5th October 2017: After spending a day on board the beautiful Viking Star, Kate, Cruise Specialist at our Cirencester branch shares what you can expect on board. Not only this, discover why she believes the Viking Star is a true star in ocean cruising.
Intimate Feel
While Viking don’t market themselves as a luxury cruise line, there are so many aspects of the Viking Star which would fit the ‘luxury’ standard. My time on board this incredible vessel emphasised this to me as soon as I stepped on board, I felt as though there was something special and different about this ship. With a guest capacity of 970, I was expecting a smaller vessel but I was pleasantly surprised. 
Décor
The Viking Star was spacious, modern and had a pleasantly homely and Scandinavian feel to it. Elegant is what it's about and I was wowed once on board. The décor on board was beautiful, it incorporated a modern and sleek design with signature quirky/eccentric accent pieces such as an animal print table to really bring a sense of style but most of all comfort to each space. I really felt at home on board. 
What Makes Viking Different?
Viking go out of their way to try and be unique, whether that be in the types of excursions, atmosphere, décor or service. One thing which particularly stood out for me was the fact that Viking have a relaxed approach in taking alcohol purchased on shore, on board. For example, if you went on a wine tasting excursion and decided that you liked the wine so much you bought a bottle to bring home and a bottle to enjoy on board, Viking will not confiscate it before you board. Better still, if you do decide to drink your own wine on board, Viking do not charge a corkage fee so you can sit back and enjoy your purchase without fear of being charged. 
Dining
Dining on board the Viking Star is a real treat as there’s a variety of restaurants and dining areas to choose from. What makes Viking different to other cruise lines I’ve experienced is that their emphasis is on ‘alternative’ dining, not ‘speciality’. Viking believe that each guest’s dining experience should be special every time they dine whether its formally or casually. While you may need to book to dine at one of Viking’s more intimate restaurants on board, you won’t have to pay extra, giving guests the freedom to choose and explore. 
My Favourite Space...
My favourite part on board this beautiful vessel had to be the pool and spa areas. The Viking Star’s main pool area features a retractable roof, so swimming in a colder climate won’t be an issue. Not only this, the Viking Star has an incredible infinity pool at its rear. Its location makes the pool a much more relaxing and tranquil space, a visit here is a must, especially for those who are looking for that extra bit of quiet time. The pièce de résistance in my opinion just has to be the ship’s spa area. Inspired by Nordic traditions, it boasts everything from heated stone beds, an icy snow grotto to a hydrotherapy pool so you really are spoiled for choice! 
Final Thoughts
So, what makes cruising with Viking different? Viking make you feel at home, you don’t need to dress up or pretend to be someone you’re not. Its ships allow guests to be comfortable and feel right at home, everything else is just a bonus.
