Why Viking is No.1 in the world for river and ocean cruising
When it comes to cruises, you want to make sure you’ve made the best possible choice in terms of picking the ship, the itinerary and the quality of services on hand.
After being consistently voted the world’s best when it comes to river and ocean cruising, this is definitely where Viking comes in.
Viking’s river, ocean and expedition cruises are perfect for curious travellers to set off and explore the world in comfort and style – not just this year, but in 2023 and 2024 as well.
From their exquisite dining experiences to their wholesome cultural enrichment programmes, incredible onshore experiences and unmatched inclusions, let’s dive (literally and figuratively) a little deeper into what Viking are doing – and what they most definitely are NOT doing – to set themselves apart in the world of ocean cruising.
More bang for your buck
Viking’s Inclusive Value mantra means they include everything you need and nothing you do not.
Worth more than $200 a day, guests will benefit from features and services ranging from a free guided excursion in every port of call to complimentary WiFi, plus beer, wine and soft drinks on board with lunch and dinner.
You’ll also enjoy 24-hour specialty coffees, teas and bottled water, with access to their top-rated spa and state-of-the-art fitness centre. You can also access self-service launderettes, avoid port taxes and fees, as well as ground transfers with Viking Air purchase.
Your stateroom includes a private veranda, a king-size bed with luxury linens and pillows, as well as a separate seating area where you can enjoy a 42-inch flat-screen LCD TV with complimentary movies on demand.
Each room is decked out with a spacious closet and drawers, a mini-bar (of course), security safe, a hair dryer, spacious glass-enclosed shower with heated bathroom floor and anti-fog mirror. You will also be covered head-to-toe by Premium Freyja toiletries and enjoy plush robes and slippers.
Exquisite dining
The Restaurant, the main dining venue onboard each state-of-the-art Viking vessel, offers delicious regional cuisines from only the best locally sourced ingredients.
This gives passengers not only the opportunity to explore their destination, but also the chance to explore different cultures through food.
However, if you’re looking for something a little more specific, say Italian, then Manfredi’s is the place to be. Be transported to the farms of Tuscany or the city of Rome with its divine and authentic Italian meals.
Those looking to extend themselves even further in a culinary sense and learn a little more about food and wine pairings will find themselves drawn inexorably to The Chef’s Table – where you’ll experience several courses, each paired with select wines all thoughtfully prepared for your enriching experience.
If you’re into something a little more dynamic and want to observe the world-renowned chefs working their magic, then the World Café is the place to be. The open kitchen will have you watching on in excitement as your phenomenal sushi and seafood dishes are prepared, set against a backdrop of the breathtaking panoramic views from the Aquavit Terrace.
However, if you want to switch places with the hard-working chefs and actually have a hand in cooking yourself, you are more than welcome to head over to The Kitchen Table to immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine. Here, the on board cooking school gives passengers a thrilling first-hand experience in how the chefs prepare meals for guests.
If you’re looking to relax a bit before dinner then the Wintergarden is the place to be, where you can indulge in several different teas under a canopy of Scandinavian trellised wood while listening to a soft string quartet.
Otherwise, head on over to Mamsen’s in the Explorers’ Lounge, which offers some of the best culturally enriching Norwegian specialties for breakfast, lunch, an afternoon snack or evening treat.
Looking to keep it simple for an afternoon snack? Look no further than the Pool Grill, which has casual meals prepared to order. Otherwise, head up to your room and take advantage of the 24/7 room service on offer (we won’t tell anyone about that extra tempting midnight snack).
Cultural enrichment
How extraordinary to be able to gain invaluable insights and knowledge while also relaxing on holiday. That’s right, Viking has so much on offer for its guests and it’ll have you wanting more.
First on the list are the world-class guest lecturers, all of whom are experts in their field and include archaeologists, authors, former diplomats and even news correspondents. It’s their job (and passion) to share important information with you on your destinations’ art, architecture, music, geopolitics, the natural world and so much more.
Alternatively, you can have one-on-one discussions with the onboard historian ready to enrich your mind with their in-depth stories and facts.
Another powerfully enriching Viking experience is the performing arts sector, where you are more than welcome to enjoy an incredible work of art or one of dozens of destination experiences. Could it be the Portuguese fado with its melancholy melodies and poignant lyrics? Or traditional Greek dancing or Italian opera. The choices are staggering.
If you’re intrigued to see what’s on offer at your next onshore destination, there are informative multimedia presentations on Amsterdam, Bergen, Venice, San Juan, Vancouver, Tokyo and even Sydney that highlight the must-see landmarks during your shore visits.
Viking’s knowledgable local guides are passionate about their unique region. They will introduce you to the iconic and the obscure, so you can soak up the culture, art, history and architecture of your destination while gaining an insight into the local way of life.
The cultural enrichment continues on board with a unique collection of original artworks on board every ship. Viking also has an exclusive deal with Oslo’s Munch Museum where guests can explore the entire collection of Norway’s most famous artist, Edvard Munch. This museum brings “magic” on board with an interactive event daily and showcasing the amazing artworks curated by Munch.
Otherwise, indulge your mind with a TED Talk, where passengers can enjoy short and powerful talks about the arts, history, geography, science and even longevity.
Fancy a night at The Met? Well, all you need to do is head to The Theater and enjoy the world-class production under the starlit “sky”.
If you want to keep it simple, then there’s a special spot for you in the small cinemas where you can enjoy short films that will inform you about the iconic destinations you’re travelling through.
Kick back and relax by listening to the classical music from Viking’s resident pianist, guitarist, violinist and cellist. Or head over to the onboard library, which have been expertly curated by independent London bookseller Heywood Hill – who dedicated hundreds of hours of his time into understanding what Viking guests most want to read on their journeys.
What Viking definitely is NOT
If we haven’t managed to convince you as to why you should be travelling with Viking, then let these be the cherries on top of your next cruising adventure.
Each Viking cruise ship absolutely promises no casinos, no children under the age of 18, no umbrella drinks, no photography sales or art auctions, no charge for beer or wine at lunch or dinner and you can dine in a choice of restaurants at no additional cost.
Wi-Fi comes included and you won’t be charged for using the laundry, there are no hidden entry fees for the spa and no undue pressure on spa sales of any kind.
And perhaps most important of all, there’s no waiting in endless queues. All that’s left is a clear focus on you, on the quality of the service, and on making sure that every journey provides you with memories to last a lifetime.
For more information and to book your next Viking adventure, click here.
This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Viking.