Welcome to the first in a series of posts discussing my recent adventure with Viking Cruises. I recently returned from a week on board Viking Cruises Viking Sea sailing around the Caribbean. We joined the ship in Barbados and sailed through the West Indies to San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Viking are known for river cruising but in 2014 launched their first ocean-going vessel. Viking are now going from strength to strength with four ships in an ever-growing fleet (with another 12 to be delivered soon or on order). The Viking experience is unlike any I’ve tried before, delivering a curated product that is a refreshing entry within the cruise market.
So why do I think this? Viking feels more like a home away from home, an upscale boutique hotel that isn’t in the slightest stuffy. There are no formal dress-codes, no urgency to be places and genuine staff that go out there way to make your stay as great as possible. As it only takes 930 passengers, Viking Sea never felt crowded at any point in the day. And because the ships are of a smaller scale, they can go into a wider range of ports that some of the bigger ships simply cannot.
Viking prides itself on destination-focussed itineraries, with longer stays in port, overnights and typically less sea days. This is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the experience.
In addition to the ships, which are beyond stunning, what sets Viking apart from most other lines is what’s included in the cruise fare. All rooms have a balcony as standard, free Wi-Fi, alternative restaurants at no extra charge, wine and beer included in meals, free use of spa facilities and tours included in every port of call. What’s not to like?
I’ll be sharing my thoughts on the entire Viking experience here. To see my ‘live’ experience whilst I was on board visit my instagram.
To view a short video of the trip, by the very talented Jamie and Hannah please click below.
All in all I’m a total Viking convert and I have no doubt that I’ll be booking a cruise with them when I get a chance. I sailed on a Viking Ocean Cruise West Indies Explorer itinerary. This departs from San Juan, Puerto Rico for 11 days, visiting 9 countries across the Caribbean. It costs £2490 including flights and on board gratuities (book before 31 march 2018).