Name: Grand Mediterranean Explorer
Brand: Viking Ocean Cruises
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

Overview

Sail with Viking Ocean Cruises on Viking Jupiter, departing from Valparaiso for a 17-night exploration of South America and Argentina, promising an unforgettable journey at sea. This itinerary threads together 3 ports across South America and Argentina - taking in Puerto Montt at one end and Montevideo at the other. From exploring ashore to relaxing on board, every day of this South America and Argentina cruise brings a new experience to savour. Prices start at £6,618 per person for this 17-night Viking Ocean Cruises voyage.

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

Days 1-2

Valparaiso

Chile holds a central role in global tourism, and Valparaiso exemplifies this with its blend of architectural styles and its influence on poets and painters worldwide. While influencers have covered its picturesque views extensively, Valparaiso hides layers of local life in its alleyways and hilltops, waiting to be discovered by those who venture beyond the mainstream paths. The city's ability to inspire art and literature across continents continues to draw admiration, embodying a living canvas that invites exploration and appreciation beyond its surface charm.

Day 3

Day 4

Puerto Montt

Welcome to Puerto Montt, where the majestic Andes meet the serene waters of the Pacific. This gateway to Patagonia is famed for its breathtaking landscapes, such as the Osorno Volcano and the emerald waters of Todos los Santos Lake. The climate here is a temperate rainforest, offering a unique blend of misty mornings and crisp, clear days, perfect for those who wish to experience nature as it's meant to be. Puerto Montt is a celebration of Chilean traditions, from vibrant local handicraft markets to the spirited cueca dance. A hidden gem in this picturesque locale is the Angelmfish market, where the age-old bartering practices still thrive.

Days 5-7

Day 8

Ushuaia

Ushuaia, famously known as the southernmost city in the world, offers a gateway to the untouched landscapes of Tierra del Fuego. It's more than a mere departure point; it's where the raw spirit of Argentina comes alive amidst rugged coastlines and pristine sub-polar forests. The climate here, cool and temperate, invites visitors into a world far removed from the bustling tourist centers, presenting a rare glimpse into the authentic heart of the country. Cruises utilizing this port offer scenic views of the Beagle Channel and the Martial Mountains, each narrating the epic saga of explorers who first charted these remote territories. Uniquely, Ushuaia's latitude allows for extended daylight hours in the summer, giving travelers more time to soak in its spectacular natural beauty.

Days 9-10

Day 11

Port Stanley

Port Stanley, with its distinctly British charm, beckons like a quaint postcard from another era, where the fusion of modern life with traditional values creates a comforting yet intriguing ambiance. The climate, mild and often kissed by sea breezes, complements the landscape beautifully, offering an authentic escape from the crowded tourist destinations. Visitors often find themselves immersed in a community that celebrates and lives its true traditions every day, making it a living showcase of the countrys authentic lifestyle. A unique aspect of Port Stanley is its love for maritime events, which are celebrated with the same fervor as any national festival.

Day 12

Day 13

Puerto Madryn

Puerto Madryn, a gem where Argentina's past meets the vibrancy of today, beckons to those who cherish authenticity and a milder climate perfect for exploration. Originating from the 1865 Welsh settlement, this town offers a palpable sense of history interwoven with modern-day Argentine life. It's a retreat from the tourist-heavy locales, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local environment and community. Cruise lines highlight Puerto Madryn not just as a stop but as an invitation to experience Argentina in its truest form, with coastal treasures and wildlife encounters that stand out globally. Intriguingly, this is also where orcas have been observed intentionally beaching themselvesa rare natural phenomenon.

Days 14-15

Day 16

Montevideo

As you stroll along Montevideo's picturesque Rambla, the endless horizon of the Atlantic whispers tales of explorers who once admired these same views. Here, the climate is as mild as the greetings from locals, with temperate seasons offering a refreshing respite from harsher extremes. Montevideo, a city untouched by the clamor of mainstream tourism, cherishes its authenticity, showcasing Uruguay's deep-rooted traditions through vibrant street arts, local festivals, and intimate tango cafes. A curious fact to delight: Montevideo is home to the longest carnival in the world, inviting visitors to experience over a month of cultural festivities unique to this spirited city.

Days 17-18

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, with its storied past woven into the very fabric of the city, beckons those who seek to immerse themselves in the authentic spirit of Argentina. Famous for its birthplace of tango, this vibrant city offers a glimpse into the local life far removed from the usual tourist paths. With a temperate climate that favors exploration year-round, Buenos Aires presents an exceptional setting for those looking to experience genuine local flavors and traditions. Cruise lines treasure this port for its ability to display the heart of Argentina, culminating in unique excursions that reveal secrets only known to locals. An intriguing fact about the city is its famed Recoleta Cemetery is the resting place of Eva Per.

Days 1-2

Valparaiso

Day 3

Valparaiso

Day 4

Puerto Montt

Days 5-7

Puerto Montt

Day 8

Ushuaia

Days 9-10

Ushuaia

Day 11

Port Stanley

Day 12

Port Stanley

Day 13

Puerto Madryn

Days 14-15 Puerto Madryn

Puerto Madryn

Day 16

Montevideo

Days 17-18

Buenos Aires

930

Passengers

465

Crew

2019

Launched

48000t

Tonnage

227m

Length

29m

Width

20kts

Speed

Decks

EUR

Currency

Viking Jupiter

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

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

Reviews

2023-02-15 19:22:01

Viking met expectations

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Sky

Reviews

2023-01-23 09:30:02

Overall a very good cruise. We had previously only cruised with Fred Olsen and it was interesting to compare the two lines. The airport pickup and transfer in Spain was very good as was disembarkation in Tilbury. The cabins or 'staterooms' seemed large and of a very high standard. Food was good and exceptional in the 'free' Italian restaurant however the dining areas were crowded, noisy and the service was slow. Dress was much less formal than I was expecting for the evening meals. There wasn't that much in the way of activities during the day and the evening music in the bars seemed to close rather early. The evening show was unambitious - just singing Beatles and ABBA songs etc. The lectures were a bit hit and miss. The included shore excursions although well organised were tedious and uninspired almost certainly better to explore oneself. . The Spa area with free access was amazing. The ship was beautifully furnished throughout. The (complimentary for us) all inclusive drinks was a very good including several decent wines and spirits. Free WiFi was good and reliable. Would we go with Viking again? Definitely, although I think without special offers their fares are a bit on the high side compared to some for the experience you get.

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Venus