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Discover how a childhood fascination with far-flung destinations and a lifelong passion for
travel culminated in Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen's recent expedition to Antarctica
on board Viking Polaris during this exclusive conversation with award-winning photographer
Alastair Miller.
Q: Mr. Hagen, you recently sailed to Antarctica. Did a letter you sent as a child to
Ushuaia, Argentina inspire this trip?
A: As a young boy, I used stamps from my collection to mail a letter from my Norwegian home to
Ushuaia. The letter was of course returned, and I kept it with me throughout my life, dreaming of
one day visiting this faraway place—now the starting point for our Antarctic voyages.
Q: What struck you most about Antarctica?
A: My first and lasting impression is how huge it is. It is so overwhelming. Then, of course, you
have the colours, the whites, the blues, of various shades. It is unlike anywhere else.
Q: Is this journey suitable for any adult?
A: If I can do this trip, anyone can.
Q: What wildlife did you see, and what activities did you do ashore?
A: We saw lots of penguins and came very close to whales. I also had my famous letter with
me, which I got stamped at Port Lockroy.
Q: Can you describe some of the stateroom features of Viking Polaris?
A: We have taken a lot of care to design the vessel for the environment in which it operates.
Our Nordic Balcony staterooms provide a shelf at elbow level to stabilise binocular viewing or
photography and warming closets for your gear.
Q: Can guests participate in scientific research on the ship?
A: Yes, there is The Science Lab with experts from various fields. I value scientific endeavours, being
a physicist myself. Guests can learn about research efforts and engage with onboard scientists.
Q: Did you take any pre- or post-cruise extensions?
A: As a matter of fact, we went to Iguazú Falls and got soaking wet. It was like being a child again.
Q: Any advice for someone considering an Antarctic trip?
A: I would do it again.
V I K I N G C H A I R M A N & C E O
Torstein Hagen discusses his trip to Antarctica
A L A S TA I R M I L L E R I N T E R V I E W S TO R S T E I N H AG E N
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