By
Rebecca Gibson |
Viking Cruises launched Viking Ocean Cruises on 16 May 2013, releasing design details of the first of its two ocean cruise ships, Viking Star, which will be built by Italy’s Fincantieri shipyard.
The 928-passenger, 47,800-gt Viking Star will debut in May 2015, before embarking on maiden voyages in Scandinavia and the Baltic, as well as the Western and Eastern Mediterranean. Developed with to focus on destinations, the ship’s itineraries feature late-evening departures and overnights, enabling guests to spend maximum time in port and experience the local nightlife or evening performances.
“It is our view that in the race to build bigger ships, many cruise lines have lost sight of the destinations to which they sail,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking Cruises. “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 on board experiences to make destinations the true focus.”
Designed by experienced nautical architects, the 227.2-metre Viking Star offers direct access into most ports, providing easy and efficient embarkation and debarkation. In order to meet strict environmental regulations and increase operating efficiency, the vessel has hybrid engines and onboard solar panels, a hydro-dynamically optimised streamlined hull and bow to improve fuel efficiency, and equipment to minimise exhaust pollution.
SMC Design and Rottet Studios have designed the vessel’s interior, which will feature a pool with retractable dome, a glass-backed infinity pool cantilevered off the stern and a holistic wellness spa. A range of indoor and outdoor dining venues with global cuisine will be offered including The Restaurant, World Café, The Chef’s Table, Italian Grill and The Kitchen Table. Passengers will be able to enjoy music in the three-deck atrium, the Viking Piano Lounge Explorers’ Lounge and Wintergarden, as well as enrichment lectures in the Star Theatre and onboard cooking sessions.
The 14-deck ship will have five stateroom categories, all with private verandas and 14 Explorer Suites.
Viking Cruises plans to expand both its ocean and river cruise lines, with a second ocean ship on order for delivery in 2016 and options for four additional ocean vessels. The company is also expected to launch 12 new river ships in 2014.