Enjoying the fresh sea breeze aboard the Viking Saturn.
My mom and I recently had the incredible opportunity to sail on the Viking Saturn Ocean Cruise, exploring the Ancient Mediterranean Treasures itinerary from Greece to Turkey. From the luxurious onboard experience to the rich history of each port, every moment was unforgettable. Here’s a glimpse into our journey aboard this exceptional cruise.
The Viking Saturn Experience
Boarding the Viking Saturn felt like stepping into a world of refined luxury. Our stateroom, a Deluxe Veranda on Deck 5, was a serene retreat with spacious accommodations, a private balcony, and thoughtful touches like heated bathroom floors and a Nespresso coffee maker. Our cabin steward was attentive and friendly, greeting us by name and ensuring our every need was met. She became a familiar face, always there with a smile and eager to make our stay special—even going out of her way to greet us while we were in port. This personalized service truly set Viking apart.
Having previously sailed with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Lines, I was amazed at the level of luxury and personal attention Viking provided. On Viking, you feel like family by the end of your cruise.
The Viking experience extends beyond the ship itself. From the moment we arrived in Athens, Viking representatives were there to greet us, handle our luggage, and guide us seamlessly through every step of our journey. Their unmatched level of service made every transition feel smooth and stress-free.
Highlights Onboard the Viking Saturn
Exceptional Dining: Dining on the Viking Saturn was an experience in itself. From casual lunches at the Pool Grill, where everything was made fresh to order, to the gourmet delights of the Chef’s Table, every meal was a culinary adventure. One of my favorite spots was the World Café, where the daily variety of dishes kept things exciting, including made-to-order steaks and decadent gelato. The staff’s attention to detail, like remembering my preference for melted butter with my crab legs, added a personal touch to every dining experience.
Not an early riser? No worries! Mamsen’s is always ready with something delicious, perfect for those late vacation breakfasts.
Relaxation on Deck 7: Deck 7 became our go-to spot for relaxation, offering stunning views, comfortable loungers, and cozy throw blankets perfect for curling up with a good book. The main pool area, hot tubs, and the tranquil Wintergarden provided the ideal setting to unwind after a day of exploring. In the evenings, the infinity pool at the back of the ship was the best place to capture sunset photos.
The inviting main pool area on Deck 7 of the Viking Saturn, perfect for a relaxing day at sea.Enrichment and Entertainment: Viking’s daily enrichment lectures and port talks were not to be missed. These sessions brought the history and culture of each destination to life, helping us make the most of our time ashore. We also enjoyed live music throughout the ship, adding to the overall ambiance and making each evening special.
From enriching lectures to live music performances, Viking offers a perfect blend of learning and entertainment. Left: Viking’s cozy lecture area. Right: A violinist adding elegance to the evening.Stateroom Features: Our stateroom offered a spacious and well-thought-out design, complete with ample storage, a cozy living area, and a private balcony with stunning sea views. The comfortable beds, plush robes, and daily replenished minibar added to the feeling of luxury and relaxation.
Left: A glimpse of our spacious stateroom onboard the Viking Saturn. Right: The convenient flip-up vanity desk, thoughtfully equipped with binoculars for taking in the scenic views.
Ports of Call: Highlights of Our Journey
Athens: Our journey began in the heart of ancient Greece, exploring iconic sites like the Acropolis and the charming cobblestone streets of the Plaka neighborhood, known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods." Surrounded by history, it was the perfect introduction to our Mediterranean adventure. Viking’s red coat representatives were always nearby, ready to assist, which added a comforting touch.
The historic Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, originally built in 330 BC and restored for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, marking the revival of the ancient Olympic tradition.
Crete: Crete offered a unique blend of vibrant city life and stunning natural beauty. We wandered through Heraklion’s historic streets, admired the distant snowcapped mountains, and enjoyed the island’s rich cultural heritage. The vibrant local shops were a highlight, with many offering handmade items like olive oil, leather goods, and unique jewelry.
Left: My mom admiring the peaceful atmosphere inside Saint Titus Catholic Church. Right: Some of the beautiful architectural details from our walking tour of Crete.Rhodes: This port quickly became my favorite, with its medieval walled city and the enchanting Street of Knights. The Palace of the Masters, filled with intricate mosaics, was a highlight, and the blend of ancient history and bustling modern life made Rhodes truly unforgettable. Shopping in Rhodes was also a treat, with plenty of local crafts, ceramics, and souvenirs to take home.
Left: The grand exterior of the Palace of the Masters. Right: Inside the medieval fortress, where 160 rooms are beautifully decorated with intricate mosaics.Ephesus: A walk through the ancient ruins of Ephesus brought history to life. We marveled at the grand Library of Celsus, explored the vast amphitheater, and imagined the vibrant life that once filled these streets. The detailed architecture and ancient stories made this one of the most memorable stops on our itinerary.
Left: The massive amphitheater in Ephesus, capable of seating over 25,000 spectators. Right: The ancient blue slate stone streets, still intact after centuries of history.
Troy: Visiting the legendary city of Troy was a journey through centuries of history, from Greek mythology to the days of Alexander the Great. This UNESCO World Heritage site offered a fascinating look at the ancient world, with 10 layers of civilization built on top of one another.
The archaeological site of Troy, revealing the 4,000-year-old layers of civilizations built atop one another over centuries.
Istanbul: Istanbul was a feast for the senses, from the colorful Spice Market to the stunning views on our Bosporus cruise. Sailing between Europe and Asia, we took in the city’s unique blend of cultures, architecture, and vibrant street life. The Bosporus cruise, with views of ancient castles and modern landmarks, was a highlight of our time in Istanbul.
Left: A scenic view of Istanbul from our Bosporus cruise. Right: The vibrant and colorful stalls of the Spice Market, bursting with local flavors and aromas.
Good to Know: Tips for Viking Travelers
Currency Exchange: Viking does not offer currency exchange onboard, so be sure to have some local currency before you travel. Amsterdam has several convenient money exchanges.
Complimentary Laundry: Viking offers complimentary self-laundry facilities on every stateroom deck, including detergent. This made packing light much easier and was a helpful feature during our cruise.
Dress Code: During the day, the dress code is casual and comfortable. In the evenings, Viking calls it “elegant casual.” Women are suggested to wear a dress, sweater, or blouse with a skirt or slacks, and men are suggested to wear trousers and a collared shirt. Jeans are not allowed in the evening, and while ties and jackets are optional, the atmosphere always felt sophisticated and welcoming.
Navigating Wheelchair Assistance
Traveling with my mom, who required wheelchair assistance, added a layer of complexity to our trip, but Viking made it as seamless as possible. While some airports varied in their level of organization—Athens was smooth, Paris was chaotic—Viking’s team was consistently reliable, offering support at every turn. This attention to detail ensured we were able to fully enjoy our trip without unnecessary stress.
Final Reflections
Our Viking cruise through the Ancient Mediterranean was more than just a journey—it was an experience of a lifetime. The blend of luxury, history, and personal service created an adventure that far exceeded our expectations. From the warm welcomes at every port to the unforgettable onboard amenities, Viking’s attention to detail and dedication to guest satisfaction made us feel like cherished members of their family. Whether exploring ancient ruins, savoring exquisite meals, or simply relaxing on deck, every moment aboard the Viking Saturn was an absolute delight. Until our next Viking journey, the memories of this trip will always hold a special place in our hearts.
