In October 2025, Michelle S. experienced the beautiful Viking Vesta on a 7-night cruise from Athens to Istanbul. This itinerary ran from 27 October to 3 November 2025, visiting Piraeus (Athens), Heraklion, Rhodes, Kusadasi, Canakkale, and Istanbul. Read on for her firsthand review of this unforgettable experience.
At the time of sailing, Viking Vesta was only four months old, and it showed in the best possible way. The ship is contemporary and stylish, with design touches that reflect Viking’s distinctive Nordic heritage. There truly was nothing to fault, and it was easily one of the most enjoyable ships I have ever cruised on.
We stayed in a lead-in category cabin and still enjoyed ample space, a generous balcony, and a lovely bathroom complete with heated floors. Overall, it felt more like the size and layout of a typical Mini Suite on other cruise lines.
Viking Vesta offers two pool areas, both standout spaces in their own way. The aft infinity pool is particularly beautiful, with the World Café (buffet) leading directly out to it, making it an easy and inviting place to relax during the day. The midship pool area was where I was most impressed. With its retractable roof and conservatory-style feel, it created a bright and calming environment. Like many public areas onboard, it featured inviting spaces to unwind, with interesting books, comfortable loungers and couches that encouraged guests to truly relax.
This area also hosted some wonderful onboard moments. One evening, it was used for the resident band as we sailed away and transformed into a lively dancing venue after dinner. It’s a great example of how Viking uses its public spaces to create atmosphere without ever feeling crowded. Even with 930 guests onboard, the ship never felt busy or overwhelming, and we rarely encountered queues.
Dining onboard was one of the biggest highlights of the cruise. Every restaurant we tried was exceptional and all are included in your cruise fare. With a variety of dining styles and experiences available, there is no chance of getting bored. Manfredi’s (Italian) and The Chef’s Table are the two standout fine dining venues, and both were outstanding. We also tried Mamsen’s Norwegian Deli for breakfast, which was a unique and enjoyable experience. Sitting by the floor-to-ceiling windows, looking out to sea from cosy lounge chairs draped in fur throws, was a real highlight. My favourite place to dine was the Aquavit Terrace, offering relaxed alfresco dining with consistently excellent service and beautifully presented, varied food.
Viking includes wine and beer with lunch and dinner, and we were also able to bring our own alcohol and mixers onboard. Housekeeping was fantastic; after being asked just once about our preferences, we received an ice bucket delivered at 5pm each evening, perfect for enjoying G&Ts on the balcony as the sun went down. Another favourite daily ritual was collecting our barista coffee around 6am, then taking it up to the top deck to watch the ship arrive into port. It was a peaceful and special way to start each day.
Viking’s included shore excursions were genuinely excellent and very educational. We did three of the six included excursions, and each one added real value to our trip. The tour of Ephesus was brilliant. Viking’s timing meant we arrived early, before the crowds, allowing for uninterrupted views down the ancient street towards the Library. The Istanbul tour, which included both walking and a boat experience, was also fantastic and provided a wonderful perspective of the city.
The ports themselves were all fascinating, and I chose this itinerary specifically because I hadn’t visited any of them before (aside from Athens). Throughout the cruise, I felt that the history, geography, and culture of each destination were not only recognised by Viking, but genuinely celebrated.
While this isn’t an expedition cruise, it is perfectly suited to travellers who enjoy learning and discovery. I particularly appreciated this aspect, and it was clear that many of the other guests onboard shared the same curiosity.
I loved everything about this Viking ship and cruise, and it is a journey I would do again in a heartbeat. From the brand-new elegance of Viking Vesta to the exceptional dining, enriching shore excursions, and calm onboard atmosphere, it was a truly rewarding experience. Viking offers a wonderful way to explore the ancient wonders of Greece and Turkey in comfort and style.
If you have even one spare day in Athens before boarding your cruise, it’s well worth arriving early. Athens is a city best experienced in the quieter hours, so my biggest tip is to get up early and explore. Wandering through the neighbourhoods in the morning offers a completely different perspective. You’ll beat both the heat and the crowds, and it’s also the perfect time for photography.
A visit to the Acropolis is, of course, a must. However, even into early November, it can be surprisingly hot and crowded by mid-morning. I highly recommend booking an early morning tour to make the most of the experience. If possible, a private tour offers added flexibility and deeper insight into the history.
For one of the best panoramic views in the city, consider starting your day with a sunrise climb up Lycabettus Hill. Watching the sun come up over Athens with the Acropolis in the distance was absolutely incredible.
Finally, if you’re cruising from Piraeus, don’t overlook the port area itself. Zeas Marina is a lovely place to stay or spend time before embarkation, offering a relaxed waterfront atmosphere that feels far removed from the busy cruise terminal. It’s perfect for a leisurely breakfast, a stroll along the marina, and easing into your holiday before stepping onboard.
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