Viking Ocean Cruises has redefined luxury travel on the high seas, offering a unique blend of cultural immersion, personalized service, and modern Scandinavian design. Established as part of the renowned Viking Cruises brand, Viking Ocean Cruises focuses on delivering enriching travel experiences that cater to the discerning traveler seeking more than just a vacation.
A Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1997 by Torstein Hagen, Viking Cruises initially specialized in river cruises, quickly earning a reputation for its attention to detail and exceptional service. Building on its success, Viking expanded into ocean cruising in 2015, setting a new standard in the industry.
The company’s ocean fleet, which began with the Viking Star, now includes several state-of-the-art ships, all designed with the signature Viking ethos: understated elegance, an emphasis on cultural discovery, and a commitment to sustainability.
Small Ships, Big Experiences
One of the hallmarks of Viking Ocean Cruises is its dedication to maintaining a fleet of smaller ships. Each vessel accommodates fewer than 1,000 guests, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience. The smaller size also allows the ships to dock at ports inaccessible to larger cruise liners, offering travelers unique itineraries that include lesser-visited destinations.
Viking’s ships are often referred to as “floating boutique hotels,” thanks to their sleek Scandinavian-inspired interiors, spacious staterooms, and luxurious amenities. Public spaces, such as the serene Explorer’s Lounge and the inviting Living Room, provide the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and socialization.
Cultural Immersion
Viking Ocean Cruises stands out for its focus on enriching experiences. Its itineraries are meticulously crafted to emphasize cultural and historical exploration. Each voyage includes complimentary shore excursions, often led by local guides who provide an authentic perspective on the destination.
Onboard, guests can continue their journey of discovery through Viking’s cultural enrichment programs. These include guest lectures, cooking classes, and performances that reflect the traditions of the regions being visited. The Viking Resident Historian program further enhances the experience, offering insights into the history and significance of the destinations on the itinerary.
Dining Excellence
Viking is committed to providing an exceptional culinary experience. Guests can choose from a variety of dining venues, from the elegant Restaurant, which serves regional and international cuisine, to specialty options such as Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant and The Chef’s Table. Viking also emphasizes sustainability in its dining practices, sourcing local ingredients and offering regionally inspired dishes that reflect the flavors of the destinations visited.
Commitment to Sustainability
Viking Ocean Cruises has made significant strides in minimizing its environmental impact. Viking has also eliminated single-use plastics across its fleet, further demonstrating its commitment to responsible travel.
Who Should Choose Viking Ocean Cruises?
Viking’s ocean cruises are designed for travelers who value cultural immersion, sophisticated design, and a more intimate cruising experience. The line caters to adults, as its ships are not equipped with child-specific amenities, making them ideal for couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends seeking a serene and enriching escape.
Conclusion
Viking Ocean Cruises has set a benchmark for modern luxury cruising, combining world-class service, thoughtful design, and cultural exploration. For those seeking to explore the world with elegance and depth, a journey aboard a Viking Ocean Cruise promises an experience like no other.
