Viking confirms two ocean ships
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Viking Cruises has confirmed an order for two ocean ships due to be launched in 2015 and 2016.
The two ships will hold 928 passengers each and mark the start of Viking’s entry into the ocean cruise market after significant expansion in the river sector.
Its first ship will be named Viking Star and is due to join the fleet in May 2015 offering cruises in Scandinavia, the Baltic and Mediterranean. Features will include the Explorers’ Lounge; multiple restaurants; two pools; the Wintergarden which will serve up Afternoon Teas and a theatre for live performances.
A second ship will be received in 2016, with the option for Viking to purchase four more and all will have a destination-focused itineraries.
Its ships will have five cabin categories and include excursions, WiFi and beer and wine with meals in its fares.
“It is our view that in the race to build bigger ships, many cruise lines have lost sight of the destinations to which they sail,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking Cruises. “With our new ocean cruises, we are applying the same principles behind our award-winning river cruises to our itinerary and ship design; privileged-access excursions; and onboard experiences to make destinations the true focus.”
Viking has added 16 ships to its river fleet in the last two years with another 12 on order.
