museum, home to a large collection of indigenous flora and fauna, and the neoclassical Basilica of Our Lady of Nazareth of Exile. You will also visit the Paz Theater, opened in 1874 and considered one of Brazil’s most import cultural institutions, en route to your ship.

Sail the Atlantic Ocean
The nutrient-rich waters of the Atlantic Ocean are home to more than half of the world’s fisheries, annually providing millions of tons of fish and other marine species for human consumption and industrial purposes. As you sail, explore our well-curated Library, tucked in a private alcove of the Living Room, and select from a broad range of titles. Read a book by the Main Pool, a calming oasis in any weather with its retractable roof, allowing for year-round swimming.

Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago
Tobago changed hands more than any other Caribbean island, as various nations all took an interest in its potential sugar, cotton and indigo. Today, Tobago is under the watch of neighboring Trinidad and the port of Scarborough is the cultural center of this dual-island nation. Fort King George serves as a reminder of its pre-colonial past. At the botanical garden exotic flowers bloom, while the city’s outdoor market offers plentiful local produce, handicrafts and fabrics. Casual island eateries serve traditional fare, such as crab and dumplings, an island favorite.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Scarborough
Duration: 3 hours
Explore the scenery, colorful markets and historic sites of Tobago during a panoramic drive. Journey to Tobago’s first capital, Plymouth, to see Fort James and the nearby “mystery tombstone,” whose inscription has intrigued residents for more than two centuries. Then, drive through the Mount Irvine Bay area, taking in the views over the bay. Continue along the southern tip of the island to get a sense of Tobago as one of the Caribbean’s more ethnically diverse islands, passing neighborhoods with an array of cultural influences. Visit Store Bay, with its relaxing beach and local crafts market and view Fort King George, the city’s dominant feature, built by the British in 1777. Glimpse its well-restored colonial buildings, Tobago Museum and sweeping vistas of the town and the windward coast, before returning to your awaiting ship.

Castries, St. Lucia
St. Lucia boasts some of the Caribbean’s most idyllic beaches, many near its capital of Castries. This paradise is so seductive that the British and French fought over it for 150 years. The British finally triumphed in 1814. Today, St. Lucia is a sovereign nation, but it is still part of the British Commonwealth. The island has a rich artistic heritage: the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Castries is adorned with lush murals painted by a local artist and batik artisans keep a cherished tradition alive in their shops.

Shore Excursions – St. Lucia Panorama
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Set out to discover the glorious mountain and seaside landscapes of St. Lucia’s northern half. Board your motor coach for a brief exploration of Castries before ascending to the suburb of Morne Fortune for sweeping views of the city, its harbor and the distant island of Martinique. Continue past the official residence of the Governor General and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, housed within a restored colonial-style building. See the Inniskilling Monument, erected to honor the British regiment that overtook the French in 1796, then drive through the Cul de Sac Valley en route to the Benedictine Monastery. Take in the views as you stroll through its serene gardens, followed by an opportunity to engage with traditional Quadrille dancers, participating if you wish. After refreshments, return to your ship.

Antigua (St. John’s), Antigua and Barbuda
Blanketed with tropical forests that lead to sheer cliffs overlooking azure waters, Antigua has a rich past as a naval outpost of the royal Crown. It is the largest of the Leeward Islands and one of the most British in the Caribbean. Today, Antigua and neighboring Barbuda, along with several smaller islands, comprise an independent country. Its capital, St. John’s, has been an administrative center since 1632, and the baroque twin bell towers of the cathedral attest to a long British influence. The nation boasts a powder-sand beach for every day of the year.

Shore Excursions – Amazing Antigua
Duration: 3 hours
Uncover Antigua’s British influences and lush landscapes as you travel to the heart of the island. Drive with your guide into the tropical countryside, passing villages and gently rolling hills. At English Harbour, used by the British fleet during the 18th century, you will take in sweeping coastal views from Shirley Heights Lookout, once the principal British fortification. Back at the harbor’s edge, stop to explore Nelson’s Dockyard, one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The yard was named for Admiral Horatio Nelson, who commanded the navy here for three years. It is the last remaining Georgian dockyard still in use today. Explore the Admiral’s Inn, the museum and the art gallery to uncover insights into Antigua’s past. See the sleek yachts tied to the old stone quay while sipping on a drink here before returning to your ship.

St. Thomas (Charlotte Amalie), U.S. Virgin Islands
St. Thomas rises from turquoise waters fringed by white-sand beaches, its deep harbor dotted with sailboats and framed by lush tropical foliage. Its capital, Charlotte Amalie, was founded in 1666 and reflects centuries of history in pastel facades, red-tiled roofs and cobblestoned lanes shaded by flowering trees. Impressionist painter Camille Pissarro was born here in 1830 and his childhood stone house still stands along Main Street. Overlooking the harbor, Fort Christian—the oldest structure in the Virgin Islands—once shielded Danish settlers from pirates and rival powers.

Shore Excursions – Scenic Island Tour & Mountain Top
Duration: 2 hours
Take a scenic drive along one of the most breathtaking routes on St. Thomas. Much of the island’s beauty lies in its endless undulating hills spilling down to stunning bays shining in a hundred shades of blue connected by a curving ribbon of roadways hugging emerald-green slopes—affording paradisiacal Caribbean views. Drive with your local guide, making frequent stops to take it all in. The pinnacle of your excursion is the world-famous Mountain Top, 2,100 feet above sea level. Browse the shopping area amid festive Caribbean music and purchase a tot of fine locally produced rum or try the original banana daiquiri, said to have been invented here. From the observation deck, enjoy spectacular views of Magens Bay and the British Virgin Islands. If you would like, your driver-guide can drop you off in downtown Charlotte Amalie, where you may peruse the shops before returning to your ship on your own.

San Juan, Puerto Rico
Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.