My wife chose this cruise because it was on a research vessel. Since I was a biology major, she thought I would enjoy it and she was right. We did back to back cruises so we got a double dose. The ship had a submersible, two Finnish Special Forces style boats and eight or ten zodiacs. The special forces boats held twelve people and had 880 horsepower engines. We would go on tours and then the driver would hit full power and we had spectacular rides. The zodiacs held ten passengers and took us out each day and did research as well. There were a number of young PHD’s who were smart as well as funny. We also launched weather balloons and monitored their progress on huge tv screens. Water samples were taken all the time as well as air samples. Science classes were held and the scientists reported out each day on their findings.

Excursions were outstanding and enjoyable. The food was super and the staff could not have been any better. The steak and lobster dish each night was my favorite. Italian restaurant was great as was the other speciality restaurant. Service was beyond belief. Staff was attentive, friendly and efficient.

Viking has partnerships with NOAA, Cornell University and Scripps Oceanography out of California and many others. Read more