The first ship for Viking Ocean Cruises set sail on its maiden voyage from Istanbul to Venice this month, launching the travel industry’s first new cruise line in a decade. The all-veranda Viking Star, featuring accommodations for 930 passengers in 465 staterooms, is making her way through the Mediterranean and into the Atlantic before being officially christened in Bergen, Norway, during a citywide celebration on Norwegian Constitution Day, May 17.

“We have always believed that cruising should be about connecting you to your destination — not just taking you to places on a map. It is our view that in the race to build bigger ships, many cruise lines have lost sight of the destinations to which they sail,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman, Viking Cruises. “With our new ocean cruises, we have created a new kind of vessel that is smaller in size and smarter in design, offering an alternative to today’s mega liners. Along with our privileged-access excursions and onboard enrichment, we have made the destination the true focus of our new ocean cruises.”

Designed by the same interior design team responsible for the award-winning fleet of Viking Longships, the Viking Star features modern Scandinavian décor and details reflecting Nordic heritage. Notable amenities include a glass-backed infinity pool cantilevered off the stern, offering unobstructed views; more options for al fresco dining than any other vessel in its class; and a wraparound promenade deck.

Designed for maximum time in port, often with late evenings or overnights, itineraries for Viking Ocean Cruises allow guests to enjoy local culture at night or in the evening. Onboard, guests can attend informative talks from local experts and carefully selected lecturers as well as a variety of dining options, ranging from Norwegian deli-style fare to global cuisine.