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Viking Ocean Cruises has announced that
Captain Gulleik Svalastog will be at the helm of its first ocean ship – the
930-passenger Viking Star – which will sail its first cruise in April 2015.
 Svalastog
brings 45 years of sailing experience to Viking. He has held a variety of senior
ship management positions and has worked as superintendent for Norwegian Cruise
Line and Crystal Cruises and as a lead auditor for Det Norske Veritas. His most
recent position held was captain of Color Line.
Svalastog is currently a member of the team overseeing the final stage of
outfitting and interior build-out of the Star, which touched water for the first
time in June 2014 at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard and will be christened in
May 2015.
With three sister ships now on order, Viking said it has developed its ocean
cruises by leveraging extensive feedback and input from its Viking River Cruise
operations and passengers, and with experienced travelers in mind. Itineraries
are designed for maximum time in port, often with late evenings or overnights,
so guests can experience local nightlife or evening performances. Ports include
both cosmopolitan cities and “collector ports,” and appeal to those with an
interest in history, art and culture.
In addition, the company said, its Viking Inclusive Cruising concept provides
value—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; Wi-Fi; self-service laundry and
24-hour room service—a value of more than $2,400 per couple for an average
cruise, according to Viking. |
