8/26/2023 

Blogging with a few

A few thoughts about cruising on Viking

Viking cruises have won many “best of” awards, and for the most part we agree.  Life on board is worth a word, so here goes in a series of non-linear thoughts.

 

·      Ocean ships are spacious.  There is always somewhere one can go on board where one can be alone, Usually these spots are comfortable and occasionally a steward will come by and ask if you need (or want) anything – if so they will supply coffee, water, ice cream, cookies, smoothies – whatever.

·      Internet – on past cruises the Internet was iffy and at time non-existent.  On this cruise however, the Internet has been reliable and pretty fast (I’m used to the Gig Fiber in Chattanooga).  We are told that Viking is now using Star Link.  

·      Food.  The ship has 4 places for the meals and 2 places for snacks off hours.  The quality is top notch, the variety is fresh.  The main restaurant has daily local fare – 3 courses of local favorites – usually quite good …

·      Service – The staterooms are cleaned twice daily and the cleaning is thorough.  Every Viking crew member has a smile and question, “can I do anything for you?”  

·      Activity – The cruise director(s) do not allow for any time with nothing to do, from 8 AM to 11 PM, there is always a thing one can go to or do.  (Or not do – if you just want to chill, you can always find a place to be minimally bothered.)

·      The Spa – Viking has contracted with LIV spas, a Swedish chain of first-class spas.  This is therefore an independent venture.  They offer a full range of treatments.  Also, in the spa there are several saunas, hot tubs, heated chaise lounges, showers and an Ice Cave.  It is generally not crowded.  And the staff is most helpful.

·      Gym – the gym has a full range of gear and is nicely spacious.  

·      The promenade deck is measured so that one trip around is ¼ mile.  Traffic is directed clockwise, although there are rule-breakers who will walk anti-clockwise.  It is generally not crowded.

·      Guest lectures – knowledgeable and excited retired professors and active naturalists share their stories and generally enrich us with insights of the environment we are in.  Topics range from women in Icelandic lit to puffins and everything in between.  On this cruise we have 5 experts.  Viking records each one, so we can listen to them live and/or watch them on the stateroom TV.