As Viking Cruises marks its 20th anniversary this year, it’s making quite a splash by continuing an aggressive growth strategy. But more ships has not diminished the quality of the Viking experience one bit. In fact, Viking was rated the #1 ocean cruise line in Travel + Leisure’s 2016 and 2017 “World’s Best” Awards and has also been honored multiple times on Condé Nast Traveler’s “Gold List.” The Viking Cruises fleet is currently made up of 68 vessels, including both river and ocean ships, with plans to keep growing.

The Latest Addition: Viking Sun

On October 4, 2017, the newest ocean ship, Viking Sun, set sail on her maiden voyage from Venice, Italy. Like her three sister ocean cruise ships, the 48,000 ton Viking Sun carries only 930 guests and is classified as a small ship. On board, the modern Scandinavian décor is filled with light, clean lines, and traditional Nordic materials.
All staterooms have a private balcony, giving guests expansive views of their destinations. Spacious bathrooms with heated floors and premium toiletries, king beds with luxury linens, and unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi make it hard to leave your suite.

But when you can tear yourself away from your balcony view, each of Viking’s ocean ships offers eight dining options, all at no additional charge or fee. They also have the most al fresco dining options at sea, so you can truly dine in your destination. You’ll enjoy everything from fine dining with international classics, to market-to-table regional specialties, to a true Scandinavian deli.

Future Growth of the Viking Cruises Fleet

The next ocean ship under construction has already touched water and will debut in July 2018. The ship was originally rumored to be named Viking Spirit; however Viking Chairman, Torstein Hagen announced that it will be called Viking Orion. The name honors both the ship’s godmother, Dr. Anna Fisher, who worked on NASA’s Orion exploration vehicle project, as well as the original Vikings, who were the first long-distance explorers.

The Viking Cruises fleet will grow by four additional ocean ships already on order. Two will be delivered by 2019 and two more in 2021 and 2022. At that time, with eight 930-guest ocean cruise ships, Viking will be the largest small ship ocean cruise line.

Meanwhile, Viking continues to be one of the most popular and award-winning river cruise lines. The Viking Cruises fleet operates 64 river vessels, including 48 Longships, and they will add another nine by 2018. Hagen said recently that he could see a fleet of 100 river ships and up to 20 ocean ships in the company’s future! Viking’s aggressive growth is certain to create more opportunities for guests to explore more destinations in Scandinavian luxury.

Inclusive Cruise Fares

Viking Cruises includes more in their cruise fare than most other cruise lines. All port charges and government taxes are included, although gratuities are not. In addition to superb dining choices (with no surcharge), guests enjoy beer and wine with lunch and dinner service. One complimentary shore excursion in each port of call in included, as is unlimited Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and access to the Thermal Suite in the LivNordic Spa.

To find out more about Viking River or Viking Ocean itineraries, contact the cruise specialists at Covington Travel.

*Disclosure: Covington Travel is pleased to recognize Viking Cruises as a valued partner and sponsor of this post. Images courtesy of Viking Cruises.