Princess Cruises Offers Half Price Cruise Vacations to First Responders and Medical Professionals Honoring Their Heroism and Public Service
Read MoreLeading ultra-luxury cruise line Silversea unveils a pioneering wellness program for new ship Silver Dawn. Inspired by the ancient Roman lifestyle, Otium is a unique innovation that will extend from guests’ suites to the spa and beyond, focusing on indulgence, pampering, and pleasure.
Read More
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (Oct. 18, 2021) – Majestic Princess guest Mark Wilson, vice president of product strategy for Cruise & Tour for Arrivia (center), was the first guest on Majestic Princess to place a bet at sea using the new Ocean Sportsbook real-time sports wagering experience, available through the Ocean Sportsbook, part of the Princess MedallionClass experience. John Chernesky, senior vice president, North America sales & trade marketing for Princess (left) and Kevin Tugwell, Majestic Princess cruise director (right) joined Wilson to mark the occasion.
Sportsbook is the latest addition to the Princess MedallionClass Experience and is enabled by MedallionNet elite level bandwidth powered by SES. This fast, real-time connection gives guests the opportunity to bet on major sports competitions like professional* and college football, basketball, baseball and hockey, as well as a wide variety of other exciting domestic and international events.
When the ship is in international waters, or wherever permitted by law, guests can use the MedallionClass app to wager on a host of major sports competitions, as well as place prop bets during live events taking place during their cruise. Guests also have the opportunity to place bets on future competitions that occur well after their voyage.
With more than $20 billion in wagers placed with U.S. sportsbooks in the past two years, sports betting is experiencing extraordinary growth, and is expected to reach more than $155 billion by 2024.1
Built in partnership with software developer, Miomni, Ocean Sportsbook is available now on all Princess MedallionClassships currently in service. The new sportsbook is part of Ocean Casino – a digital experience that lets wagers be placed beyond the casino – stateroom, poolside, spa, and more – on an assortment of games that include blackjack, slots, poker, roulette, bingo, keno and lottery.
Princess offers MedallionClass vacations, delivering the ultimate in effortless, personalized cruising. It begins with the Medallion™, a quarter-sized, wearable device that enables everything from touch-free boarding to locating loved ones anywhere on the ship, as well as enhanced service like having whatever guests need, delivered directly to them, wherever they are on the ship.
Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company's website at http://www.princess.com/.
*Due to Carnival Corporation’s affiliation with the Miami Heat, bets cannot be place in Ocean Sportsbook on NBA events involving the Heat.
1 https://www.espn.com/chalk/story/_/id/29174799/sports-betting-growth-us-extraordinary and https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2019/07/26/1892289/0/en/Research-US-155-49-Bn-for-Sports-Betting-Market-Size-2019-Growing-at-8-83-CAGR-Through-2024.html
My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion
Sailing from the Port of Los Angeles on a 15-day Panama Canal Cruise, Emerald Princess returns to service and welcomes first guests back onboard.
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (Oct. 15, 2021) – Princess Cruises today marked the return to service of the cruise line’s thirdship in the U.S. – Emerald Princess – departing from of the Port of Los Angeles on a 15-day Panama Canal cruise to Ft. Lauderdale. The very first Emerald Princess guests were welcomed onboard by the crew with a special ribbon cutting ceremony.
“Princess has been a part of so many special memories for us,” said Chris and Kathleen Lennon of Monument, CO, the first Emerald Princess guests to board the cruise ship. "This is our 20th cruise and our third time onboard Emerald Princess, and the excitement we felt when we arrived today was overwhelming. It truly feels like coming home."
Emerald Princess is scheduled to arrive in Ft. Lauderdale on October 30, 2021 and will sail a series of 10-day Panama Canal cruises, roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale through December 2021.
Emerald Princess offers MedallionClass vacations, delivering the ultimate in effortless, personalized cruising. TheMedallion is a quarter-sized, wearable device that enables everything from touch-free boarding to locating loved ones anywhere on the ship, as well as enhanced service like having whatever guests need, delivered directly to them,wherever they are on the ship. It’s been recognized as the most advanced wearable device in the global hospitality industry.
Princess Cruises sailings onboard Emerald Princess are available for guests who have received their final dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to the beginning of the cruise and have proof of vaccination. All fully vaccinated guests must also produce a negative, medically-observed COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken within two days of their embarkation on all Princess sailings. Crew vaccinations are in accordance with CDC guidelines.
For the latest Princess COVID-19 health protocols, please visit https://www.princess.com/plan/cruise-with-confidence/cruise-health/covid-19-guest-protocols/.
Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company's website at http://www.princess.com/.
My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion
PAPEETE, TAHITI, October 14, 2021 – U.S. headquartered Windstar Cruises now has two of its six yachts in French Polynesia, making it the biggest small ship cruise line in the region.
Windstar resumed cruising in French Polynesia and the Islands of Tahiti in July with vaccinated guests + crew aboard the line’s 148-passenger Wind Spirit sailing yacht, which was specifically designed for the region, capturing the South Pacific trade winds in its billowing sails. Windstar has established roots in Tahiti and amongst the local community while operating in the region for four decades.
Wind Spirit typically sails year-round from Tahiti; however, Windstar’s reimagined, new all-suite Star Breeze yacht carrying 312 guests will begin sailings from Papeete on October 17, remaining on a limited engagement until the end of March, 2022.
“It gives guests a unique chance to sail in Tahiti on the larger, more amenity-intensive yacht in spacious ocean-view suites,” explained Windstar President Christopher Prelog. “Tahiti and the local Tahitian community are a big part of Windstar’s family, and we are thrilled to have two ships in this amazingly beautiful part of the world for the first time in the company’s history. I am looking forward to a visit soon.
“In addition, Star Breeze’s presence will allow Wind Spirit to receive some planned maintenance and updates from mid-November through February without interrupting options for our guests to celebrate milestones, rekindle a romance, or just spend time with friends and family in this spectacular location,” added Prelog.
The line’s three all-suite Star Plus Class yachts (Star Breeze, Star Legend, and Star Pride) have been undergoing major transformations, with Star Breeze as the first to launch in June. It has two additional dining experiences (one is an outdoor barbecue concept with grilling guru Steven Raichlen and the other a Spanish small plates restaurant from Anthony Sasso, one of the youngest chefs to be recognized by the Michelin Guide), a true spa and fitness center, an elegant infinity pool, and more outdoor deck and dining areas.
Windstar offers a complimentary private event on their Tahiti cruises: an exclusive beach party and locally sourced feast on one of Bora Bora’s tiny motus, followed by a kinetic fire-dancing performance. It is available on all sailings/both yachts. An aft Watersports Platform lowers into the water on both yachts to allow swimming from the yacht. Guests have free access to use all watersports activities including snorkeling gear, floating mats, kayaks, paddle boards, waterskiing and tubing.
For more details on Windstar Cruises, visit www.windstarcruises.com.
My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion
SANTA CLARITA, Calif., (October 14, 2021) – Princess is announcing plans for additional ships returning to service in the United States for February, March and April 2022 sailing from Los Angeles, Seattle, Vancouver and Ft. Lauderdale.
Starting between February 13 and April 22 cruises onboard three additional Princess MedallionClass™ ships will take guests to the Caribbean, Hawaii and the California Coast. Crown Princess, Island Princess and Royal Princess join the eight Princess ships scheduled to restart in 2021, representing 79 percent of Princess’ ship capacity.
Crown Princess: On February 13, Crown Princess will join Majestic Princess and Grand Princess for sailingsfrom Los Angeles to the California Coast and Hawaii. Then, Crown Princess will position to Seattle to sail on a couple of Pacific Northwest Coastal voyages and to Hawaii. Crown Princess will also add another Alaska departure with a new 8-day Inside Passage cruise with Glacier Bay starting on April 29, 2022.
Island Princess: Travels to the Caribbean starting March 6, from Ft. Lauderdale on a 14-day, 10-day and series of 7-day cruises to the Southern, Eastern and Western Caribbean.
Royal Princess: California Coast sailings from Vancouver beginning April 8, 2022
“It has been thrilling to have our guests on board enjoying real vacations in Alaska and on the west coast,” said Deanna Austin, Princess Cruises chief commercial officer. “By April of 2022 we will have 11 of our ships back at sea, with the support of government and port officials, creating vacation memories for our guests.”
Princess cruises sailing through February 2022 are available for guests who have received their final dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to the beginning of the cruise and have proof of vaccination. Crew vaccinations will be in accordance with CDC guidelines.
We will continue to monitor the latest guidance from the CDC as well as local, state and federal officials in the ports we sail from and those we visit and will adjust our onboard protocols and vaccination requirements, as necessary. Should our vaccination approach change, we would notify guests prior to final payment.
PRINCESS MEDALLIONCLASS VACATION
All Princess ships offer TrulyTouchless™ experiences that simplifies the guest experience and delivers next-level service supporting new health protocols.
The cruise line’s award-winning OceanMedallion wearable device replaces the traditional cruise card and pairs with embedded IoT (“Internet of things”) -driven innovative technology to significantly expand touch-free options and personalization on board, including:
Touchless embarkation and disembarkation
Keyless stateroom entry
Completely contactless commerce
Simplified safety training
On-demand food, beverages and retail items delivered anywhere on board
Guest service requests via mobile device chat
Location-based gaming and wagering
Entertainment content via smart devices
Princess ships offers the best Wi-Fi at sea, MedallionNet™, so guests can stay connected to the things and people they love and share vacation memories with ease.
To accommodate this restart, select cruises on Crown Princess will be cancelled. Guests on these voyages will receive information on their rebooking options.
Cruises can be booked through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS
(1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.
My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion
MSC Cruises was forced to cancel the MSC World Cruise 2022 due to the current unavailability of ports
In addition to the already scheduled MSC Poesia, MSC Magnifica to be added to allow guests on canceled cruise to maintain their vacation dream in 2023
Sales for MSC Magnifica World Cruise 2023 opened today
Geneva, Switzerland, Oct. 13, 2021 –MSC Cruises revealed today that a second ship, MSC Magnifica, will be joining MSC Poesia on the MSC World Cruise 2023. The two ships in an industry first will host over 5,000 guests for a journey around the world and they will both depart on Jan. 4, 2023, from Civitavecchia and Jan. 5, 2023, from Genoa, Italy, for simultaneous world cruises, taking different routes around the globe.
MSC Magnifica will replicate the very same itinerary that was supposed to be performed by MSC Poesia for the MSC World Cruise 2022. The decision was made after careful consideration and assessment to cancel the
2022 World Cruise, as it would not have been possible to carry it out due to there being too many ports still facing restrictions as a result of the pandemic. MSC Magnifica will provide a solution to guests impacted by
this to have an alternative for their journey of a lifetime.
Gianni Onorato commented, “Unfortunately we had no choice, but to cancel the 2022 MSC World Cruise; however, we know that a world cruise really is the voyage of a lifetime for many people and so it was important to us to offer the best possible solution for our loyal guests. MSC Poesia’s World Cruise in 2023 was already sold out and so we worked to amend MSC Magnifica’s schedule, a popular world cruise ship, so that we are able to offer the same itinerary as 2022, only one year later, with the ship departing on the same date and calling at all of the same planned ports.”
Sales for MSC Magnifica’s World Cruise 2023 are now open and guests booked on the MSC World Cruise 2022 will be contacted shortly and given priority in re-booking their existing reservation on MSC Magnifica. For those guests who move their booking to 2023, as a measure of gratitude, the guest will be able to book a complimentary cruise between Jan. 1 and May 3, 2022, so that they can still enjoy a cruise vacation during this period[1]. MSC Poesia’s World Cruise 2023 is already sold out and has a waiting list, so this also provides an opportunity for those guests to sail on MSC Magnifica.
MSC Poesia and MSC Magnifica will set sail together in 2023 with embarkation in Civitavecchia (Jan. 4) Genoa, Italy (Jan. 5), Marseille, France (Jan. 6), and Barcelona, Spain (Jan. 7). This will be a very special celebratory moment for MSC Cruises’ guests on the two ships as they prepare to set sail around the world.
Once they cross the Mediterranean Sea, the ships will part ways in the Atlantic Ocean. MSC Magnifica will circumnavigate South America, cross the South Pacific Ocean, then on to the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, Red Sea, and through the spectacular Suez Canal back into the Mediterranean Sea.
MSC Poesia on the other hand, will travel the Panama Canal and up the West Coast of Central America and North America whilst moving on to the Pacific Ocean and then an extended period in Asia. Crossing the Indian Ocean, the ship will then return to the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal.
ABOUT THE MSC WORLD CRUISE 2023 – MSC MAGNIFICA’S ITINERARY
MSC Magnifica will visit 43 stunning destinations in 24 countries with more than 25 UNESCO World Heritage sites across five continents. The spectacular 117-day voyage offers nine extended overnight stays and the ship will cross the equator twice.
Starting out in the Mediterranean the ship will head southwest from via calls in Lisbon in Portucal and Funchal Island, Madeira Island, then on to Mindelo, Cape Verde, where the ship will cross the equator, arriving to South America. Here, 11 unforgettable destinations await across Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile, including two days in each of Rio de Janeiro – the world-famous beach-lined city in Brazil; Buenos Aires, the Argentinian capital famed for its Latin art collection; and Ushuaia, Argentina – with breath-taking scenery and nature.
Departing South America and crossing the South Pacific Ocean, guests will visit the exotic, paradise islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia and Rarotonga & Aitutaki of the Cook Islands. The itinerary continues to New Zealand and Australia for destinations including Auckland, Napier, and Wellington, as well as two days in Sydney to experience everything this metropolitan-meets-beach city and all its sights have to offer.
More exploration awaits in the secluded beaches of Lifou & Mare islands in New Caledonia, Alotau with
their turquoise waters, then Papua New Guinea before heading to the island of Lombok in Indonesia, Singapore and Port Klang for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Before reaching the incredible Suez Canal transit, guests can tick off more unforgettable destinations
including Colombo, Sri Lanka and two days to take in the sights, smells and tastes of Mumbai, India, before reaching Salalah, Oman and Aqaba, Jordan for the ancient site of Petra.
With no more than four consecutive sea days, guests will enjoy a total of nine overnight
calls in ports including Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Ushuaia (Argentina), Valparaiso (Chile), Callao (Peru), Papeete (Tahiti), Sydney (Australia), Benoa (Indonesia) and Mumbai (India), allowing plenty of time to explore these stunning destinations and enjoying an evening ashore.
MSC Cruises is known for offering an incredible choice of shore excursions designed to suit all tastes, giving guests the freedom to make the most of every moment ashore. The 2023 MSC World Cruise is no exception, with 15 shore excursions included in the cost of the cruise ticket. Other excursions can be booked both in advance or during the cruise – more information about shore excursions will be available soon.
Guests will sail in style and comfort on MSC Magnifica during this incredible voyage around the world with the cruise ticket also including:
Beverage package
15 shore excursions
30% discount on laundry
Voyagers Club members booking the MSC World Cruise 2023 will receive an extra 5% discount and Silver, Gold and Diamond members will enjoy a €/$ 50 per person on onboard credit this is on top of their usual 5% discount. This offer is valid until Nov. 30, 2021. Members booking the World Cruise 2023 will also be credited triple membership points for the type of experience chosen. These points will be assigned at the time
of booking.
To find out more about the 2023 World Cruise on MSC Magnifica, visit: https://www.msccruises.com/en-gl/Cruise-Destinations/MSC-World-Cruise-2023.aspx
MIAMI, October 13, 2021: Azamara – the boutique cruise line dedicated to Destination Immersion experiences – is pleased to unveil 39 new itineraries across its four-ship fleet for 2023 and 2024. This latest deployment will take Azamara guests to every corner of the world, with each ship embarking in a different location: Azamara Pursuit® in South Africa, Azamara Quest® in South America, Azamara Journey® in Australia and Asia, and Azamara OnwardSM in the Mediterranean and Caribbean regions. Azamara’s winter voyages will also feature several new shore excursions, pre- and post- cruise land programs, and AzAmazing Evenings®, all designed to bring guests deeper into the heart of each destination and spark a sense of wonder as travelers explore the unique culture of each city.
“With this itinerary release, we are thrilled to offer over 20 maiden ports, dock in smaller destinations that large ships can’t access, and most exciting of all, for the first time we will have a ship in every corner of the world. In addition, this November we will be unveiling a new, highly requested offering from Azamara, which involves travel across the globe,” says Carol Cabezas, President of Azamara. “From connecting with locals in the tiny village of Boca da Valeria, Brazil; to cycling on the 600-year-old Xian City Wall in China, our new voyages will offer endless opportunities to rediscover yourself through travel and connect to local people and cultures.”
Exclusive to Azamara and offered during late-nights and overnights in port, the brand’s signature AzAmazing Evenings are designed to connect guests to the local culture of a destination and are uniquely tailored to each location. Highlights of the AzAmazing Evenings include:
The Living Past of the Amazon: In Manaus, Brazil, guests will discover the living past of the Amazon Rainforest. The four-part show entitled, “North Symmetry. The Glorifications of Nature in the Amazon,” will take guests on a journey from pre-Columbian indigenous civilizations to modern times. Through native dances, rituals, and traditional folklore music, guests will be educated on some of the mysteries of Amazon culture.
Traditional Korean Art Performances: In Busan, South Korea, watch as multiple traditional Korean art forms are combined to create a spectacular show. Enjoy NANTA, one of the most famous non-verbal performances in Korea, which combines Korean folk and modern music to create a unique yet familiar experience; Korean dance performed while wearing the traditional Hanbok; and Taekkyeon, a traditional Korean martial art that uses fluid, rhythmic movements to strike an opponent, all in one captivating performance.
Italian Arias Performed by Società Filarmonia: In Ravenna, Italy, listen to brilliantly composed, classic arias made popular by internationally renowned opera singer Maria Callas. The arias will be directed by Alfredo Barchi and performed by Società Filarmonia, which was established in 1998 to bring together diverse musical experiences, skills, and emerging talents.
Azamara continues to reaffirm its commitment to Destination Immersion® with a diverse selection of new shore excursions. Highlights from the new shore excursions include:
Santarém, Brazil: In the city known as the “Pearl of Tapajós” for its location at the merging of the Tapajós and Amazon ricers, cruise through Maica Lake and enjoy stunning views of the Amazon Basin. Guests will spot local inhabitants, many species of birds, and possibly even the unique Amazon river mammal, a fresh water pink dolphin (Boto Cor-de-Rosa).
Dakar, Senegal: Join some of the most well-known Senegalese chefs from the region’s local culinary school for a cooking tutorial. Guests will learn how to make signature Senegalese dishes followed by a meet and greet with the head of the culinary school to discuss cooking tips and techniques. The afternoon will conclude with a delicious lunch and recipes to take home to cook Senegalese dishes.
Tinos, Greece: Spend the afternoon with a renowned Greek chef for a food and wine pairing with island products, like local cheeses such as Tinos Graviera and the king of the cheeses, Kopanisti, a soft cheese with a distinct peppery-hot taste. Indulge in local wines made from Assyrtiko grapes for white wine and Mavrotragano for the red. Island-grown fruits and vegetables, such as sun-dried tomatoes, pears, artichokes, and capers, will also be enjoyed.
For travelers looking to explore the destination beyond their voyage and immerse themselves ever further, highlights of the pre- and-post-cruise land programs include:
Stay Local in Hong Kong (two-night): Explore the dynamic city of Hong Kong, stopping at the famous Victoria Peak for panoramic views of Kowloon and the surrounding islands, the tranquil Nan Lian Garden – designed in the Tang Dynasty-style with hills, water features, trees, rocks, and wooden structures – and go to the top of the 100th floor of the tallest building in Hong Kong. Additional highlights include a traditional Dim Sum lunch, a visit to Wong Tai Sin Temple, where locals go to pray for good health, and shopping for art products in Stanley Market.
Experience China’s Treasures (four-night): From The Great Wall of China to charming local markets, journey through the ancient wonders and cultural riches of the region. Guests will explore the lakes, pavilions, and pagodas of the Summer Palace, known as the best-preserved royal garden in the world; learn how to make Chinese dumplings with the locals of Hutong, the oldest residential area in Beijing; and visit the Terracotta Army Museum, home to a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of China’s first Emperor, who are buried with him to protect the emperor during his afterlife.
Azamara guests can take advantage of the Early Booking Bonus with the 2023/2024 deployment. A first for the brand, this highly requested offer from our guests and travel advisors will bring great value to those who book early. For more information, please visit www.azamara.com.
My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion
Los Angeles (October 13, 2021) – Viking® (www.viking.com) today announced its newest ocean ship, Viking Saturn®,will join the company’s award-winning fleet in early 2023. The 930-guest sister ship will spend her maiden season sailing three new itineraries in Scandinavian and Nordic countries, including two 15-day journeys, Iconic Iceland, Greenland & Canada and Iceland & Norway’s Arctic Explorer, and the 29-day Greenland, Iceland, Norway & Beyondvoyage. In addition to the three new itineraries, Viking also announced today that the company will bring back the popular 8-day Iceland’s Natural Beauty itinerary starting in August 2023.
“The thousands of guests who sailed our Welcome Back voyage in Iceland this past summer enjoyed the experience so much they provided record-level ratings,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “These new itineraries are ideal for curious travelers and trace routes of the early Viking explorers to Iceland and other North Atlantic destinations known for their natural beauty. We look forward to welcoming Viking Saturn to our fleet and to offering guests even more ways to explore this unique part of the world in comfort.”
New and Returning 2023 Nordic Itineraries:
· Iconic Iceland, Greenland & Canada (NEW) – This 15-day itinerary spans Iceland, Greenland and the Canadian provinces of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. Sailing between New York City and Reykjavik, guests will admire the volcanic landscape of the Westman Islands, enjoy the relaxed pace of life in Djúpivogur, and stroll the streets of picturesque towns like Seydisfjördur and Akureyri.
· Iceland & Norway’s Arctic Explorer (NEW) – On this 15-day journey, guests will discover life in the far north during a voyage across the Arctic Circle and along the distant shores of Norway and Iceland. After enjoying an overnight stay in Viking Saturn’s home port of Bergen, follow the footsteps of Vikings as you visit Honningvåg’s remote North Cape and explore Longyearbyen, which is home to more polar bears than people.
· Greenland, Iceland, Norway & Beyond (NEW) – Guests can also choose to combine these two new itineraries for an epic 29-day voyage. Departing from the former Hanseatic League city of Bergen, guests will trace the path of Vikings through the Scandinavian countries of Norway, Iceland and Greenland before making their way to Canada and concluding in New York.
· Iceland’s Natural Beauty – Returning in 2023, this popular 8-day roundtrip journey from Reykjavik explores the majestic shores of Iceland. Sailing on Viking Star®, guests will encounter unparalleled natural beauty, witness cascading waterfalls and pristine fjord landscapes. Follow in the footsteps of the intrepid explorer Leif Eriksson, observe the local wildlife and immerse yourself in nature.
Viking Saturn
Viking’s ocean ships have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, with 465 staterooms that can host 930 guests. Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet includes Viking Star®, Viking Sea®, Viking Sky®, Viking Orion®, Viking Jupiter® and Viking Venus®. Viking Mars® and Viking Neptune® will join the fleet in 2022; Viking Saturn will join in early 2023. Classified by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” Viking’s ocean fleet features modern Scandinavian design with elegant touches, intimate spaces and attention to detail. Highlights include:
All Veranda Staterooms: Guests can choose from five stateroom categories, starting from 270 sq. ft. Veranda Staterooms, all with private verandas, sweeping views of the destination and premium amenities that include king-size beds with luxury linens, generously proportioned closets, large interactive flat-screen LCD TVs with movies-on-demand, free Wi-Fi and award-winning bathrooms with large showers, premium Freyja® bath products and heated floors.
Explorer Suites: The ships feature 14 Explorer Suites, which are two-room suites ranging from 757 to 1,163 sq. ft. With expansive views from wraparound private verandas, as well as the most amenities and privileges of any category on board, Explorer Suites offer the ultimate sanctuary for guests.
Two Pool Choices: In addition to the Main Pool with a retractable roof permitting any-season swimming, the ships feature a first-of-its-kind glass-backed Infinity Pool cantilevered off the stern, allowing guests to swim surrounded by their destination.
LivNordic Spa: In keeping with Viking’s Nordic heritage, The Spa on board is designed with the holistic wellness philosophy of Scandinavia in mind—from the centuries-old tradition of the sauna to a Snow Grotto where snowflakes gently descend from the ceiling through chilled air.
Explorers’ Lounge and Mamsen’s: Share a cocktail with friends. Linger over a Norwegian breakfast and a nautical history book. The Explorers’ Lounge and Mamsen’s gourmet deli are thoughtful spaces located at the bow of the ship and designed to represent the Scandinavian spirit for complete relaxation and for marveling at sweeping views through double-height windows.
The Wintergarden: Guests looking for serenity will find it in the Wintergarden. In this elegant space under a canopy of Scandinavian trellised wood, guests can indulge in afternoon tea service.
Dining Choices: Viking’s ships offer eight dining options, all with no additional charge or fee—from fine dining in The Restaurant, which serves three full meals and a variety of culinary options, and the World Café, which features international fare and regional specialties including a sushi and seafood cold bar—to intimate alternative dining experiences at The Chef’s Table, which offers a multi-course tasting menu with wine pairings, and Manfredi’s, which features freshly prepared pastas and Italian favorites. The Pool Grill specializes in gourmet burgers, while afternoon tea and scones are available in the Wintergarden. Mamsen’s serves Norwegian deli-style fare, and complimentary 24-hour room service allows all guests to enjoy many signature dishes in the comfort of their stateroom. Furthermore, with multiple choices for outdoor seating during meals, Viking’s ocean ships offer the most al fresco dining at sea. Additionally, The Kitchen Table specializes in regional dishes from market to table.
Cultural Enrichment: Viking experiences from ship to shore are designed for unparalleled access and cultural enrichment. Viking Resident Historians deliver high-level historical and cultural education specific to the journey, offering invaluable insight into the rich history of the destination. Guest Lecturers who are experts in their fields shed light on the destination’s art, architecture, music, geopolitics, natural world and more. Destination Performances represent the most iconic cultural performing arts of the region—whether it be Italian opera or Portuguese fado. Resident Classical Musicians—pianists, guitarists, violinists and flautists—perform classical compositions throughout the ships. And Culinary Classes in The Kitchen Table, Viking’s onboard cooking school, focus on regional cuisine.
Nordic Inspiration: Even the smallest details take their inspiration from the exploratory spirit of the original Vikings, reflecting deeply held Nordic traditions. Light wood grains, touches of slate and teak, Swedish limestone and fragrant juniper appear throughout the public spaces and Spa. The Clinker-built design of the Viking Bar mirrors the construction style of the original Viking Longships. A Viking Heritage Center provides history and context from the Viking Age. And characters from Norse Mythology are subtly incorporated into the design, providing curious guests with inspiration to further explore Viking’s Nordic heritage.
Today’s announcement comes just following news that for the first time Viking was voted both the Best Ocean Cruise Line and River Cruise Line by Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking was the only cruise line with the top scores in two categories in the same year—a distinct honor awarded by Condé Nast Traveler readers.
Booking Details
Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel agent for details.
My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion
PALERMO, ITALY, October 13, 2021 – U.S. headquartered Windstar Cruises has taken delivery of its all-suite Star Plus Class Star Pride today at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Palermo, Sicily, Italy. The yacht is the third and final of the line’s Star Plus Class yachts to be stretched and transformed over a multi-year, $250 million project that is considered to be the most complex and comprehensive renovation project ever undertaken in small ship cruising.
“We are thrilled to have all three of our yachts completely reimagined, from the new, more environmentally-friendly engines to the gorgeous new restaurant spaces, spacious suites, and romantic spas,” said Windstar President Christopher Prelog. “We couldn’t be happier with the results. Our passengers who are already sailing with us on these transformed yachts are raving, giving us higher customer experience scores than we’ve ever received in our company’s history.”
Star Pride will remain in Italy until the yacht resumes guest operations in April in the Mediterranean. Sister yacht Star Breeze begins sailing in Tahiti next week, while Star Legend is completing a short season in the Mediterranean before sailing to the Caribbean in November.
All three yachts increased in maximum capacity from 212 guests to 312 and now provide more of what Windstar’s customers want, like additional dining experiences (one is an outdoor barbecue concept with grilling guru Steven Raichlen and the other a Spanish small plates restaurant from Anthony Sasso, one of the youngest chefs to be recognized by the Michelin Guide), a true spa and fitness center, an elegant infinity pool, and more outdoor deck areas. These three all-suite yachts, together with Windstar’s three classic sailing yachts, remain small enough to continue to visit the special small ports and waterways of the world.
In addition, due to the pandemic, Star Pride and all of Windstar’s yachts received renovations to update HVAC systems, adding new hospital grade high-efficiency particulate (HEPA) filters along with a UV-C air zapping process (ultraviolet germicidal irradiation) to clean the air on board.
For more details on Windstar Cruises, visit www.windstarcruises.com.
My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion
Hi, we are Chris and Rickee and we have been cruise journalists since 2002. We have sailed on 146 cruises on 116 ships with 43 cruise lines. We love sharing our experiences on our website, blog and YouTube channel.
Watch our videos
CRUISEREPORT.COM is a registered trademark of PITA, LLC.
Copyright ©2002-2023 PITA, LLC dba CruiseReport. All rights reserved.
