viking cruise ship height

Viking Cruises Ships by Size, Age and Class (2022)

Viking Cruises has an active fleet of eight ships currently with ten further ships on order ( Viking Polaris , Viking Neptune and Viking Mars due in 2022, Viking Saturn due in 2023 and six further Ocean-class ships which are unnamed at present).

In this guide, we will cover all the different ships in the Viking Cruises fleet and how they compare to each other.

Introduction to Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises is actually one of the subsidiaries of the recently (2020) renamed Viking corporation. The company consists of Viking Ocean Cruises, Viking River Cruises and Viking Expedition Cruises.

Viking Cruises was founded in 1997 by Torstein Hagen (a Norwegian billionaire) in St. Petersburg, Russia with the launch of four Russian river cruise ships offering luxury river cruises in Russia. They are now headquartered in Basel, Switzerland (for operations) but have a marketing team and offices in North America.

It wasn’t until 2013 that the company launched Ocean-going cruise ships and today they have a fleet of six ocean-going ships and two expedition ships (as well as the largest fleet of river ships in the world, totalling 76 ships).

The first ocean-going Viking ship was Viking Star which took its maiden voyage in 2015.

Each of the Viking Ocean Cruises ships is identical in size, capacity and design. Viking Ocean ships have a distinct feature over many other cruise ships – they have no inside cabins, each one instead has a private balcony!

One notable exception to the fleet is Viking Sun , which has actually been renamed Zhao Shang Yi Dun and sails under a Chinese flag exclusively for the Chinese market under a joint partnership between Viking Cruises and China Merchants Shekou Cruises .

Viking Cruises Ships Frequently Asked Questions

Which is viking cruises newest ship.

Viking Octantis is the latest Viking Expedition ship and Viking Venus is the latest Viking Ocean ship.

Which is Viking Cruises biggest ship?

All of the Viking Ocean ships are the same size. But they are all bigger than the Viking Expedition ships.

Which is Viking Cruises smallest ship?

All of the Viking Ocean ships are the same size. However, the Viking Expedition ships are smaller at 30,150 GRT and carry only 378 passengers each.

What is Viking Cruises oldest ship?

Viking Star is the oldest ship in the Viking Ocean Cruises fleet. Her maiden voyage was in 2015.

Who owns Viking Cruises?

Viking Cruises is a privately owned company founded by the Norwegian Billionaire, Torstein Hagen .

Are Viking Cruises ships all the same?

All of the Ocean-class ships are identical. The two Expedition-class ships are also identical to each other.

Are Viking Ocean Cruises and Viking River Cruises the same?

Yes. In 2020 Viking Cruises was renamed to just ‘Viking’ and now have Viking Ocean Cruises, Viking River Cruises and Viking Expedition Cruises as their three main brands.

How many passengers are on a Viking Ocean Cruise?

All Viking Ocean cruise ships have a maximum capacity of 930 passengers.

Did Viking Sky sink?

No. In March 2019 Viking Sky became stranded off the coast of Norway. 460 of the passengers were rescued by helicopter, with the rest of the passengers staying on board until the ship reached Molde safely. No one was injured and the ship was repaired.

What caused the engine failure on Viking Sky?

The ship’s engines suffered an automatic shut down due to the loss of oil pressure. Due to the bad weather, the ship rolled quite significantly (though well within operational limits) and various fixtures and fittings were broken. As a safety precaution, just under half the passengers were evacuated before the ship managed to restart one engine and sail under its own power to the Port of Molde, Norway.

Where is Viking Sun?

Viking Sun was renamed Zhao Shang Yi Dun and sails exclusively in the Chinese market via a joint partnership with China Merchants Shekou Cruises.

Viking Cruises Ships by Size (from largest to smallest)

What does ‘tonnage (grt)’ mean.

GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) is a term used to calculate the volume inside a ship. It is a measure of cubic capacity and is calculated by the total volume from inside the hull and decks of the ship. 1 GRT = 100 cubic feet of space. In essence, the bigger the GRT – the more ‘space’ the ship has for passengers, cargo, etc.

How are ‘Passengers (Max)’ calculated?

You’ll see multiple numbers for passengers on ships – this is because many ships include extra beds in cabins (such as the sofa/couch can convert to a pull-out bed) – but the majority of cabins usually have 2 people in them. the ‘Max’ number is if every cabin used their additional pull-out bed, etc. This number is unlikely to be reached very frequently.

Viking Cruises Ships by Age (from newest to oldest)

Are all of viking cruises ships new builds.

Yes. All of the Viking Ocean Cruise ships are purpose-built for Viking. The current and future ships are all built by Fincantieri in Maghera, Italy.

Viking Cruises Ships by Class (from newest to oldest)

What is the difference between the ocean-class ships.

There is no physical difference between the Ocean-class ships, they are all the same size, design and capacity. They do differ in various artwork through each ship.

Each of the Viking Ocean ships is rated Ice Class 1C which is the lowest rating for ships – this is about 0.4m of ice in the Baltic regions.

What is the difference between the Ocean-class and the Expedition-class ships?

The Viking Expedition ships are purpose-built expedition ships to sail in Antarctica and the Great Lakes where the ship not only carries fare-paying passengers but also conducts scientific research throughout the voyage too.

The two ships ( Viking Octantis now sailing and Viking Polaris due in late 2022) are both rated Polar Class 6 which allows them to operate through ice in Summer/Autumn and medium first-year ice.

Both ships have a passenger capacity of just 378 passengers and carry numerous extra technical pieces of equipment, including two submarines, a first for a cruise ship.

Final Thoughts

Viking has come a long way since it was founded back in 1997. From redefining River Cruises, they swiftly moved on to redefine Ocean Cruising with their matching ships and child-free policies and now are moving into the smaller, but fast-growing market of expedition cruising.

Whichever ocean ship you choose, you will feel at home with Viking’s nod to all things Norwegian and exploring – you’ll enjoy the same facilities and layout on each ship too, which makes cruising with them a dream – just pick your region and enjoy your voyage!

If you enjoyed this article you may like our other articles that compare  MSC Cruises ,  Royal Caribbean ,  Holland America Line  and Celebrity Cruises ships .

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Carnival Cruise Ships by Size and Age (2022)

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The question of “ how big is a cruise ship ?” touches on more than just numbers—it reveals a staggering evolution in maritime engineering and travel luxury. These floating giants push the limits regarding  cruise ship height  and breadth, allowing thousands of guests to explore the oceans while indulging in experiences once confined to land. How tall is a cruise ship compared to the skyscrapers dotting our urban landscapes, and what does that mean for those on board?

To understand the colossal nature of these vessels, we need to look at the benchmarks:  how big are cruise ships ? Imagine structures so vast that they seem like self-contained worlds, with amenities and venues that rival premier resorts. The question of how tall the average cruise ship is escalates into a deeper discussion of ship design and guest experience.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding the magnitude of cruise ships beyond mere numbers—envisioning floating metropolises.
• Exploring how the dimensions of cruise ships, such as height and length, impact the passenger experience.
• Discovering the multifaceted implications of a ship’s size, from onboard activities to port accessibility .
• Comparing cruise ship sizes to other massive structures, appreciating their engineering feats.
• Reflecting on personal preferences and how they direct the choice of cruise ship size for individual travelers.

How Big Is a Cruise Ship: Understanding the Dimensions

The magnificence of cruise ships is often intricate to fathom without delving into their actual dimensions. These floating behemoths are defined by their length, width, and height, which dictate the overall passenger experience from onboard activities to the visual dominance these vessels have in ports worldwide.

Length, Width, and Height: Measuring a Cruise Ship’s Proportions

To grasp the sheer size of these vessels, one must begin with their primary dimensions. The length of a cruise ship, from bow to stern, is a clear indicator of its scale. On average, contemporary cruise ships span well over 1,000 feet. Width, often called the beam, varies considerably but can surpass 100 feet for larger vessels, facilitating stability and space for onboard amenities. The wonder of engineering that is Royal Caribbean ‘s Wonder of the Seas stretches to a beam of 210 feet. Height is less frequently discussed but equally remarkable; mega-ships can tower above the waterline.

How Many Feet Is a Cruise Ship? Specific Measurements of Popular Liners

Regarding particular measurements, the lengths and widths of cruise ships serve as a testament to human engineering. The average cruise ship length is impressive, but certain vessels push these boundaries further. Below is a comparison table demonstrating the exact dimensions of some of the most renowned cruise ships.

The figures reflect the incredible diversity in cruise ship size. Mega-ships epitomize grandeur; for context, the length of the largest cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas, eclipses the Eiffel Tower if laid flat. As the size of vessels increases to cater to ever-growing demands for space and luxury , it’s clear that versatile architectural feats will continue to sail our seas.

Weight and Tonnage: The Scale of Modern Cruise Ships

The heft of today’s seafaring leviathans is a testament to maritime engineering. Answering questions like  how much cruise ships weigh and how much cruise ships weigh  gives us an introduction to the sheer scale of these floating resorts. With the  Allure of the Seas  tipping the scales at an impressive 225,282 Gross Tonnage (GT), the  Princess cruise ships  also boast a significant tonnage, marking them among the heavyweights of the oceanic fleet. Below is a comparative analysis of some of the major players in the cruise industry and their astounding measurements.

The table showcases not just the  weight and length of cruise ships but emphasizes the monumental growth and development within the cruise industry. The leap from the renowned  Allure of the Seas  to the groundbreaking  Icon of the Seas  highlights the continuous pursuit of grandeur on the high seas. These vessels are not merely ships but colossal floating cities, offering a snapshot of humanity’s drive for exploration and comfort.

Passenger Capacity and Stateroom Varieties

Embarking on a cruise vacation offers a variety of choices when it comes to accommodations. From the practical interior cabins to the luxury of luxurious suites, there is something to meet every traveler’s desire for comfort and style. Understanding the cruise ship capacity average and stateroom options provides a glimpse into how each voyage is meticulously designed to cater to the anticipated number of guests. With modern cruise liners, the spatial innovation evident below the waterline is as impressive as the amenities above, ensuring the stability and safety of these floating resorts.

From Cozy Cabins to Opulent Suites: The Range of Accommodations

Whether you’re comparing the grandeur of Carnival’s fleet to the refined elegance of Holland America ships by size, the versatility in stateroom variety is a testament to the cruise industry’s commitment to passenger preference and satisfaction.

• Interior Cabins – Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, emphasizing affordability and comfort.
• Oceanview Cabins – Offering a glimpse of the ocean for those who desire a visual connection with the sea.
• Balcony Staterooms – Providing private outdoor space to bask in the beauty of the passing vistas.
• Suites – Additional amenities and space for a more luxurious cruising experience.

These choices ensure that guests can select their ideal cruise home base, balancing their expectations of size, sightlines, and luxury levels.

How Many People Can a Cruise Ship Hold?

Cruise ships are often admired for their size, and a significant aspect is their ability to accommodate thousands of guests. The average number of passengers on a cruise ship varies according to the vessel’s size and design. For instance, Wonder of the Seas sets the bar high with a staggering capacity of 6,988 passengers. At the same time, smaller luxury liners, such as those from Celebrity Cruises , can offer a more intimate experience for only a handful of guests.

Here lies the careful equilibrium between average cruise ship capacity and passenger experience, with each liner tailored to deliver a voyage that can either be bustling with activity or serene with exclusivity.

The ever-evolving cruise liner size comparison further showcases the diverse options available to travelers with cruise ships by size comparison charting vessels from ‘Cozy Yachts’ to ‘Floating Cities.’ Let’s take a closer look at how some of the industry leaders compare:

This diversity in capacity and onboard lodging allows guests to tailor their oceanic adventure , whether seeking the spirited life on one of the industry giants or the secluded elegance of a smaller vessel. The depth of this offering underscores that the average cruise ship capacity is more than just a number; it’s about matching the expansive force of the sea with an abundance of choice and luxury.

An impressive array of options unfolds as we compare Carnival ship sizes with those from Holland America and others. With the cruise industry’s continuous growth and evolution, passengers can look forward to an armada of ships, each designed with unique hallmark features to create unforgettable voyages on the high seas.

Cruise Ship or Aircraft Carrier: A Comparative Look at Size

When one measures the grandeur of cruise ships against the formidable might of an aircraft carrier, it becomes a fascinating study of function meeting luxury. The vastness of a mega cruise ship is not just about the journey; it’s about framing the ocean itself as a destination .

Considering the dimensions of these leviathans, the ocean liner size comparison with aircraft carriers paints a telling picture. Mega cruise ships, falling under ship size categories such as ‘Mega-Ship’ or even ‘Behemoth,’ often offer more voluminous and wider girths than their naval counterparts. These floating cities embody luxury and create landmark experiences housed within their vast hulls, rivaling the living spaces of the most advanced aircraft carriers.

To put these comparisons into perspective, a table delineating the size differences provides insight into how expansive cruise ships have become, affirming their status as the titans of maritime travel.

The marvels of engineering have enabled the cruise industry to construct vessels that are grand in scope and ambition. As we drift from port to port, these behemoths of the sea redefine our interpretation of travel . It’s no longer just a cruise ship or aircraft carrier size comparison—it’s about witnessing a renaissance in ocean travel, where each colossal liner is a statement of human achievement on the high seas.

Recreational Facilities: Just How Many Activities Can You Fit on a Ship?

The dimensions of these vessels allow for a staggering array of entertainment choices designed to maximize every inch of space aboard these colossal structures. Aboard the modern cruise ship, it becomes evident that the industry has ventured far beyond merely the concept of travel, creating a comprehensive environment of leisure and thrill.

@cruiseaddicts WHY JUST CRUISE? When you can also take a ride on Bolt – The Ultimate Sea Coaster aboard Carnival Cruise Line’s NEW Carnival Cruise Line. @carnival @mrscotteddy @carnivalcruiselineblog @eatsleepcruise @portholecruise @portmiami #CarnivalCelebration #carnivalcruise #BOLT #CarnivalCruiseLine #cruise #cruises #cruiseship #cruisevacation #travel #rollercoaster #thrillrides #instacruise #cruiseblogger #cruiselife #cruisevlogger #coasterenthusiasts ♬ Danger Zone (From “Top Gun” Original Soundtrack) – Kenny Loggins

• Surf simulators that capture the essence of ocean waves
• Roller Coaster rides and robotic thrill rides
• Ice skating rinks offer a frosty retreat atop the warm waters.
• High-rope courses that challenge and invigorate thrill-seekers
• Waterparks with record-breaking slides, leaving guests breathless with delight

For families and adventure enthusiasts, the sheer size of a cruise ship encompasses intricate designs that cater to the desires of every guest. Just imagine the floating metropolis of a cruise ship, providing a seamless blend of rest and play , all within the reach of a few steps.

The innovation we witness aboard a modern cruise ship is a testament to the incredible advancements in maritime engineering and hospitality design. It pushes the boundaries of what was once perceived as possible on a sea-bound vessel. These facilities remind us that our quest for enjoyment and relaxation knows no bounds, and even amid the ocean, our options remain limitless. Encompassing significant cruise ship dimensions, the essence of the cruise experience has evolved to be more than a journey — it is now a destination in its own right.

The Giants of the Seas: A Look at the World’s Largest Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean’s new Icon of the Seas and their Oasis-class ships are often the focus of attention. These massive vessels represent the pinnacle of cruise ship engineering and luxury. To truly grasp the scale of these behemoths, let’s compare cruise ship sizes and delve into the most significant cruise ship measurements.

The Oasis-class vessels include some of the most renowned names in maritime history. The Harmony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, and the record-breaking Wonder of the Seas have set new standards for the length of the biggest cruise ship. To illustrate, here’s a comparative view of their imposing dimensions and guest capacities.

These floating cities boast extraordinary sizes and offer an extensive cruise duration. Guests aboard these ships can embark on voyages lasting anywhere from a few days to several weeks, all while enjoying amenities that rival top resort destinations worldwide.

• Innovative “neighborhood” concepts
• Extensive dining options
• Aquatic parks, sports zones, and entertainment theaters

As the travel industry continues to stretch the limits of what is possible at sea, the size of mega cruise ships keeps reaching new heights. These vessels chart courses to some of the most enchanting destinations while providing unfathomable luxury and experiences that make the duration of the cruise feel like a journey in a parallel universe of indulgence.

Cruise Ship Safety: Navigating the Implications of Size

The focus on cruise ship safety has intensified as the cruise industry builds more extensive and more advanced vessels. The expansive  cruise liner length and width  are complemented by sophisticated engineering, which includes robust  cruise ship engine specs  designed for endurance and efficiency. With these grand dimensions come greater responsibilities to protect passengers and crew, and the maritime sector is rising to the challenge with remarkable safety solutions.

The sheer size of these maritime behemoths necessitates a complex array of safety mechanisms. In an emergency, the scale of operations ramps up, making it crucial to have a well-trained crew and state-of-the-art automation. Below, we delve into the various components that make up the safety strategy for modern liners:

• Advanced Navigation Systems: These systems utilize the latest in GPS and radar technology to maintain a safe and efficient course.
• Life-saving equipment: Lifeboats, rafts, and life vests can accommodate all passengers and crew.
• Fire Suppression Systems: High-tech solutions for preventing and managing onboard fires.
• Water-Tight Doors: Engineering designed to prevent flooding and maintain buoyancy.

International regulations such as the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention are crucial in standardizing these safety protocols. These guidelines ensure that no matter the  cruise liner’s length and width , the vessel is more than just a luxury experience—it’s a fortress at sea. The table below illustrates the correlation between vessel dimensions and the imperative safety features that accompany them.

The evolution of  cruise ship safety  protocols grows in parallel with the ships themselves, ensuring that sailing remains one of the safest modes of vacation travel . Despite the intricate  cruise ship engine specs  and vast spaces to oversee, these giants of the sea are constantly advancing their capabilities for secure and serene voyages across the oceans.

Final Thoughts

The panorama of cruise ships is evolving, markedly evidenced by the burgeoning vessel sizes designed to satiate the growing appetite for experiential and luxurious sea travel. The trend casts a spotlight on the future of maritime voyages, with predictions favoring a trajectory of enlargement—both in physical dimensions and in experiential offerings. The industry buoyantly navigates towards further amplifying cruise ship scale, aiming to deliver the drama and wonder comparable to the iconic and historical Titanic.

How Big is a Cruise Ship – FAQ

How big is the largest cruise ship in the world?

The largest cruise ship in the world is Icon of the Seas by Royal Caribbean, which is 1,198 feet long.

What is the average size of a cruise ship?

The average cruise ship is around 900 feet long, but sizes can vary greatly depending on the cruise line and specific ship.

How does the size of modern cruise ships compare to the Titanic?

Modern cruise ships like Symphony of the Seas are significantly larger than the Titanic, with some being over three times bigger in length and amenities.

What are some of the biggest cruise ships in the Caribbean?

Some of the biggest cruise ships in the Caribbean include Icon of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, and Allure of the Seas by Royal Caribbean.

What fuel is used in some of the newest luxury cruise ships?

Some of the newest luxury cruise ships now use Liquefied natural gas  ( LNG ).

What is the main dining room like on large cruise ships?

Large cruise ships typically have impressive main dining rooms offering a variety of culinary experiences and cuisines for guests to enjoy during their voyage.

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How Big Are Viking Cruise Ships

Published: December 10, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Lianna Sites

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Introduction

Viking cruise ships have gained immense popularity in recent years, providing travelers with the opportunity to explore some of the most breathtaking destinations around the world. From the stunning fjords of Norway to the ancient ruins of Greece, Viking cruises offer a unique and luxurious travel experience.

With their reputation for excellence in service, elegant interiors, and exceptional amenities, Viking cruise ships have become a favored choice for discerning travelers. But just how big are these impressive vessels? In this article, we will delve into the history of Viking cruise ships, explore their different sizes, and highlight the benefits of traveling on these remarkable ships.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or new to the world of ocean travel, Viking cruise ships offer an exceptional experience. With their sleek design, expansive decks, and first-class amenities, these ships provide a comfortable and luxurious way to explore the world’s most captivating destinations.

From the moment you step foot on a Viking cruise ship, you’ll be greeted with impeccable service and an atmosphere of understated elegance. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, enjoying a gourmet meal at one of the onboard restaurants, or partaking in one of the many enriching activities, you’ll find that Viking cruise ships offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

So, if you’re looking for a truly memorable travel experience, it’s time to set sail on a Viking cruise ship and discover the world in style. In the following sections, we will delve into the history of these remarkable vessels and explore their various sizes, amenities, and features. Get ready for an incredible journey!

The History of Viking Cruise Ships

The story of Viking cruise ships begins with the company’s founder, Torstein Hagen, who had a vision of revolutionizing the cruise industry. Hagen, a Norwegian entrepreneur, had extensive experience in the travel industry and a deep appreciation for his country’s rich maritime heritage.

In 1997, Hagen founded Viking River Cruises, focusing on offering river cruises that showcased the beauty and history of European waterways. The company quickly gained a reputation for its attention to detail, personalized service, and immersive cultural experiences.

Building on the success of their river cruises, Viking expanded their operations to include ocean cruises in 2015. Viking’s entry into the ocean cruise market was met with great enthusiasm, as travelers were eager to experience the same level of luxury and exploration on a larger scale.

Viking cruise ships are known for their Scandinavian design and emphasis on cultural enrichment. Each vessel is named after a Norse god or figure from mythology, reflecting the company’s deep connection to its Viking roots.

One of the defining features of Viking cruise ships is their smaller size. Unlike the sprawling mega-ships of other cruise lines, Viking’s ships are designed to provide an intimate and immersive experience for its passengers. This allows for easier access to smaller ports and a more personalized service throughout the voyage.

Since their launch, Viking cruise ships have received numerous accolades and awards, including being named the “Best River Cruise Line” and the “Best Ocean Cruise Line” by industry experts. This recognition is a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

Today, Viking operates a fleet of modern and elegant ships that traverse the seas and rivers of the world. From the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, from the Rhine to the Danube, Viking cruise ships offer a wide range of itineraries to suit every traveler’s taste.

As the cruise industry continues to evolve, Viking remains at the forefront, providing travelers with an exceptional experience that combines luxury, culture, and exploration. The history of Viking cruise ships is a testament to the company’s dedication to creating unforgettable journeys that connect passengers with the world’s most captivating destinations.

Overview of Viking Cruise Ship Sizes

Viking cruise ships are known for their smaller size compared to other cruise lines. This intentional choice allows for a more intimate and personalized experience, as well as the ability to navigate narrower waterways and visit ports that may be inaccessible to larger vessels.

Viking currently operates a fleet of ocean cruise ships that range in size from the smaller Viking Sky, Viking Sun, and Viking Sea, to the larger Viking Star and Viking Jupiter. Let’s take a closer look at the sizes of these remarkable ships:

• Viking Sky, Viking Sun, and Viking Sea: These sister ships, measuring approximately 745 feet in length, accommodate up to 930 passengers. Despite their smaller size, they offer an array of luxurious amenities and spacious staterooms.
• Viking Star: The Viking Star is the first ship in Viking’s ocean fleet and measures around 745 feet in length. It can accommodate up to 930 passengers in a range of staterooms and suites. This ship sets the standard for the Viking fleet, offering a variety of entertainment venues, dining options, and relaxation areas.
• Viking Jupiter: As the newest addition to the fleet, the Viking Jupiter shares the same size as the Viking Star. With elegant interiors and state-of-the-art facilities, this ship offers a truly immersive experience for its guests.

One notable characteristic of Viking cruise ships is their high crew-to-passenger ratio, ensuring that each guest receives personalized attention and exceptional service throughout their journey. This emphasis on quality over quantity contributes to the intimate and exclusive ambience that sets Viking apart.

Despite their smaller size, Viking cruise ships don’t compromise on luxury or amenities. Passengers can indulge in world-class dining experiences, relax in beautifully designed lounges and spas, and enjoy a wide range of onboard activities and entertainment options.

Overall, the size of Viking cruise ships contributes to a more intimate and immersive experience. With fewer passengers on board, travelers can enjoy a sense of exclusivity, exceptional service, and a greater opportunity to connect with fellow passengers and crew members. It’s this attention to detail and commitment to quality that sets Viking cruise ships apart in the world of ocean travel.

Benefits of Traveling on a Large Viking Cruise Ship

While Viking cruise ships are known for their smaller size, there are also several advantages to traveling on one of their larger vessels. These larger ships, such as the Viking Star, offer unique features and benefits that enhance the overall cruise experience. Let’s explore some of the benefits of traveling on a large Viking cruise ship:

• More Onboard Amenities: With a larger ship, there is more space to accommodate a wider range of onboard amenities. This includes multiple dining options, expanded spa and fitness facilities, additional entertainment venues, and spacious communal areas. Passengers can enjoy a variety of experiences and activities without feeling crowded.
• Increased Stability: Larger ships tend to have a more stable sailing experience, as they are less affected by the motion of the sea. This can be especially beneficial for those who are prone to seasickness or prefer a smoother journey.
• Greater Variety of Staterooms: The larger size of the ship allows for a wider selection of stateroom categories and configurations. From comfortable interior staterooms to expansive suites with private balconies, passengers have more options to choose from to suit their preferences and budget.
• Expanded Pool and Outdoor Areas: Larger Viking cruise ships often feature larger pool areas, complete with sun decks and loungers. This provides more space for passengers to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the panoramic views of the ocean.
• More Dining Choices: A larger ship typically offers a greater variety of dining options, including specialty restaurants, casual eateries, and al fresco dining venues. Passengers can savor a range of culinary delights and flavors from around the world.

Traveling on a large Viking cruise ship offers a different experience compared to their smaller counterparts. Passengers can benefit from the expanded range of amenities, the increased stability of the ship, and the opportunity to choose from a wider selection of staterooms. Whether you prefer a relaxing day by the pool, a gourmet meal at a specialty restaurant, or a thrilling show in the theater, a larger Viking ship offers a diverse array of options to cater to every traveler’s preferences.

It’s important to note that despite the larger size, Viking cruise ships still maintain their focus on creating an intimate and luxurious experience. The attention to detail, exceptional service, and cultural enrichment programs that Viking is renowned for remain at the forefront, ensuring that passengers receive the same level of personalized attention and immersive experiences that Viking is known for.

So, whether you choose to sail on a smaller or larger Viking ship, you can rest assured that you’ll be treated to a world-class cruise experience that combines comfort, elegance, and exploration.

A Closer Look at Viking’s Largest Cruise Ship: Viking Star

Viking Star is the flagship of Viking’s ocean fleet and the largest cruise ship in the Viking lineup. With its elegant design, luxurious features, and exceptional service, Viking Star offers passengers a truly remarkable journey. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this ship stand out:

Size and Accommodations: Viking Star measures approximately 745 feet in length and can accommodate up to 930 passengers. Despite its larger size, the ship maintains an intimate and exclusive atmosphere, ensuring that guests receive personalized attention throughout their voyage. The ship offers a variety of staterooms and suites, ranging from comfortable interior cabins to expansive suites with private balconies.

World-Class Dining: Onboard Viking Star, passengers can indulge in a diverse range of dining options. From gourmet cuisine inspired by regional flavors to specialty restaurants offering unique culinary experiences, there is something to satisfy every palate. The Main Restaurant provides a sophisticated dining experience, while The Chef’s Table offers a multi-course tasting menu paired with carefully selected wines. Other dining venues include the World Café, serving international fare, and the Pool Grill for casual dining by the pool.

Enriching Experiences: Viking Star offers passengers a wealth of cultural and enrichment activities, ensuring a truly immersive experience. The ship features a theater where guests can enjoy performances ranging from classical music to live theater productions. The LivNordic Spa provides a tranquil oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation, offering a variety of treatments inspired by Nordic wellness traditions. Passengers can also participate in informative lectures, cooking demonstrations, and hands-on workshops led by experts in various fields.

Onboard Amenities: Viking Star boasts an array of luxurious amenities designed to enhance the overall cruise experience. Passengers can bask in the sun on the pool deck, take a refreshing dip in the infinity pool, or unwind in one of the whirlpools. The ship also features a comprehensive fitness center, complete with state-of-the-art equipment and fitness classes. Additionally, passengers can browse the onboard shops, visit the library and quiet areas for relaxation, and enjoy panoramic views from the Explorer’s Lounge.

Destination-Focused Itineraries: Viking Star offers a variety of itineraries that focus on destination exploration, with carefully curated ports of call and immersive shore excursions. Whether it’s cruising through the majestic fjords of Norway, exploring the historic cities of the Mediterranean, or discovering the vibrant cultures of Asia, Viking Star takes passengers on unforgettable journeys to some of the world’s most captivating destinations.

Traveling on Viking Star allows passengers to experience the epitome of luxury and comfort while embarking on extraordinary adventures. Whether you’re looking to unwind and relax or immerse yourself in cultural experiences, Viking Star offers a perfect balance of indulgence and exploration. From its spacious accommodations to its world-class dining and enriching activities, this splendid ship exemplifies Viking’s commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences.

Exploring the Amenities and Features of Viking Cruise Ships

From luxurious accommodations to world-class dining, Viking cruise ships are renowned for their exceptional amenities and features. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, entertainment, or cultural enrichment, these ships offer a wide range of facilities to cater to every traveler’s needs. Let’s explore some of the standout amenities and features found on Viking cruise ships:

Spacious Staterooms and Suites: Viking cruise ships feature elegantly designed staterooms and suites that offer a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration. With modern amenities, plush bedding, and attentive service, passengers can unwind and recharge in their own private sanctuary. Many staterooms also come with verandas or French balconies, allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking views of the sea.

Multiple Dining Venues: Viking cruise ships offer a diverse array of dining options to suit every taste and preference. Guests can enjoy exquisite meals at the main dining room, which offers a variety of gourmet dishes inspired by regional flavors. Specialty dining venues, such as The Chef’s Table and Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant, provide guests with unique culinary experiences. For more casual dining, the World Café serves a buffet-style array of international dishes.

Enrichment Programs: One of the hallmarks of Viking cruise ships is their commitment to cultural enrichment. Passengers can participate in a wide range of immersive activities, such as engaging lectures by guest speakers, cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, and art classes. Viking also offers onboard demonstrations of regional crafts and traditions, allowing guests to learn and experience the local culture.

Relaxation and Wellness: To unwind and rejuvenate, Viking cruise ships provide a variety of wellness amenities. Relax in the tranquil Viking Spa, where you can enjoy therapeutic treatments inspired by ancient wellness traditions. Stay active in the fitness center, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, or participate in fitness classes such as yoga or Pilates. Additionally, most ships feature relaxing outdoor areas, including a pool, sun deck, and whirlpools.

Entertainment and Nightlife: Viking cruise ships offer a range of entertainment options to cater to different interests. Enjoy live performances in the theater, featuring talented musicians, singers, and dancers. The onboard bars and lounges provide a social atmosphere for guests to socialize, listen to live music, or sip on handcrafted cocktails. Guests can also partake in themed parties or dance the night away at the onboard nightclub.

Inclusive Value: When you embark on a Viking cruise, you’ll appreciate the value that comes with the fare. Viking’s approach includes many inclusions that others may charge extra for, such as Wi-Fi, shore excursions, and specialty dining. This ensures a seamless and enjoyable travel experience without unexpected expenses.

The amenities and features found on Viking cruise ships are carefully crafted to provide passengers with a relaxing, immersive, and enriching experience. From the spacious and beautifully-appointed accommodations to the diverse dining options and cultural programs, Viking cruises offer a level of excellence that surpasses expectations. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, exploration, or cultural immersion, you’ll find that Viking cruise ships exceed your every desire.

Comparing Viking Cruise Ships to Other Cruise Lines

When it comes to choosing a cruise line, travelers have a multitude of options available. Viking cruise ships offer a unique and distinctive experience that sets them apart from other cruise lines. Let’s compare Viking cruise ships to other popular cruise lines and see what makes them stand out:

Intimate and Immersive: One of the key differences between Viking cruise ships and larger, mainstream cruise lines is their smaller size. With fewer passengers on board, Viking ships provide a more intimate and less crowded experience. This allows for easier access to smaller ports and a deeper immersion into the destinations visited. Viking cruises focus on cultural enrichment, providing passengers with a wealth of opportunities to learn about the history, art, and traditions of the regions they explore.

Scandinavian Design and Elegance: Viking cruise ships are renowned for their Scandinavian design and understated elegance. The ships are beautifully crafted, featuring clean lines, muted colors, and a modern aesthetic. This design philosophy extends to the staterooms and public areas, creating a sophisticated and comfortable atmosphere throughout the ship.

Focus on Destination: Viking cruise ships have a strong emphasis on destination-focused itineraries. Unlike some larger cruise lines that prioritize shipboard activities and entertainment, Viking places a greater emphasis on the ports of call and cultural experiences. Passengers can expect longer stays in ports, allowing for more time to explore and enjoy each destination.

Inclusive Value: Viking’s all-inclusive approach stands in contrast to some other cruise lines that charge extra for various amenities and services. Wi-Fi, shore excursions in every port, and specialty dining are usually included in the fare on Viking cruises. This ensures a more seamless and hassle-free experience without unexpected expenses.

Adult-Oriented Experience: Viking cruises cater primarily to adults, with a minimum age requirement of 18 years. This creates a more mature and serene environment on board, appealing to travelers who are seeking a quieter and more refined experience. It also sets Viking apart from cruise lines that cater to families with children.

Exceptional Service: Viking is well-known for its exceptional and attentive service. The crew-to-passenger ratio is high, ensuring that guests receive personalized attention throughout their journey. The staff members are knowledgeable, friendly, and dedicated to providing a memorable and seamless experience for every passenger.

While other cruise lines may excel in certain areas, such as big-ship entertainment or family-friendly activities, Viking cruise ships offer a unique and refined experience for travelers seeking a more intimate and culturally enriching journey. With their focus on destination exploration, Scandinavian design, exceptional service, and all-inclusive value, Viking cruise ships provide a truly exceptional and memorable voyage.

Viking cruise ships offer a unique and exceptional travel experience, combining elegance, cultural enrichment, and personalized service. Whether you choose to embark on a smaller vessel or sail on the larger flagship Viking Star, you can expect a voyage filled with comfort, exploration, and unforgettable moments.

From the moment you step foot on a Viking cruise ship, you’ll be immersed in a world of Scandinavian design, elegance, and understated luxury. With their smaller size, these ships offer a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere, allowing you to connect with fellow passengers and experience a more personalized level of service from the attentive crew.

One of the standout features of Viking cruise ships is the emphasis on cultural enrichment and destination-focused itineraries. The onboard enrichment programs, enlightening lectures, and immersive shore excursions provide a deeper understanding of the regions visited, ensuring that you get to truly experience the destinations in an authentic and meaningful way.

The amenities and features onboard Viking cruise ships are designed to enhance your journey and create a sense of relaxation and indulgence. From the spacious staterooms and world-class dining options to the wellness facilities and engaging entertainment, every aspect of the ship is carefully crafted to provide an exceptional and memorable travel experience.

Comparing Viking cruise ships to other cruise lines, you’ll find that they offer a distinct and captivating voyage. With their all-inclusive value, Scandinavian design, focus on destinations, and exceptional service, Viking sets itself apart as a leader in the luxury cruise market.

So, whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or new to the world of ocean travel, consider setting sail on a Viking cruise ship and embark on a journey filled with elegance, enriching experiences, and breathtaking destinations.

Discover the world in style on a Viking cruise ship and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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The 3 types of Viking cruise ships, explained

Viking is unusual among major cruise lines in that it operates both ocean ships and river ships. Despite this, it has one of the easiest-to-understand fleets.

The vast majority of Viking's river ships — at last count, there were 80 — feature the same design. If you've seen one of them, you've seen them all.

Ditto for the line's ocean ships. Nine of Viking's 11 ocean ships are nearly identical. The two exceptions are the recently unveiled Viking ocean vessels specifically designed for expedition cruising — a type of cruising that involves traveling to remote, hard-to-reach places on hardy vessels that carry their own landing craft.

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As a result, the bulk of Viking's vessels falls into one of just three groups; all the ships in each group sport nearly identical designs.

An introduction to Viking cruise ships

Viking has expanded enormously in recent years with the addition of dozens of new river and ocean ships.

Founded in 1997 with four river vessels, the company operated just 29 ships as recently as 2012. Now, there are more than 90 ships in its fleet.

The vast majority of these ships are river ships — the company's sole focus for its first 18 years in business. The company dominates the market for river cruises aimed at North Americans, accounting for about 50% of all such trips.

Starting in 2015, Viking began rolling out ocean cruise ships, too.

In early 2023, as noted above, Viking had 80 river ships in its fleet — almost all of which have the same basic design. The exceptions are a few vessels that Viking operates on rivers in Egypt and Asia (more on these ships below). The line also recently began offering cruises on the Mississippi River and its tributaries using a new type of vessel.

Related: The ultimate guide to Viking ships and itineraries

Viking's ocean ships fall into two distinct groups: a series of 930-passenger traditional ocean ships that began debuting in 2015, and a series of 378-passenger expedition ships that began debuting in 2022.

Unlike most cruise lines, Viking doesn't use the term "classes" to define different sets of ships in its fleet. Instead, it refers to its series of traditional ocean ships as the "Viking ocean ships" and its series of expedition ships as the "Viking expedition ships." We've followed the same breakdown of the line's ocean and river fleet below.

Viking ocean ships

Ships: Viking Saturn (2023), Viking Neptune (2022), Viking Mars (2022), Viking Venus (2021), Viking Jupiter (2019), Viking Orion (2018), Zhao Shang Yi Dun (2017), Viking Sky (2017), Viking Sea (2016) and Viking Star (2015).

Size: 47,800 tons.

For years, Viking only operated river ships, and some cruisers still think of the brand primarily as a river cruise company. However, since 2015, Viking has been rapidly rolling out a series of upscale ocean vessels; these new additions are increasingly dominating the world of higher-end ocean cruising.

As of June 2023, Viking has nine ships sailing the world's oceans, each with a capacity for 930 passengers. That gives Viking 8,370 berths in the upscale ocean cruise market — more than competitors Oceania Cruises and Azamara combined.

The series is far from finished. Six more of the vessels are on order from Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for delivery between 2024 and 2028, and the company also has options with Fincantieri for four more of the ships to debut in 2029 and 2030. Assuming they are all built, Viking's ocean division will soon be bigger than Oceania, Azamara, Seabourn and Silversea Cruises combined.

The first thing to know about the ships in this series is that they all are pretty much identical. When sailing on any one of them, you will be hard-pressed to tell what is different.

They're also quite upscale. While Viking doesn't market itself as a luxury line, some still consider it so. The vessels are full of luxury touches, from sumptuous bedding in cabins to heated floors in cabin bathrooms.

Related: The complete guide to Viking cabins and suites

Each of the ships in this series has a stylish, Scandinavian-influenced design that is a Viking trademark, and the cabins are large by cruise ship standards. Even the smallest cabins on each of the vessels have 270 square feet of space — a generous amount. Many cabins are significantly bigger than that, with 14 two-room suites on each of the vessels ranging in size from 757 to 1,448 square feet. Many of these bigger suites offer sweeping views from wrap-around private balconies.

Each of the ships' interior spaces is built around an elegant, three-deck-high atrium filled with comfortable seating areas that have a living room-like feel. Each also has a bar and guest relations desk. At the top of the ships, you'll find two-deck-high, glass-walled lounges that offer stunning views over the bow. Other interior spaces include a fitness center and a stylish spa with a thermal suite area that is open to all passengers at no extra charge (something that is not common on cruise vessels).

Multiple restaurants on board each of the vessels include Italian eatery Manfredi's (named after former Silversea owner Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, a friend of Viking founder Torstein Hagen) and The Chef's Table. The latter features rotating themed menus.

The centerpiece of the top deck of each of the ships is the main pool area, which features a glass magrodome that can close during inclement weather. The main pool area on each of the ships sits next to a lovely, glass-topped lounge with comfortable seating called the Wintergarden, which is home to afternoon tea. A den of serenity, it's one of our favorite places on these vessels.

A secondary pool area with an infinity pool is at the back of each of the ships.

While all of the ships in this series are essentially identical, you will find small differences on a few of them. Most notably, two of the vessels in the series — Viking Orion and Viking Jupiter — have a small planetarium built into the top level of the two-level lounge at their fronts (known as the Explorers' Lounge). Some of the later ships in the series have slightly larger fitness centers and slightly smaller hair salons.

Note that in addition to the nine Viking ocean ships officially in the Viking fleet, a 10th ship from the same series, Zhao Shang Yi Dun, caters exclusively to the China market as part of a joint venture between Viking and a Chinese company. When it debuted in 2017, the ship originally catered to the North American market and was called Viking Sun.

Viking river ships

Ships: Viking Fjorgyn (2022), Viking Kari (2022), Viking Radgrid (2022), Viking Skaga (2022) and more than 60 other Longships built since 2012, as well as additional river vessels.

Size: 4,000 to 5,000 tons.

River ships originally put Viking on the map, and they're still at the core of the brand.

As noted above, the line has 80 river ships in its fleet. The vast majority of them have the same basic design and are known as Longships — a reference to the historic vessels used by Vikings in the Middle Ages.

Unveiled in 2012 and designed specifically to fit into the locks used across many of Europe's rivers, the Longships broke new ground in river ship design in multiple ways.

For starters, they have a configuration that includes some of the largest suites ever for river ships in Europe. They also have a significant number of cabins with balconies — which is made possible by an innovative cabin area layout that offsets main corridors. (In other words, the corridors don't run down the middle of the ship, creating a wider side with space for balconies and a narrower side with cabins turned sideways to also create room for verandas.)

Related: The ultimate guide to Viking's cruise loyalty program

Other innovations include a squared-off bow that allows for eight more cabins than similarly sized ships operated by competitors. Also, quieter engines allow for more cabins at the rear. An enormous amount of groundbreaking engineering went into redesigning the bow areas of the ships, in particular, to enable extra cabins while still leaving room for needed machinery.

As a result of such innovations, the Viking Longships can carry more passengers than similarly sized ships operated by competitors. This has allowed Viking to offer lower prices than other river cruise lines and still bring in a similar amount of revenue per ship — a fact that has contributed greatly to the company's rapid growth.

Like many river ships, each of the Viking Longships has one main restaurant where most passengers eat their meals as well as one main interior lounge with a bar. There's also a secondary, casual dining area at the front of each vessel with indoor and outdoor seating. (The outdoor portion, called the Aquavit Terrace, also serves as a forward-facing outdoor lounge during off hours.) Unlike many river ships, the vessels have no spas or fitness centers.

As is typical for river ships, the top of every Viking Longship is covered with an expansive lounge area. There's also a walking track and an herb garden — the latter used by the kitchen staff to grow herbs used during the preparation of onboard meals.

Most Viking Longships are 443 feet long — the perfect length to fit into the locks on many of Europe's rivers. Viking also built slightly smaller versions of the Longships, measuring 361 feet or 410 feet in length, specifically to sail on rivers where lock sizes or other navigational factors require smaller vessels. The 410-foot-long versions of the vessels, for instance, were specifically built to sail into the heart of Paris on the Seine River.

Related: Fast-growing Viking unveils four new ships for the Seine

While the Longships come in several different lengths, they are essentially identical in their offerings and decor. The only notable difference is that the smaller versions of the ships have fewer cabins and thus hold fewer people. The 443-foot-long versions of the ship are designed for 190 passengers, for example, whereas the 410-foot-long versions of the vessels hold 168 passengers (since they have 11 fewer cabins).

While most Viking river ships are Longships, there are a few exceptions in the Viking river fleet. Viking operates several smaller, purpose-built vessels on the Nile River in Egypt. It also has several older river vessels that predate the Longships and traditionally have operated on rivers in Russia and Ukraine. (For now, river cruise itineraries in both countries are on hold due to the war in Ukraine.)

Viking also recently began sailings on the Mississippi River with a new ship specifically designed for the river and its tributaries.

As of May 2023, Viking had another 14 river ships either under construction or on order via provisional contracts.

Related: First look at Viking's stylish new Nile River ship

Viking expedition ships

Ships: Viking Polaris (2022) and Viking Octantis (2022).

Size: 30,150 tons.

Designed to hold just 378 passengers, the Viking expedition ships are specifically designed to take travelers to the most off-the-beaten-path parts of the world, including Antarctica and the Arctic.

As of now, Viking operates just two ships in the series, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, both of which debuted in 2022 . No more are currently on order.

As is typical for expedition ships, these are tough vessels with reinforced bows that let them bump through ice in polar regions; the ships also have extra tanks for fuel and food.

Each of these vessels has its own landing craft on board to bring people ashore in remote locations, as well as kayaks and even submarines for exploring. (The latter is the hot new thing for expedition ships — upscale cruise brands Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Seabourn have been adding submarines to expedition ships , too.)

Like other expedition ships, both Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris are designed to operate with a large and seasoned "expedition team" that includes biologists, botanists, geologists, glaciologists and ornithologists who lecture regularly.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Viking ship

Each of the vessels has several new and unusual features, too. Most notable is The Hangar: an enclosed marina that allows passengers to transfer to a 12-seat excursion craft while still in the protected interior of the ship. It's a first for an expedition cruise ship.

In another first for a polar expedition cruise vessel, every cabin has floor-to-ceiling glass walls that slide partially open from the top to create a balcony-like feel.

Both Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris are designed to be upscale. Like all Viking's vessels, they boast elegant Scandinavian designs. The restaurants on both vessels include a version of Viking's signature Italian spot, Manfredi's and the Scandinavian-inspired Mamsen's outlet.

Another feature of both ships that will be familiar to regular Viking customers is a top-of-the-ship, glass-walled Explorers' Lounge offering stunning views of passing scenery.

In case you're curious, Viking Octantis is named after Sigma Octantis, the current "south star" that hovers over the South Pole (also known as Polaris Australis). Polaris is named after the current "north star" that hovers over the North Pole. The names are a nod to the polar regions where these expedition ships will likely spend much of their time.

Bottom line

Viking operates more cruise vessels than any other major cruise company catering to North Americans. This is in part because it's involved in both the ocean cruise and river cruise businesses. Despite its large size, its fleet of vessels is relatively easy to understand. The vast majority of both its ocean ships and river ships are almost identical in their designs.

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Viking Sea Ship Info

• Click here for ALL
• Penthouse Veranda
• Penthouse Junior Suite
• Explorer Suite
• Owners Suite
• Ship info and tracking
• Cabin Check

On this page you will find Viking Sea features, history, sister ships, and useful facts provided by Cruisedeckplans.com. Look at the bottom of the page for the LIVE TRACKING position of Viking Sea

Viking Ocean Cruise Line

General information.

The Viking Sea started sailing in 2016. Former names: none. The Viking Sea is registered in Switzerland. The Viking Sea has 464 cabins. You can expect between 928 to 928 passengers on a typical sailing. This means that at the higher number (usually peak and holiday sailings) Viking Sea has a space ratio of 51.5. (A space ratio less than 33 means that you may find the ship crowded in areas. A space ratio greater than 39 means that there should be plenty of space for each passenger.) When this ship isn't sailing at capacity the space ratio can be as good as 51.5. The Viking Sea has 465 crew members on board. There are 2 passengers for every crew member on board. There are self serve laudromats on this ship.

Sister Ships

The following ships share the same class as this ship. This means the basic design and layout of the ship is the same. For the most part the cabins will be identical among these ships, but may be decorated differently. 2014- Viking Star 2016- Viking Sea 2016- Viking Sky 2017- Viking Sun - No longer sailing 2018- Viking Orion 2019- Viking Jupiter 2021- Viking Venus 2022- Viking Mars 2022- Viking Neptune 2023- Viking Saturn 2025- Viking Vela 2025- Viking Vesta

Accessibility

There are 2 special needs cabins on this ship. These cabins have been modified for accessibility purposes.

9 Decks

There are 9 on this ship. The highest deck number is 9. The number of decks with passenger cabins is 6.

100% Balconies

This is the percent of the staterooms on board have balconies.

Other Information

This is the 2nd in a series of identical vessels, built in 2016. All Viking ships are for cruisers 18 or older, and offer many complimentary amenities including all shore excursions, wine and beer, access to the Nordic Spa, and the infinity pool. They all also offer energy-saving hybrid engines, and solar panels. Viking ships itineraries feature fewer sea days and longer port days, including overnight port stays. There are 465 staterooms total, all with balconies, king-sized beds, luxury bathrooms with heated floors and plenty of bath products, satellite phone, free wifi, smart HDTV, and 24-hour complimentary room service. Signature features on this ship include 2 swimming pools, a covered pool deck with a Jacuzzi, Bar & Grill; Viking Living Room, two Cinemas, Wintergarden poolside area, Aquavit Terrace (outdoor bar lounge with Infinity Pool and Hot Tub), Piano Bar Lounge (Torshavn), dedicated sports deck with a Walking Track and Outdoor Gym/Yoga area, Theatre Lounge & Bar, Lobby Bar, and various shops and brand boutiques. Another unique venue on this ship (and all Viking ships), is the Snow Grotto, which is a spa retreat with powdery snow falling from the ceiling, which is said to be very therapeudic. Also in the spa complex is a sauna and steam bath, hot tub, fitness center, beauty salon, and salt-water thermal pool. This area is complimentary to all guests. Dining options on board include a main Restaurant (dining room), buffets (Viking Deli, World Cafe), Aquavit Terrace (alfresco), specialty restaurants (Italian Grill, Chefs Table), and Private Dining.

Viking Sea Ship Stats

Viking sea features.

• 1 Whirlpools (hot tubs)
• No Rock Climbing Wall
• No Flow Rider
• No Ice Rink
• No Waterslide
• No Water Park
• No Ropes Course
• No Mini Golf
• No Sports Court
• Jogging Track
• No Cigar Lounge
• Show Lounge
• Fitness Center

• No Bridge Viewing Area
• Outdoor Movie Screen
• No Teen Lounge
• Passenger Promenade Deck
• Sea Viewing Lounge on upper deck
• No Adult Only Outside Lounge Area
• Ship will have complimentary Wi-Fi with restrictions at sea by accommodation type and free in-port.

Live Cruise Ship Tracking - Viking Sea

Smoking policy.

• Smoking is prohibited in all indoor areas, staterooms, and balconies
• Smoking is permitted in a designated outdoor smoking area

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• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures

Viking Octantis

First, we invented modern river cruising. Then, we redefined ocean cruising. Now, experience all the comfort and elegance of our award-winning fleet with an expedition ship built specifically to explore the world’s most remote destinations and allow you to immerse yourself in these regions.

• Only 378 guests
• Length: 665 feet
• Beam: 77 feet
• Class: Polar Class 6
• Year built: 2022

Interactive Deck Plan

Hover and click on the deck plan to explore the ship. 0), attr: { 'href': pdfurl }" class="ignore" target="_blank">see a pdf version of the deck plan..

Viking Expedition Ship 360° Tour

Discover our innovative, purpose-built expedition ships designed to explore the world’s most remote destinations in comfort and immerse you in these majestic, untamed regions.

Stateroom Features

Our purpose-built ships offer a wide variety of staterooms for your selection. From Nordic Balcony staterooms to the abundance of extra perks and amenities in our spacious Explorer Suites, there is no finer way to travel. And whichever stateroom you choose, you will find it beautifully designed in the understated elegance for which Viking is known.

Owner’s Suite (OS)

• Stateroom size: 1,238 sq ft (includes private lounge area)
• Panoramic ocean-view, multi-room suite with private Nordic Balcony
• Separate bedroom suite
• Spacious, well-appointed living room
• Separate dining area that seats 6
• Private library, wine & music collections curated by Chairman Torstein Hagen
• 722 sq ft private garden lounge area with badenstamp
• Boardroom that seats 12 for meetings & catered dinner parties, with oceangoing vapor light fireplace
• Pantry for room service & hosted events
• Priority Embarkation
• 11 AM priority stateroom access
• Expedition activity reservations 67 days prior to departure
• 4 priority reservations at each alternative restaurant 100 days prior to departure
• First priority spa treatment bookings 100 days prior to departure
• King-size Viking Explorer Bed with luxury linens & pillows
• Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
• 55" OLED flat-screen TV featuring MSNBC, FOX News, National Geographic and more
• Two additional 42" flat-screen interactive LCD TVs with intuitive remote & complimentary Movies on Demand in suite
• 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
• Large master bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, double-sink vanity, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer, plus guest bathroom
• Premium Freyja® toiletries
• Plush robes & slippers
• Direct-dial satellite phone & cell service
• Security safe
• Individual climate control
• Purified water refilled daily
• Welcome bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne
• Mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water & premium snacks (replenished once daily)
• Traditional Norwegian Marius-weave blanket
• Personal coffee machine with premium coffee & tea selections
• Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
• 24-hour room service, including service from any restaurant during open hours
• Daily personalized tea or pre-dinner cocktail & canapés on request
• Dinner & guided tour with ship officers (subject to availability)
• Complimentary laundry, pressing & shoe shine services
• Silver Spirits beverage package included
• Floor-to-ceiling drying closet
• Spacious walk-in closet with wooden hangers & drawers
• Under-bed suitcase storage space
• Keepsake Viking expedition jacket (on polar itineraries)
• All Viking excursion gear needed for any relevant excursions

Explorer Suite (ES)

• Stateroom size: 548 sq ft (includes Nordic balcony)
• Ocean-view two-room suite, 80% larger than junior suites, with private Nordic Balcony and private veranda
• Well-appointed living area & dining area that seats 4
• Additional storage and seating features
• Private access to Explorer Suites Garden
• 11 AM Embarkation
• 3 priority reservations at each alternative restaurant 90 days prior to departure
• Priority spa treatment bookings 90 days prior to departure
• King-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
• Additional 42" flat-screen interactive LCD TVs in living area
• Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, bathtub, double-sink vanity, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
• Welcome bottle of champagne
• Mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water & snacks (replenished once daily)
• Spacious drawers & closet with wooden hangers
• View the Explorer Suite (ES) in our 360° Tour

Nordic Junior Suite (NS)

• Stateroom size: 322 sq ft (includes Nordic balcony)
• Ocean-view stateroom with private Nordic Balcony: floor-to-ceiling distortion-free glass at your ship’s edge, for optimal cozy viewing. Or lower the top panoramic glass for a sheltered, al fresco lookout. Plus, additional storage and seating features.
• Wheelchair Accessible (#4024, #4025)
• Expedition activity reservations 57 days prior to departure
• 3 priority reservations at each alternative restaurant 80 days prior to departure
• Priority spa treatment bookings 80 days prior to departure
• Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, double-sink vanity, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
• 24-hour room service
• View the Nordic Junior Suite (NS) in our 360° Tour

Nordic Penthouse (NP)

• Stateroom size: 269 sq ft (includes Nordic balcony)
• Ocean-view stateroom with private Nordic Balcony: floor-to-ceiling distortion-free glass at your ship’s edge, for optimal cozy viewing. Or lower the top panoramic glass for a sheltered, al fresco lookout.
• 1 PM stateroom access
• 2 priority reservations at each alternative restaurant 70 days prior to departure
• Priority spa treatment bookings 70 days prior to departure
• Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
• Complimentary pressing & shoe shine services

Deluxe Nordic Balcony (DN)

• Stateroom size: 215 sq ft (includes Nordic balcony)
• 2 PM stateroom access
• Expedition activity reservations 47 days prior to departure
• 1 priority reservation at each alternative restaurant 60 days prior to departure
• Priority spa treatment bookings 60 days prior to departure
• Mini-bar with soft drinks, water & snacks (replenished once daily)

Nordic Balcony (N)

• 3 PM stateroom access
• Mini-bar with soft drinks, water & snacks

Itineraries This Ship Sails

Antarctic Explorer

• PRICE & BUILD

Antarctica & South Georgia Island

NEW! From the Arctic to Antarctica

Great Lakes Collection

Niagara & the Great Lakes

Undiscovered Great Lakes

Great Lakes Explorer

NEW! Great Lakes Treasures

NEW! Niagara & Great Lakes Treasures

NEW! Into the Northwest Passage

NEW! Canada & Greenland Explorer

NEW! Canada & the Northwest Passage

Canadian Discovery

Canada & the Atlantic Coastline

NEW! Canada & East Coast Explorer

The Americas & Antarctic Explorer

NEW! Antarctica, Chile & the Americas

NEW! The Americas, Chile & Antarctica

Panama & Scenic South America

NEW! Panama Canal & the Americas

Patagonian Shores & Chilean Fjords

NEW! Chilean Fjords & Scenic Shores

NEW! Argentina & the Chilean Fjords

NEW! Longitudinal World Cruise V

NEW! Longitudinal World Cruise VI

Longitudinal World Cruise II

Ship Highlights

Our new expedition ships feature innovative, light-filled spaces where comfort meets discovery. With more indoor and outdoor viewing areas than other expedition vessels, guests are as close as possible to the most magnificent scenery on earth.

Ship Videos

Our Expedition Vessels

To explore the world’s most remote regions, we have introduced two specifically built, cutting-edge expedition class small ships: Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris .

Expeditions Ship Design

To optimize guest safety and comfort, Chairman Torstein Hagen called upon the expertise and collaboration of Viking teams, including maritime architects, interior designers, and nautical and technical staff. After the traditional steel cutting, the ceremonial keel laying ushered in the next milestone of the ship construction process.

The Aula & Finse Terrace

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Rogue Wave Strikes Cruise Ship, Killing a Passenger and Injuring 4 Others

The passengers were hurt after a large, unpredictable wave hit the ship, which was traveling toward the Antarctic, Viking Cruises said.

By Amanda Holpuch

A passenger died and four others were injured after a large, unexpected wave hit a cruise ship traveling toward a popular launching point for expeditions to Antarctica, Viking Cruises said.

The ship, the Viking Polaris, was struck by a “rogue wave” on Tuesday at 10:40 p.m. local time while traveling toward Ushuaia, Argentina, which is on the southern tip of South America, Viking Cruises said in a statement .

Viking Cruises did not say how the passenger was killed or provide the passenger’s name. The four passengers who were injured were treated by onboard medical staff and had non-life-threatening injuries, Viking Cruises said.

A State Department official said that a U.S. citizen died and that the department was offering consular assistance to the person’s family.

Rogue waves are unpredictable, typically twice the size of surrounding waves and often come from a different direction than the surrounding wind and waves, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration . Scientists are still trying to figure out how and when these uncommon waves form.

Ann Mah, of Topeka, Kan., told the news station WIBW that she and her husband were on the ship when it was hit by the wave and that it was “just like your whole house got shook really hard.”

“I mean, it was just a thud,” Ms. Mah said.

The Viking Polaris was launched this year and was designed for travel to remote destinations such as the Antarctic Peninsula. The ship is 665 feet long and can carry 378 passengers and 256 crew members.

The ship sustained “limited damage” from the wave and arrived in Ushuaia the day after it was struck, Viking Cruises said.

The cruise company canceled the Viking Polaris’s next scheduled trip, a 13-day cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula.

“We are investigating the facts surrounding this incident and will offer our support to the relevant authorities,” the company said.

Tourism to the Antarctic has steadily increased in the last 30 years, with 74,401 people traveling there in the 2019-20 season, according to the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. Roughly 6,700 people traveled there in the 1992-93 season, according to the association.

In recent years, some observers have warned that the increase in tourism may not be sustainable and that it could threaten visitor safety or disrupt the fragile environment, which is already straining under the effects of climate change.

It is the beginning of the Antarctic tourism season, which coincides with its summer, beginning in late October or early November and usually lasting until March.

The death on the Viking Cruises ship this week comes after the death of two other cruise ship passengers in the Antarctic last month. Two Quark Expeditions cruise ship passengers died after one of the ship’s heavy duty inflatable Zodiac boats overturned near shore, Seatrade Cruise News reported .

Amanda Holpuch is a general assignment reporter. More about Amanda Holpuch

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• Stateroom size: 445 sq ft (includes private veranda)
• River-view suite with private wraparound balcony offering 270-degree views off a spacious, separate sitting room, and French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door) in sleeping quarters
• 12 PM Embarkation
• 12 PM priority stateroom access
• Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
• Additional flat-screen TV in sitting area
• 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
• Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
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• Plush robes & slippers
• Telephone, safe, refrigerator
• Individual climate control
• Bottled water replenished daily
• Welcome champagne; mini-bar with wine, beer & soft drinks (replenished daily); daily fruit plate
• Personal coffee machine with premium coffee & tea selections
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• Complimentary laundry & shoe shine services
• Silver Spirits beverage package included
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• Under-bed suitcase storage space
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• Stateroom size: 275 sq ft (includes private veranda)
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• Stateroom size: 205 sq ft (includes private veranda)
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French Balcony Stateroom (C, D)

• Stateroom size: 135 sq ft
• River-view stateroom with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door)

Standard Stateroom (E, F)

• Stateroom size: 150 sq ft
• River-view stateroom with half-height picture window

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How to choose the perfect stateroom on a viking ocean cruise.

Posted by David Porter on Friday, November 11, 2016 · 88 Comments  

Viking Ocean Cruises Stateroom Guide

How to choose the right stateroom on a viking ocean cruise.

Now that we’ve sailed with Viking Ocean Cruises on the Viking Star and have given you the first impressions from our sailing, we thought it might be helpful to circle back around and offer you some help on how to choose a stateroom that’s right for you.

One of the first things to know is that all of the Viking Ocean Cruises ships are identical, so our Viking Ocean Cruises Stateroom Guide will help you regardless of which of the Viking ocean ships you’re considering.

If you’re looking for our guide on choosing the right stateroom on a V iking River Cruise , then please click here.

The Viking Ocean Cruises ships hold a maximum of 930 passengers with 465 staterooms divided into the following categories:

• 42 Veranda (V) staterooms
• 272 Deluxe Veranda (DV) staterooms
• 104 Penthouse Veranda (PV) staterooms
• 32 Penthouse Junior Suites (PS)
• 14 Explorer Suites (ES)
• 1 Owner’s Cabin (OS)

As you can see, Viking Ocean Cruises has designed every stateroom to have a veranda with the smallest offering passengers a comfy 270 sq. ft. This size is quite a departure from competitor ships where many of the entry level staterooms can be as small as 150 sq. ft.

All right, let’s start  by exploring the specific differences between the various staterooms, and we’ll share our opinions at the end of this article.

Highlights of the Viking Ocean Cruises Staterooms

Note: click on all of the photographs below to see larger views.

Veranda Staterooms

There are 42 Veranda Staterooms (V) on each of the Viking Ocean Cruises ships. These staterooms are located on Deck 3 with the V1 staterooms towards the front and the V2 staterooms towards the rear.

Each room has the following features:

• 11:00 a.m. embarkation
• 3:00 p.m. stateroom access
• Priority shore excursion reservations: 60 days prior
• King-size Viking Explorer bed with luxury linens
• Large flat-screen LCD TV
• Luxury toiletries

• Security safe, hair dryer, 110/220 volt outlets
• Interactive TV & movies-on-demand
• 24-hour room service

Deluxe Veranda Stateroom s

When choosing a stateroom remember that there are 272 Deluxe Veranda Staterooms (DV) on each of the Viking Ocean Cruises ships with classifications going from DV1 – DV6.  Besides earlier access to your stateroom and shore excursion reservations, the biggest difference between these staterooms is the location on the ship.  You will also find a small difference in price between each of these categories.  Let me explain:

• DV1 – there are just a dozen or so of these staterooms and they are located in premium spots on the ship alongside the Explorer Suites.  These sell out quickly as there are so few of them.
• DV2 – there are quite a number of these stateroom located primarily mid-ship on decks 5 and 6.
• DV3 – again, just a handful located in desirable locations on the ship.
• DV4 – there are quite a number of these staterooms located primarily mid-ship on deck 4.
• DV5 – about 25 of these located on deck 4 fore and aft.
• DV6 – less than 20 of these located on deck 3 just behind the atrium.

The Deluxe Veranda Staterooms are physically identical to the Veranda Staterooms and offer the following improved features:

• 2:00 p.m. stateroom access
• Priority shore excursion reservations: 67 days prior
• 1 guaranteed priority reservation at each specialty restaurant (60 days prior to departure)
• Mini-bar with soft drinks, water & snacks, replenished once daily
• Luxury robes, slippers & toiletries
• Direct dial satellite phone & cell service

Penthouse Veranda Staterooms

There are 104 Penthouse Veranda Staterooms (PV) on each of the Viking Ocean Cruises ships.

These staterooms are the largest of the Veranda Staterooms, are located on decks 5 and 6 and come with the following more improved features:

• 1:00 p.m. stateroom access
• Priority shore excursion reservations: 77 days prior
• 2 guaranteed priority reservations at each specialty restaurant (70 days prior to departure)
• Mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water & snacks, replenished once daily
• In-suite binoculars, coffee maker & cashmere blanket

• Shoe shine & pressing
• Bottle of champagne

Penthouse Junior Suites

There are 32 Penthouse Junior Suites (PS) on each of the Viking Ocean Cruises ships.  These junior suites each feature a close-off between the bedroom and living area and come with the following features:

• 11:00 a.m. priority stateroom access
• Priority shore excursion reservations: 87 days prior
• 3 guaranteed priority reservations at each specialty restaurant (80 days prior to departure)

• Laundry, dry cleaning, shoe shine & pressing

Explorer Suites

There are 14 Explorer Suites (ES) on each of the Viking Ocean Cruises ships. Each of these suites is large, luxurious, has the very best locations on the ship with expansive verandas, and are certain to appeal to luxury travelers looking for the quiet ship experience that is found with Viking.

• Priority shore excursion reservations: 97 days prior
• 3 guaranteed priority reservations at each specialty restaurant (90 days prior to departure)

• * Stateroom configuration varies depending upon the location on each deck

Stateroom Comparison Chart

Note: click charts for much larger views.

After you choose a stateroom, the next decision is where on the ship you’d like your stateroom to be located.  So, to help with your choice, here’s a peek at the various decks on Viking Ocean Cruises ships.

Note: click on the images below for much larger views.

Putting it all together to choose the perfect stateroom

At the end of the day, I suppose it will be your wallet that will determine which of the staterooms will best suit your needs.  But once you choose a stateroom that best matches your finances, you will also notice that the staterooms also have a further division into various classes.  For example, the Deluxe Veranda (DV) has six different classifications (DV1 – DV6) depending on its location on the ship.  Therefore, a DV1 stateroom, as it has a better location on the ship, will carry a higher price tag than a DV6 stateroom.

In our opinion, Viking Ocean Cruises has built a ship that will nicely meet the needs of a great swath of the boomer travelers – you should be able to choose a stateroom that fits your needs perfectly.

Want Some Help?

It’s certainly no secret that you can call Viking Ocean Cruises direct to book your cruise.  However, if I can offer a shameless plug for our travel agency, here’s a few reasons you may want to consider having us come alongside and help you plan a fun Viking Ocean Cruise:

• The cost is exactly the same booking direct with Viking or booking directly with us.
• We sometimes have additional perks like shipboard credits to share with you through our various industry affiliations.
• If Viking finds that a particular cruise is selling tickets as well as they want, it is not uncommon for them to issue a special “flash sale” that will not appear on their website but we will have access to. We keep a close eye out for these sales and publish them in our Saturday morning newsletter.
• As we have personally sailed with Viking, and have been to many of the destinations they visit, we have a great deal of personal advice to send your way.
• And lastly, our first goal as a relationship driven organization is to earn your trust and bring value to the relationship.  We understand that you may need help with travel options in the future, and we’d love to have you as a client and help you with all of your travel needs. We are certainly not limited to just Viking! As a full-service travel agency, we can bring you help and advice on nearly any travel option you can dream up.

To book a fun Viking Ocean Cruise, or to get your Viking questions answered, call our travel agency at (480) 550-1235, or use our convenient online information request ( click here ) and we’ll reach out to you.

Link: Viking Ocean Cruises Website Note: all photos and charts courtesy of Viking Ocean Cruises.

Category: Blog , Travel News & Tips · Tags: Travel News , Viking Ocean Cruises

88 Comments on “ How to Choose the Perfect Stateroom on a Viking Ocean Cruise ”

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We are retired so have flexibility. We would like to cruise the Mediterranean right after first of year. Should we book now or will better offers come along?

Hi Kathleen, I don’t know if you checked the availability on Viking’s website: http://www.vikingcruises.com/oceans?agenturlid=roamingboomers but availability is VERY limited.

Therefore, the hope of a special offer to increase bookings is very unlikely. Our recommendation is to book now. You might also enjoy this article that we just wrote about the best way to make a Viking booking: https://www.theroamingboomers.com/best-way-to-book-an-ocean-or-river-cruise/

For our help, call (480) 550-1235. Thanks! 🙂

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Your comparison of state rooms is very helpful. However perhaps you should point out that the Excursion booking in advance according to state room category means that those in the lower categories at the end of the line can be seriously disadvantaged. We are booked into a Veranda Stateroo for our upcoming cruise to Japan and have discovered that all the prime iconic sites are fully booked – the reason for spending so much money on the cruise was to be able to visit them and now we find we cant. e.g for the two days we are docked at Hiroshima not one paying excursion is available to us. Many other excursions in the cruise are also fully boked. We feel this to be very unfair,and that we have been discriminated against by wealth. Surely Excursions should all be released at the same time and not with a possible 40 ,day difference. Perhaps it would be helpful if you could warn your clients about this.

Hi Catherine,

Thank you for stopping by and sharing kind words about our website. Here is a link to a helpful chart that describes who can book what and when by cabin category: https://www.theroamingboomers.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Ocean-Stateroom-Amenities-Chart.pdf

First of all, don’t forget that everyone gets a complimentary shore excursion in every port. So, everyone gets a complimentary tour that will give you the highlights in each port.

However, after that, the optional shore excursions are bookable by stateroom category with the Suites getting first dibs and the regular Veranda staterooms getting the last availability. And as there are only 42 Veranda staterooms on the Viking ships, there are a lot of folks ahead of you vying for the available optional excursions.

With this being the case, we recommend that: 1) consider booking at least a DV6 if this is a problem for you. 2) Mark the date that the shore excursions come available to you and call right away. Most people forget and tend to want to book these shore excursions at the last minute.

If it’s not too late, maybe the best course of action would be to upgrade to a DV6 and get access to those shore excursions at an earlier date.

Again, thanks for stopping by, and we hope you enjoy your Viking Ocean Cruise in Japan.

I’m looking at the Romantic Danube Viking Cruise. What does River-view stateroom with half-height picture window mean (stateroom E&F)? Do you have to stand in the room to see out the window?Stateroom size: 150 sq ft River-view stateroom with half-height picture window

Trying to find out is the Deluxe Verandah and above can accommodate a couple and a 20 yr old grandson.

Hi Melissa,

Hi,I am trying to figure out what is the best part of the ship to not get Sea Sick. We are booked for the Viking Homelands which has been my dream for many years. I do get a little sick with a lot of ship movement so I was wondering what is best for that since this is an Ocean Cruise. Thank you so very much.

Hi Christine,

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We have booked a DV2 room on the Viking Star on level 6. It appears that this room is directly under the main pool. Have we made a mistake? Is there going to be a lot of noise above us?

If you can, you might want to move forward under the Wintergarden. If not, however, it’s not like this boat is full of 30-year-old partiers. The ship is going to be pretty quiet after dinner.

We’re sure we want a Deluxe Veranda category but as you said within that category there are different locations. We were leaning toward a DV4 but can you mention any other advantages of location on the ship in terms of forward, aft, which deck, port or starboard. Also just to doublecheck within the categories DV1-DV6 you get the exact same amenities? Thanks so much, your article is helpful!

The amenities for DV1 through DV6 are identical. The only difference is the location on the ship. I generally don’t make a big deal out of which side of the ship you sail on as you will ultimately be sailing in the shipping lanes 20 or more miles out to sea. That far out, you really can’t see much. The DV2 and the DV4 staterooms are popular as they are more midship and will offer less movement should you get into high seas.

We are booked for a 28 day ocean cruise in room 6060 on Sun across from the elevators….will this be noisy?

I wouldn’t worry about it. With these ships being full of baby boomers and older, the ships are pretty quiet and most everyone is in bed after dinner. 🙂 Have fun!

We’re looking at a Norway cruise in May of 2021. Will we spend much time on the veranda (we like it outside, did an Alaskan cruise in June, and spent most of the at sea time on the veranda)? Is it worth the money to upgrade from Penthouse Suite to Explorer Suite? I saw a review that said the ES 3000 (bow on deck 3) was noisy from anchors and thrusters – is that the case? And is it a good idea to use Viking Air to make flight arrangements? Thanks!

Thanks for stopping by. I wonder, with all of the questions, if it might make more sense for us to chat on the phone. Please feel free to give me a call at 480-550-1235. Thanks. I think the suite question is more of a personal preference kind of thing. If you plan to spend a lot of time on your deck, those Explorer Suites are very nice. My personal favorite on these ships are the Penthouse Jr. Suites. However, I would not likely spend a whole lot of time on my deck, so the Penthouse Jr. is kind of like Goldilocks, “just right”. Again, happy to talk on the phone.

Thanks very much! I’m at work – I’ll call from home either tonight or over the weekend.

We are booking a Viking Homelands cruise next May. We prefer an aft Explorer Suite. Wondering about the two suites on Deck 6 below the infinity pool. Any recommendation?

Well, if you’re not already working with a travel advisor, I’d be remiss if I didn’t recommend that you book with our company. Here’s an article that might help you understand why: https://www.theroamingboomers.com/best-way-to-book-an-ocean-or-river-cruise

With regards to your concerns about being below the infinity pool, keep in mind that Viking’s ships are full of 70-year-olds. Not a party ship by any stretch of the imagination. Therefore, the only sounds that you are likely to hear are the occasional movements of a chair on the deck above your head. And the most pronounced of this would likely be in the early evening as people are getting ready for dinner and the staff is preparing the area for the evening. And, as most are sound asleep by 10:00, I don’t know that I’d be too worried about it. I hope this helps. 🙂

We’re booked on a 2021 Western Mediterranean Ocean cruise on Viking (unfortunately rescheduled from this year) and I’m currently researching a possible 2022 In Search of Northern Lights cruise. The ships, although different names, look identical in their layout. We’re booking a DV4 on our first cruise and we’ll be on Deck 8. I noticed that on the ship’s layout there are only a few DV4 rooms on Deck 7 and Deck 8 and the rest are suites. Wondering if you’ve seen this layout on the cruise(s) you’ve been on and can comment on how the location is? Also can you comment on using Hurtigruten Expedition instead for Northern Lights? Thanks!

Hi Deborah,

Just so you know, Viking’s ships are all identical when it comes to stateroom layouts. The DV4 staterooms are all on deck 4 with a few DV1s on decks 7 & 8. If you don’t mind being towards the front of the ship, we like the location of the DV1s on decks 7 & 8. If you like, please give us a call and we’d be happy to help you with the booking.

With regard to Hurtigruten, they are a completely different kind of experience as they are expedition ships. We like that, you just have to be careful NOT to get on one of their “mail ships” that stop in every port along the way. Hurtigruten’s new expedition ships are beautiful and we look forward to sailing with them ourselves one day.

What are the differences between Explorer Suite 1 and 2. We already know about the location but my question is which has more windows and light in it, explorer Suite 1 (forward) or Explorer Suite 2?

Hi Dr. Burrus, thanks for stopping by. The ES1 suites, on the front of the ship, are larger with larger verandas. I’m not certain about the glass space from one to the other, but I would guess that the ES1, being larger, might have more light in the room. Did that answer your question? If not, please feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] .

We have the option of booking cabin 8001, but will this be noisy with the Explorer lounge next door and foot traffic to that area? Cabins are very limited on the cruise we are booked on. Basically, is upgrading to this cabin worthwhile?

Stateroom 8001 is a fairly quiet area of the ship. Generally speaking, folks are going to enter the Explorers’ Lounge from deck 7. If you’re booking is a new booking w/ Viking, without vouchers, give me a call as we have perks to share. However, if you are booking with a voucher from a direct booking w/ Viking, we can’t help. 480-550-1235

What a great help your website is. The comparison chart helps so much. You have done so much of the comparison work, I feel like I need to send you a fee.

LOL. You don’t need to send us a fee, but we’d love to help you with your booking. 🙂

We would like to talk with you. I have researched 2022 Baltic cruises pretty thoroughly and keep coming back to Viking. We haven’t decided between Russia & Baltic Sea and Viking Homelands but we know the door is closing on both. If we could design our own cruise, it would end in Copenhagen because we want to visit the south of Sweden for a short time. But we could travel from Stockholm or Bergen. And, we want to use our reward miles to fly first class or at least business. That’s a brief description of what we are working with. Per the Cruise Critic article today, I would love to think Viking would add more Baltic cruises next summer. We would like to know how you could help us and the cost for your service.

We are booked on the Viking Jupiter suite 408, DV4. It is just above the atrium, above the life boats and by the stairs. They chose this for us. we are light sleepers, Will any of these things cause problems? Thank you

Hi Sue, Viking’s staterooms all have 4 digits. Can you give me a better number?

Jupiter ship to Iceland in August. What about cabins on back of ship? Also is one side preferable to another? Traveling around country clockwise. Should we be on starboard side?

Thanks for stopping by. From a wave movement perspective, midship is desired. However, if not available, then the ship’s rear would be more desirable over the very front.

If you’re talking about Viking’s Iceland’s Natural Beauty, this itinerary sails clockwise around the island, so the starboard (right) side of the ship would be preferable.

If you would like our help to place the booking, just complete this form: https://info.theroamingboomers.com/personal-information-request

We are on the Viking Jupiter DV4 room 4080. Is this the same room you had and if so how was the room

When we last sailed with Viking, we were in a Penthouse Veranda #6001. We loved it. Have fun on your cruise. 🙂

hello, we are on the viking star world cruise jan 2022 and are booked in pv2. a room in ps3 just opened up, but is a handicap room. Would this be a better room? what is the advantage, disadvantage of a handicap room. thx

The handicapped rooms are designed for those who use a wheelchair. For example, a shower that can accommodate a wheelchair rolling in. It would NOT be a desirable room for those who are not handicapped.

We are scheduled to cruise on the Viking sky in room 5001 explorer es1. A balcony is very important to us. I am hearing that the es1 balcony is very closed in? Should I try to get a different room?

We prefer the suites on the back of the ship. While the deck is more narrow, it provides a fair amount of shade. Also, there is less wave movement in the back of the ship versus the front.

We are in a room DV2 on Viking Sky and across from the Lift. Are we able to hear the Lift each time it is used in evening?

We generally like to keep our clients away from the lift and the stairs. However, these are pretty quiet ships and don’t have kids running up and down the stairs. So, if you can move, do. But if not, I wouldn’t lose sleep over it. I doubt you’ll hear a thing.

We are going on the Greek Odyssey Cruise at the end of this month. We are in DV6 3065 which appears to be somewhat midship. Any thoughts on this room? Also, we are probably going to book another cruise while on the ship. Can we use your agency as a referral?

You should enjoy that room. It’s relatively midship and not too far from the elevators. And when you’re ready for your next cruise, we’d be honored to help.

Which are larger in square footage on the Viking Jupiter: the ES1 suites aft on Deck 4 or 5? Thanks!

The ES1 suites are in the front of the ship. ES2 Deck 4 = 883 sq. ft ES2 Deck 5 = 980 sq. ft ES2 Deck 6 = 850 sq. ft.

We sailed with Viking in the ES2 on deck 6. You should know that if you get into some rough seas, it is possible that you could get some spillage from the infinity pool above your head on your day bed on decks 4 & 5. Just a little insider’s tip. 🙂

Yes, I misspoke about aft. I’m still interested in which of the ES1 suites are larger, Deck 4 or Deck 5. Thanks.

ES1 Deck 4 = 1259 sq. ft ES1 Deck 5 = 1130 sq. ft.

If we can help with a new booking, just give us a call. 🙂

Is PV1 suite 6008 back or front of ship? Also, is one level better than another … especially views and motion? Thank you! Marg

6008 is in the front of the ship. We prefer the PV1s towards the back for less wave movement. If you need help with booking, please feel free to give us a call: https://www.theroamingboomers.com/best-way-to-book-an-ocean-or-river-cruise/

Are the DV6 cabins located above the night club Torshaven noisy?

It depends on what is going on in there. I’d spend just a few more $ and get into a DV4.

We just returned from a Viking Ocean to Iceland and wished someone would’ve warned us about being in the back of the ship on deck 6(6096), as we heard constant noise from the crew above us dragging chairs/tables about from as early as 5a till well past midnight. It was unbelievable and totally ridiculous that there wasn’t some type of soundproofing put in during the building of this brand new ship(Mars). Hope folks will think about this when booking…I know we will if we ever go again.

We are interested in sailing on the Viking Sea for the Empires of the Mediterranean cruise from Athens to Venice. Do you happen to know the square footages on each deck for the Explorer Suite – ES2.

ES2 Deck 4 = 883 sq. ft ES2 Deck 5 = 980 sq. ft ES2 Deck 6 = 850 sq. ft.

Explorer Suites: ES3 – would you recommend/compare 3001 and 3095. Thank you

I would choose 3095. The view from the veranda is better as you’re looking right out over the ocean. 3001 has quite a bit of ship between you and the ocean. Also, it seems to me that the ride is better in the ship’s rear than the very front as the propellers seem to have a grounding effect. Although, I have no scientific proof of that. Give us a call, and we’d be happy to help you with the booking. And, we have perks.

Thanks for all your information. Very informative. We’re booking a 29 day cruise and will get a PS1 cabin. Do you see any advantage/disadvantage to 8016 and 8002? These are the two currently available. Thanks

I would choose 8016. It’s a little more midship and perhaps a better ride if you get into some waves. Please feel free to call our office for booking information. We’ve got VIP perks for you.

We have never cruised with Viking Ocean and are considering a Mediterranean cruise for 2023. Would Black Friday or Cyber Monday give any better pricing?

Thanks for stopping by. With Viking, the biggest challenge is availability for their Med cruises in 2023. Therefore, I’d recommend booking as soon as possible. Further, with great demand come higher prices, not lower. So while I don’t know what Viking may or may not do come Cyber Monday, I wouldn’t wait. Feel free to give me a call to discuss this further.

Hello, I found your website and it is great, information totally useful for anybody. We booked for first time a Viking Cruise (Neptune) for next 15 August 2024 from Bergen to London. We are worried because it is not a cheaper one, it is expensive but ship looks great. We book cabin 5056 (DV2), do you think is a good idea? good choice? We tried to upgrade to DV! but is full. Hope we are doing well. Thanks in advance and Regards Federico from Spain

Thanks for the article, we are booked on the Viking Neptune January 9,2024 World Journeys (121 days) in a Penthouse Veranda stateroom which is 338 sq.ft..

I am not sure the size is big enough for the long cruise and would like length ft X width ft of the stateroom to determine better if this is large enough for us. Is this available ?

I have considered a Penthouse Junior suite but non available. Does Viking have some sort of wait list?

Appreciate your feedback

I checked with our Viking representative, and he could not put his hands on a chart showing room measurements other than square feet. Also, Viking does not have a waiting list, so you’re best to keep an eye on their website for fallout. It’s not uncommon for there to be cancelations prior to people making the large final payment.

Hi – my husband and I are interested in the South American tour on the Viking Jupiter – looking at the Penthouse Junior Suite… My husband needs grab bars for getting off the toilet and for using the shower. He is not wheelchair-bound (although he does need it for shore excursions). We carry stick-on bars for the bathroom, but need a tile or glass wall for that to work – do you know if the shower wall next to the toilet is near enough for this to be feasible in the PJS? Which are the desirable suite numbers for this?

I’ll look into this for you and get back to you offline. Thanks for reaching out.

is there noise from the laundrettes on each floor?

Not much. Perhaps a little from people congregating and talking. But I wouldn’t be too concerned. When booking staterooms, we tend to avoid that area, but it shouldn’t be a serious worry if everything else is sold out away from the laundrette.

I’m interested in DV1 category starboard aft staterooms. Which is the best floor to be on, 4 or 5? I see floor 5 is under the infinity pool, stateroom 5211 specifically. Is stateroom directly below, 4123 better for unobstructed view?

I’m interested in the Mediterranean odyssey cruise 5/8-5/20/2024 delux veranda room on 6th level.. Is that a good location?

Please give us a call to discuss 480-550-1235

Please call to discuss 480-550-1235

Hello. I see in the earlier post here that the Viking ES2 aft explorer suites on the ocean. Cruises are stated to vary slight in size from the 5th deck to the 4th deck with the es2 aft being about 100 sqft larger on the 5th deck. Viking has told me twice now that ‘all es2 the aft are the same size’. Is this true? Can any compare being on the fifth deck for an es2 vs being on the fourth deck. Does the overhang from deck seven cause less sun on the fifth deck? I know the rooms are both great back there but curious about size and also overhang from above. Thanks!!

I sent you an email. Hard to answer this question here.

We cruised on Viking Sky in a PV2 suite. This time we are looking at Viking Star cabins 5025, 4039, 4041 or 5004 There is a substantial difference in price My concern is the lack of storage space i.e., drawers, and size of room. This is New York to Bergen. Could you provide information on these level of cabins

I just got this information from our Viking rep:

Cabins 4039 4041 are dv4 ( deluxe verandas ) 270 sq feet vs PV 338 sq feet The bathroom is the same size I imagine dressers and storage area would be same if not very similar to size Pv has 12 more sq feet on balcony and 56 sq feet more inside Dv 213 interior 57 veranda 35 bathroom Pv 269 interior 69 veranda 35 bathroom These are the cabin sizes in sq feet

The other big advantage to the PV staterooms is that you can book shore excursions before all of the DV staterooms. Plus, you get early specialty dining reservations, some stocked alcohol in your fridge, and earlier check-in aboard ship.

If you book with us today, we have $400 in shipboard credits to add to your booking.

Hi, thanks for your article and comments. Super helpful.

We are given the option of 3097 or 4097. Which is better to avoid seasickness?

Hi Mary Kay,

3097 is a DV1, where 4097 is a DV4. So there are price differences between the two. The DV4s and DV2s are generally the most midship, and generally, the staterooms folks gravitate to if they are worried about seasickness. However, 3097 is in the back of the ship and will give you beautiful 180º views. So, I would pick the DV1 if you don’t mind the additional expense.

Secondly, as it doesn’t cost you any more money to book with an expert travel advisor, I recommend finding one. And in particular, one that has been on these ships multiple times to guide you better. And, of course, we’d be happy to help. Just give us a call.

Also, if you are worried about seasickness, try the new Relief Bands now available. My wife used them with great success on our last cruise: https://www.reliefband.com/

Call us, and we would be happy to help you with this booking or take over the booking if made within the last 60 days.

David Porter 480-550-1235

I have never been on a cruise ship and was looking at Viking Sea to go up the Pacific Coastline, was interested in a PV1 cabin, one available 6015 or much further back, which would be better for comfort? Thank you

Thanks for reaching out. For less possible wave motion on the ship, we prefer the PV1s toward the aft of the ship. If you need help booking and would enjoy our additional perks, please call me at 480-550-1235. Thanks.

Hi David. we have done River Cruises (through your office of course) and are now looking at an ocean cruise. Italian Sojourn. I think we have decided on a Deluxe Veranda room but not sure about which category. Thinking of one of the less expensive ones. Considering where we are sailing, etc. what is your recommendation? Any specials going on? Thanks for the continued help!

Question- On the western Mediterranean viking cruise leaving from Rome, Is it best to be in an odd # stateroom on the right side of the ship? That way at port and at sea, you are facing the scenic landscape?

We don’t recommend that our clients worry too much about what side of the ship they are on. However, yes, if you can book the cruise facing the land, then that’s what we generally will look for first. However, keep in mind, that in many locations, you will be sailing in the shipping lanes that are 20-30 miles out to sea and there is very little land to see from that distance. So, yes, but the side facing the land, but don’t get hopes too high that you will always see land.

currently booked on viking mars sailing august 17 have pv2 cabin 5028 booked looking at pv1 cabin 5090.looking at changing to cabin5090 is $100 more . also looked at the penthouse junior suite. seem to pricey. are they worth it ?

Hi Tuxedo Pat,

When we book Viking’s Penthouse Veranda (PV) staterooms, we default for the PV1 staterooms towards the aft of the ship vs. the bow. There is more wave movement in the bow of the ship. I prefer the Penthouse Junior Suite over the Penthouse Veranda as we enjoy the larger bathroom, and one can close off the living area from the bedroom. I am an early riser.

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Viking cruise cabins and suites: A guide to everything you want to know

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Is a balcony something you can’t live without when staying in a cabin on a cruise ship? If so, Viking could be your line.

Viking is one of the only cruise brands in the world that offers a balcony with every cabin on every ocean ship it operates — even the least expensive, smallest cabins. That’s something that even the most upscale of Viking’s ocean cruise rivals — including Oceania Cruises , Azamara , Seabourn , Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises — can’t say.

Viking’s ocean ships also offer a large number of suites, many of which are quite spacious. If you’re looking for a room that is big and open on an ocean cruise (and are willing to pay extra for it), Viking has plenty of options.

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

Viking also offers many balcony cabins and suites on its river ships — something that isn’t always the case in the river cruise business, where space on vessels is at a premium. However, unlike its ocean ships, Viking’s river ships aren’t all-balcony-cabin vessels. Some can have as many as 25 cabins per ship that are below the waterline and have windows high in the walls.

Still, even on Viking’s river ships, most cabins are balcony cabins.

A Viking cabin primer

Cruising regulars know that most cruise ships offer cabins in four broad categories: windowless “inside” cabins, ocean-view cabins, balcony cabins and suites.

As noted above, though, you’ll only find the latter two types of cabins on Viking ocean ships. Viking currently operates nine traditional ocean ships aimed at the English-speaking market and two oceangoing expedition ships. Every single passenger room on all 11 of the vessels is either a balcony cabin or a suite with a balcony. As previously mentioned, that’s highly unusual in the cruise business.

Viking is also known for a relatively simple-to-understand array of subcategories of rooms within its balcony-cabin and suite categories. Unlike some cruise brands such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, which offer as many as 36 different sub-types of cabins, Viking’s ocean ships offer just six.

The bottom line is that you’ll be much less flummoxed when trying to choose the perfect cabin for you on a Viking ocean ship than when trying to choose a cabin on most other vessels.

Related: The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

When it comes to size, even the smallest cabins on Viking’s ocean ships are large by cruise ship standards at 270 square feet, and the largest suites measure nearly 1,500 square feet.

Design-wise, Viking cabins and suites across all categories are modern and elegant in an understated sort of way, with Scandinavian-influenced furnishings and decor that tie to the Norwegian heritage of the company’s founder.

You’ll find beds topped with crisp, white duvets and Scandinavian throws, comfortable contemporary sofas and chairs in neutral tones, and light wood desks and side tables that combine to offer a residential feel in bedroom areas. Soothing, minimalist colors — think creams, grays and lighter blues — are the order of the day.

Bathrooms in Viking cabins are serene, modernist escapes with luxurious travertine marble-lined walls; Scandinavian-influenced, wood-veneered vanities; shiny white sinks; and chrome fixtures.

Viking is an upscale line — some might even call it a luxury line, though Viking doesn’t market itself that way — and Viking cabins and suites have a lot of thoughtful and elegant touches, from sumptuous bedding that envelops you to heated floors in bathrooms. The rooms aren’t overly flashy, though.

Instead, they are eminently functional, with storage in all the right places, lots of outlets for charging your devices and lighting right where you need it. We love the reading lights built into the fabric headboards of beds, which come in addition to the lamps on bedside tables. You won’t have trouble seeing the pages of the Viking Daily activity newsletter while lying in a Viking cabin bed.

Related: The best destinations you can visit on a Viking cruise

Other little touches in Viking cabins that show the line’s attention to functionality include the large and clear lettering on the Freyja toiletries that you’ll find in every Viking cabin bathroom. The toiletries were specifically designed with bigger and clearer lettering than is common for toiletries so that the line’s older customers (Viking’s core market is in the 55- to the 75-year-old range) would have no trouble differentiating the body wash from the shampoo.

In a similar nod to functionality and ease of use, Viking had the remote controls for cabin televisions specially designed so they would only have a few buttons.

Balcony cabins on Viking cruise ships

Viking keeps it simple with the array of balcony cabins on its ocean ships. The line’s nine traditional ocean vessels aimed at the English-speaking market each have 418 balcony cabins that can be broken down into three categories:

• 42 Veranda Staterooms (10% of the total).
• 272 Deluxe Veranda Staterooms (65% of the total).
• 104 Penthouse Veranda Staterooms (25% of the total).

The first two categories, Veranda Staterooms and Deluxe Veranda Staterooms, are the same size at 270 square feet (a figure that includes balcony space). They basically look the same. However, the Deluxe Veranda Staterooms, which cost more, have better locations on the ships and come with more amenities and services. These extra amenities and services include:

• Earlier access to shore excursion reservations (67 days in advance of sailing versus 60 days).
• Priority access to spa treatment bookings (60 days in advance).
• One guaranteed priority reservation at every alternative restaurant on board, which can be made 60 days in advance of sailing.
• Binoculars in the room.
• Coffee machines with premium coffee and tea selections in the room.
• A traditional, super-soft Norwegian Marius-weave blanket for use in the room.

Passengers staying in Deluxe Veranda Staterooms can also access their rooms one hour earlier on embarkation day than those staying in Veranda Staterooms.

Both of the first two categories of balcony cabins come with minibars stocked with complimentary soft drinks, water and snacks. In the case of Deluxe Veranda Staterooms, staff replenishes these minibars once per day.

Penthouse Veranda Staterooms offer more space than the latter two categories, at 338 square feet, plus additional amenities and services, including:

• Priority shore excursion reservations that can be made 77 days in advance of sailing.
• Two guaranteed priority reservations at each alternative restaurant on board, which can be made 70 days in advance.
• Priority spa treatment bookings that can be made 70 days in advance.
• Minibars that include complimentary alcoholic beverages as well as soft drinks, water and snacks (replenished once daily).
• Complimentary clothes pressing and shoeshine services.
• A welcome bottle of Champagne.
• Earlier access to cabins on embarkation day.

Viking’s two expedition ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, also have three categories of balcony cabins with a similar array of amenities and services. Named Nordic Balcony, Deluxe Nordic Balcony and Nordic Penthouse, the cabins of these three categories are slightly smaller than the cabins of the three balcony cabin categories on the traditional Viking ocean ships at 215, 215 and 269 square feet, respectively. They also have a different type of balcony that makes them feel more spacious than their square footage suggests.

Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris have what some in the cruise industry call an “infinite veranda” — a balcony-like space created by a window wall that opens from the top down. Viking calls them Nordic balconies.

Related: How to get a free or cheap cruise ship cabin upgrade

The majority of Viking river ships, known as Viking Longships, have 61 balcony cabins broken down into two categories: 205-square-foot Veranda Staterooms and 135-square-foot French Balcony Staterooms.

The latter has doors that open onto simple balustrades and not full balconies that you can step onto. This feature is known as a French balcony or Juliet balcony (a nod to the balcony of this type made famous in Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”). Technically, these French balconies are balconies, even if they’re not quite as satisfying as a balcony with space to lounge.

Including the French balcony cabins, nearly 75% of the cabins on Viking’s Longships have balconies.

Viking also offers smaller versions of its Longships that have fewer balcony cabins, as well as a few different types of river ships with varying numbers of balcony cabins.

Suites on Viking cruise ships

The suite choices on Viking ships also are relatively easy to understand. On Viking’s traditional ocean ships, there are 47 suites broken down into three categories:

• 32 Penthouse Junior Suites.
• 14 Explorer Suites.
• One Owner’s Suite.

The Penthouse Junior Suites measure 405 square feet, including their balcony space, and come with such extra amenities and services as:

• Priority shore excursion reservations that can be made 87 days in advance of sailing.
• Three guaranteed priority reservations at each alternative restaurant, which can be booked 80 days in advance.
• Priority spa treatment bookings that can be made 80 days in advance.
• Minibars with complimentary alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water and snacks.
• Complimentary laundry, dry cleaning, pressing and shoeshine services.

In addition to a bed area, Penthouse Junior Suites have a large sitting area with a sofa, coffee table and chairs, and a separate television. The bathrooms are large, too.

Life starts really getting good in the 14 Explorer Suites on Viking’s traditional ocean ships. They range in size from 757 to 1,163 square feet, including balcony space, and bring even more enhanced amenities and services.

Related: The ultimate guide to Viking ships and itineraries

Each of the Explorer Suites is a two-room complex with a well-appointed living and dining area complete with a table that seats four people. Very large master bathrooms feature a double-sink vanity, a spacious glass-enclosed shower and a bathtub (something you won’t find in any of the lesser cabin categories on the vessels).

The Owner’s Suites, of which there is just one on each traditional Viking ocean vessel, are truly sprawling and impressive complexes that measure 1,448 square feet. They are true owner’s suites in that they are used by Viking founder and chairman Torstein Hagen when he sails on the ships, and they feature some of his personal mementos, including family pictures.

Related: 7 reasons you should splurge on a suite for your next cruise

Each of the Owner’s Suites has a separate bedroom, living room, dining area that seats six people and master bathroom that includes a sauna with a glass wall facing the ocean.

In addition, each of the complexes has a boardroom with a long table that seats 12 people for meetings and catered dinner parties. There’s an adjacent pantry that can be used by staff serving room service or catering hosted events. Among other personal touches related to Hagen, the company founder, are book, wine and music collections that he curated for the rooms.

Viking’s two oceangoing expedition ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, also have three categories of suites:

• Nordic Junior Suites (322 square feet).
• Explorer Suites (548 square feet).
• Owner’s Suites (1,238 square feet).

The typical Viking river ship has nine suites broken down into two categories — 275-square-foot Veranda Suites and 445-square-foot Explorers Suites.

Bottom line

Viking operates ships with a very easy-to-understand array of cabins, unlike some of its competitors.

Every passenger room on its ocean ships is a balcony cabin or a suite, something that is unusual in the cruise world, and these cabins break down into just a few subcategories. This makes the process of booking a room on a Viking vessel relatively simple compared to booking a room on many other ships.

Design-wise, Viking’s cabins are relatively upscale, with soothing, Scandinavian-influenced decor and lots of luxury touches like heated floors in bathrooms.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for a cruise

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Viking Octantis

Cruise line Viking Expeditions (Viking Cruises)

• Buenos Aires (Argentina)
• Toronto (Ontario Canada, Niagara Falls)
• Milwaukee WI (Wisconsin, Lake Michigan)
• Nuuk (Greenland)
• Duluth MN (Minnesota USA, Lake Superior)

Viking Octantis current position

Viking Octantis current location is at Great Lakes (coordinates 45.38536 N / -83.16484 W) cruising en route to MACKINAC IS. The AIS position was reported 5 hours ago.

Current itinerary of Viking Octantis

Viking Octantis current cruise is 6 days, one-way from Toronto to Milwaukee WI . Prices start from USD 8995 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 25 Apr, 2024 and ends on 01 May, 2024 .

Specifications of Viking Octantis

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Viking Octantis Itineraries

Viking octantis review, review of viking octantis.

The 2021-built Viking Octantis cruise ship is a newbuild vessel part of Viking Expeditions fleet (division of Viking Ocean Cruises ). Octantis and the sistership Viking Polaris were scheduled for inauguration in 2021-Q2 (Octantis) and 2022-Q2 (Polaris). As the "Viking Ocean" brand specializes in all-inclusive seagoing cruises, the two new ships are grouped in a separate fleet under the new luxury travel brand "Viking Expeditions".

The vessel (IMO number 9863194) is currently Norway- flagged (MMSI 259070000) and registered in Longyearbyen Spitsbergen .

Viking's expedition ships are smaller-sized (GT-tonnage/volume 30150 tons) and with reduced passenger capacity (378 each, plus 260 crew/staff) in comparison to Viking Ocean's liners, each carrying 930 passengers (plus 465 crew/staff). Viking Expeditions' boats are constructed by the Norwegian shipbuilder VARD (subsidiary of the Italian company Fincantieri ). The vessel's hull and superstructure were assembled t the shipyard in Tulcea Romania , then towed to VARD Soviknes Shipyard ( Alesund Norway ) for outfitting.

Fincantieri's VARD shipbuilding company specializes in marine engineering, design and construction of small-capacity (200-400 pax) luxury passenger ships delivered to premium brands like Ponant and Hapag-Lloyd . More details on Viking's newbuilds as to their design (VARD-6 series), deck plans , staterooms , facilities, amenities and services will be officially announced on January 16, 2020, when Viking Expeditions cruises officially go on sale.

Traditionally for an expedition cruise ship, Viking Octantis has its own fleet of inflatable Zodiacs (speedboats used for passenger tendering and shoreside cruising), rigid-hulled inflatable boats (large-capacity unsinkable boat with a rigid bottom) and sea-kayaks. The ship design features several spacious open-deck areas, including Promenade Deck and bow-located Observation Deck (forward on Lounge Deck).

Shipboard facilities

Signature ship facilities available on each Viking Expeditions boat include Explorers Lounge (2-deck, observatory-type), Aquavit Terrace (indoor-outdoor sundeck / bar lounge covered by a retractable glass roof), The Living Room (lounge), The Library (reading lounge), The Hide, The Shelter and The Bow (indoor-outdoor wildlife viewing areas), The Laboratory, The Blue Room, Aula Auditorium (Theater / Cinema / Conference Room), Finse Terrace, Expedition Central (Photography Studio / Photo Gallery / Coffee Bar), Shop, Nordic Spa Badestamp (Hot Tub Room), wellness complex (Hydrotherapy Pool, Hair Salon/Spa Lounge, Gym/Fitness Center, unisex Sauna, Massage Rooms), Promenade Deck (full-circle), Observation Deck (top-deck), Medical Centre (Infirmary), The Hangar (indoor marina for watercraft).

Four Atrium Lifts (glass-walled elevators) connect all decks. A 5th Lift (aft) is wheelchair-accessible and interconnects decks 2 through 5. Staircases (inside and outside stairs) interconnect all decks.

The Hide is a cozy bar positioned within the hull's bow (forward on Deck 1) with floor-to-ceiling (bow-facing) slanted windows and comfortable seating. On select evenings, the venue hosts "Storytelling at The Hide" (starting at 9 pm). The informal gatherings are themed on explorations and led by members of the onboard Expedition Team sharing their unique stories (personal and professional experiences) with the passengers. The Hide's bar serves soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, including cocktails and Aquavit (traditional Scandinavian distilled spirit).

Explorers Lounge (Decks 5-6) is a bow-facing, 2-deck high, circular-shaped, glass-covered and walled indoor observation lounge (observatory-type, with wraparound windows). In the evenings, Explorers Lounge hosts live performances by resident musicians (pianist, guitarist, classical trio). The lounge is served by its own bar (Explorers Bar is on Deck 5) and has a small terrace (open-air seating area). Explorers Lounge also doubles as Reading Lounge, having a selection of best-seller books, quiet atmosphere, comfortable seating, beverage service. The decor is highlighted by maritime artifacts. At night, the 2-story high wraparound windows are light up with the constellations.

Aula Auditorium (Deck 2 aft) is a glass-walled auditorium (with tiered seating) hosting lectures, media presentations, itinerary-themed port talks, live entertainment programs. The lounge has floor-ceiling and wall-to-wall windows (providing 270-degree unobstructed views) and an outdoor deck seating (Finse Terrace). Aula Auditorium also doubles as Cinema, being fitted with a retractable screen (covering the entire window wall towards the stern) and latest sound and visual equipment. Aula Auditorium provides direct access to Finse Terrace, which makes it an indoor-outdoor observation lounge. Finse Terrace is an outdoor lounge (adjacent to Aula Auditorium) with comfortable seating (padded sofas) and heated by firepits (heated lava rocks). Finse Terrace also provides alfresco dining and drinking when weather permits.

Aft-located (at the stern) indoor-outdoor pool deck lounge (Aquavit Terrace) with 3 infinity pools - positioned side by side and covered by a retractable glass roof. Each of the swimming pools is at a different temperature. The mid-pool has indoor-outdoor swimming experience.

Dining venues include The Restaurant (fine dining, regional cuisine specialties, classic dishes), The World Cafe (market-style buffet restaurant with open kitchen, live cooking station, bakery, grill stations, seafood bar with premium sushi, international food choices), Manfredi's Italian Restaurant (Deck 1), Mamsen's Restaurant (Deck 5, traditional Scandinavian dishes, Italian cuisine specialties) plus Room Service (24-hour, complimentary).

The Hangar is an aft-located indoor marina for launching the smaller-sized RIBs (rigid inflatable boats). The launch platform features a 26 m (85 ft) wide rollers-covered slipway (boat ramp) that allows safe and sheltered embarkation on the RIBs inside the cruise ship.

The onboard expedition equipment is provided complimentary to all passengers (regardless of cabin category). It includes Zodiacs (military-type rigid inflatable high-speed boats used for landings and coastal cruising), 2-seater sea-kayaks, two RIB boats (12-seats each), two mini-submarines (model "U-Boat Worx-Cruise Sub 7" submersibles, each with 6 revolving seats, spherical windows / 270-degree), Expedition Kit (cold-weather boots, waterproof pants, snowshoes, trekking poles, skis, binoculars). Each tour boat is fitted with the latest Safety Equipment (satellite phone, VHF radio, ropes, life jackets, survival kits).

Exclusively for Viking Expeditions, Viking Cruises partnered with Cambridge University's Scott Polar Research Institute (Polar Museum) specializing in polar research and glaciology. Via this exclusive partnership, on every voyage scientists from the Institute undertake on the ship and also share with the cruisers their expertise. Another exclusive partnership was signed with Cornell Lab of Ornithology (unit of Ithaca NY's Cornell University) which specializes in global bird research. Cornell Lab's ornithologists are also always present on the ship to interact with the passengers. Viking Cruises also partnered with NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). NOAA scientists are present on all Great Lakes USA voyages to conduct research (on local weather changes and ecosystems) and present lectures themed on the Great Lakes region.

Decks and Cabins

Most Viking Octantis staterooms (184 out of 189 total) are with French balconies, excluding only Deck 6's Suites (OS-Owner, ES-Explorer). Cabin sizes vary between 21 m2 (Nordic Balcony / French Balcony) and 114 m2 (Owner Suite with 73-m2 Terrace Garden). Explorer Suites are with a shared balcony (Terrace Garden Lounge).

Viking Expeditions Viking Polaris staterooms offer as standard the following complimentary amenities and services:

• King-size bed ("Viking Explorer", deluxe mattresses and linens, Cashmere blankets), optional twin beds configuration, bedside reading lamps (wall-mounted), Marius-pattern wool blankets
• En-suite bathroom (with heated floor and heated mirror), glass door shower, hairdryer, premium bath products and toiletries (by Freyja), deluxe bathrobes, slippers, towel warmers, plenty of storage space.
• Seating area with sofa, low table, vanity desk with chair, wardrobe, full-length mirror with mini lights (doubles as night light with bedside on/off button), floor-ceiling drying closet
• Satellite phone (direct-dial), smart HDTV (3D, Infotainment system / Internet access, room service ordering, movies-on-demand, live webcams views, Viking Expeditions ship channel for news, schedules, itinerary and destination information, enrichment lectures, port talks), binoculars (in-cabin use only), electronic safe box (in the closet), individual climate control, 220V / 110V power outlets (European and US standard plugs), Coffee machine, mini-bar (bottled water, soft drinks, snacks).

The cabin's keycard must be inserted into a slot (by the entry door) to power the room's electrical outlets and lights. All cabin categories receive complimentary movies on demand and 24-hour room service. Suite categories receive free laundry, pressing, shoeshine, Welcome Champagne bottle.

The boat has 7 decks , all of which are passenger-accessible, including 4 with cabins.

Viking Expeditions cruise deals are all-inclusive, meaning they offer as complimentary (included in the fares):

• 1 complimentary excursion in each of the ports of call along the itinerary route
• complimentary drinks, including alcohol (beers and house wines at lunch and dinner). The selection of wines includes red and white, and occasionally rose,
• free Wi-Fi (shipwide coverage), free Internet (unlimited access)
• free of charge specialty restaurant dining (excepting only the lowest category Balcony cabins).
• Tipping/gratuities (recommended daily gratuity USD 14 pp) is automatically added to the passengers' onboard accounts. Adjustments can be made at the Reception Desk (Lobby area). Alcoholic drink purchases levy a 15% gratuity (automatic).
• All beverages served at the onboard lounges and bars cost extra. Prices are around $6 (cocktail), $4 (beer), $5-6 (wine by the glass). Viking Cruises "Silver Spirits" drink package costs $420 per cabin (for two passengers) and offers unlimited cocktails ($9 limit), beers and premium wines (by the glass), plus one bottle of sparkling wine, specialty coffees, unlimited soda (soft drinks).

The complimentary 24-hour Room Service menu includes pasta (3 sauces are offered - bolognese, pesto, Pomodoro), grilled salmon, cured Norwegian salmon (gravlax/gravadlax), grilled chicken, burgers (including veggie), chef salad, cheese plates. Breakfast options include hot/cold sandwiches, French toast, pancakes, oatmeal, eggs, fresh fruits.

Viking Expeditions itineraries

The inaugural cruise itineraries of both expedition vessels are 13-day polar voyages - one in Antarctica , the other in the European Arctic. Viking's Arctic cruises (to Svalbard Islands and Arctic Russia) are roundtrips from homeport Tromso Norway and priced from USD 14,000 per person (double-occupancy balcony cabin). Viking's Antarctic roundtrips are from homeport Ushuaia Argentina , with prices starting from USD 15,000 pp (fly-cruise packages from Buenos Aires with included overnight hotel stay prior departure and return flights to Europe-USA-Canada-Australia).

Exclusive promo deals for past customers and travel agents were opened for bookings made in the period October 10 - December 31, 2019. Next are listed all Viking Expeditions cruise itineraries by length and theme.

• 44-day "From the Arctic to Antarctica" (from Tromso to Ushuaia)
• 19-day "Antarctic and South America Discovery" (from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro)
• 18-day "South America and Antarctic Discovery" (from Rio de Janeiro to Ushuaia)
• 15-day and 13-day "Antarctic Adventure" (from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia)
• 15-day "Atlantic and Equator Sojourn" (from Cork to Rio de Janeiro)
• 13-day "Arctic Adventure" (roundtrip from Tromso Norway)
• 13-day "Viking's Northern Isles" (from Tromso to Cork)
• 13-day "Canadian Discovery"(from NYC New York City to Toronto)
• 10-day "Caribbean Connections" (from Bridgetown to NYC New York)
• 8-day "Niagara and the Great Lakes" (from Toronto to Milwaukee)
• 8-day "Undiscovered Great Lakes" (from Thunder Bay to Milwaukee)
• 8-day "Great Lakes Explorer" (from Milwaukee to Thunder Bay)

Viking's Great Lakes cruises visit ports and destinations in Canada's Ontario state ( Thunder Bay , Toronto , Welland Canal, Niagara Falls, Point Pelee) and USA's Minnesota-Michigan-Wisconsin states ( Detroit MI , Alpena MI , Mackinac Island MI Lake Huron , Apostle Islands WI, Houghton MI on Lake Superior , Traverse City MI , Milwaukee WI on Lake Michigan , Duluth MN ) and feature passing through Soo Locks at Sault Ste Marie (Lake Superior - Lake Huron transition).

Viking's Canada cruises visit NYC New York , Halifax NS , Gulf of St Lawrence (scenic cruising, Cape Breton National Park), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island) , Magdalen Islands Quebec (scenic cruising), Cap-aux-Meules (Quebec), Sept-Iles Quebec , Saguenay Quebec (zodiac cruising through Saguenay Fjord), Quebec City , Trois-Rivieres Quebec , Montreal Quebec , Seaway Locks (transit to Lake Ontario), Toronto Ontario .

Viking's Antarctic cruises are inclusive of 2 domestic charter flights (between Buenos Aires - Ushuaia ) and an overnight hotel (in Buenos Aires / pre-cruise). Signature destinations include Beagle Channel (Glacier Alley) and Drake Passage , Cape Horn , Half Moon Island , Deception Island (Whalers Bay) , Brown Bluff , Wiencke Island (Damoy Point) , Lemaire Channel, Petermann Island , Cuverville Island , Neko Harbor ( Antarctic Peninsula ),

Viking's Arctic cruises visit Tromso Norway , Svalbard Islands Norway , Polar Ice Cap (scenic cruising), Spitsbergen Island (Barentsburg, Smeerenburg, Barentsburg, Alicehamna/Alice Harbour, Hornsund, Nordfjorden, Liefdefjorden), Bjornoya (Bear Island) , Barents Sea (cruising).

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• Viking Polaris

Viking Octantis Wiki

Viking Octantis Ltd is a Bermuda-registered company owned by Viking River Cruises (International) LLC, which directors are Torstein Hagen and Leah Talactac. The ship name "VIKING OCTANTIS" is a trademark owned by Viking River Cruises (Bermuda) Ltd and filed on April 29, 2019.

Trademark's services include passengers and goods transportation, cruise shipping and travel agency services, travel tour operations (transport of passengers for guided and sightseeing tours), cruise and travel arrangements, transportation reservations (including cruise ship and land excursions), packaging and storage of goods, provision of information and advice (related to the aforesaid services).

On January 15, 2020, was announced the boat's Godmother - Liv Ragnheim Arnesen (1953-born Norwegian educator, motivational speaker, adventurer, cross-country skier). She is best known as the first woman to ski solo (unassisted) to the South Pole. During the 50-day "South Pole 1994" expedition, Liv Arnesen skied alone ~745 mi (~1200 km). During the "Greenland 1992" expedition, she led world's first all-woman ski team that (unsupported) crossed the Greenland Ice Cap and reached  During the "Antarctica 2001" expedition, she and Ann Bancroft ( Viking Polaris ship's Godmother) became the first women to sail and ski across Antarctica. During this 94-day voyage, they trekked ~1717 mi (2747 km).

Viking Octantis ship's hull (yard number 906) is ice-class PC6 (Polar Class 6) which allows safe navigation in multi-year sea ice conditions. The lowest ice-classes for passenger ships (PC6 and PC7) are equivalent to the highest classes of Finland (1A-Super) and Sweden (1A) that allow year-round navigation for cruiseferries in Baltic waters (first-year sea ice conditions).

Polar-Class passenger ships are required to have ice-strengthened hulls which are longitudinally divided into 4 sections - bow, bow intermediate (ballast water tanks), midship, stern (ballast water tanks). Excepting the bow, the other 3 lower hull sections are further divided (vertically) into 3 compartments - bottom, lower, icebelt, for each of which is calculated an ice load (based on dimensions and geometry) which is used to determine the hull as steel grades to be used for the construction of shell plates and hull frames (design and number) per location.

Polar-Class cruise ships are also designed with specific machinery and propulsion systems (thrusters, steering gear, navigation and control systems) for safe navigation in fresh-packed ice (ice-covered waters). Unlike regular boats, their ballast water should not be freezing. The ship's combined propulsion power output should be enough to allow independent cruising (at a specified continuous speed) in thin-ice conditions, which actually defines the vessel as an icebreaking ship .

In February 2020, the shipbuilder VARD Group contracted Palfinger Marine ( Salzburg Austria -based manufacturer of marine deck handling equipment) to produce, deliver and install Viking Expeditions ships' side shell doors, mooring platforms, provision loading systems, garbage lifts, davit systems (for the mini-submarines and the Zodiacs) and indoor marina's / The Hangar equipment (mini-subs internal transport systems, RIBs slipway systems). Each of the two submarine launch and recovery systems (1x portside, 1x starboard) has a winch with load capacity 13 tonnes plus a telescopic crane (load capacity 1 tonne).

The two submersibles (model "U-Boat Worx-Cruise Sub 7") are 7-person (fitted with 6 revolving seats for passengers plus 1 seat for the pilot) and feature spherical windows (for 270-degree views), max speed 8 knots (15 kph / 9 mph), max diving depth 100 m (330 ft).

The vessel Viking Octantis (IMO number 9863194, VARD yard/hull number 906) was launched/floated out from drydock on December 22, 2020, at VARD Tulcea Shipyard (Romania). The unfinished boat was then moved to the yard's outfitting dock for further construction and interior build-out. Following final outfitting, the ship was towed to VARD Soviknes Shipyard (in Alesund Norway ).

The ship was delivered in Soviknes on December 22, 2021. The delivery ceremony was attended by Giuseppe Bono ( Fincantieri 's CEO). The unofficial christening was held on April 18, 2022, dockside at Manhattan Cruise Terminal in NYC (New York USA) . The official ship naming ceremony was on September 30, 2022 (in NYC). Godmother Liv Arnesen offered her blessing remotely (via real-time live streaming) from Amsterdam (Netherlands) where was officially christened Viking Polaris. The dual christening event was marked by Viking's 25th Anniversary celebrations.

The ship's Great Lakes inaugural season started on May 6, 2022, with its arrival in Port Milwaukee (Wisconsin) . In 2022, Viking Octantis was homeported in Milwaukee for a total of 33x departures.

• River Cruising

Luggage under Viking beds

By hawkeye65 , May 17, 2017 in River Cruising

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We've been advised by river cruising veterans that pax store their luggage under the beds. Is there ample room there? Specifically, does the new hard-sided luggage fit? Do the large suitcases (what used to be called Pullman size) fit? We know we're restricted by airlines as to the weight. Do we need to restrict the size by under-bed space?

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SuiteTraveler

We have very large hard sided luggage and it always fits. Worst case senario, you can push one case under each side of the bed open so it is half as tall as normal - but we've never had to do that.

PS: Get a portable luggage scale because European airports are much more strict about baggage weight than in the US, otherwise you might find yourself having to repack in the airport. Also, remember, only 1 carryon per person on the return flights from Europe and these must be the small size carryon bags - not roll aboards. My husband ran into this issue, after I warned him about it and I wound up having to check my carryon as he had a backpack full of camera equipment and a briefcase with his computer equipment.

Also, remember, only 1 carryon per person on the return flights from Europe and these must be the small size carryon bags - not roll aboards.

Carry-on limits are the same outbound as they are on the return if you are on the same airline, and that is typically one carry-on and one personal item (plus extra allowance for medical devices) ..

Different airlines have different limits of course but there is no general ban on roll-aboard cases ex-Europe.

What you will find is that even with USA based airlines, most of them have reduced the allowed size of the carry-on cases to 22"x14"x9"..

So just check the allowance for the airline and class you are traveling in and stick to that....

Do the large suitcases (what used to be called Pullman size) fit? We know we're restricted by airlines as to the weight. Do we need to restrict the size by under-bed space?

Generally speaking if your bags are within the airline limits the odds are they will fit under the bed just fine.

Most airlines are working on a 62" size limit (length+width+depth) so check your particular airline as some are a little more generous, but there will definitely be a size limit not just a weight limit.

Exactly the info I needed. Thanks, everyone! Y'all're the best.

Carry-on limits are the same outbound as they are on the return if you are on the same airline, and that is typically one carry-on and one personal item (plus extra allowance for medical devices) ..   Different airlines have different limits of course but there is no general ban on roll-aboard cases ex-Europe.   What you will find is that even with USA based airlines, most of them have reduced the allowed size of the carry-on cases to 22"x14"x9"..   So just check the allowance for the airline and class you are traveling in and stick to that....

Not true, outbound from the US from DFW, my husband was allowed 2 carryons. But the airport in Barcelona would only allow him 1 carryon for the flight back which is why I had to check my carryon.

I'm sorry, but this is nothing to do with the fact you were returning from Spain and everything to do with the allowance on the airline you were on and the size of whatever it was he was trying to bring onboard... :)

You will find that EU airports are better at enforcing the allowances, but the allowances are not different between ex-USA and ex-EU

I'm sorry, but this is nothing to do with the fact you were returning from Spain and everything to do with the allowance on the airline you were on and the size of whatever it was he was trying to bring onboard... :)   You will find that EU airports are better at enforcing the allowances, but the allowances are not different between ex-USA and ex-EU

He had a normal size briefcase and a small camera backpack both of which he was allowed to carryon for the Iberia flight from the US to Barcelona. When we checked in for the return flight (in Barcelona as well) they specifically told him he could only have 1 carryon and would have to check the other. His briefcase contained his work computer and his backpack contained about $30,000 in camera equipment. I also had a small carryon - the hard shell kind that is so small an IPAD would not fit in it as it is primarily meant for makeup and medicine (and that's what I had in it). I did not have a purse as I don't carry a purse in Europe. I checked my carryon and carried on his briefcase and he carried on his camera equipment in the backpack. So it had nothing whatsoever to do with the size of his carryons. It had to do with the fact he was only allowed 1 carryon and I was only allowed 1 carryon.

It sounds like you had 3 items there which which were all too large to be considered as a 'personal item'.

This is no different to the rules at the USA end of the flights, just that the rules are a lot less strictly enforced (unless the GA knows the FAA are watching).

You get one carry-on and one personal item on pretty much all US based airlines, the trick is making sure the 2nd item is small enough to be counted as a 'personal item'.

Which airline was it?

Even Iberia allow a small briefcase as the personal item...

Just an aside about suitcase weight. Quite often the gym on board has a scale so you can easily check to make sure you are not over your limit.

patrickmoran

I've not found European airline personnel more stringent or difficult than US counterparts. European airlines are likely to have a weight limit for carry on bags and they will weigh them and mark them OK. I've had bags over a bit and not had a problem getting them checked without moving stuff around.

It sounds like you had 3 items there which which were all too large to be considered as a 'personal item'.   This is no different to the rules at the USA end of the flights, just that the rules are a lot less strictly enforced (unless the GA knows the FAA are watching).   You get one carry-on and one personal item on pretty much all US based airlines, the trick is making sure the 2nd item is small enough to be counted as a 'personal item'.   Which airline was it?     Even Iberia allow a small briefcase as the personal item...

He had a small soft sided briefcase to carry his laptop which is a thin and flat type of laptop, but he brings along a separate mouse and mouse pad. His camera backpack is also not all that large. He can put the briefcase and camera backpack on top of it in the overhead storage bin or put either under the seat in front of him and the other in the overhead storage bin - so it wasn't that these would take up extra storage in the cabin. The larger of his items was the camera backpack which is 18 inches by 12 inches by 8 inches. My carryon was the makeup bag - about 12 inches by 12 inches by 5 inches - it fits easily under the seat in front of me, even in economy. I've been traveling internationally for 5 decades now, so I knew to have a very small carryon. At any rate, it was my carryon that was checked. They didn't have any issue with the size of my husband's carryons, only that he had 2 and even though I had a very small handbag size carryon, they required me to check it in order to carry on his briefcase. It was Iberia, btw.

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More From Forbes

How to see the best of northern europe on a scandinavian cruise.

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Cruise ship passengers enjoy the view of Sweden’s Stockholm archipelago from the Royal Caribbean ... [+] ship ‘Serenade of the Seas.’

If you’ve ever wanted to dive into the culture of the Vikings or explore what makes people in the Nordic region the so-called happiest on earth, you could do a lot worse than book a Scandinavian cruise.

Scandinavia—and Norway in particular—is an expensive place to travel around, so a cruise can make financial sense for those seeking an introduction to the region. For one price, you get your travel, accommodation, meals, and entertainment covered.

Such a trip offers the opportunity to sample various Scandinavian travel highlights , whether you prefer the Scandinavian capitals, the stunning Norwegian fjords, or soaking up the atmosphere of beautiful islands and historic ports in the Baltic Sea.

Popular Scandinavian Cruise Itineraries

Many different types of itinerary can be advertised as Scandinavian cruises. Typically, they focus on the Nordic capital cities. Some may also include the highlights of the Baltic Sea region, including the Baltic countries and ports in the north of Germany and Poland.

With popular Norwegian fjords cruises together with midnight sun and northern lights tours to the north of Norway also available, there is a lot of diversity in Scandinavian cruises.

Scandinavian Capitals : Cruise itineraries starting in the U.K. or Germany and calling in at two or even all three of Oslo, Stockholm, and Copenhagen have long been popular.

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The Nyhavn district of Copenhagen, Denmark, is a popular destination for cruise ship passengers ... [+] visiting Scandinavia.

Helsinki is often included on such itineraries. If you want to explore modern Scandinavia while gaining access to some of the region’s best museums, such an itinerary is a perfect choice.

Such itineraries tend to be shorter, and are a great introduction to both cruising and Scandinavia, with limited sea days and plenty to see and do while in port.

Baltic Sea : Longer Scandinavian itineraries often include stops at Baltic Sea islands and ports. The beautiful Estonian capital city, Tallinn, or the Latvian capital, Riga, are particular highlights, as are ports on the northern coastline of Germany and Poland.

For those interested in Viking history, look out for smaller ship itineraries featuring Visby on the wonderful island of Gotland .

One such trip is this 12-night itinerary from Celebrity Cruises, which includes a visit to both Visby and Tallinn. Other highlights include a visit to Stockholm and Copenhagen, including an overnight stop in the latter.

The old city walls of Visby on Gotland island, a popular cruise port.

Norwegian Fjords : By far the most variety can be found in the Norwegian fjords region , with almost all major cruise lines operating at least some itineraries here. Although port calls in Flåm and Geiranger will soon be severely limited, many alternative ports will still be able to welcome some of the world’s largest cruise ships.

Whether you prefer the action-packed ships of Royal Caribbean or MSC, or the smaller ships that can sail along narrower fjords, there will be a Norwegian fjords itinerary for you.

Following the recent rise in popularity of the region as a cruising destination, the fjords season has extended, with trips available as early as April and as late as September.

British line P&O Cruises operates its relatively new megaship Iona in the fjords region for much of that period, with regular departures from Southampton on a popular 7-day itinerary.

Midnight Sun : Although all summer cruises in the region will experience long summer days, specific midnight sun itineraries set sail for the far north of Norway to let guests experience the thrill of being outside with the sun in the sky at midnight. Many of these trips visit Honningsvåg, which allows guests to travel by bus to the North Cape.

Northern Lights : In recent years, Scandinavia—or more specifically Norway—has become a year-round cruising destination thanks to the growth in popularity of northern lights cruises .

Aurora borealis in the sky seen from a cruise ship in Arctic Norway.

These itineraries can be found heading north of the Arctic Circle between October and early April.

Planning Tips For Scandinavian Cruises

Cruising in Northern Europe offers a fantastic variety of excursions and experiences, from historical city tours to adrenaline-filled outdoor adventures.

The region’s love of the outdoors lifestyle means active experiences are easy to find, both through cruise line excursions and independent operators.

The high levels of English comprehension across the region means booking your own activities and exploring ports independently is much easier than in many other parts of the world. Even so, look for independent tours that take place earlier in the day to reduce any time-related risk.

No matter when you visit Scandinavia, pack for all weathers. The height of summer can be marred by heavy rainfall, while it’s possible to get sunburnt in the snow-covered conditions of February and March.

Pack a versatile wardrobe. Layered clothing accommodates the region's variable weather, while specialized gear might be necessary for specific excursions.

Cruising And Sustainability

Prospective travelers should be aware of environmental concerns associated with cruising in this pristine region. The industry is moving towards sustainability, with initiatives to introduce zero-emission vessels in sensitive areas, particularly the UNESCO-listed Norwegian fjords .

Some local initiatives protesting against cruise travel have also gathered momentum, so cruisers should be aware of these issues before setting foot ashore.

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Cruise operator Viking targets $11 billion valuation as IPO market stays hot

Viking Holdings, the European cruise line operator, is seeking to raise more than $1 billion in a public offering next week that could become the second-biggest IPO of 2024.

Viking is scheduled to price on April 30 and trade the next day, a person familiar with the deal told Fortune . The Pembroke, Bermuda–based company plans to sell 44 million shares at $21 to $25 each, according to a regulatory filing dated April 22. Viking will be offering 11 million shares with the remainder coming from shareholders, according to a statement . BofA Securities and JPMorgan are lead underwriters on the deal, which could end up valuing Viking—slated to trade under VIK on the New York Stock Exchange—at almost $11 billion.

Torstein Hagen, Viking’s chairman and CEO, founded the company in 1997. It has a fleet of 92 vessels that travel to all seven continents, including special expeditions to Antarctica and to the Arctic North.

“Looking toward the future, we believe there are a number of opportunities for growing Viking,” Hagen wrote in a letter accompanying the filing. “We have 24 new ships on order, with options for 12 more. We have also started to enter new markets, such as China and elsewhere in Asia, where we see significant growth potential over the long term.”

Revenue for Viking rose 48% to $4.7 billion in 2023. The company was profitable in 2022 but posted $1.86 billion in losses last year, and it’s highly leveraged, reporting $5.4 billion in total debt as of Dec. 31.

“We have substantial indebtedness and we may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service all of our indebtedness or to obtain additional financing if necessary,” Viking said in the regulatory filing.

The company is also backed by private equity. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and TPG likely will each have nearly 5% of the firm’s voting power after the IPO.

The IPO market is bouncing back. Last week, Ibotta rose 17% during its first day of trading after pricing at $88. Rubrik, a Microsoft-backed cloud data security provider, is scheduled to list shares on Thursday and could raise as much as $713 million . Also on Thursday, Marex Group, a U.K.-based financial services platform, is expected to trade, according to IPOScoop.com.

The year’s biggest IPO still belongs to Amer Sport, the maker of Wilson tennis racquets, which raised $1.37 billion in February, according to data from Dealogic. Viking, if it prices at the top of its range, could raise as much as $1.1 billion.

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