Viking Ocean World Cruise 2019

Few words kindle travellers’ imaginations more than “world cruise”. These pan-global voyages date back to 1922 when Cunard’s stately Laconia inaugurated an annual escape from northern climes that was to become a permanent fixture in the itineraries of the finest ships to grace the seven seas.  Revelling in its bucket-list status as the ultimate voyage, passengers follow in the wake of the great explorers through tropical latitudes. These voyages generally call at a litany of ports on four continents but nothing can match the epic world voyage just announced by Viking Ocean Cruises.

The ‘Ultimate World Cruise’ will span 245 days, six continents, 59 countries and 113 ports, with 22 port overnights and a full circumnavigation of the globe – making it the longest-ever continuous world cruise itinerary. Departing from London on 31 August 2019 on Viking Sun, this grand eight-month journey will mark Viking’s third voyage around the globe and will nearly double the length of the company’s previous world cruise itineraries.

Viking’s ‘Ultimate World Cruise’ visits dozens of legendary cities, charming ports and idyllic islands in one epic journey. Included excursions in every port allow guests to immerse themselves in the world’s cultures, and the Viking way of exploration offers additional, optional excursions that provide unmatched insight into local life as well as privileged access visits to cultural institutions. Overnight stays in 22 cities allow guests to delve deeper into destinations; and Viking’s Culture Curriculum offers additional enrichment on board with regional entertainment and lectures, as well as learning opportunities.

Viking is also offering guests the option to sail on one of two shorter segments during the cruise. Guests can choose between ‘Viking World Treasures’ - a 127-day sailing from London to Los Angeles that visits 33 countries and 61 ports, or ‘Viking World Wonders’ - a 119-day journey from Los Angeles to London that visits 29 countries and 55 ports. World Cruise guests receive Business Class airfare and all gratuities and service fees, along with an extensive list of added-value included features in their cruise fare.

All 464 staterooms come with balconies and range from a 270 sq ft Veranda Staterooms to Explorer’s Suites between 757 and 1,163 sq ft. All of the cabins have a crisp blue and white palette.  The Restaurant, offers classic cuisine, while the World Café - which spills out on to the deck - has a great selection from the buffet. There’s no supplement for speciality dining options such as Manfredi’s - their stylish Italian restaurant - or at The Chef’s Table - where a tasting menu rotates every three days. Also included in the fare are beer and wine with lunch and dinner; unlimited Wi-Fi; self-service laundry; access to the Thermal Suite in the LivNordic Spa; and 24-hour room service. If you are tempted to see the world the Viking way call our cruise specialists now on 0800 484 0370. 

Gary Buchanan