Viking is well known for its destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans, and lakes around the world but what is not as well-known is the company’s partnerships and philanthropic pursuits.
The company has partnered with Focus Features, Universal Pictures, and Carnival Films to celebrate the highly anticipated return of the global phenomenon, Downton Abbey.
The Grand Finale was released in Australia on 11 September and Viking’s corporate sponsorship of the celebrated series masterpiece, which began in 2011 continues today as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to enriching cultural programming.
Karine Hagen, Viking’s Executive Vice President of Product said, “Downton Abbey has long held a special place in the hearts of our guests, many of whom were introduced to Viking and Highclere Castle through the series.”
“A key aspect of the Viking way of travel is offering our guests Privileged Access to cultural treasures around the world, and our exclusive experiences at Highclere Castle, which are co-created with the Carnarvon family, have become favourites among our guests.”
Highclere Castle is the home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and the iconic filming location of Downton Abbey.
Since 2014, Viking has offered guests a variety of ways to experience life at Highclere Castle, with pre and post land extensions that include the highly rated Oxford and Highclere Castle and Great Homes, Gardens and Gin extensions which are available for guests on select river and ocean voyages.
Additionally, for guests on the popular Nile River itinerary, Pharaohs and Pyramids, Viking offers the British Collections of Ancient Egypt land extension.
The five-day extension provides guests with an introduction to Egyptian antiquities in preparation for their Nile River experience and includes retracing the steps of the world’s most famous Egyptologist, Howard Carter, and his benefactor, the Fifth Earl of Carnarvon.
Guests experience Privileged Access to archives and museum exhibits not normally accessible to the public, and at Highclere Castle, guests have the opportunity to view the Earl’s magnificent private collection of Egyptian artifacts.
Lady Carnarvon said, “For over a decade, it has been a pleasure to open our doors to Viking guests and truly provide Privileged Access, sharing with them the stories, traditions and treasures that have made this estate special for more than 300 years.”
“The personal and professional ties between Viking and Highclere run deep, and our longstanding relationship is rooted in a shared devotion to heritage, culture and the enrichment that comes from genuine exploration.”
Lady Carnarvon has also welcomed viewers to Highclere Castle on Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, Viking.TV.
In her series, ‘At Home at Highclere’, Lady Carnarvon offers virtual Privileged Access to the historic home and its grounds.
Viking’s close friendship with the Carnarvon family has also extended to its fleet. Lady Carnarvon is the ceremonial godmother of a Viking Longship, the Viking Skadi and an ocean ship, the Viking Mars. In 2022, Lord Carnarvon became Viking’s first godfather, fulfilling the role for the Viking Osiris and in 2024, their son, the Hon. Edward Herbert, became godfather of the Viking Hathor.
Viking is proud to offer Australian residents a chance to win a grand prize of a trip for two on Viking’s eight-day river voyage, Paris and the Heart of Normandy, with a three-night Privileged Access extension to Oxford and Highclere Castle.
The winner will also receive Eurostar transportation between London and Paris for two. Entries close on 1 December 2025 and to enter, visit the Viking website and search for ‘Spring Competition’.
For further information on Viking cruises destinations and tours, please call 138 747 or visit their website www.vikingrivercruises.com.au.
