When you plan a trip on the sea, one of the most important things to think about is the size of the ship you will be on. Cruise liners vary dramatically in their passenger capacity; some are giant floating cities carrying thousands, while others are intentionally kept smaller. This difference in size greatly changes your experience, making it feel either busy and crowded or wonderfully peaceful and private.
For travelers seeking luxury and personal space, a smaller ship is a purposeful choice designed for a calmer, intimate, and destination-focused journey. Knowing the ship’s passenger capacity helps you choose a journey that fits your desire for a high-end experience.
Below, we’ll dive into how one leading cruise line has mastered this approach, revealing their specific passenger numbers and explaining how this smaller scale transforms the entire trip.
TL;DR
Viking’s ocean ships are smaller than many others, which makes them feel more personal and less busy. The number of guests depends on the ship class. Their classic ocean ships can hold 930 people. The newer Vela class ships hold up to 998 passengers. The expedition ships, meant for remote areas, carry just 378 guests. This smaller size helps create a comfortable and personal experience on the water.
Viking’s Different Ship Sizes
Viking has a fleet of ships of different sizes, each one created for a special kind of trip. No matter which ship you choose, they all share a common goal: to focus on the destination, not just the ship itself. This is why all their ships are designed to carry fewer people than the very large cruise liners. They want to give you a more personal and intimate journey.
The most common ships you will find are Viking’s classic ocean ships. These are also known as the Star class ships. Most of these ships hold 930 guests. They have been sailing since 2015. This size is a good balance. The ship is big enough to have everything you need, like different restaurants and lounges. But it’s still small enough that you won’t feel lost in a crowd. This smaller size helps you feel more at home and less like you are in a giant floating city.
Then there are Viking’s newer ocean ships. These are part of the Vela class. Ships in this class, such as the
Viking Vela and Viking Vesta are a bit larger. They can hold up to 998 passengers. While they have a slightly higher capacity, they still keep the same cozy and elegant feel that Viking is known for. This means you still get that same personal service and relaxed atmosphere, even with a few more people on board.
For travelers who want to go to more distant places, Viking also has expedition ships. These ships are much smaller. They hold only 378 passengers. They are named
Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris. The small size of these ships is very important. It allows them to travel to places that are harder to reach. They can get to more remote areas. This is perfect for a trip where the goal is to see wildlife and nature up close.
Image courtesy of Viking Cruises
The Benefits of a Smaller Ship
Choosing a cruise with a lower passenger count offers many benefits for a luxury traveler. It changes your whole experience on board and at each stop. It’s all about a feeling of ease, comfort, and special access that a bigger ship can’t provide.
A key benefit is the level of personal attention you receive. A smaller guest list means the staff has more time for each person. They can learn your name and your preferences. This personal service makes you feel cared for and respected. It’s a very different feeling from being on a ship with thousands of other people. The crew on Viking ships is known for being very friendly and helpful. They can suggest things to do or help you with any request you have.
You will also notice the lack of crowds. On large cruise ships, getting on and off the ship can take a long time. Lines can form for everything, from getting a drink at the bar to going on an excursion. On a smaller ship like Viking’s, you will not have this problem. The whole process is much faster and smoother. This means you can spend more of your time enjoying your vacation and less of it waiting in line.
The size of the ship also gives you access to special places. Many large cruise ships have to dock far away from the city centers. This means you have to take a bus or a taxi to get to the main sights. But Viking’s smaller ships can often sail right into the heart of a city. For example, the Viking ships can sail on the Thames River in London. They can even go to the city of Bangkok. This saves you time and makes your travel much easier. You can walk right off the ship and start exploring.
Another advantage is that the atmosphere on board is much calmer. A ship with 930 people feels quiet and peaceful. You can find a cozy spot to read a book, sit by the pool, or have a quiet conversation. The ships are designed with this in mind. They have many places for relaxation and reflection. You will not hear loud music or constant announcements. This creates a very relaxed environment.
The size of Viking’s ships also helps them provide a better educational experience. They have a resident historian on every cruise. This person gives talks and answers questions about the places you are visiting. On a smaller ship, it is easier for everyone to attend these talks. You can also have more personal interactions with the experts. This makes your trip more meaningful.
The True Meaning of Small Ship Cruising
For a long time, bigger was seen as better in the world of cruises. But many travelers are now looking for something else. They want to connect with the places they visit in a deeper way. They want to avoid the crowds and find a more authentic journey. This is where small ship cruising comes in.
Viking ships are an example of this trend. They focus on enrichment and culture. They bring the destination to life. The food on board is inspired by the regions you are sailing to. The entertainment often features local performers. This helps you learn about the culture before you even get off the ship. It makes the trip a continuous learning experience.
The smaller ships also create a sense of community. It is easier to meet and talk with other passengers. You might find yourself having dinner with new friends you met during an excursion. This can make the journey more fun and memorable. Many people who travel on small ships say they feel more connected to the people they meet on board.
The design of the ships also supports this. The public spaces are welcoming and comfortable. They are built for conversation and relaxation. There are many places to sit and talk. This makes it easy to get to know other guests. You will not feel overwhelmed by a large number of people. It feels more like a small, friendly club.
The small size of the ships also means that they are more stable. They are built to handle different seas. This can be a relief for people who are worried about motion sickness. The smooth ride adds to the comfortable experience.
Image courtesy of Viking Cruises
Why Choosing a Viking Cruise Is a Great Idea
A Viking cruise is a great choice if you value a quiet, clean, and elegant trip. The ships are all-veranda. This means every stateroom has a private balcony. This is a very luxurious feature. It lets you enjoy the sea views from your own space.
The price of a Viking cruise includes many things that other lines charge extra for. Things like a free shore excursion in every port are part of your fare. You also get Wi-Fi, laundry service, and access to the spa. These inclusions simplify your travel and let you relax. You don’t have to worry about extra fees for every little thing. This all-inclusive approach is a hallmark of luxury travel.
The ships are also very modern. They have a Nordic design that is simple and beautiful. The decor is stylish and clean. The spaces are filled with light and art. This creates a calm and welcoming atmosphere. The ships are like floating hotels. They are very well-maintained. Every detail is perfect, from the furniture to the lighting.
Overall, the low passenger count on Viking Ocean Cruises is a key part of what makes them special. It gives you a calm, personal, and smooth trip. It allows you to focus on the destinations you are visiting. It also makes the whole experience feel more exclusive and luxurious. For a traveler who wants a journey that is about immersion and comfort, Viking is a great choice. The number of people on the ship is a big part of that choice. It’s about quality over quantity.
Find Your Perfect Journey
At Labbé Travel, we create trips that are as unique as you are. We know that the best journeys come from careful planning and attention to your wishes.
Our expert team listens to what you want and finds the perfect cruise for you. We help you choose a ship that matches your desire for a personal and luxurious experience. This includes finding the right ship size and itinerary for your trip. We handle all the planning. You just have to enjoy your vacation.
For more information or to start planning your next great adventure, please contact us. We’re here to make your travel dreams a reality.