This is a review of a Viking Oceans cruise of the Baltic Sea in June 2016 (Stockholm to Bergen). This was our first ocean cruise. We chose Viking Oceans because of two previous enjoyable and well-run Viking River cruises and a lack,of interest in large ships. The ship was the Viking Star, a 930-passenger vessel with a tour package that is clearly targeted to and suitable for an older clientele.

Viking arranged our flights from Ottawa to Stockholm, via Amsterdam, where we spent several days at our request. There were certainly some difficulties with Viking in the flight arrangements but these were resolved. The bus trip from the Stockholm airport to the ship took about an hour. Boarding the ship (security arrangements and receipt of room keys) was quick and efficient and we were met in the suite by a member of the staff.

The ship, Viking Star, is very modern and pleasant and we were pleased with the suite. It was spacious and well equipped (two TVs, sitting area, safe, small refrigerator) with an exterior balcony, as were all suites. The ship was exceptionally well managed by the crew, from dining and food services to the cleaning staff to the people dealing with embarkation, departure and security. The included laundry service was a particularly nice and useful feature. Read more