Viking Ocean Cruises - Viking Octantis Reviews

Great!

This was our first "expedition cruise" and we enjoyed it thoroughly. Viking does an excellent job especially as far as the service on the ship is concerned and a lot of credit for this should go to the General Manager [Wendy Gouws] & her staff.

The room steward and dining staff were great. The excursions staff was unorganized and not clear with instructions. Did not like the paperless daily news. Missed night entertainment. The last day we were unaware that our bus to the airport was actually a tour. We had inquired about a tour but was told by guest services that that there was not enough people. It wasn’t until we were on the bus that we were informed by the guide. We were happy but not prepared. Most of the people, including us, thought we were going straight to airport.

Vikings is our go to cruise line. Octantis is a wonderful ship, with a science team onboard who are working the whole cruise and love to share what they are finding. Of course the food is wonderful and plenty. Great library for the times you want to take a break, multiple places to sit and relax. Great auditorium for the briefings of what is ahead, as well as talks to explain where we were, what they learned, and a great question and answer with all the science team. Everyday is another adventure. Zodiac trips to the shore, or for whale watching, or taking you to an area to kayak, adventures abound. From your room, you can lower the motorized window to get great pictures or just enjoy the great crisp air in you room. The wait staff, housekeeping, and zodiac crew which make your adventures happen are top notch. If you ask for a special food item, drink, or alternative to what is to your liking, just ask. Great binoculars (not cheap at all) great outer gear for trips ashore, wonderful gym, sauna, steam room, and pool. No need to take a big suitcase, as the laundry is quick and efficient. We made it with two carryons, and our backpacks. Wonderful to be on a ship where only 378 people are on board. Hard not to know most of the people on your trip.

Beautiful, educational, total comfort, fantastic food

Loved the ship. Crew was fabulous, food great.

This was an excellent expedition focusing on the Northern Great Lakes with excellent speakers and scientists on board this vessel.