8. Viking Star — Viking Ocean Cruises

Overview

Launched in 2015, Viking Star marked Viking’s bold expansion from river to ocean cruising — and immediately set a new standard for destination-focused, small-ship travel. At 47,842 gross tons, the ship carries just 930 guests with 465 crew members, offering a serene, all-veranda experience that blends Scandinavian design, cultural immersion, and exceptional value. Viking Star embodies elegance without excess — perfect for sophisticated travelers seeking exploration and enrichment over crowds and casinos.

Best Itineraries

Viking Star sails an extraordinary range of cultural and scenic itineraries, with extended port times and overnights that let guests truly experience each destination.

Top itineraries include:

• Mediterranean Odyssey: Venice, Dubrovnik, Athens, and Barcelona
• Baltic Jewels & Northern Lights: Stockholm, Tallinn, St. Petersburg, and Bergen
• British Isles Explorer: London, Dublin, Edinburgh, and Belfast
• Alaska & Inside Passage: Summer sailings from Vancouver or Seward
• West Indies Explorer: Caribbean luxury with immersive shore excursions

VOA Tip: Viking emphasizes “longer in port, more time to explore” — itineraries are continually refined, so confirm current routes when booking.

Accommodations — Best Cabins & Suites

Every stateroom on Viking Star includes a private veranda, king-size bed, and heated bathroom floors — no interior cabins exist.

• For Couples:
  • Deluxe Veranda Stateroom – bright, modern, and ideal for romantic voyages.
  • Penthouse Veranda – extra living space and priority reservations for dining and shore excursions.
• For Families (2–4 Guests):
  • Penthouse Junior Suite – spacious suite with separate sitting area, perfect for small families.
• For Luxury Travelers:
  • Explorer Suite – corner suite with wraparound veranda, large living room, and panoramic ocean views.

VOA Concierge Note: Suites include priority boarding, laundry service, and exclusive access to The Explorer’s Lounge, a stylish forward-view retreat.

Dining — Best Restaurants

Viking’s all-inclusive philosophy extends to its dining — all restaurants, wine, and beer with meals are included.

• The Restaurant: Elegant open-seating fine dining with rotating menus inspired by each region.
• Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant: Authentic Tuscan cuisine — a guest favorite.
• Chef’s Table: Five-course tasting menus paired with fine wines (rotates every few days).
• World Café: Global buffet with sushi, seafood, and alfresco seating.
• Aquavit Terrace: Scandinavian-inspired grill and open-air dining by the infinity pool.

VOA Insider Recommendation:Manfredi’s signature Bistecca Fiorentina is one of the best steaks at sea — reserve through your VOA cruise concierge pre-departure.

Entertainment & Enrichment

• Theatre at Sea: Destination lectures, classical music, and occasional cultural performances.
• Explorers’ Lounge: Panoramic two-story lounge ideal for cocktails and stargazing.
• The Living Room: Cozy central space with live piano music and curated library.
• Viking Cultural Enrichment: Port lectures, TED-style talks, art tours, and cooking demonstrations.
• No Casinos: A deliberate choice by Viking to maintain a refined, tranquil atmosphere.

Spa & Wellness

• The LivNordic Spa: Inspired by Nordic traditions — includes a snow grotto, hydrotherapy pool, and thermal suite.
• Fitness Center: Ocean-view treadmills and free yoga or stretch classes.
• VOA Wellness Tip: The Nordic Bathing Ritual (hot-cold immersion) is a must-try for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Why VOA Recommends It

Viking Star is a floating boutique hotel for cultural explorers — sophisticated, serene, and seamless. Ideal for couples and adult travelers seeking enrichment and elegance rather than entertainment excess.
VOA members enjoy:

• Exclusive net-rate savings and added onboard credits,
• Concierge booking priority for Manfredi’s and The Chef’s Table, and
• Tailored pre- and post-cruise land programs through VOA’s global partners.