Viking Neptune Named In Los Angeles

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January 12, 2023

Viking Neptune Ship Named In Los Angeles — Godmother Nicole Stott, Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking and Karine Hagen, Executive Vice President of Viking.

Viking® named its newest ocean ship, the Viking Neptune®, with a celebration on Sunday in Los Angeles. As part of the event, the ship’s ceremonial godmother, Nicole Stott, retired NASA astronaut, aquanaut, and artist offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship. This maritime tradition dates back thousands of years. The Viking Neptune arrived in Los Angeles early on January 8 and departed for Honolulu following the naming ceremony. The ship is currently sailing the 2022-2023 Viking World Cruise, an epic voyage from Fort Lauderdale to London that spans 138 days, 28 countries, and 57 ports, with overnight stays in 11 cities. The naming of the Viking Neptune also comes at a time of record sales for Viking, with the launch of Viking’s new 25^th Anniversary Sale on January 1 resulting in the highest number of bookings in one week in the company’s history.

“Today is a proud day for the entire Viking family as we name our newest ocean ship in Los Angeles, the home of Viking’s U.S. office for more than 20 years,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “The Viking Neptune is a ship named for both the furthest planet in our solar system and the god of the sea—and our newest Viking godmother, Nicole Stott, as a NASA astronaut and aquanaut, also has connections to space and the sea. We are grateful for her many contributions to the scientific community and are proud to have her as part of the Viking family.”

“It is an honor and privilege to be the godmother of the new Viking Neptune. As someone who has been blessed to explore space, the ocean, and some of the otherworldly places on our planet, I understand the importance of broadening one’s horizons through travel. I am very excited for all those who journey around the world on this elegant vessel,” said Nicole Stott.

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In keeping with the naming tradition, Nicole used a historic Viking broad axe during the ceremony to cut a ribbon that allowed a bottle of Norwegian aquavit to break on the ship’s hull. Before the ribbon cutting, the axe was presented to Nicole by Sissel Kyrkjebø, one of the world’s leading crossover sopranos and godmother of the Viking Jupiter®, who used it when naming her ship in January 2020. Event guests also enjoyed performances from Sissel and Norwegian violinist Tor Jaran Apold.

NASA astronaut, Nicole Stott used a historic Viking broad axe during the ceremony to cut a ribbon that allowed a bottle of Norwegian aquavit to break on the ship’s hull.

Nicole Stott, Godmother of the Viking Neptune

A veteran NASA astronaut, Nicole Stott’s experience includes two spaceflights and 104 days spent living and working in space on the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station (ISS). She has performed one space walk and was the first person to fly the robotic arm to capture the free-flying HTV cargo vehicle, the last crew member to fly to and from their ISS mission on a Space Shuttle, and a member of the final flight crew of Space Shuttle Discovery, STS-133. Nicole is also a NASA aquanaut who lived and worked on the Aquarius Undersea Habitat for 18 days.

She is the author of Back to Earth: What Life In Space Taught Me About Our Home Planet – And Our Mission To Protect It. Also an artist, Nicole painted the first watercolor painting in space—and is a co-founder of the Space for Art Foundation, which unites a planetary community of children through the awe and wonder of space exploration and the healing power of art. Through her work, Nicole inspires everyone’s appreciation of our role as crewmates here on “spaceship” Earth.

Viking Neptune docked in the Port of Los Angelas (Photo by John Shallo)

The Viking Neptune

The Viking Neptune is the newest ship in Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet of identical sister ships, which also includes the Viking Star®, the Viking Sea®, the Viking Sky®, the Viking Orion®, the Viking Jupiter®, the Viking Venus®, and the Viking Mars®. In April, Viking will also welcome another new ocean ship, the Viking Saturn®. Classified by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” Viking’s ocean vessels have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, with 465 staterooms that can host 930 guests; the ships feature all veranda staterooms, Scandinavian design, light-filled public spaces and abundant al fresco dining options.

Although identical to Viking’s other ocean ships, the Viking Neptune is uniquely equipped with a small hydrogen fuel system, making it the cruise industry’s first ship to test the use of hydrogen power for on board operations. Viking is using the small system as a test to determine how hydrogen fuel could be used at a larger scale in future newbuilds.

Viking Neptune naming ceremony held in the Port of Los Angelas on January 8th, 2023

Booking Details

From now through January 31, 2023, Viking is offering a 25^th Anniversary Sale, with a $25 deposit, special savings, and up to free international airfare on river, ocean and expedition voyages. Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel agent for details.

Overlooking the naming ceremony being held on the Viking Neptune’s bow

Get to know Viking

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans, and lakes around the world. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 250 awards to its name, including being the first cruise line to ever be named both the #1 Ocean Line and the #1 River Line in a single year in Travel + Leisure’s 2022 “World’s Best” Awards. Viking has also been rated the #1 River Line and #1 Ocean Line by Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s 2022 and 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards. For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com. For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv.

Viking Takes Delivery Of Viking Neptune

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John Shallo

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November 10, 2022

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Viking® has announced it has taken delivery of the company’s newest ocean ship, the Viking Neptune®. The delivery ceremony took place this morning when the ship was presented at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona, Italy. While identical to Viking’s other ocean ships, the Viking Neptune is equipped with a small hydrogen fuel system, making it the cruise industry’s first ship to test the use of hydrogen power for on board operations. Viking is using the small system as a test to determine how hydrogen fuel could be used at a larger scale in future newbuilds.

The Penthouse Junior Suite stateroom on-board the Viking Star

Viking Cruises

“We are especially proud to welcome this newest sister ship to our ocean fleet, as it also marks a significant advancement in testing hydrogen as a future fuel for our vessels,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “We look forward to welcoming guests on board the Viking Neptune next week. She is the 15^th new ship we have added to our overall fleet this year, another significant milestone as we continue the celebration of our 25^th anniversary.”

The Viking Neptune will spend her inaugural season sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean before embarking on the company’s 2022-2023 Viking World Cruise, a journey from Fort Lauderdale to London that spans 138-days, 28 countries and 57 ports, with overnight stays in 11 cities.

Viking Neptune

The delivery of the Viking Neptune comes as Viking continues to mark its 25^th anniversary this year. Viking Expeditions launched in January with the purpose-built Viking Octantis®; her sister ship, the Viking Polaris®, debuted in September. Earlier in the year, the company also welcomed eight new Viking Longships® on the rivers of Europe, new purpose-built vessels for the Nile, Mekong and Mississippi Rivers, as well as another new ocean ship, the Viking Mars®.

The Viking Neptune is the newest ship in Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet of identical sister ships. Classified by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” Viking’s ocean vessels have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, with 465 staterooms that can host 930 guests; the ships feature all veranda staterooms, Scandinavian design, light-filled public spaces and abundant al fresco dining options.

Viking Takes Delivery of Viking Polaris

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John Shallo

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September 27, 2022

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Viking® (www.viking.com) today announced it has taken delivery of the Viking Polaris®, the company’s second purpose-built expedition ship. The delivery ceremony took place this morning at Fincantieri’s VARD shipyard in Søviknes, Norway, where Viking’s first expedition ship, the Viking Octantis®, was delivered in December 2021. The Viking Polaris immediately set sail toward Amsterdam, where she will be named on September 30 by her ceremonial godmother, Ann Bancroft, one of the world’s preeminent polar explorers. Currently sailing in the Great Lakes, the Viking Octantis will also be named on September 30 by her ceremonial godmother, Liv Arnesen, the world-renowned Norwegian explorer, lecturer, author and educator. From Amsterdam, the Viking Polaris will make her way to South America, and both ships will spend the Austral summer in Antarctica, before traveling north to the Great Lakes for a series of voyages during spring and summer.

“Today is a proud day for the Viking family as we welcome the Viking Polaris to our fleet. These are phenomenal ships, and we are very pleased with the positive reception from guests during the first season of our new expeditions,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “The great explorer, Ann Bancroft, has honored us by serving as godmother to the Viking Polaris, and we look forward to welcoming her first guests on board laterthis week.”

Viking Expedition Ships

The new Polar Class Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris host 378 guests in 189 staterooms. The vessels are purpose-built for expeditions, at an ideal size for safety and comfort in remote destinations. With more indoor and outdoor viewing areas than other expedition vessels, guests are as close as possible to the most magnificent scenery on earth. Highlights include:

The Aula: A stunning panoramic auditorium inspired by the University of Oslo’s famed ceremonial hall, the former venue for the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Used for lectures, daily briefings, documentaries and films, this spectacular venue features a 4k laser-projected screen that retracts to expose floor-to-ceiling windows and 270° views.
Finse Terrace: An outdoor lounge area just above sea level with recessed seating and lava rock “firepits,” the Finse Terrace was designed to allow guests the comforts of the ship al fresco while enjoying the dramatic scenery. Named after the Finse Plateau in Norway, where some of the greatest polar explorers, including Nansen and Amundsen, did their expedition training in preparation for their North and South Pole expeditions.

The Hangar area aboard Viking Octantis with submarine stowed.

The Hangar: A state-of-the-art, industry-first in-ship marina providing ease of embarkation and disembarkation of Special Operations Boats and other equipment while sheltered from the elements.
The Bow: An important forward-viewing platform. And in the case of inclement weather, The Shelter is a comfortable, partially enclosed space for guests to warm up with a hot drink before going back out into the elements.
The Science Lab: Developed in partnership with the University of Cambridge and Akvaplan-Niva, The Science Lab, at 380 sq. ft., is designed to support a broad range of research activities and is equipped with wet and dry laboratory facilities. Guests have supervised access to The Science Lab to learn from and participate in undertaking meaningful research with scientists.
Expedition Central: The hub for the expedition team to consult with guests on their expedition activities and share knowledge about the destinations on a one-on-one basis, with the aid of 3D printed maps, digital screens, and a state-of-the-art spatial data visualization chart table.

The Grill located in the World Café allows guests to order cook-to-order items such as prime aged steaks, brisket along with salads and sides in the evening. Burgers and hot dogs and other sandwiches for are available for lunch.

Dining Choices: The Restaurant offers fine dining featuring regional cuisine and always-available classics; the casual World Café offers an open kitchen, bakery, grill and premium seafood and sushi choices, as well as a wide range of international flavors; Mamsen’s, named for the Hagen family matriarch, serves Scandinavian-inspired fare; and Manfredi’s offers the best of Italian cuisine.

The Nordic Spa: Following a day of exploration, The Nordic Spa offers guests opportunities to experience the ultimate healthy Nordic traditions, with an indoor heated pool set against expansive windows and a badestamp (wood-sided hot tub) that is open to the outside.
Explorers’ Lounge: Located high on the ship with floor-to-ceiling windows, the Explorers’ Lounge provides guests an ideal space to take in the magnificent scenery, share discoveries with fellow travelers or to enjoy a drink.
The Living Room: On the Viking Octantis and the Viking Polaris, The Living Room is located to maximize views of the surroundings through floor-to-ceiling windows and a library that informs even the best-read explorers. The Library is curated by acclaimed London bookshop Heywood Hill, as on all Viking vessels, as well as Cambridge University’s Scott Polar Research Institute.
Nordic Balcony: A first for polar expedition vessels, all staterooms on board Viking’s expedition ships feature a Nordic Balcony, a sunroom that converts into an al fresco viewing platform with an observation shelf at elbow level to stabilize binoculars or a camera. Guests can choose from six stateroom categories that range from 222 sq. ft. to 1,223 sq. ft.—all with a Nordic Balcony, as well as a king-size bed and large bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor and anti-fog mirror. Every stateroom is also equipped with a unique floor-to-ceiling drying closet that circulates warm air to dry and store clothing and expedition gear.
Expedition Ship Suites: Nordic Junior Suites (322 sq. ft.) and Explorer Suites (580 sq. ft.) on the Viking Octantis and the Viking Polaris are similar to those on Viking’s fleet of ocean ships, with wood detailing and amenities that include additional storage and seating, an expanded bathroom with extended shower and double sinks, welcome champagne, a fully-stocked mini-bar replenished daily, complimentary laundry, priority restaurant reservations and more. Explorer Suites feature two separate rooms, a Nordic Balcony and a full outdoor veranda. Additionally, each ship features one Owner’s Suite (1,223 sq. ft.) that has three rooms – a living room, a board/dining room and a bedroom—as well as a 792 sq. ft. private deck with a traditional Norwegian badestamp open to the invigorating outdoors.
Enrichment On Board and On Shore: Viking has created the world’s leading scientific enrichment environment in an expedition setting. Exclusive partnerships with the Scott Polar Research Institute at Cambridge University, The Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)—as well as other prestigious scientific institutions match leading researchers and educators with each expedition. Thirty-six experts accompany each journey as part of the Viking Expedition Team, including an Expedition Leader and support staff, photographer, field research scientists, general naturalists, mountain guides, kayak guides, submarine pilots and specialists (ornithology, geology, higher predator biology and history). On board, guests will enjoy daily briefings and world-class lectures about their destination. On shore, they can assist in fieldwork or interact through experiential activities during landings—such as monitoring birds to help identify migratory patterns; accompanying scientists to collect samples; or taking their cameras ashore alongside a professional photographer to learn how best to capture scenic landscapes.
Environmentally Considerate: Viking’s expedition ships have set a new standard for responsible travel with an energy-efficient design that exceeds the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) requirements by nearly 38%. In addition to an integrated bow that creates a longer waterline for the ships, engines with heat recovery systems and Azipod® Electric Propulsion, the Viking Octantis and the Viking Polaris have received one of the industry’s first SILENT-E notations—the highest-level certification for quiet ship propulsion, minimizing underwater noise pollution.

Viking’s Newest Ship on the Nile River Named in Luxor

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John Shallo

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August 24, 2022

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Viking® recently named its newest river ship, the Viking Osiris, with a celebration in Luxor, Egypt. As part of the intimate event, the company’s first ceremonial godfather, George Herbert, the 8^th Earl of Carnarvon, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship—an evolution of the naval tradition that dates back thousands of years. Designed specifically to navigate the Nile, the state-of-the-art ship was built at Massara shipyard in Cairo and will sail Viking’s bestselling Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.

The naming of the Viking Osiris comes as Egypt marks several key events this year, including the highly anticipated opening of the new Grand Egyptian Museum outside of Cairo on the Giza Plateau and the 100^th anniversary of the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb by the world’s most famous Egyptologist, Howard Carter, and his benefactor and co-explorer, the 5^th Earl of Carnarvon.

“Egypt has always drawn curious explorers for its rich history and ancient antiquities, and ever since we first began operating on the Nile River in 2004, our guests continue to be amazed by the country’s many cultural treasures. Today we are pleased to officially welcome the Viking Osiris to our growing fleet on the Nile River, which allows us to welcome even more curious explorers to this incredible destination,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “During this milestone year for Egypt, we are also very grateful for the continued close friendship with the Carnarvon family, and that Lord Carnarvon has honored us by serving as the first godfather in our history.”

“It is a great honor to be asked to be godfather to the Viking Osiris, one of the most beautiful river vessels to have ever graced the Nile. This is especially the case in the centenary year of my great-grandfather’s discovery of the tomb of the Pharoah Tutankhamun, and no doubt he and my great-grandmother, Lady Almina, would have been delighted to board the Viking Osiris had it been sailing in their day,” said Lord Carnarvon. “The 5^th Earl of Carnarvon was one of the great explorers and excavators of his time, and today you may join in his love of the glories of ancient Egypt, all in the exceptional comfort and style of the Viking Osiris.”

Viking Osiris – Viking’s Newest Ship

The 8^th Earl of Carnarvon, Godfather of the Viking Osiris

The 8^th Earl of Carnarvon is the son of Henry Herbert, 7^th Earl of Carnarvon, and Jeanie Margaret Wallop (1935–2019). His mother was born in Big Horn, Wyoming, to Oliver Wallop, who was the brother of the 8^th Earl of Portsmouth. The 8^th Earl of Carnarvon was educated at Eton College and St. John’s College, Oxford. He succeeded to the title of Earl of Carnarvon when his father passed away on September 11, 2001. He lives at Highclere Castle with the 8^th Countess of Carnarvon, and they run the estate and business together. He is a keen horseman and sits on the board of the Historic Houses Association (HHA). He also takes a considerable interest in conservation and farming and has been an investor in start-up technology businesses. Together, the Carnarvons are Viking’s first “godparents,” as Lady Carnarvon is godmother of Viking’s newest ocean ship, the Viking Mars®, as well as the river ship, the Viking Skadi.

The 5^th Earl of Carnarvon and the Discovery of King Tut’s Tomb

Nearly 100 years ago, in November 1922, the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun by the 5^th Earl of Carnarvon and Howard Carter was considered the first global media event and has provided a legacy of understanding, knowledge and insight into a remarkable civilization. In her newest book, The Earl and the Pharaoh: From the Real Downton Abbey to the Discovery of Tutankhamun, the Countess of Carnarvon tells the behind-the-scenes story of this discovery and explores the unparalleled life of the 5^th Earl. Among many talents, he was an avid amateur photographer with an artistic eye for composition. His photographs are at Highclere Castle currently, stored in photo albums in the Library, and show the process of discovering and excavating the tomb of Tutankhamun, as well as scenes of daily life in Egypt of the period. With kind permission, the Carnarvons have allowed Viking to share this private collection for guests sailing on board the Viking Osiris.

Viking and Highclere Castle

For years Viking has offered a variety of ways for its guests to experience life at Highclere Castle, which is the home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and the historic estate best known as the filming location of Downton Abbey. Viking became a household name during its sponsorship of the celebrated MASTERPIECE series through the years Downton Abbey aired on PBS. Karine Hagen, Viking Executive Vice President, worked closely with the Carnarvon family to develop the Privileged Access Pre/Post Extensions that feature the estate, including the highly-rated Oxford & Highclere Castle and Great Homes, Gardens & Gin extensions. Both are available for guests on select river and ocean voyages. For guests sailing the Pharaohs & Pyramids Nile River itinerary, Viking offers a five-day British Collections of Ancient Egypt Pre Extension, which gives guests an introduction to Egyptian antiquities in preparation for their Nile experience, including retracing the steps of Howard Carter and the 5^th Earl of Carnarvon. Guests experience Privileged Access to archives and museum exhibits not normally accessible to the public, including a private, early morning tour of the Egyptian Collection at the British Museum, as well as visits to Sir John Soane’s Museum, the Petrie Museum, the Ashmolean Museum and Oxford University’s Griffith Institute, which houses Carter’s archives. At Highclere Castle, guests also have the opportunity to view the Earl’s magnificent private collection of Egyptian artifacts.

The Carnarvon family has also welcomed viewers to Highclere Castle on Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, Viking.TV (www.viking.tv). In the ongoing series, At Home at Highclere, Lady Carnarvon offers virtual Privileged Access to the historic home and its grounds during which she is joined by Lord Carnarvon, who shares his memories and a look inside his ancestral home.

The Viking Osiris & Viking’s Growing Egypt Fleet

Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new, state-of-the-art Viking Osiris is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships with the elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. The vessel features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. The Viking Osiris joins the Viking Ra, which launched in 2018. Additionally, in response to strong demand, the Viking Aton, an identical sister ship to the Viking Osiris, will join the fleet in 2023. During today’s naming event in Luxor, Hagen also announced that two more sister ships, the Viking Hathor and the Viking Sobek, are already under construction and will be delivered in 2024 and 2025, respectively.

Pharaohs & Pyramids Itinerary

**Viking’s Pharaohs & Pyramids Itinerary**

During the 12-day, Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara, and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Beginning in late 2022, guests will also be able to visit the new Grand Egyptian Museum. Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day, round-trip voyage on the Nile River, featuring Privileged Access to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan. Guests also visit a colorful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.

The Viking Saigon Begins Inaugural Season in Southeast Asia

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John Shallo

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August 10, 2022

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Viking® (www.viking.com) today announced that its newest river ship, the Viking Saigon℠, has begun its inaugural season in Southeast Asia. Purpose-built for the Mekong River, the 80-guest ship sails between Kampong Cham, Cambodia and Mỹ Tho, Vietnam as part of Viking’s popular 15-day Magnificent Mekong itinerary. With the 2022-2023 season now underway, regular sailing dates are available through March 2023; the 2023-2024 season begins in July 2023.

“The fascinating cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia have always made this region a favorite destination among our guests,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “We are also pleased to welcome back to Southeast Asia our first guests since early 2020. With arrival of the Viking Saigon, we look forward to introducing even more curious travelers to this iconic waterway in the coming years.”

The Viking Saigon

Purpose-built for the Mekong River, the new Viking Saigon hosts 80 guests in 40 outside staterooms. Featuring the clean Scandinavian design for which Viking is known, all staterooms have hotel-style beds and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a Veranda or French Balcony. Guests on the three-deck Viking Saigon also enjoy a Spa & Fitness Center, Infinity Pool and open-air Sky Bar on the Upper Deck.

Magnificent Mekong

During this 15-day journey, guests explore the cultural treasures of Vietnam and Cambodia with 16 guided tours. Hotel stays in Hanoi, Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) bracket an eight-day Mekong River voyage on this unique itinerary, during which guests can enjoy exploring the Old Quarter of Hanoi and attending a performance by Apsara dancers; tasting the distinctive fresh ingredients from bustling markets and local restaurants; wandering the Khmer temple complex of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; visiting Ta Prohm, where jungle vines embrace ancient ruins; and seeing the sights of Phnom Penh by cyclo rickshaw. On the river voyage portion of the itinerary, guests can discover silk towns, fishing villages, monasteries and floating markets.

Magnificent Mekong itinerary

Booking Details

From now through August 31, 2022, Viking is offering special savings on select river and ocean voyages, with a limited-time $25 deposit as part of the company’s 25^th Anniversary Sale. Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel advisor for details.

Viking Celebrates 25 Years of Award-Winning Exploration

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John Shallo

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August 6, 2022

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Viking® is celebrating today the company’s 25^th anniversary and its leadership in travel. To commemorate the anniversary, Viking has released a new video message from Chairman Torstein Hagen as he reflects on the company’s key milestones since its founding on August 5, 1997. The new video can be viewed here on Viking’s website, as well as here on Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, Viking.TV. All this week, Viking.TV daily programming has centered on Norwegian culture and history as a tribute to the Hagen family’s Norwegian heritage.

“I am proud of all that we have accomplished in these 25 years. First, we invented modern river voyages; then, we reinvented ocean voyages with our destination-focused approach; now, we are perfecting expedition voyages and exploring all seven continents—in comfort,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “To every member of our extended Viking family of guests and employees: happy anniversary and thank you. These first 25 years have been very good, but we are just getting started.”
Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking

Viking Octantis is the first Polar Class expedition vessel built by Viking. The purpose-built vessel hosts 378 guests in 189 staterooms. The new vessel is purpose-built for expeditions, at an ideal size for safety and comfort in remote destinations.

Viking Celebrates 25 Years

The anniversary comes just after Viking was named the #1 Ocean Line and #1 River Line in Travel + Leisure’s 2022 “World’s Best” Awards, in which the company became the first cruise line ever to top both categories in the same year. Viking is also rated #1 for both rivers and oceans by Condé Nast Traveler, making it the first cruise line to ever simultaneously earn #1 in its categories from both publications.

This milestone year has also been one of significant launches for the company. In January, the company debuted Viking Expeditionsand the first of two purpose-built expedition vessels, the Viking Octantis®, which is currently sailing its inaugural season in the Great Lakes. In the spring, the company welcomed eight new Viking Longships® and its newest identical ocean ship, the Viking Mars®. This month, Viking is launching three purpose-built vessels for the Mekong, Nile and Mississippi Rivers, and by the end of the year, will have also welcomed a second identical expedition ship, the Viking Polaris®, and another identical ocean ship, the Viking Neptune®.

Booking Details

From now through August 31, 2022, Viking is offering special savings plus up to free international airfare on select river and ocean voyages as part of the company’s 25^th Anniversary Sale. Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel advisor for details.

Travel + Leisure Names Viking The #1 Ocean Line And The #1 River Line In 2022 “World’s Best” Awards

By

John Shallo

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July 17, 2022

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Travel + Leisure readers have voted Viking® first in its categories in the 2022 World’s Best Awards, which were announced today by the publication. Viking was named the #1 Ocean Line for ships with 300 to 799 cabins and the #1 River Line, making it the first cruise line ever to top both categories in the same year. Viking is also rated #1 for both rivers and oceans by Condé Nast Traveler; no other cruise line has simultaneously earned #1 in its categories from both publications.

Since 1995, Travel + Leisure, the largest travel magazine brand in the U.S., has invited readers to cast their vote for the World’s Best in cruising with considerations in the following features: cabins/facilities, food, service itineraries/destinations, excursions/activities and value. Viking will also be featured in the magazine’s World’s Best issue, which will be on newsstands in July; the full results of the 27^th annual awards can be found at www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best.

First cruise to ever be voted #1 in river and ocean categories.

Travel + Leisure – World’s Best Awards

“Thank you to the readers of Travel + Leisure for voting us first in these prestigious awards. We are proud to be named the world’s #1 for both oceans and rivers. To be the first line ever to receive both awards in the same year is a very special honor. This achievement is the result of the hard work our Viking team members have put in over the last 25 years,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “In my view, it is now time to work even harder. They say that when you reach the top, there is only one way to go – at Viking, we say that way is onwards.”

This announcement follows a year of significant milestones as Viking celebrates its 25^th anniversary. In January, the company launched Viking Expeditionsand the first of two purpose-built expedition vessels, the Viking Octantis®, which is currently sailing its inaugural season in the Great Lakes. In the spring, the company also welcomed eight new Viking Longships® and a new ocean ship, the Viking Mars®. By the end of the year, Viking will have also welcomed a second identical expedition ship, the Viking Polaris®, and another identical ocean ship, the Viking Neptune®, as well as new purpose-built vessels for the Nile, Mekong, and Mississippi Rivers.

First Impressions of Viking Octantis, Viking’s First Expedition Ship

By

John Shallo

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July 1, 2022

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It wasn’t very long ago that if you wanted to take an expedition cruise, your choice of vessel might be limited to an old research vessel. A purpose-built expedition cruise ship designed to provide its passengers luxury, comfort, and scientific research opportunities? Unheard of, until now.

Recently I was invited to cruise aboard Viking’s first purpose-built expedition vessel, Viking Octantis. We’ve been following the development of this ship from when first announced, so we were excited to see the finished product. Viking is no stranger to cruising, and with twenty-five years under its belt as a company, they seem to always focus on the fine details. As you may know, their motto is “Exploring the World in Comfort.” Now with the Viking Octantis and her soon to arrive sister-ship Viking Polaris, this tagline has become a promise kept to its many loyal customers and repeat passengers.

So what did I think? Let’s start at the beginning.

Embarkation

This cruise would be a nine-night sailing from Barbados to New York City. Before my flight from Miami, I had to complete a Covid-19 test at a clinic at the airport. Barbados was not accepting self-administered tests for entry into the company. Before the cruise, I also used the VerifFLY app to transmit my vaccination information to Viking. Once at the cruise port, the embarkation was quick and easy. A bus drove me to the gangway to the ship farther down the pier. A short walk up the gangway, and my cruise had begun. Once aboard, I received a covid-19 antigen test and was held in The Restaurant until the ship’s doctor cleared me. I then went to my stateroom and provided a sputum sample for the ship’s onboard PCR test. Once I completed it, I could explore the ship with a mask on until I received the results later in the day.

The Explorer’s lounge is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the ever changing views each port offers.

The Ship

In a word, the Viking Octantis is gorgeous. The amount of beautiful artwork and the Scandinavian interior design only impressed me more and more as I explored this beauty.

Here are some of her measurements, to name a few. She has a total guest capacity of 378 and 261 total crew members. The ship is 30,150 gross tons, 77 feet wide and 665 feet long. Viking Octantis is also a 100% polar class ship that allows safe travel to Antarctica and the Artic. The ship also offers some of the highest space-to-guest ratios, being one of the most spacious expedition ships afloat.

For the first time, I genuinely felt we were in a resort and not on a cruise ship, and it was a good thing. Every corner of this ship had a thoughtful design and purposeful attention to detail.

Our Cabin

During the cruise, I stayed in Deluxe Nordic Balcony (DN3) 3007, which is 215 SQ Feet. Configured in a King-sized bed for my cruise, it was very comfortable with its luxury linens and pillows. The wall-mounted 55″ OLED flat-screen interactive TV offered an excellent selection of live tv, complimentary movies, live ship tracking, and more.

The Nordic Balcony had easy use controls that allowed me to hear the ocean waves and get fresh air at the touch of a button. It also has a screen that can block out any sun or allow for extra privacy. The included desk provided the perfect space for my laptop and other gear during the cruise. This space was a joy to sit in a enjoy room service breakfast as we sailed into port in the morning and watched as the sun rose.

The bathroom had a thoughtful design and featured a spacious enclosed glass shower with a door. It featured a heated floor, ant-fog mirrors, and the popular Freya toiletries.

The stateroom also came with two self-inflatable life vests, a drying closet, and a pair of Meopta Optika MeoPro 8×42 binoculars. I was also impressed by the stocked mini-bar and personal coffee machine with a great selection of coffee and teas.

The fresh rolled sushi and seafood was a delight aboard the Viking Octantis each evening.

The Crew

The crew members aboard Viking Octantis made me feel very welcome, and they all seemed to learn my name overnight. I was impressed by how attentive each crew member was to all the passengers. They focused on helping you have a safe and enjoyable experience during the cruise. My cabin stewards, Michael and Arvin, were exceptional, and both spoiled me daily.

The Hanger

This purpose-built area is the first of its kind aboard any other expedition ship. The Hanger is a protected in-ship marina that allows easy launching of the ship’s two Special Operation Boats, two submarines, kayaks, and a fleet of Zodiacs stored onboard. This equipment is vital to allow guests on board to explore the places the ship will explore. Be it the Caribbean during my cruise or Antarctica, the Artic of the Great Lakes region. All of this is included with the price of your cruise too.

Dining

This ship has a large World Cafe with a modern food-hall-like design, including The Grill, where guests could order cook-to-order prime steaks for dinner or even a burger or hot dog for lunch. You can also expect an open kitchen and interactive space offering soups, salads, freshly carved meat, charcuterie, and live cooking stations for omelets, stir-fry, and amazing desserts during the cruise. The Sushi bar and chilled premium seafood available each evening were a highlight. However, one of my favorite areas is The Bakery with its incredible fresh-made Focaccias’, daily bread assortments, pizza, and cookies. The most popular spot was undoubtedly the gelato and the ability to create a sundae mixed on a chilled marble slab.

If you’d like a more formal dining experience, Viking Octnatis also offers reservations at The Restaurant and Manfredi’s every evening. You will also find 24-hour room service, coffee stations onboard, and Mamsen’s provides Norwegian delicacies.

The Aula

One of the most impressive public spaces aboard Viking Octantis is The Aula. Inspired by the University of Oslo’s famed ceremonial hall, The Aula offers guests a comfortable venue for lectures and entertainment. It features floor-to-ceiling windows, and 270-degree views are stunning. We met here special events by the Captain during our cruise, Safety Briefings, Movies, and entertainment.

The Queen of Smørbrød

By

John Shallo

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June 26, 2022

0

Meet Copenhagen celebrity chef, Ida Davidsen, master of the Danish open-faced sandwich.

Viking Star – Built And Designed To Be Green

By

John Shallo

-

June 26, 2022

0

Designed with the environment in mind, Viking Star® and her sister ships feature energy-efficient hybrid engines, a hydro-dynamically optimized streamlined hull and bow for maximum fuel efficiency, and equipment that minimizes exhaust.

Who is Viking?

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers guests The Thinking Person’s Cruise® in contrast to mainstream cruises. With more than 250 awards to its name, Viking has been rated the #1 River Cruise Line and #1 Ocean Cruise Line by Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking has also been consistently rated the #1 ocean cruise line and one of the best river cruise lines in Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best” Awards. For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com. For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv.

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