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Viking Sea Cruise Ship Reviews

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What To Expect Aboard Viking Sea

Viking Sea Cruise Ship Tour and Review | Viking Cruises | Cruise Review

Launched in 2016, the contemporary 930-passenger Viking Sea has all veranda cabins with comfy king beds you can sink into, luxury linens, generous closet and drawer space, mini-bar beverage chiller, LCD TV and security safe. The ship is Norwegian themed with light woods, dozens of decor and cultural items, art works, books as well as their signature Mamsens gourmet deli.

Whats not to like with a bathroom with a low entry step, heated floor and towel bars plus a glass shower stall? All cabins have a small espresso coffee maker, robes, slippers and 24-hour room service. If theres a rare rainy day, look in the closet for a red Viking umbrella.

Viking’s Treatment Of It’s Customers

Viking’s treatment of it’s customers makes no sense….they combined two of my trips into one “butterfly trip” which meant when I had to cancel the first, it cancelled the 2nd. What? Why? That’ our policy,. Then they said we could have a voucher, but it would be a combined voucher which could only be used for one future trip. What? Why? That’s our policy. Viking is not a good company to work with. They don’t care….

Date of experience:July 17, 2022

Day 1 Boarding The Viking Sea

Prior to this cruise, I had never stepped foot on a Viking ship. I was absolutely blown away by the ship and for the first time, I was actually a little stuck for words. The ship is MUCH smaller than other ships that Ive been on before but the public areas dont feel small. The smaller size of the ship is reflected in how busy the ship is .

The attention to detail onboard is just amazing. Each chair will have some little colour co-ordinated cushions or a blanket on it. Each bookcase is filled with books and interesting artefacts. Everywhere you look there is something to admire and you may even learn a thing or two.

Excursion Panoramic Tromso

Meet your local guide and drive through the city known as the Gateway to the Artic, and a starting point for many Arctic expeditions. Throughout the city, you will see classic architecture mingling with modern buildings, including the stunning Arctic Cathedral. With its soaring white roofline, it has been compared to the Sydney Opera House. Return to your ship via the Tromsø Bridge.

In each port, there is an excursion included in your cruise fare. We took this excursion to Tromso and enjoyed a drive around the city. Tromso is known as the gateway to the Arctic and we stopped at a viewpoint where Ben and Marcus had a go at flying their drones. The other passengers who had come to see the view seemed to spend a lot more time looking at the drones than the view that we came to look at.

Manfredis Italian!

Drinks with dinner

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Review Of Viking Orion

I spent a week aboard Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Orion on their Bermuda Escapes cruise. This was my third cruise on Viking Ocean and I was on this one by myself. I will tell you why I was alone, and all of my thoughts on this cruise coming up right after this.

In the spirit of full disclosure, we were invited on this cruise by Viking Cruises. However, no money has changed hands. Viking has no input in the content of this review and they have no idea what I am going to say. I should clarify, that unlike many review websites, CruiseReport is NOT affiliated with a travel agency. We are simply travel journalists. So, if you end up booking a Viking Cruise directly with Viking or through a travel agency, we gain nothing either way.

As I mentioned in my opening, I was on this cruise by myself. My girlfriend, Rickee, who also is the Senior Editor at CruiseReport.com, suffered injuries from a freak accident just days before the cruise. So, we decided it would be better for her recovery to forego this cruise.

This seven night cruise is referred to by Viking as Bermuda Escapes. The itinerary is basically two nights in Hamilton, Bermuda, followed by a day at sea, then two nights at Kings Wharf Bermuda, followed by another day at sea, then one more night in Hamilton before disembarkation. Not the most exciting itinerary, to be honest, but hey, after 18 months of no cruising, its good just to be back on a ship.

Viking Ocean Cruise Ships

Exclusive Review: Viking UK shows how you can cruise safely post ...

Guests, many repeat, also like the design of the Viking ships.

With the Viking Jupiters debut in February, 2019, Viking Ocean Cruises now has six ocean ships, with ten more to sail by 2027.

Theyre almost identical, except for the Viking Orion andViking Jupiter which each boast the addition of a high-tech planetarium.

The ships reflect the clean Scandinavian aesthetic favored by Vikings Norwegian founder, Torstein Hagen.

Light streams in through big glass windows, bouncing off blonde wood floors.

Staircase railings are wrapped in ivory leather.

And modernist paintings by Edvard Munch and other Norwegian artists adorn the walls the Viking Sea showcases more than $3.3 million USD of art.

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Better Access To The Destinations

Dubbed small ships by Cruise Critic, Viking has designed their ocean fleet to a scale that allows for centralised berthing in more ports.

Guests will have more time in port thanks to easier access to many destinations on the itinerary and more late evening or overnight stays.

We dont mind admitting, we are cruise novices, especially when it comes to ocean cruising. We have sailed with Viking River Cruises on the Waterways of the Tsars cruise through Russia, the Passage to Eastern Europe cruise and the Danube Waltz from Passau to Budapest, but our voyage on Viking Sea was our first foray into ocean cruising.

Viking Sea Caribbean Cruise Overview

Highlights from our Viking Sea Caribbean cruise definitely included this aerial tram ride. On a sunny 74-degree January morning, our 8-person open-air gondola quietly ascended into St. Lucias lush rain forest. Countless shades of green and a fresh, earthy scent delighted our senses and dispelled travel stress.

As the live narrators voice explained what we were seeing, the only other sounds were the soft whir of hummingbirds and shrieks of delight from nearby zip liners. After gently gliding through the tree tops 80-feet above the forest floor, the tram gradually descended back to the loading area.

Everyone in the tram were passengers on the Viking Sea, one of six Viking Ocean ships. Many of us had earlier cruised on a Viking river cruise in Europe.

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Do Not Book With Viking Cruises They

Do not book with Viking Cruises ,they turned my cancelled trip into vouchers with expiration dates that I never knew about. I also booked this trip years ago when there was not a vaccine mandate.They will not return my money of around $22000.00 They told me I did not need vaccinations for 2022 ,now I found out we do .We do not believe in the vaccinations and I told them that right out front. They have no intentions of giving my money back .Do I not have any rights? Anybody got any idea what do I do?

Date of experience:January 25, 2022

Small Ship Design With Loads Of Space

Viking Ocean Ships Ultimate Dining Guide 2022 – Relevant to ALL Viking Ocean Ships

While the small ship design of Viking Sea has the benefit of getting you closer to each destination, its small ship size hasnt compromised space onboard.

With a maximum of 930 passengers, Viking Sea has only 465 generously appointed staterooms and suites, all with verandas so you can enjoy views of each destination from your private space.

A ratio of approx one crew to every two passengers means personalised service. The crew on board genuinely do remember your name as well as your preferences. Larger vessels cant deliver this level of service.

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Impressions Sailing With Viking For The Second Time

Carol enjoying the daybed on the deck of our suite.

I could go on, but this was a wonderful reminder of how much we love Viking. And it also served as a reminder why our clients keep booking Viking with us over and over.

Viking avoids using the word luxury as they describe themselves. But for me, Viking is akin to Goldilocks. Luxurious, but not too extravagant. And comfortable in every way. We tell our clients to think of Viking as a 4 1/2-star cruise line to help them place the Viking brand in their brains.

In closing, it was great to again be aboard one of their ocean cruises. Next, were looking forward to sampling Vikings new river ships on the Mississippi and one of their new expedition ships on the Great Lakes.

Added Extras And Little Luxuries

One big complaint we often hear about ocean cruises is the exclusions. Viking goes against the industry grain by surprising guests with loads of added extras. Extras that equate to over $200 pp per day.

  • At least one included shore excursion in every port.
  • Free shipwide WiFi Internet.
  • Complimentary beer, wine and soft drink with all on board meals.
  • Bottled water and, specialised tea and coffee. Many stateroom categories even include an in-room espresso machine.
  • Free spa and gym access
  • 24-hour room service
  • In-room television entertainment including movies on demand.
  • Airport transfers.
  • All port taxes and fees.
  • Some stateroom categories even include free minibar service, replenished daily.

In-suite binoculars, cashmere throw blankets and purified water replenished twice daily are just a few of the in-room luxury touches that speak volumes about the quality of the cruise experience.

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Viking Ocean Cruises Review: Onboard An Adults

The cruise that is the subject of this review, along with all meals, lodging, etc., were provided at no cost to the writer.

Since 1997, Viking River Cruises has been making a name for itself by cruising through the worlds rivers on a fleet of elegantly appointed vessels small enough to navigate them. The fleet is currently up to 53 longships, and the company has been able to establish a loyal following by branding itself as The Thinking Persons Cruise, complete with curated onboard libraries, guest lecturers, a focus on the culture of the destinations, unique itineraries and excursions and an emphasis on serving regional cuisine.

River cruises come with certain limitations, though, like the size of the ships and an inability to traverse more open expanses of water. So in 2013, the company announced the launch of Viking Ocean Cruises, a fleet of nearly-identical cruise ships that while larger than the longships, are still much smaller than what youd expect from, say, Royal Caribbean. When offered the opportunity to travel aboard the Viking Sky on its Viking Homelands itinerary to Northern Europe, we accepted, eager to see how Viking Ocean Cruises ships stacked up against the competition.

Viking Should Be Sued For Elder Abuse Lying Cheating

Viking Sky cruise ship review, photos and videos

We used to love Viking Cruises , and have recommended them to countless friends. Always a good time. Now, after several cancellations of trips, they are holding our money and ABSOLUTELY REFUSE to refund it. Very long story. All other cruise lines refunded money for trips not taken but NOT VIKING. Their smoke and mirror game even runs to redefining the word “USE”. No, Viking, I did not USE a voucher simply by placing it ON a reservation. Your bait and switch game offering a voucher, saying that it would be refunded within 24 months if it was not USED just shows the world how crooked you are. Folks, there are many other more reputable companies out there. Avoid Viking Cruises like the plague they are, tarnishing the travel industry.

Date of experience:July 28, 2022

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Our Review: Viking Ocean Cruises

Our review of Viking Ocean Cruises comes after perhaps four years since we last sailed on one of their ocean ships.

And remarkably, in that period, we have grown to become the #2 booking agents for Viking Cruises in the world.

Further, Carol and I are the #1 booking agents for Viking Cruises, out of 20,000+ other agents in the Virtuoso Travel Network for the last four years running.

How has this happened?

Well, we work hard and smart. But at the end of the day, Viking has carved out a massive niche with their small-ship sailing vessels that folks have come to trust and adore.

Afternoon Tea on Viking Cruises. Click for large view.

Do Not Book W/ Viking

Do NOT book w/ viking! They will lie to you. I booked a cruise in 2021 about 14 months out to sail in June 2022. I was give a “Risk -Free Guarantee”. In mid February 2022, I called for a refund and was told that I could accept a voucher for a future cruise or a 20% penalty. That is theft!

Date of experience:February 18, 2022

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Viking Sea The New Ocean Ship From Viking Cruises A Sister Ship To Viking Star Is Another Triumph Says Cruise International Editor Liz Jarvis

The Main Pool, Viking Sea
The Crew Members, Viking Sea
The Living Room, Viking Sea

From the moment you step on to Viking Sea it feels as though youre in a haven of Nordic tranquillity. Cool blonde wood, designer chairs and soft furnishings including the much-coveted Scandinavian rugs and cushions abound this is a ship designed for total relaxation as you cruise to your destinations.

Highlights include the main swimming pool area, which feels like a chic St Tropez beach resort the Wintergarden, a soothing space for afternoon tea and the Explorers Lounge, with its fabulous views. All of the public areas have a stylish vibe, but manage to be welcoming the Living Room, with its books and café, and the atrium, its stunning staircase and gallery, set the tone for the rest of the ship.

Everything feels well made and designed, without being fussy or contrived. The Star Theatre, with its movie star-themed cushions and the Torshavn bar are elegant and classy. The restaurants on Viking Sea, as on Viking Star, are superb, with the steaks at the Italian restaurant Manfredis an absolute joy and Mamsens, the deli inspired by the Norwegian recipes cooked by the mother of Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen, is a daily must-do.

Little touches in the staterooms make all the difference. The heated floors in the bathrooms, the spacious showers, the incredibly comfortable beds and easy-to-use coffee makers add to the boutique hotel feel.

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Cancelled River Boat Cruise

Viking Star – Cruise Ship Tour Review

Our river cruise was booked for May of 2020. Obviously, that didn’t happen. I am trying to rebook a cruise for May 2022. Viking will not extend the travel protection vouchers that expired in April, 2021. That means I am out over $3400. They will not refund, I just wanted them to extend the travel vouchers. They will not. I am very dissatisfied with Viking, and I probably will choose a different cruise with a different company .

Date of experience:June 11, 2021

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Life On Board Viking Sea What Can You Expect When Cruising On Board Viking Sea

Launched in 2016, the Viking Sea is an all-veranda ship, part of a fleet of award winning, state of the art ships incorporating all the comforts & luxuries you would expect from Viking. Read more

Viking are destination experts. With no casinos or children on board, you can be assured that the focus is firmly on enrichment and education. Read more

After a day of exploration or just to enhance the relaxation of a day at sea, the on-board Spa will leave you feeling recharged and revitalized. Read more

Viking offer eight on board dining options. Beer, wine and soft drinks are available with lunch and dinner at no additional charge of fee. Read more

Viking proudly includes all that you need and nothing you do not. A variety of features and services valued at $200 per person per day are standard inclusions in your cruise. Read more

Viking include one complimentary shore excursion in every port of call. Enjoy exclusive entry to cultural treasures and seldom-seen collections around the world. Read more

The Viking Living Room

Dan Myers

The main lobby lounge of the ship, the Viking Living Room, was where we found ourselves spending a lot of time. Theres a well-stocked bar , lots of comfortable Scandinavian furniture and bookshelves stocked with interesting things to read, and its designed in a way that makes each individual seating area semi-private.

One note on alcohol, while were on the subject: All drinks are priced a la carte, but if youre planning on having more than a few drinks per day we suggest you buy the Silver Spirits Package, which allows you unlimited drinks for $19.95 per day as long as theyre priced below $15, which covers just about everything except for Champagne and a few top-top-shelf liquors.

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Fantastic Experience Highly Recommended

Fantastic experience, just returned from a cruise with Viking and was blown away by the quality of food, excursions and especially the staff who go above and beyond to ensure you have an amazing time, the ship was outstanding too. Thank you Viking! I have some wonderful memories that will stay with me and my mother forever.

Date of experience:October 03, 2021

Viking Cruises Review And Daily Diary

What Makes Viking

I was enough to be invited by Viking to join them on a portion of their into the midnight sun cruise in August 2018. The cruise would take us from Tromso at the top of Norway down to Bergen.

Day 1 Tromso!

We flew to Tromso via Norway and had a night in Tromso before boarding the Viking Sea. Norway is incredibly expensive, a pint can easily cost you £10-£12. For this reason, I think cruising is a brilliant way to visit Norway since you can eat, and drink, onboard the ship without worrying about the bill. By all means spend some money in Norway to support the economy and what not but Id advise you not to go crazy!

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