Viking Ocean Cruises?

Over the past five years Viking river cruises have gone from strength to strength. There has been a huge boom in the river cruise industry. So what do you do once you have a strong hold in the River cruise market? Venture into ocean cruising of course.


For those of you getting exited, you will have to wait until May 2015. The Viking Star will be a 928-passenger ship and will start by visiting Scandinavia, the Baltic and the Mediterranean. Features on board the ship will include a Scandinavian inspired spa and two pools - one under a retractable roof, plus an infinity pool where passengers can swim in a glass-backed pool cantilevered off the stern. A second ocean ship is on order for delivery in 2016, and four more could follow.

Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking Cruises said itineraries, privileged-access excursions and on board experiences will be paramount to the Viking ocean experience. “Many cruise lines have lost sight of the destinations their ships sail to,” he said. Ports will appeal to those with an interest in art, history and culture."

As well as the above Viking also plan a rapid expansion in its traditional sector, with 10 new river cruise ships christened in March and 12 more due to launch in 2014.  Viking is to roll out the product in the US, in what it says is its dominant market, ahead of official launches in Britain, Australia and New Zealand later this year.

So there it is, Vikings big news, let me know what you think or if you have any questions!