WITH THE VIKING OCEAN ORION PLANETARIUM, THE SKY IS NOT THE LIMIT
Over the last decade Viking Cruise Lines has dominated Europe’s rivers launching more than 40 riverboats. On the heels of that robust success, the cruise line is also making waves on the ocean.
Viking Ocean Cruise Orion’s High Tech Planetarium, A Last Minute Surprise:
In a June, 2018 naming ceremony that took place in Livorno, Italy Viking received its fifth ocean vessel, the Viking Orion, now sailing and continuing Viking’s breathtaking expansion. Their newest Ocean vessel carries on Viking’s Nordic culture and exploration theme which now highlights, space travel: the Viking Orion — named after the prominent constellation and in honor of retired NASA astronaut and ship ‘godmother’, Anna Fisher.
Read more about this event as covered this article from Space.com: From Space to Sea: Cruise Ship ‘Viking Orion’ Honors Retired Astronaut Anna Fisher
This newest cruise ship joined its sister ships currently sailing the oceans—Viking Star, Viking Sea, Viking Sky and Viking Sun. Similar in scale to its siblings, Viking Orion has 465 staterooms, accommodating 930 guests. The company plans to operate 16 ocean cruise ships by 2027.
VIKING CRUISES – SAVE TED’S VIKING WEBSITE TO YOUR FAVS FOR HIS WHITE GLOVE TREATMENT
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Through the summer of 2018, Viking Orion will spend its maiden season in the Western and Eastern Mediterranean; the ship is then expected to work its way to Alaska, Asia and Australia.
Viking’s Orion features a two-deck-high Explorers’ Dome, touting a high-tech planetarium, replacing the forward-facing Explorer’s lounge, “the highest-definition 7K planetarium in the world,” Viking’s executive director operations for ocean Ralph de Klijn said during a recent demonstration. The circular, theater-like space had been kept a secret for more than a year while the ship was under construction.
The attraction uses the latest in planetarium technology to offer shows about space and exploration, including one that includes a segment on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft.“
It’s on this ship. It may or may not be on all other ships going forward,” Viking marketing chief Richard Marnell commented. “We’re evaluating it. It’s sort of a pilot program.”
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In addition to the Explorers’ Dome, the Orion features photographs of NASA astronauts and missions in public areas. The new dome, photographs and choice of godmother for Orion fit a theme of exploration — a Viking touchstone. The line’s trips are designed for exploration-minded travelers with diverse, destination-focused itineraries around the world and extensive enrichment options.
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In addition to offering shows in the Explorers’ Dome, Orion will sail with a Viking Resident Astronomer (as part of Viking Ocean’s Program, the subject of our Travel Blog: VIKING CRUISES LAUNCHES NEW RESIDENT HISTORIAN PROGRAM) who will lecture on the mysteries of the cosmos and how humans have explored it. The on-board astronomer also will offer guided tours of the night sky during stargazing sessions.
The ship also has a digitally stabilized portable telescope that can pair up with the Explorers’ Dome to offer a live view of the surrounding sky.
At the planetarium, guests can view panoramic exploration such as “Journey to Space” and “Life under the Arctic Sky” in a fully immersive environment. The new planetarium is a welcome addition to a roster of activities that includes aquavit tastings, enrichment lectures, port talks and afternoon tea. In the evenings, the stage shows include an Abba/Beatles mash-up called The Fabba Four.
For more news about Viking Ocean Cruise Latest Expansion, read our article: VIKING’S CHAIRMAN, TORSTEIN HAGEN, ORDERS TWO NEW “SPECIAL” OCEAN VESSELS, BUT WILL THEY BE ‘EXPEDITION’ DEPLOYED?
The Viking Orion and its Historic International Space Station Call
Space reporter Samantha Mathewson, of Space.com sailed on the Orion’s maiden voyage, from Rome to Barcelona, June 13 2018 through June 19 2018. As reported by Samantha, on June 16, 2018 as covered in her article: Cruising Constellations: Sailing the Maiden Voyage of ‘Viking Orion’ this cruise held some out-of-this-world surprises for all…
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Over the last decade Viking Cruise Lines has dominated Europe’s rivers launching more than 40 riverboats. On the heels of that robust success, the cruise line is also making waves on the ocean.
Viking Ocean Cruise Orion’s High Tech Planetarium, A Last Minute Surprise:
In a June, 2018 naming ceremony that took place in Livorno, Italy Viking received its fifth ocean vessel, the Viking Orion, now sailing and continuing Viking’s breathtaking expansion. Their newest Ocean vessel carries on Viking’s Nordic culture and exploration theme which now highlights, space travel: the Viking Orion — named after the prominent constellation and in honor of retired NASA astronaut and ship ‘godmother’, Anna Fisher.
Read more about this event as covered this article from Space.com: From Space to Sea: Cruise Ship ‘Viking Orion’ Honors Retired Astronaut Anna Fisher
This newest cruise ship joined its sister ships currently sailing the oceans—Viking Star, Viking Sea, Viking Sky and Viking Sun. Similar in scale to its siblings, Viking Orion has 465 staterooms, accommodating 930 guests. The company plans to operate 16 ocean cruise ships by 2027.
VIKING CRUISES – SAVE TED’S VIKING WEBSITE TO YOUR FAVS FOR HIS WHITE GLOVE TREATMENT
Contact CruisinWithTed.com, your Small Ship Ocean and River Cruise Experts at 954-290-8626 or email hello.cruisinwithted.com
Through the summer of 2018, Viking Orion will spend its maiden season in the Western and Eastern Mediterranean; the ship is then expected to work its way to Alaska, Asia and Australia.
Viking’s Orion features a two-deck-high Explorers’ Dome, touting a high-tech planetarium, replacing the forward-facing Explorer’s lounge, “the highest-definition 7K planetarium in the world,” Viking’s executive director operations for ocean Ralph de Klijn said during a recent demonstration. The circular, theater-like space had been kept a secret for more than a year while the ship was under construction.
The attraction uses the latest in planetarium technology to offer shows about space and exploration, including one that includes a segment on NASA’s new Orion spacecraft.“
It’s on this ship. It may or may not be on all other ships going forward,” Viking marketing chief Richard Marnell commented. “We’re evaluating it. It’s sort of a pilot program.”
Your Vacation Is Not a Dress Rehearsal, Get Ted’s Expert Travel Protection Advice! Call Ted at 954-290-8626 and sign up here to Get Our Free No-Obligation Travel Protection Quote
In addition to the Explorers’ Dome, Orion features photographs of NASA astronauts and missions in public areas. The new dome, photographs and choice of godmother for Orion fit a theme of exploration — a Viking touchstone. The line’s trips are designed for exploration-minded travelers with diverse, destination-focused itineraries around the world and extensive enrichment options.
FOR MORE DAILY TRAVEL TIPS, LIKE TED’S TRAVEL FACEBOOK PAGE
In addition to offering shows in the Explorers’ Dome, Orion will sail with a Viking Resident Astronomer (as part of Viking Ocean’s Program, the subject of our Travel Blog: VIKING CRUISES LAUNCHES NEW RESIDENT HISTORIAN PROGRAM who will lecture on the mysteries of the cosmos and how humans have explored it. The on-board astronomer also will offer guided tours of the night sky during stargazing sessions.
The ship also has a digitally stabilized portable telescope that can pair up with the Explorers’ Dome to offer a live view of the surrounding sky.
At the planetarium, guests can view panoramic exploration such as “Journey to Space” and “Life under the Arctic Sky” in a fully immersive environment. The new planetarium is a welcome addition to a roster of activities that includes aquavit tastings, enrichment lectures, port talks and afternoon tea. In the evenings, the stage shows include an Abba/Beatles mash-up called The Fabba Four.
For more news about Viking Ocean Cruise Latest Expansion, read our article: VIKING’S CHAIRMAN, TORSTEIN HAGEN, ORDERS TWO NEW “SPECIAL” OCEAN VESSELS, BUT WILL THEY BE ‘EXPEDITION’ DEPLOYED?
The Viking Orion and its Historic International Space Station Call
Space reporter Samantha Mathewson, of Space.com sailed on the Orion’s maiden voyage, from Rome to Barcelona, June 13 2018 through June 19 2018. As reported by Samantha, on June 16, 2018 as covered in her article: Cruising Constellations: Sailing the Maiden Voyage of ‘Viking Orion’ this cruise held some out-of-this-world surprises for all…
As covered by Space.com “NASA astronaut Dr. Drew Feustel called Viking Orion from the International Space Station this evening during the Explorations in Space conversation, joining the other 15 retired astronauts on board the ship. Dr Feustel is currently working on the orbiting lab as part of Expedition 55/56, which launched in March 2018. [Read more in the Space.com article: Space Station Astronaut Chats with Passengers Aboard ‘Viking Orion’ Cruise Ship.]
“Anna Fisher spoke to Dr. Feustel, along with his wife Indira and son Aiden, who are also traveling with Viking Orion this week. This is the first time that the space station has called a non-military ship. Following Feustel’s call, the panel discussed their experiences in space and what is next for the space program.”
Space reporter Samantha Mathewson continues: “Upon returning to my room after the ceremony, I found we had all been gifted a copy of “Finse Explores the Universe,” the 14th book in the educational children’s book series, “The World of Finse,” which showcases the adventures of the Hagen’s yellow Labrador, Finse. The book was written and published to coincide with the launch of Viking Orion. In fact, since this maiden voyage of Viking Orion is also considered a “shakedown cruise,” Finse is onboard and I actually had the pleasure of meeting her.”
See my blog, VIKING CRUISE ‘FAMILY’ ADDS THE JUPITER TO ITS RAPIDLY EXPANDING OCEAN FLEET, NOW A HALF DOZEN AND COUNTING with the story behind The Viking Family’s golden labrador Finse and how this canine who has authored her own children’s series of books. My question is, will our furry Finse, be the next dog to travel into space?
Discover Why More Discerning World Travelers Are Choosing Viking Cruises Than Any Other Cruise Lines
Designed for discerning travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers guests “the thinking person’s cruise” as an alternative to mainstream cruises. Ships are small to get guests closer to their destination, with more time in port and more overnights. Onboard, guests find serene Scandinavian spaces, where every room is beautiful and functional, quiet and filled with light.
In addition, Viking Inclusive Value provides a small ship experience at a big ship value and no nickel-and-diming – with every cruise fare including a veranda stateroom, shore excursions in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Guests also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including: beer and wine with lunch and dinner service; premium dining reservations; Wi-Fi; self-service laundry; access to the Thermal Suite in the LivNordic Spa; and 24-hour room service—an included value of more than $200 per person, per day for an average cruise.
Cruisin’ With Ted Your Small Ship Ocean and River Cruise Specialist
For your next vacation, contact your River and Small Ocean Cruise Expert, CruisinWithTed.com at 954-290-8626, email hello@cruisinwithted.com and find out why more roaming boomers than ever are leaving their travel plans in the able hands of our traveler-focused services. With decades of offering world-class destination-focused itineraries, our services may include up to $500 per person in non cash amenities, on new and existing travel bookings, in addition to the cruise line benefits.
LET TED HELP MAKE YOUR VIKING CRUISE A TRULY MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE FROM START TO FINISH
Viking allows us to contribute up to $500 per person in non-cash amenities on new and existing bookings. Hey Ted, here is my booking number, now tell me how I can get your added benefits. Call Ted at 954-290-8626 or email hello@cruisinwithted.com.
We gratefully acknowledge USA Today and Space.com and NASA.com for editorial and pictorial contributions!
