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Viking Saturn sails into deep fjords to reach Scandinavian hidden gems on a ship with sophisticated yet laid-back vibes.
And, until recently, exploring the colder climes of northern Europe hasnt really been high on my list.
The bow of the Viking Saturn at Geiranger, Norway.Credit:Carlo Raciti/carolraciti.com
The overall vibe is Scandinavian chic, if not out-and-out luxury.
Passengers recline in square-backed leather chairs, enjoying classical music performances by a pianist and vocalist.
At 270 square feet, entry-level Veranda Staterooms are slightly larger than the average mid-range European hotel room.
The ship’s atrium.Carlo Raciti/carolraciti.com
Guests of these accommodations have priority pre-embarkation access to spa and premium restaurant bookings.
Skin-tingling Freyja bathroom products, produced for Viking, reminded me of the verdant hillsides I hiked up.
Self-service laundrettes located on each floor are very convenient.
The Heritage Center, where passengers can learn more about the Viking era.Carlo Raciti/carolraciti.com
On deck 2, The Restaurant saw large groups of newfound friends gathering for excellent a la carte cuisine.
Tender seared duck magret proved a standout choice.
I also noticed some vegan options, such as slow-roasted tofu with quinoa, edamame, and zucchini.
Seating in the Explorers' Lounge.Carlo Raciti/carolraciti.com
As for cocktails, the Explorers Lounge is especially atmospheric during sailaways.
Shore Excursions
Viking offers at least one complimentary shore excursion at every port of call.
I took advantage of these in several destinations, sometimes squeezing in a morning or afternoon option just because.
A waffle at Mamsen’s.Carlo Raciti/carolraciti.com
One of my most memorable excursions was a small-boat cruise in the remote Faroe Islands.
We passed through deep grottoes framed by soaring, charcoal-hued craggy basalt columns while stiff-winged fulmars flew above.
To avoid the crowds, try booking early morning excursions.
The Viking Saturn on the water in Geiranger, Norrway.Carlo Raciti/carolraciti.com
Amenities and Entertainment
Like every Viking ocean ship,Saturnhas a generously sized spa.
Dodging the snow grotto, I slunk straight into the whirlpool.
(Adjacent to the spa is a sizable workout area stocked with all sorts of Technogym equipment.)
The putting green on the sports deck.Carlo Raciti/carolraciti.com
The Star Theater is the place for live performances: Broadway revues, ABBA hits, a Beatles retrospective.
Family-friendly Offerings
Viking ships are adults-only, open only to passengers aged 18 and above.
All staterooms feature non-slip bathroom floors and hand railings.
The Viking Saturn’s main pool is housed under a retractable roof.Carlo Raciti/carolraciti.com
Live music in the ship’s theater.Carlo Raciti/carolraciti.com
