FetaCheese

Viking has an app, with lots of functionality. We really liked it, and used it everyday.

Just off Viking Star. Internet service was superior to O Regatta Sept 2023, Alaska. O internet would not allow audio only from my local NPR station app. Viking...no problem.

At risk of appearing less than intelligent, I found the mensa quizzes very difficult. Others at our trivia group, Regatta 07 Sept, were much more adept at the answers.

Just off Star. We had Robin Petch. Very interesting guy. Hosted daily wildlife sightings with logbook in EL, deck 8

Just off Star Hawaiian Islands Sojourn, 16 nights. My friends dined at Manfredis about 8-10 times. We dined there 4 nights. Always 7:30 or later. Was never a problem for Maitre D Alex.

Star 5076 has it.

@Curx94 If not already viewed, see topic "Post Viking Promos"

Yes, garlic aioli was on side in those little china cups. A very nice sauce/dressing. Sadly, new Manfredis menu on Star has omitted Osso Bucco and Lamb Chops. On last night of voyage, the Restaurant served Osso Bucco. I believe it was the same recipe as prior Manfredis. Just delicious and falling off the bone, with a rich braising sauce, served over risotto. Forgot to say another Manfredis favorite was the Viking Bistecca Rib Eye (off bone), formerly known as the Bistecca Fiorentina. Cut thick and very well seasoned and prepared to my preference. The Grill Man/broiler chef, Joseph is a master. Enjoyed it 3 times. He also worked Pool grill by day. They also serve a Bistecca Rib Eye -- on the bone.

@stretchcruz Thanks for your kind compliments, and for following along. Had I not booked Hawaiian Islands Sojourn in June 2023, I would have instead taken your November 2023 French Polynesian/Hawaii 32 night voyage. V was offering some very nice promotions during summer and fall. Was your cruise full ? I heard our CD say we had about 800, but could have been more. Never felt crowded or waited much in any lines in Restaurants or WC. Thanks

Just off Star Manfredis New calamari, shrimp app. Lightly fried, served with garlic aioli. New grilled fish & seafood entree Restaurant - Prime Rib - my preferred end cut, moist and not overdone - best meal of voyage !

@jondfk Thank you for your kind comments, and for following along. You will love the entire staff. Very kind and engaging. Most greeted us by name after a few days -- we liked that. Restaurant Maitre D remembered out seating preference, which was also very nice. Bar waiter Kadek always knew our drink preferences -- a real nice guy. Hope you have Captain Magnus -- very personable and visible. Always had time to chat or answer questions from us or other pax when passing in public areas. Also, Chief Engineer Per was a knowledge and friendly guy, and also said to ask any questions if you saw him out and about. Enjoy your cruise !

Departed Star about 10:30. Cleared CBP, several agents, no waiting, then claimed bags. V coach transfer to LAX --was directed to coach, bags were loaded onto coach. Process efficient, considering being herded onto coach. Very little traffic from Berth 93 to LAX. Coach stopped at terminal 2 and Tom Bradley, then term 4 where we got off for AA flight. Curbside check in is $4 per bag -- something new? Anyway, made our way inside to priority ticket counter, and checked in with bags. No $4 fee. Now waiting in Admirals Club. Nice lounge, but very basic food offerings. Not complaining, but AA announced last summer that they were upgrading food offerings. Anyway, bar looks inviting! Lounge is comfortable. Our gate is real close. Our friends with whom we were traveling, are on a 6 pm flight. V provided a transfer to LAX airport Marriot, with lunch, then will be transferred to LAX terminal. A very nice accommodation. Early on, GS had told friend that air departures 4 pm and later would have a hotel at which to wait.

Yes, had V "free air". Did not enquire price to purchase V airport transfer. Our incoming flight is from Dallas.

Morning of disembarkation. Regular Room service menu available. Main Restaurant closed. WC open until 8:30. Our flight from LAX was scheduled at 3:20. Now delayed until 4 pm. Will depart ship at 10 am., with V transfer.

@Azulann Thank you for your kind comments. Appreciate you following my report. Best wishes for your upcoming V voyages.

Last night on Star. It's been a wonderful experience. Met many interesting pax from all over. Lecturers were of a high quality. Cuisine, while subjective, IMO, overall has been excellent, with just a few misses. Was very satisfied with spirits/wine selections. Entertainment was enjoyable. (No Abba or Beatles). Ship is in excellent condition. Captain Magnus said Star will enter drydock in November for 3 weeks Safe travels to all.

@Clay Clayton On Star. In LR Bar case this morning. Closest item to your pistachio buns. Guy said like a donut, cream filled. Will try later.

On Star now. Surprised that tastings were listed in Daily.

Thank you. Such beautiful views.

Was docked for Monaco/Nice many decades ago. They said port was Villefranche. Your photo reminds me of that port.

Only 1 Wine list. All wine selections offered by the glass, $18 or less, are covered under the beverage package. Only 1 sparkling wine by the glass on pkg: Spanish Cava. There was a French Champagne by the glass on prior list -- see photos of original list in prior post -- but on current list that French Champagne was removed. Sommelier Harris told me they still have some stock available, so just ask. Brand is Sant Gall --or something like that. A nice dry Champagne. Have not ordered Spanish Cava. Any by the glass wine listed at $18 or less is on pkg. All by the bottle wines are not on pkg, but you may purchase them, and, if $50 or more, a 20% discount applied if SSBP is purchased. IMO prices are reasonable. If SSBP not purchased, many by the glass wines are $8, including grat.

A welcome change...Seas are calm today!

December 2021, Greek Odyssey, Chania Crete, V provided shuttle to city. Nothing around port, Souda Bay. Athens -- yes, to Hadrian's Gate -- Plaka district. Rhodes -- no, docked at Old City.

Yes, decks are closed

This morning at 10 am, a Birthday party was held for Captain Magnus and others celebrating. A special cake was prepared and served. Singers also performed.