Name: Grand Pacific Explorer
Brand: Viking Ocean Cruises
Rating: 4.5 (6 reviews)

Overview

From Vancouver, Viking Venus, a Viking Ocean Cruises ship, whisks you away on a 36-night journey through the waters of North America and Alaska. Ports of call include Vancouver, British Columbia, Tokyo, and Keelung (Chilung), giving you the chance to explore some of North America and Alaska's most captivating destinations. Whether you're relaxing on deck on a sea day or exploring ashore, this Viking Ocean Cruises journey offers something for everyone. Prices for this cruise start from £14,897 per person.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking began as a river cruise line and entered the ocean-cruise market with the launch of the 930-guest Viking Star.

Viking has already made an indelible mark on the sector with its fleet of stylish, near-identical, adult-only ships.

The cruise line currently has 10 ships in its fleet.

Cruise Itinerary

Day 1

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver's allure as a cruise hub lies in its jaw-dropping natural landscape and handy position on Canada's west coast. Framed by snow-capped mountains and sparkling waters, the city's scenic harbor welcomes ships from around the world. Cruise enthusiasts are drawn to Vancouver for its seamless embarkation process and the opportunity to explore this cosmopolitan city before setting sail. With its blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventures, Vancouver captivates visitors with its dynamic culture and picturesque surroundings, making it a must-visit destination for North American experiences.

Day 2

Day 3

Ward Cove, Ketchikan, Alaska

Day 4

Sitka, Alaska

Sitka is a hidden gem among cruise destinations, offering a unique blend of Tlingit culture, Russian history, and breathtaking natural beauty. This picturesque town, located on Baranof Island along the Pacific Ocean, captivates visitors with its blend of cultures visible in the onion domes of St. Michael's Cathedral and the traditional Tlingit totem poles scattered throughout the area. Sitka's natural surroundings are equally impressive, featuring volcanic Mount Edgecumbe and abundant wildlife that includes sea otters, bears, and eagles. With fewer tourists compared to other Alaskan ports, Sitka provides a more serene and intimate experience, making it a truly undiscovered treasure for cruise travelers.

Days 5-6

Day 7

Valdez, Alaska

Day 8

Seward, Alaska

Seward boasts a unique cultural tapestry, distinct from other Alaskan destinations, blending indigenous heritage with maritime traditions and a vibrant arts scene. Unlike larger cities, Seward maintains a close-knit community feel, where locals celebrate their rugged lifestyle through events like the Mount Marathon Race and the Seward Music & Arts Festival. The town's deep connection to the sea is evident in its bustling harbor and maritime industries, fostering a spirit of resilience and adventure. Visitors are drawn to Seward's welcoming atmosphere, where they can immerse themselves in local art galleries, enjoy fresh seafood, and experience the warmth of genuine Alaskan hospitality.

Day 9

Homer, Alaska

Day 10

Kodiak, Alaska

Days 11-12

Day 13

At sea

Days 14-19

Days 20-21

Sapporo

Day 22

Days 23-25

Tokyo

Tokyo, a city that masterfully blends the ultramodern with the traditional, offers a vibrant urban tapestry that is a treasure trove for explorers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Known for its dynamic climate with distinct seasonal changes, Tokyo provides a unique backdrop for the cherry blossoms of spring and the fiery leaves of autumn. This city goes beyond the neon lights and skyscrapers; its a place where ancient temples stand in the shadows of towering buildings, offering a true slice of Japanese life. Fun fact: Tokyo's Sumida River hosts one of the oldest and most spectacular fireworks festivals in Japan.

Days 26-27

Shimizu

Day 28

Osaka

Osaka, the kitchen of Japan, beckons food lovers and history buffs alike with its down-to-earth charm and bustling street life. Known historically as a merchant city, Osaka offers a temperate climate that nurtures both its colorful festivals and vibrant nightlife. This city stands apart from its polished counterpart Tokyo by offering a genuine glimpse into the daily lives of ordinary Japanese people, through its thriving local eateries and lively markets. Unique to Osaka is its obsession with comedy, home to the nation's soul of humor, making it a place where laughter and warmth permeate the street corners.

Days 29-30

Hiroshima

Day 31

Beppu, Kyushu Island, Oita

Day 32

Kagoshima

Day 33

Nagasaki

Nagasaki, steeped in a tapestry of renowned history, invites travelers to uncover its hidden treasures. As a testament to resilience, this city embodies the spirit of Japan, offering an authentic glimpse into its vibrant culture. Blessed with a temperate climate, Nagasaki provides a refreshing escape from tourist crowds, revealing the heart of the nation. Cruise lines embrace its allure, transporting passengers to explore its historic sites and cultural landmarks. From tranquil gardens to bustling markets, Nagasaki serves as a living canvas, showcasing Japan's multifaceted identity.

Day 34

Day 35

Keelung (Chilung)

Day 36

Days 37-38

Hong Kong

Hong Kong, originally a small fishing village, has evolved into a vibrant global metropolis and a significant gateway to China. Its subtropical climate facilitates a lively blend of urban and natural experiences, from neon-lit streets to serene hikes like Dragon's Back. Hong Kong offers an authentic exposure to Cantonese lifestyle and cuisine amidst its towering skyscrapers. A unique fact: it boasts one of the world's highest per capita concentrations of cafes and restaurants, offering an eclectic dining scene.

Day 1

Vancouver, British Columbia

Day 2

Vancouver, British Columbia

Day 3

Ward Cove, Ketchikan, Alaska

Day 4

Sitka, Alaska

Days 5-6

Sitka, Alaska

Day 7

Valdez, Alaska

Day 8

Seward, Alaska

Day 9

Homer, Alaska

Day 10

Kodiak, Alaska

Days 11-12 Kodiak, Alaska

Kodiak, Alaska

Day 13

At sea

Days 14-19 At sea

At sea

Days 20-21 Sapporo

Sapporo

Day 22

Sapporo

Days 23-25

Tokyo

Days 26-27 Shimizu

Shimizu

Day 28

Osaka

Days 29-30 Hiroshima

Hiroshima

Day 31

Beppu, Kyushu Island, Oita

Day 32

Kagoshima

Day 33

Nagasaki

Day 34

Nagasaki

Day 35

Keelung (Chilung)

Day 36

Keelung (Chilung)

Days 37-38

Hong Kong

930

Passengers

465

Crew

2020

Launched

48000t

Tonnage

227m

Length

29m

Width

20kts

Speed

Decks

EUR

Currency

Viking Venus

With their sleek, yacht-style bows and teak promenade decks, Viking’s ocean ships are a million miles from the large liners that sail the seas.

All Prices

Customer reviews

Reviews

Laid back luxury

Beautiful ship, wonderful service and some of the best food we've had at sea. Free access to the spa pool area was a bonus and perfect on the couple of slightly cooler days we had. Entertainment wasn't as varied as some cruises we've been on but as we are happy to make our own, this wasn't an issue. I will certainly be sailing with Viking again.

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Sky

Reviews

What an amazing experience

Sailed from Moscow to St Petersburg for 12 days and was totally immersed in Russian culture and life.

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Venus

Reviews

Amazing cruise from Barcelona to rome

We’d always done river cruises with Viking but decided to an ocean cruise with them! We weren’t disappointed as it was amazing as soon as we arrived at Barcelona airport as the Viking were there to meet us ! The ship was beautiful and they’d upgraded us as well! The staff were so friendly and helpful! Food was yummy and excursions and entertainment great! It was our anniversary whilst on the cruise so had a lovely meal at mandfridos who made it special. Certainly a wonderful cruise!

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Mars

Reviews

2023-06-02 15:25:44

We went all the way to Australia and New Zealand for our first Viking cruise. The welcome at Sydney airport left a lot to be desired with co-ordination between two reps was non existent. We were left sitting outside waiting and waiting and eventually directed to a coach, where the driver asked “ where had we been?” He too was frustrated. The hotel was very well located and excellent. We boarded the ship, which looked like a newly built house with everything new. The food was good, but the carvery catered for non UK tastes with the meat very pink! But with plenty of alternatives so you could avoid it. Our only real complaint was trying to register for an excursion. Instead of using the theatre like all other cruise lines, Viking staff attempted this in a corridor, with people trying to register and others simply trying to get past. As the ship was only six months old I guess. the staff were inexperienced .

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Mars

Reviews

2023-06-02 13:27:28

This was our first cruise. We had a fabulous time. We did end up missing two port of calls because of Cyclone Gabrielle but Viking took great care of us. We also extended 4 days in New Zealand which was incredible! We will definitely be cruising with Viking again.

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Orion

Reviews

2023-03-28 17:59:06

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Jupiter

Reviews

2023-03-09 12:00:04

Was great except the World Cafe ( Their Carvery ) catered for American tastes with the meat hardly cooked, Viking Mars needs to rethink this when moving to Europe.

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Mars

Reviews

2023-03-08 17:09:20

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Sky