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Viking Star Review

5.0 / 5.0
2,077 reviews
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Editor Rating
5.0
Excellent
Overall
Cruise Critic
Staff

How many cruise companies can build an entirely new line and style of ship, simply because loyal customers ask for it? That's the advantage Viking Ocean Cruises -- the sister line to the already established Viking River Cruises -- enjoyed when it developed Viking Star, its first oceangoing vessel, in 2015.

The result is a 930-passenger ship that carries some of the spirit of river cruising onto the high seas. As is the case with the line's river cruises, Viking Star is destination focused with port-intensive itineraries. Calls are longer than average, with frequent overnights. Cruisers receive a choice of included tours in every port; for-fee options are also available. Port talks are in-depth, focusing on sights and history as opposed to shopping opportunities.

Other inclusions lifted from river ships include complimentary wine and beer at lunch and dinner, transfers, and most specialty restaurants. Wi-Fi is free and unlimited, and it worked well in cabins and public areas. Perhaps the most stunning inclusion is the Nordic spa, which boasts a thalassotherapy pool, a steam room, a hot tub, a sauna, heated ceramic lounge chairs and a cold plunge pool, as well as the first "snow grotto" at sea.

This Nordic bent is felt throughout the ship. Viking owner (and native Norwegian) Torstein Hagen has put his own stamp on the line's ocean ships, with modern Scandinavian decor, luxe fabrics and leather furniture, a small historical display on Viking history and family recipes at Mamsen's, a delightful Norwegian-themed casual cafe. The attention to detail and artwork feel personal, even idiosyncratic, making the ship feel more like an intimate boutique hotel than a cruise ship.

Viking Star might not please all travelers, though. Because of the destination-intense itineraries, with few days at sea, the ship lacks some amenities to which cruisers might be accustomed. The ship has no casino and only a handful of organized activities scheduled throughout the day. Entertainment at night is inconsistent, ranging from lackluster to engaging.

Viking Oceans is unabashedly not oriented to families with young children. The minimum age to sail is 18, and no activities onboard are arranged for children.

Pros

One of cruising's most beautiful small ships

Cons

No casino and no amenities for families with young kids

Bottom Line

Terrific value for money on port-intensive cruises

About

Passengers: 930
Crew: 550
Passenger to Crew: 1.69:1
Launched: 2015
Shore Excursions: 478

Fellow Passengers

Viking Star is designed to appeal to well-traveled, curious and value-oriented travelers in the 50-plus age group (though it will also appeal to those younger). The Viking Ocean Cruises experience is not meant for families, fans of casino gambling (no casino onboard) or those seeking constant onboard entertainment.

Viking Star Dress Code

Resort casual is the prevailing dress code, with a slightly more relaxed feel during the day. The line's literature says that shorts, jeans and comfortable shoes are acceptable for daytime, but swimsuits and workout clothes should be restricted to the pool, gym and spa areas. There are no formal nights on Viking Star, but passengers do tend to dress up a bit in the evenings -- everything from slacks and blouses to dresses for women and khakis with button-downs to suits for men. Daytime dress is allowed at any time in the World Cafe buffet area.

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More about Viking Star

Where does Viking Star sail from?

Viking Star departs from Piraeus, Piraeus, Laviron, Venice, Barcelona, Rome, Civitavecchia, and Istanbul

How much does it cost to go on Viking Star?

Cruises on Viking Star start from $2,599 per person.

Is Viking Star a good ship to cruise on?

Viking Star won 44 awards over the years.
Viking Star Cruiser Reviews

Always five stars with us.

The Viking star is beautiful inside and out. The total onboard experience is five star. The decor, cabin accommodations and even a huge library, were, as always, the best.Read More
ExplorerXII

2-5 Cruises

Age 70s

Don;t go for the food

The Viking Star is a great ship, well maintained, clean and a staff that is always happy to assist.Read More
handyman1029

10+ Cruises

Age 72s

A True STAR experience

From the marvelous cabin staff to the dining team, the crew and entertainers, the Viking Star personnel were outstanding. A few personal suggestions!Read More
Fans of Viking

10+ Cruises

Age 72s

My best cruise experience yet

Viking has set my new standard for quality and experience. The Staff and crew of Viking Star are top notch and always on point. Interactions were friendly yet professional.Read More
New Viking Fan

6-10 Cruises

Age 57s

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