We chose this cruise because of the itinerary and our past Viking expierences. One of our favourite things on this ship is beautiful, clean, modern, excellent public areas. Lots of comfortable areas to sit and relax without feeling crowded. Food is excellent with daily theme luncheons offered on sea days around the main pool and several cook outs on the back deck were offered in the evenings as well as the buffet which always had lots to choose from. Daily offerings of crab claws, crab legs, big shrimp, sushi, shell fish, steak cooked to order, meat dishes. Rotating offers of roasts of lamb, pork, beef, roasted chicken, duck. Daily, a variety of vegetables, potatoes, rice etc, salads, fruit, breads and a nice variety of dessert. Breakfast offered eggs, omelets, cooked to order quickly, eggs benedict, fruits, waffles, in addition to all of the usual breakfast items. Restaurants are intimate and the service is provided by professional, friendly, outgoing staff who are attententive without being obtrusive. The menu offers a variety to choose from and our food was delicious at Manfrefi’s and at the Chef’s Table. The same can be said of the World Cafe, Mamsens and the Pool Snack bar which offered burgers of all kinds, foot long hot dogs, fries, Onion rings and all the trimmings in addition to numerous salads and desserts. The ice cream at the World Cafe is delicious with a variety of different flavours daily. All meals include wine and beer. The spa sauna, pool and snow grotto are an invigorating experience. There is a main pool with a retractable roof and an infinity pool on the back deck. All have lots of lounge seating in comfortable, relaxing surroundings. We especially enjoyed the Explorers Lounge located at the front of the ship. You feel as though you are the captain looking out through the expansive windows onto the ocean. The Viking Sea singers/dancers and musicians were the best and the most talented and enjoyable we have experienced in a long time. Beth, Hannah, Louis and Cole, along with cruise director Jenna treated us to Abba, Beatles, Divas, Motown music that rocked the theatre. The included excursions were informative and provided by knowledgeable guides. The most important thing is we are grateful to all of the staff for their attentive, genuine, smiling, caring approach, ensuring you are having a perfect vacation. How they are able to remember you by name and your cabin number is delightful surprise. It truly was, quote Captain Malmberg, “the happiest, friendliest, funnest ship on the ocean”. Read Less

We booked this cruise to see the Northern Lights. We did see the lights several times. Unfortunately our cruise was cut short due to losing engine power in the middle of a storm. We were evacuated by helicopter. All in all, Viking, the crew, helicopter rescue crew, the Norwegian Red Cross, the support personnel, and the people of Molde were excellent in responding to assist us. Viking tried to minimize the unfortunate situation, looking after us physically and financially from start to finish. While on the cruise, we found the dining, service, and cabin to be excellent. The ship was very well laid out, and the wifi worked well. The entertainment, although limited was very good. It was supplemented with a number of seminars which were very informative. We have now taken a number of Viking Cruises, both river and ocean, and would definitely recommend them. The included shore excursions were mostly city type tours, but informative. The optional excursions for the ones we took were very good. A thing to remember is to make sure you book your excursions shortly after you are permitted by your booking. We had several people who could not get on the tours they wanted because they were already booked. Read Less

Since we were so happy with our Viking River Cruise we figured that we could expect the same overall quality and amount of personal attention if we elected to do an ocean cruise with them. This was not necessarily correct. While Viking's amenities, food, housekeeping, etc., etc were as good as other cruise lines, there was nothing on this cruise that made it any better than say a Norwegian or Holland America cruise. An exception to the above is that Viking does offer an "included" excursion at every port. We were very impressed with the "Pre-Cruise" stay at the Maya Hotel in Ubud (Bali) and with the Shangri-La in Bangkok. The hotels and tours (especially the floating market) were outstanding. I think everyone agreed that the 2 days at Jakarta should be dropped. Singapore would be an excellent 2 day port. Jakarta's air quality was about as good as the burn pits we experienced in Iraq. As for on-board dining , I for one would like to see a Pasta Station and a Stir-Fry station where one would be able to interact more with the preparation of the dish. Essentially, at those stations, the chef simply plates the food after warming it in a skillet. There are few choices in what gets plated. Also, I was not impressed with the supervisor in the World Cafe who verbally abused one of the young ladies about her job performance right in front of us. Definitely bad for business! And last of all, Viking cheated us out of $250.00 on-board credit. We were supposed to have $250 each - I checked with our travel agent just today to make sure- but only had $250 total. That alone makes me think that my future sailings will be with other lines. Read Less

This was our 4th cruise on Viking and each cruise gets better and better. Service, food, friendly atmosphere, tours, the ship and rooms are all top notch. We decided to stay in a PV3 cabin and really enjoyed the extra space usually we stay in a DV cabin. We decided to mainly take this cruise for the 3 days in Israel and we were not disappointed. We decided to do a private tour in Israel as there were 10 of us and we booked through Guided Tours of Israel who did an excellent job. We could not ask for a better tour guide and driver. My least favorite port was Naples - quite dirty. The lectures on board were very interesting - especially the ones about Israel. The lectures were well attended, the lecture ended at 6:30 pm and everyone headed for the dinning room we did not have a long wait but Viking served champagne to all waiting in line and they did this several times - this is just an example of their service. They had several lunch specials around the pool , such as grilled salmon, mussels, and a fantastic brunch on one of our sea days served from 10 am to 1 pm. Excellent food stations and they served Bloody Mary's, champagne and Mimosas! Viking is a excellent cruise line, they care about the passengers and again you can not beat the service - we have booked 2 additional cruises with Viking. Entertainment is good, we always enjoyed going to the Living Room around 6 pm for a cocktail and the music. Read Less

We had done two Viking Ocean cruises and have cruised other lines such as Princess, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Oceana. We like the Viking River cruises better. We had a balcony but it was on the rear of the ship so we walked a lot. There were few hangers and not that many drawers to put things in. They kept the hallways very cold,the restaurants were cold and the theater was cold. We were in the Caribbean so it should not have been cold when it was warm outside. I was getting sore throat and had to take a lot of cough drops. We ate most of our meals in the World Cafe even though tipping is automatic. The specialty restaurants were included but you needed to make all of your reservations at the beginning of the cruise. I am a comfort food person, not a gourmet. The Mexican restaurant food was not like any Mexican food I had before. The portions were small and some of the food was unfamiliar to me even though I spent 30 years going to Mexico. The Italian restaurant menu was in Italian with extremely small print in English and I could not read it with my glasses on. I just asked for ceasar salad and Chicken Parmesan. The Restaurant seemed to serve the same menu pretty often. Viking gives you wine and beer with lunch and dinner and we had purchased the silver package using a credti from our travel agent and that was good. There were two Captains parties plus a sale away on the last night with champayne and snacks and this was very good. I had a problem about being invited to a mix and mingle even though I had started the role call. So I missed the first event but Mara from Romania, who was the head of Guest Services helped us out and there was a second mix and mingle that we did attend. It seems redundant that first you have to either start the role call or enroll and an exiisting role call and then also register for a mix and mingle, But I now know this and will be ready for the next cruise. I like the River cruises better because the ships are smaller, it was never too cold and we had people, who kept us fully informed on all events. Read Less

We wanted to try Viking out and this cruise seemed to meet our needs of a winter cruise, in some warm weather at a better price than Viking offers for its Med Cruises. Our travel was so tiring, with a drive to Manchester, an overnight, then a morning flight out to Philadelphia, then a 5 hour lay over as there was a delay, then a 4 hour flight to San Juan. Coming back was even worse as I drove back from Manchester coming off the overnight flight from Philadelphia. Unfortunately as good as the cruise was, we will not attempt that travel again, as you might have guessed we are not part of the younger generation. Embarkation at the port was so easy and very quick, probably helped by it being past midnight before we got there. Our standard balcony cabin was lovely, all mod cons in place including charging points, bed nice and comfy although my wife and our cabin steward (Bayu) did have a few attempts at getting the right mix of pillows. Bayu was excellent, smiling every day and nothing was too much trouble. He did his job well and worked round our timings in the cabin. Bathroom was modern and really well appointed with a big glass shower cubicle. We thoroughly enjoyed the inclusive trips, they were mainly an overview, but all our guides were really good and we felt safe in their company. Getting on and off the Ship was so quick and easy, next to no queues. Some of the docking places were a bit industrial, so a couple of times our view was the container park when other ships in seemed to have better berths on occasion. We are not big drinkers but had the silver drinks package, it was excellent. Pina Coladas, the best we have had on any ship, we don't like the brain freeze drinks so the bar staff would make it on the rocks with just enough ice, nice and creamy and used the dark rum. We visited Barrincha in Puerto Rico, where the Pina Colada was supposedly invented and the ones on the ship were every bit as good as there. Don't worry if your favourite tipple is not on the bar menu, they will make it if you or they know the ingredients. Doods deserves special mention for looking after us so well. if we wandered in there as our last call for a nightcap he knew what I wanted and a simple thumbs up meant my Toasted Almond arrived at our table. Food was generally excellent, probably the best we have had at Sea other than Oceania, so Viking need to just get that bit better and match them to be top of the league. We did have the occasional wobble, but it was excellently handled by the waiters and in Manfredis we were delivered our pasta and risotto dishes at the same time as our huge steaks. They removed the steaks immediately. Viking head of Departments all get given a cabin at random to look after, so we got Gary, the Executive Chef (recently joined from Oceania). He rang us every couple of days and saw us out and about. On learning of our dislike of the mashed potato he immediately changed the recipe and it was so good after that. He also insisted we re visit Manfredis after our earlier issue with the Steaks, he organised it all and we had the best service and food of the cruise. we were also left nice little surprises in the room on a few of the days. So well done to Viking, as Gary said, it helps him stay close to the Guests and he can jump on things quickly and he did. We never had to queue for anything, sun beds were always available around the pools, no queues at the Bars, restaurants straight in. Entertainment, the Singers were really good, but Viking did not make best use of them, I would like to have seen a show in the lovely theatre every night. Also after 10.30 the ship was even more empty, some guest duos brought on board to enhance evening entertainment would be better for us. Would I go with Viking again, yes if they can keep their prices competitive and home port the Ship in the Caribbean where we can get a direct flight from Britain. Read Less

Well, we are back from our first Viking Ocean cruise – 10 days West Indies Explorer on the Viking Sea March 2019. We arranged our own flights, so we got to San Juan PR and made our way to the ship. Check in was easy-peasy and so different than what happens on other lines. I’ve sailed Carnival (platinum), Royal Caribbean, and NCL in the past, so this was not my first check-in. Of course 930 passengers vice 3000-5000 makes quite a difference. Our room stewards Teddy and Emm were great and met us when we arrived and explained features of our room. They always greeted us if they were about and ensured we had everything we needed. Even though it was about 3:30PM, we found the pool grill had wonderful and we got our first wine and beer (free with lunch and dinner). Waiters were available and checked on us often. This continued throughout the entire cruise in all dining venues! Great job. On the second night onboard, just as we were getting ready to leave San Juan behind, we had our Cruise Critic Meet and Mingle – an invitation was left in our room with the Viking Daily the day before. The Captain and his command staff were busy, but every available senior staff officer attended. We had a very nice chat with Tom Aberg (Hotel General Manager), Edgar de Jaspi (Beverage Manager) and John Cunningham (Restaurant Manager) while enjoying free drinks and finger foods. From that evening on, we were always greeted by these senior officers. Surprisingly, a few days later we got another invitation to another Meet and Mingle. We went and when we asked, we were told by another Cruise Critic member, that they missed the first one – apparently they didn’t realize they had to sign up for the M&M on CC prior to arriving onboard, so they didn’t receive an invitation. But the staff wanted to ensure that they were not left out, so we had a second get together with all the trimmings and all the senior staff. (Now what other cruise line would do that???) At this meeting, in addition to Edgar and John, I had a nice talk with Jenn Beaudoin (Cruise Director) and Mara Buga (Guest Services Manager). I had a special request of Jenn and she made some calls had made arrangements. Thank you Jenn and thanks for Fredrik Svensson for taking time out of his busy schedule to talk to another Engineer! I’m not going to do a day to day accounting of my experiences, but I will make a few comments. First, the food and drink onboard is outstanding. All venues were excellent, but we always like the Restaurant and had wonderful meals in Manfredi’s and at the Chef’s Table. Service was impeccable regardless of where we ate. Secondly, I was so impressed by the Senior Staff. On most lines, one does not even see the Hotel Manager, Restaurant Manager, Financial Officer or Beverage Manager, but on this ship/line, they were highly visible and jumped in anytime there was need. For example, Tom, John or Edgar often were escorting guests in the Restaurant or in the Theater. (Again, where else have you ever seen this happen?) Third, I was somewhat concerned about taking the included excursions thinking they would be boring. Not so. The guides were obviously well vetted and could answer any question thrown at them. In many of the ports, the tour at a specific time was broken into smaller groups which worked well and kept wait time to a minimum. I learned something at every port! We also did a 3 optional tours and they were wonderful! Only thing I questioned was at all these wonderful Caribbean ports, there were no Scuba diving tours… hmmm. Fourth, was the general ‘we want you to learn something’ on this cruise vibe on the ship. There was a resident historian onboard who had some wonderful lectures and round table discussions. There was also a Geologist who gave talks on how the islands were formed and such. Really interesting! If you happened to miss the talk, don’t fear, it was recorded for on-demand broadcast on the in cabin TV along with lots of other great informative programs, news stations and movies. Fifth, the entertainment onboard was wonderful – singers and musicians were top notch. Shows were excellent. A steel pan group was brought onboard at one port to play by the pool for an afternoon show. We also had Line Dance lessons. Unfortunately, I have 2 left feet when it comes to this! But it was enjoyable! Overall, it was a GREAT Experience and it will not be our last Viking Ocean cruise! Great Job by everyone onboard! Read Less

This beautiful ship with a great service crew FAILED TERRIBLY ON MULTIPLE LEVELS at sea during a storm we should never have been in. Prior to the mayday we noticed several things that we found “sloppy” or unusual for a top cruise ship. The lights on the ship continually flickered and a huge banging sound continued for 30’hours prior to the engine failure. The crew was amazing, but handicap auto doors were not functioning, dining room doors slid open on their own during the storm and waves blew a door open to the dining room injuring multiple people. Prior to the engine and power failure, we noticed sloppy things that we have never seen on Disney, Cunard or Pinang - on the top level promenade stairs the crew had a makeshift and dangerously messy “fix” for slick stairs by using random carpet strips taped and towed to the stairs with twine. The makeshift stair pads were dangerous to step on and moved with every strep. Also, after refueling in Tromsø, we walked deck hours later and no one had bothered to take down the refueling signs and ropes blocking the promenade. There were also dangerous design issues in our three cabins - especially the heavy, finger-smashing closet doors that became uncontrollable during the storm, slamming to and forth with every move of the ship - eventually breaking from their track on the bottom. We were also told the ship did not have as many safety signs as other ships because management didn’t like the look of the signs. That being said, their lack of normal foresight to read the weather and reroute the ship, asking with their tragic mistake of having too little oil on the engines for high seas is unforgivable. We all love luxury, we all love great service, but we should hold cruise lines accountable for their critical decision making and putting the lives and safety of their passengers and crew first. Read Less

The itinerary looked really interesting. We've looked at Northern Lights trips before, but this one was too intriguing to pass up, especially having never been to Norway or on Viking. I must agree with what was said about the carpet squares in another review, and most certainly a BIG, more like HUGE question arises as to whether or not we should have been sailing on 3/23 when a few other ships elected to stay in port - this is for the investigating authorities to decide. And, of course, the helicopter airlift terrified us. BUT, all that being said, I believe that once in the emergency situation - whether or not we should have wound up in one - the crew did all they could to keep the passengers comfortable during such an extremely difficult situation. I do question this whole thing about the low-level oil sensors and believe that some sort of revised set-up should probably be considered that would allow for greater degree of roll and pitch prior to initiating auto engine shutdown, but, again, I'm just being an 'armchair engineer' I suppose without having all the facts at my disposal. Up to the 23rd, this was an amazing trip. The pre-cruise extension in Oslo was great. Our hotel, the Thon Opera, was conveniently located and very nice. The transfer to Bergen went smoothly, and the Sky - once we adjusted to a room with relatively little drawer space (especially on a trip where everyone had lots of heavier clothing) - was most enjoyable and beautifully appointed. We loved the quiet, relaxed atmosphere. Mezzanine level of the lounge is a truly beautiful space. Love the constellation decor up there too. Enjoyed the food (expected a bit better at times but overall quite good) - especially Mamson's waffles! The entertainment certainly can't be compared with the lavish production shows on other larger ships, but I thought it was nice how they brought on entertainers who presented music that reflected the Norwegian culture. And having the onboard guitar and piano player was nice as well (except next time please don't start playing "my heart will go on' during lunch if the really big waves and wind come along.) Visiting Narvik, Alta and Tromsø was indescribable! All three ports, as well as the entire journey northward through the fjords and sometimes narrow passages, was so picturesque and offered magnificent scenery. And what a thrill to be so far above the arctic circle! Excursions were awesome, especially dog and reindeer sledding. And, best of all, is that we DID get to see the Northern Lights several times. Mission accomplished in terms of the main objective of the cruise. The spa looked great but unfortunately never got to try it - planned to do so the afternoon of the 23rd. Loved the "heritage" area and the displays there. Love the infinity pool but never got to try that either (perhaps on a warmer weather trip!). Our DV2 room was very comfortable as well. Enjoyed the heated bathroom floor. All the enrichment lecturers were excellent. Michael and Corey, especially, presented such interesting and captivating, as well as entertaining programs. We were airlifted - which was truly scary - but the aftermath was just astounding in terms of how well we were taken care of by the Norwegian authorities, volunteers, red cross, police, hotel staff, shop keepers, on and on. Of course, ALL praise to the pilots and crews of the CHC. What a daring yet successful rescue effort of over half the passengers. We very possibly would not be here but for their bravery and expertise. Can't wait to sail with Viking again. Chairman Hagen has done all he can to try and make amends for a situation that is unprecedented in modern times. It truly saddened us to have to leave the ship the way we did and to witness firsthand the damage that was being done to her during that terrible bomb cyclone. While that Saturday was a life-changing experience that will likely haunt me at times for the rest of my life, I would go on the Sky for another cruise without hesitation. Read Less

We chose the Viking Ocean cruise because we had done two Viking river cruises which were exceptional. So we were expecting the same on an ocean cruise. Not to be, alas! The ship itself, Orion, about 8 months old , is very well decorated and spacious. Our room , a penthouse suite with veranda, suited us perfectly: spacious and lots of drawers. The bed was not comfortable: hard as rock. But when I told our cabin steward about this, he offered a topper...which made it a bit softer. Another drawback was a head shower that kept on swirling around every way but the right way! Like taking a shower with an attacking cobra!!! My husband took care of the problem by putting a bandaid on the collar of the shower head and forcing it to stay in the right position. Food was average. Sometimes awful: we asked for a hamburger well done. Came back almost raw. Included excursions were very disappointing. We were expecting guided tours but the guide was the bus driver. So he would stop and let us out on our own to explore. He would stay with the bus. Entertainment was very good. The personnel is absolutely marvellous, solicitous and caring. They treat you like royalty! But they have trouble speaking and understanding english. I would do another Viking river cruise but never another Viking ocean cruise. Read Less