Take a look at the new cruise ships arriving in 2015

The forthcoming year looks very promising for the cruise industry as five new vessels are scheduled to launch within the next twelve months.

The first to launch is P&O Cruises’ Britannia. At 142,000 gross tons the vessel will be the largest the cruise line has ever ordered. The line has opted for a contemporary interior décor design for this family-friendly ship. She boasts 1,837 cabins (including 27 single occupancy cabins), 26 bars, restaurants and cafés and four swimming pools. In a first for the cruise line every outside cabin will have its own private balcony. Britannia’s maiden voyage sets out on 14 March from Southampton.



Viking Star is the first ocean cruise ship from Viking Ocean Cruises, sister line to Viking River Cruises. The inaugural cruise commences on 11 April from Istanbul, Turkey on an epic 50-day voyage around the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. At 47,800 gross tons with a capacity of 928 guests, the luxury Viking Star is very much an intimate vessel. Highlights of the vessel include the aft infinity pool, alfresco dining options and the luxurious staterooms, each one with a private balcony.



On 22 April Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas will embark on her maiden voyage from Southampton. This Quantum-class vessel is expected to be almost identical to Quantum of the Seas which was launched in October of this year. The 168,666 gross ton vessel promises to be one of the most technologically-advanced cruise ships afloat. The ship will benefit from a modern contemporary décor and boasts 2,090 cabins (including 28 studio cabins). The Quantum-class ship will offer Dynamic Dining offering five complimentary main restaurants with a further eight additional-fee venues available.



Ponant Yacht Cruises & Expeditions are looking forward to welcoming Le Lyrial to the fleet. The inaugural sailing will see the yacht sailing from Venice on 9 May cruising along the Adriatic and Dalmatian Coast. At a mere 10,944 gross tons, this luxury intimate yacht will offer just 122 staterooms and suites, each with private balconies, and will feature contemporary Mediterranean-inspired interior décor.

Ponant Le Lyrial

Lastly, on 25 October Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Escape will depart on her maiden voyage from Hamburg, Germany bound for Miami, USA via Southampton. The cruise ship is the first in the “Breakaway Plus”-class and it builds upon the success of the Breakway-class vessels. At 164,600 gross tons she will accommodate up to 4,200 passengers. She will boast the largest ropes course and aqua parks at sea, together with an expanded “The Haven” area and a range of dining venues at “678 Ocean Place”.



(Photo credit to Ponant Yacht Cruises & Expeditions; ©Philip Plisson)

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Taking command of Viking's first ocean cruise ship

Contrary to the popular misconception, he does not wear a horned helmet or carry an axe. But Gulleik Svastalog (above) is the newest Viking captain.

He will be in command of Viking Star when it welcomes its first passengers next April, and is already overseeing the construction of the ship at Fincantieri’s Marghera yard near Venice.

Capt Svastalog brigs 45 years of sailing experience to Viking Ocean Cruises’ first vessel.  He has held a variety of senior ship management positions and has worked as superintendent for Norwegian Cruise Line and Crystal Cruises, and as Lead Auditor for the international maritime classification society, Det Norske Veritas (DNV). His most recent position was captain of Color Line Cruises.

He grew up on a farm in the mountains of Norway, but turned to the sea when he realized he was allergic to hay and horses. Now he says sailing is in  his blood, and that after so many years at sea, he has saved the best till last.

“We could not ask for a better captain for our first ocean ship,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking Cruises. “Captain Svalastog brings an impeccable record that will undoubtedly guide Viking Star and her guests though a successful maiden season.”  

Viking Star is the first of three ocean cruise ships confirmed for the company which has revolutionised river cruising in Europe. Each carrying up to 930 passengers, Star, Sea and Sky will operate itineraries designed to give maximum time in port, and with excursions and gratuities included in the fare.

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Work starts on second of Viking's three new ocean ships

A ceremonial steel-cutting in an Italian shipyard this week marked the start of construction on Viking Cruises’ second ocean-going vessel. Viking Sea is due to be completed in spring 2016. It will be the sister ship to Viking Star, already being built in the same Fincantieri yard near Venice, and Viking Sky which will be built in Ancona for delivery in summer 2016. Star is scheduled for a christening ceremony in Bergen, Norway, on May 17 next year. The virtually identical ships – the first venture into ocean cruising for river cruise giant Viking -  measure 47,800 tons and will each carry 928 passengers.

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Viking Star Takes Shape

By Editor Simon Veness

 

Fledgling new ocean-cruise line Viking Cruises took another step towards their big 2015 debut yesterday with the keel-laying ceremony of their first ship, the Viking Star.

 

The ceremony took place at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard outside Venice, where the ship is scheduled to be delivered in early 2015.

 

Viking Cruises is already a major name in European river-cruises, but the 48,000-ton ship (the first of four in the next three years) is a major undertaking for them.

 

Viking chairman Torstein Hagen said: “Our new ocean itineraries are selling at an unprecedented rate, and the enthusiasm we have seen from guests is truly remarkable.

 

"There is undoubtedly interest in an ocean cruise experience that returns the focus to the destination, and Viking is actively planning to meet that demand.” The first steel was cut for Viking Star

in June and the laying of the keel is a formal recognition of the start of construction. 

The 930-passenger vessel will feature state-of-the-art design from experienced nautical architects and engineers. The latest stepping stone follows the announcement on Monday of two more ships for the brand, following their initial two.

 

Next year will also be a busy one for the river-cruise division as the company will launch a record-breaking FOURTEEN new Viking Longship vessels, all at the same launch ceremony in March.

 

More info: in the UK, call 0800 319 66 60 or visit www.vikingrivercruises.co.uk; in the US, 1855 884 5464 or www.vikingcruises.com.

 

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Viking Order More Ships

By Editor Simon Veness

The new ocean-going version of Viking Cruises, which is due to make its debut in May 2015, is definitely going full steam ahead, with the announcement today of two more new ships for  2016 and '17, which will take the fledgling line to FOUR vessels in all.

 

As with the first duo, to be delivered in 2015 and early 2016, the latest pair will be built at the Italian shipyard Fincantieri, and will also be sister vessels at 47,800 tons each.

 

No price was revealed for the two extra newbuilds, but industry source Seatrade Insider estimated that the first two of the quartet are costing around $308million each.

Viking also revealed they are discussing additional high-profile joint projects with Fincantieri in other cruise areas to further enlarge the scope of their partnership.

Viking chairman Torstein Hagen said: "The interest in and popularity of our current ocean itineraries has been incredible and they are selling at an unprecedented rate. This new order allows us to offer consumers in our other markets the opportunity to explore the world in ways they have never experienced before through our destination-focused itineraries."

 

Shipyard chief executive Giuseppe Bono added: "Fincantieri has got its fill this year of the newbuild orders offered by the market. This again demonstrates our determination and ability to compete. We hope the next few years will provide more and greater satisfaction that we'll need to pursue with the passion and cultural openness demanded by the competitive environment."

Viking's first ship of their ambitious new foursome will be called Viking Star and will sail an inaugural season of Baltic cruises in summer 2015, re-positioning to the Mediterranean through winter 2015/16. None of the other ships have yet been named, nor destinations announced, but it is likely they will feature more of Europe in the summer months and go further afield to the Caribbean and Central America in winter.

The company also promises a highly destination-focused travel experience, with an emphasis on cultural enrichment. On the river side, Viking has already announced plans to introduce 14 more of its award-winning Viking Longships in Europe next year, making it the leading river-cruise operator by the end of 2014.

 

More info: visit www.vikingcruises.com and www.vikingrivercruises.co.uk.

 

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Viking's Big Med Moments

Viking Cruises has announced a full schedule of 2015 Mediterranean itineraries for the new Viking Star, as well as select 2016 sailings, to highlight their maiden year of ocean cruising. 

The move will keep debut ship Viking Star in the Mediterranean, offering additional sailings to some of Europe’s most beautiful and historic cities, from Rome to Barcelona. Responding to the overwhelming demand for the ship's maiden voyages in the Mediterranean offered earlier for the spring and summer of 2015, the new winter cruises will allow guests the chance to explore the vibrant cultures and sites along the Mediterranean in the quiet season, in keeping with Viking’s promise to provide a unique cruise experience. Due to the popularity of the nearly-sold out 2015 maiden voyages, select 2016 itineraries are now also available for booking.

“We are pleased to announce additional cruises in the Mediterranean that will allow guests to experience some of the most beautiful cities in Europe during the quiet season the way the locals do,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking Cruises. “Our Mediterranean ocean itineraries have sold at an unprecedented rate; consumers are responding enthusiastically to this attractive region and the carefully-designed itineraries that offer our guests the opportunity to explore this historically fascinating region by letting them get closer to the historical sites, people and traditions in ways they have never experienced before.”

New Mediterranean Itineraries

The overwhelming popularity of Viking Star’s maiden voyages resulted in the addition of the winter 2015 Mediterranean itineraries. By highlighting more unique locations, such as Malta, Sicily, Sardinia, and Algiers – and crafting experiences that take advantage of the post-tourist season – the new itineraries showcase the Mediterranean in a way many travellers have never witnessed. By sailing in the winter months, guests will see an entirely different Europe – quieter and more contemplative, all while soaking up the splendour of the region.

Romantic Mediterranean (8 days; Barcelona-Rome): While sailing along some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, this itinerary offers a perfect mix of glamour, rustic pleasures and memorable landscapes with visits to Toulon, Corsica and Monte Carlo; the Tuscan region of Italy; plus overnights in Barcelona and Rome. Introductory 2-for-1 pricing starts at $1,999 per person with discounted airfares from $595pp.

Mediterranean Getaway (8 days; Rome-Barcelona): Explore historically significant sites and vibrant cities of the southern Mediterranean with destinations that include Rome, Naples (and Pompeii), Sicily and Sardinia; Tunis (and Carthage); and Palma de Mallorca, Valencia and Barcelona. Introductory 2-for-1 pricing starts at $1,999 per person with discounted airfares from $595pp.

Mediterranean Explorer (15 days; Barcelona-Barcelona): Combining the Romantic Mediterranean and Mediterranean Getaway, this itinerary features fabled ancient cities, medieval wonders and iconic sites that include Toulon, Monte Carlo and Corsica; Tuscany, Naples (and Pompeii), Sicily and Sardinia; Tunis (and Carthage); Palma de Mallorca and Valencia; plus overnights in Barcelona and Rome. Introductory 2-for-1 pricing starts at $3,849 per person with discounted airfares from $595pp.

Grand Mediterranean Tour (15 days; Barcelona-Barcelona): Sun-kissed shores and new places to discover await on this voyage that begins with an overnight in Barcelona and includes an overnight in Rome. Stops include Monte Carlo, Toulon and Corsica; Tuscany and Sardinia; Tunis; and Valencia; plus off-the-beaten path visits to Valletta, Malta, and Algiers, Algeria. Introductory 2-for-1 pricing starts at $3,849 per person with discounted airfares from $595pp.

Viking’s Ocean Cruises

Last May, Viking Cruises announced the launch of its ocean cruise product line, which will begin sailing in May 2015 with the brand-new 928-passenger Viking Star embarking her maiden voyages in Scandinavia and the Baltic. Then she will also sail in the Western and Eastern Mediterranean. The launch affirmed Viking's continued commitment to providing unique cruising journeys for the experienced traveller. Since announcing itineraries for the 2015 Viking Star maiden voyages, cabins have sold at a rapid rate, due to overwhelming interest in Viking’s small-ship, destination-focused ocean cruises.

Booking Details

For more details, visit www.vikingcruises.com/oceans. From now until December 18, Viking is offering a 2015 & 2016 Early Booking Discount with up to 2-for-1 cruise pricing and up to $2,000 per couple off air. Viking’s inclusive pricing covers accommodations, all onboard meals, a guided excursion in each port of call, port charges, complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with onboard dinner and lunch service, and more.

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Welcome, Viking Ocean Cruises

The world's luxury cruise lines will have a new competitor in 2015 after Viking River Cruises revealed full details of its new Ocean Cruises brand, with its first all-new vessel, Viking Star (above), set to debut in two years' time.

The first ship in the Viking Ocean Cruises fleet, carrying 928 passengers, will launch in May 2015 with itineraries to Scandinavia, the Baltic and Mediterranean. It is aimed to compete (in size and style) with the likes of Azamara Club Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas and Crystal.

Viking already has a firm order for a second ship (for 2016) and options for four more, all to be built by Fincantieri in Italy.

The onboard value will INCLUDE shore excursions, drinks (beer and wine) with lunch and dinner and free Wi-Fi, along with port charges and taxes. The line also plans to maximise guests' time in port, using late evening departures and overnight stays, making for a destination-intensive experience.

Viking Cruises Chairman Torstein Hagen explained: “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. 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.”

The all-balcony Viking Star will have five cabin categories, ranging from standard 270sq ft varieties to a sumptuous 1,448sq ft suite. There will be two pools, one with a retractable dome, the other a glass-backed infinity pool at the ship's stern. There will also be a completely novel feature called a "snow grotto" in the Spa, where Vikings says "snowflakes gently descend from the ceiling through chilled air."

For dining, there will be five main venues, the main dining room simply called The Restaurant, an Italian Grill, a Viking Deli (offering the line's Scandinavian specialities), a World Cafe and an intimate restaurant called The Kitchen Table, plus a cooking school and a special Chef's Table.

However, the 2015 maiden season is initially being offered only in the US, but Viking will begin marketing in the UK, Australia and New Zealand later this year. 

Wendy Atkin-Smith, Managing Director of Viking River Cruises UK, added: "We are very excited about the introduction of Viking’s new ocean ship, allowing us to offer our customers the chance to experience even more destinations in style and comfort. We look forward to launching to the UK market later in the summer and, until then, we continue to focus on our ever popular river product and the overwhelming demand for the new Longships."

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