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Saturday, July 20, 2024

Introducing Viking Vela: New for 2024 – How Does It Stack Up Against Viking’s Ocean Fleet?

Viking Cruises' ocean fleet is continuing to expand with the 998-passenger Viking Vela, scheduled to launch in December 2024. As the 10th vessel in the fleet, Viking Vela will be slightly larger than its predecessors while maintaining the familiar layout and Scandinavian-style interior decor found in all Viking ships. At the end we tell you how this compares to other ships in Vikings expanding fleet!




Viking Vela Deck Plans Will Reflect Viking's Trademark Features

Unlike many cruise lines that launch new ships boasting additional features or design changes, Viking Cruises prides itself on the consistency and continuity of its vessels. This approach ensures that both returning passengers and first-time cruisers transitioning from river to ocean voyages experience the same sophisticated ambiance and comfort.

The Viking Vela's design includes the signature Scandinavian-style interiors and outdoor areas that passengers have come to love. Key features include:

  • Aquavit Terrace: An al fresco dining area that offers stunning views and fresh air.
  • Wintergarden: A light and airy space perfect for traditional afternoon tea, accompanied by live piano music.
  • Explorers' Lounge: A panoramic lounge filled with interesting books and artifacts.
  • Living Room: A relaxing space with a large LED screen and a lichen garden, adorned with Nordic-inspired artwork throughout.

Diverse Dining Options

Dining on Viking Vela promises to be a culinary delight with several venues to choose from:

  • The Restaurant: The main dining room offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • World Café: A casual buffet-style setting with global cuisine.
  • The Chef's Table: Featuring themed tasting menus with optional wine pairings.
  • Manfredi's Italian Restaurant: Known for its delectable steaks.
  • Pool Grill: Serving up burgers, salads, and fast food.
  • Mamsen's: Offering Scandinavian specialties.
  • Kitchen Table: The only for-fee venue, hosting cookery classes for an interactive dining experience.

Entertainment and Amenities

Entertainment on Viking Vela centers around classical music recitals, live bands, and dancing in the Torshaven nightspot. For relaxation and recreation, the ship features two pools and a well-equipped fitness center.

Luxurious Accommodations

All of Viking Vela's cabins are outside with balconies and come in six categories, ranging from the 288-square-foot Veranda Staterooms to the expansive 1,448-square-foot Owner's Suite, which includes its own sauna. Each cabin is decorated in muted, restful tones and features 24-hour room service, a mini-bar, bathrooms with heated floors, plush robes and slippers, and premium toiletries.

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Inclusive Experience

Viking Vela offers numerous inclusions, ensuring a hassle-free and luxurious experience. Guests can enjoy complimentary shore excursions, dining in all restaurants, wine, beer, and sodas with lunch and dinner, and access to the spa's thermal suite.

The Largest in the Fleet

While maintaining the same amenities and deck layout as its sister ships, Viking Vela's increased size allows for 17 additional cabins and additional technical equipment required by new International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations. At 784 feet in length and 101 feet wide, the Vela is almost 40 feet longer and seven feet wider than previous ships, accommodating up to 998 passengers.

How Viking Vela Compares to Other Viking Ocean Ships

The Viking Vela is set to be the largest ship in Viking's ocean fleet. Here is a comparison with its sister ships:

  • Viking Vela: 784 feet in length, 101 feet wide, 48,900 gross tons, carrying up to 998 passengers.
  • Other Viking Ocean Ships (e.g., Viking Star, Viking Sea, Viking Sky): Approximately 745 feet in length, 94 feet wide, 47,800 gross tons, carrying up to 930 passengers.

The slight increase in size allows Viking Vela to offer 17 additional cabins and more space for the latest technical equipment. Despite the size difference, the ship will provide the same familiar amenities and deck layouts, ensuring a seamless experience for all guests.

Inaugural Season in Northern Europe

Viking Vela's maiden voyage is set for December 2024, with the inaugural season focused on northern Europe, including the British Isles, Norwegian fjords, Scandinavia, and Iceland. Highlights include the new 26-night 'British Isles and Iceland Explorer' from Reykjavik to London Greenwich, and other itineraries such as 'Iceland's Majestic Landscapes' and the popular 14-night 'Viking Homelands.'

We took this winter tour in Reykjavik! 

Viking Vela Specs

  • Gross Tonnage: 48,900 tons
  • Passenger Capacity: 998 at double occupancy
  • Crew: 470

The Viking Vela promises to be an exceptional addition to Viking's fleet, offering an unparalleled cruising experience with its blend of consistency, luxury, and innovation. We always love the newest cruise ships for their advanced technology, unparalleled comfort, and pristine cleanliness! We hope you will too! 

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