Embarking on a journey through uncharted waters, I found myself preparing for my first cruise in Asia aboard Viking’s inaugural oceangoing China cruise for Western travelers. The 10-day voyage from Shanghai to Hong Kong on the Viking Yi Dun, a 930-passenger ship originally named the Viking Sun, was repurposed in 2021 to cater to the China market. This venture came about as a result of Viking’s partnership with China Merchants Group in 2019, aiming to offer domestic cruises to Chinese travelers while now extending the invitation to Western travelers from September to November this year.
Having sailed on 21 cruises in 31 months, this experience marked a milestone for both Viking and me. The decision to visit China amid the pandemic-induced travel restrictions was not an easy one, but with China reopening its borders to Western tourists, Viking seized the opportunity to introduce its first ocean product in the destination. As someone who doesn’t typically travel just to check off destinations on a bucket list, the prospect of visiting China intrigued me. I was eager to witness how Viking would showcase the country’s rich culture and beauty on this voyage.
The journey to China was not without its challenges, reminiscent of my earlier experience navigating the Covid-era requirements for a cruise to French Polynesia in 2022. The visa application process for China evoked a sense of deja vu as I juggled various tasks and deadlines to secure entry. Memories of rushing to complete a checklist flooded back, accompanied by a mix of excitement and apprehension. However, with meticulous planning and assistance from Viking’s preferred visa service, my passport and Chinese visa arrived just in time, alleviating my anxiety and paving the way for a smooth travel experience.
As I gazed at the mesmerizing lights of downtown Shanghai from the comfort of my balcony aboard the Yi Dun, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore a new part of the world. The travel professionals who guided me through the intricacies of obtaining a visa and preparing for the journey played a crucial role in ensuring a seamless travel experience. Reflecting on the challenges overcome and the sights beheld, I appreciated the absence of a global pandemic looming over our travels and the dedication of those who facilitate memorable travel moments.
Looking ahead, Viking plans to offer coastal China cruises to the Western market in the coming year, including a 15-day itinerary from Beijing to Tokyo and an extended 20-day version of the cruise I recently embarked on. As I continue to explore and share my experiences with Viking’s oceangoing adventures in China, stay tuned for more insights and discoveries from these unique voyages in the days and weeks to come.