Viking Orion Review

5.0 / 5.0
605 reviews

Outstanding First Cruise Experience

Review for Alaska Cruise on Viking Orion
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CruiseGrands
First Time Cruiser • Age 60s

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Sail Date: May 2022

In May 2022 we enjoyed the Alaska & the Inside Passage cruise aboard the Viking Orion. This was our first trip with Viking and our first cruise ever. We have to say they have spoiled us and set the bar incredibly high for other cruise competitors.

When we started looking at options for an Alaska trip, it became apparent that a cruise was our best bet. We then started looking at different cruise lines, and initially passed over Viking because of the "starting at" pricing in comparison to others. As we learned more about what's included or extra with the various providers, and considered what we wanted out of our trip, we made our way back to Viking pretty quickly. Ultimately Viking was a "no brainer" choice for us. Very comfortable accommodations, great dining options (at no extra $), included access to the Nordic spa, included excursions in every port, entertainment and learning options onboard, and no passengers under 18. Bottom line, it's an enriching and relaxing grown up experience with no nickel and diming you along the way. This may not be for everyone - everybody has their preferences - but for us, this is the perfect balance.

Our cruise started in Seward, Alaska (after flying into Anchorage) and traveled southward until our trip ended in Vancouver. We had 2 sailing days during the trip, and stops in ports on all other days. The ports were Seward, Valdez, Icy Strait Point, Haines (substituted for Skagway on this sailing), Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan. The sailing days were pleasant, with lots to see and do (including an up close look at the Hubbard Glacier). Because we were "newbies" we mostly went with the included excursions, which we found to be a good balance of learning and exploration. Additionally, we took advantage of extra time in the ports to explore on our own. In Juneau we upgraded to the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching tour - definitely worth the splurge. We saw so much natural beauty and wildlife on this trip (the whole trip, not just the upgraded excursion). Weather was better than we'd hoped for, but it was still a good thing that we'd packed some layers. We'd have sunny and quite comfortable days in some ports, and sometimes a chillier experience on deck observing the views.

Cabin Review

Our Deluxe Veranda room was quite comfortable. The view was great from our included balcony, bed and bedding were comfortable, storage was more than sufficient, and our cabin stewards were friendly and helpful. The bathroom was a special treat, with more room than we'd hoped for, counter space for your stuff, a glass enclosed shower with a built in ledge (for stuff or propping), and a heated floor. Very nice accommodations!

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