Viking Ocean Cruise – the ship

Our home-away-from-home for the week is the Viking Sea – 2nd ship in Vikings fleet of ocean ships – with just under 1000 guests aboard. A delightfully simple layout with tons of cozy seating options abounds aboard. Definitely different from its rivals in this space.

My deluxe veranda cabin category DV2 is located mid-ship on deck 6. First impressions were of comfort and quality. The cabin is spacious (even with two individual beds) and features “the best bathroom” design ever. Pluses are the countless electrical outlets and USB ports as well as the bath amenities one can read without glasses (shampoo, conditioner, lotion etc.) – see above. I wish hotels did this too – its been too many times that I had lotion in my hair instead of conditioner with the traditionally tiny print on bottles and tubes.

Viking’s Scandinavian efficiency and style is omnipresent. Spacious walk-in shower and double vanity with tons of storage in clear wood colors are a treat.

I have seen many a bathroom on my many cruise adventures of late and this one clearly sets the standard for traditional cabin categories. (If I can sneak a peek into a suite, I will report back on that later)

The modern, yet cozy feel permeates the entire ship. From the bar in the main dining room to the tables in cozy groupings, each with comfy chairs and plush pillows, makes me feel right at home.

Meals are excellent and varied. Just as guests experience on a river ship, dining is on an open seating basis from 6 to 9pm. No queues, no buzzzers, no early or late – just go and eat – amazing!

From the top, the fabulous salmon and dill eggs benedict, seafood buffet at World Cafe (offered daily), and the tasty beef Wellington are just a few samples of our tasty meals so far. Note also that wine and beer are covered at meal times – I call it the bottomless glass – which is a big plus.

More to come as we discover the public spaces of this vessel.