Viking Cruises is expanding into ocean travel with the launch of a new line, Viking Ocean Cruises. This introduction represents the first new cruise line in the industry in nearly a decade and brings Viking’s signature focus on destinations to the high seas.
Designed to put destinations at the center of the experience, Viking Ocean Cruises will begin sailing in May 2015 with its inaugural ship, Viking Star. The vessel’s maiden itineraries include Scandinavia and the Baltic as well as the Western and Eastern Mediterranean. Viking has outlined an ambitious expansion plan that includes a second ocean ship scheduled for delivery in 2016 and conditional orders and options for four additional ocean vessels. These ocean orders build on the company’s ongoing growth in the river cruise market.
“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,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking Cruises.
Viking’s ocean ships are being developed to reflect the line’s established river-cruise strengths: carefully curated itineraries, intimate onboard atmosphere, and unique shore excursions that prioritize meaningful cultural access. The intent is to offer travelers a refined, destination-led alternative to conventional mass-market ocean cruising.
By emphasizing smaller ships, thoughtfully designed public spaces, and a program of expert-led shore visits, Viking plans to attract travelers who value immersive experiences and cultural connection. The initial deployment of Viking Star in Northern and Southern European waters positions the new line to showcase both iconic ports and lesser-known destinations along well-established travel routes.
Viking’s expansion into ocean cruising complements its river fleet, which helped establish the brand’s reputation for attentive service, destination expertise, and value-driven itineraries. The company’s strategy indicates a continued focus on steady, measured growth while maintaining the service and program elements that earned acclaim in its river operations.
As the first new cruise line launched in many years, Viking Ocean Cruises aims to differentiate itself by translating the company’s river-cruise philosophy into an ocean context—smaller ships, destination immersion, and culturally rich excursions—offering an alternative for travelers seeking a more intimate and educational cruising experience.
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