Day 16 – Sail the Pacific Ocean

Did you ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes on a cruise ship? I did, and that question was answered for Tim and me today. Hotel General Manager Ronald Schweighardt guided a group of us on a “Behind the Scenes Ship Tour,” to give us a glimpse of the ship’s operation and crew life.

It was a fascinating tour with lots of humor thrown in, as we made our way through many of the areas below deck.

We began our tour with a walk through the galley for The Chef’s Table, and then saw the bakery where all those amazing desserts are created.

A Few Crew Members Who Prepare Our Amazing Food

We then walked toward the provisioning area and saw box after box of Christmas items, ready to be offloaded in Los Angeles. Typically, this area is full of all kinds of items from food to toilet paper to cleaning supplies. Unfortunately, the shipment that was to be onloaded in Fort Lauderdale arrived too late, so the storerooms are a bit bare. In fact, the crew went shopping at Walmart in Cabo San Lucas and returned with boxes of fruit and other supplies.

Hotel General Manager Ronald and Inventory Manager Ariel with Boxes of Christmas Items

One stop where photos were not permitted was the Engine Control Room. I never was able to get close to the red button that reads, “Do Not Touch.”

We continued our walk down the “I-95” corridor, which runs from one end of the ship to the other. On the way, we passed a busy group that included the Guest Services Manager, Purser, HR Manager, and others, who were busy at work assembling the canvas bags that will be placed in the staterooms for the World Cruise passengers who will be boarding in Los Angeles. Shortly after the end of the tour, I learned that they finished the project.

The "I-95" Corridor

Preparing the World Cruise Bags

The laundry room was quite the operation, and we were introduced to the “magic machine,” which dries, presses, and folds all the ship’s freshly washed sheets. I won’t be purchasing one, however, but not just because of the two-million-dollar price tag! It just wouldn’t fit in our condo.

The Laundry Room and the "Magic Machine"

Throughout the tour, we learned how Viking takes care of its crew, with all kinds of activities and events. I was surprised, however, to learn that the crew works ten hours a day, seven days a week. Viking must be doing something right, however, because the retention rate is over 95 percent. The crew is the best part of Viking.

We finished our tour with a walk through some of the staff offices that house IT, HR, and the Shore Excursion department, among others.

The Shore Excursion Department

Hotel General Manager Ronald only had a few rules about photography, one of which was that any photo of him must feature his best angle! I was not able to obey this rule until the tour was over. I hope he approves of this one!

Hotel General Manager Ronald Schweighardt

Tim and I had dinner tonight in Manfredi’s, the ship’s Italian restaurant. I selected Insalate Caprese, Viking Bistecca, and Tiramisu Classico, and this was another delicious meal.

My Delicious Meal at Manfredi's

Tonight was the Viking Farewell Reception for those passengers departing in Los Angeles. Although I’m so happy that we’re remaining on the ship, I wanted to attend to thank Captain Markus and the crew of Viking Sky. 

Captain Markus, Cruise Director Matt, and the Crew of Viking Sky

Tim and I even remained afterwards for the show by the Viking Vocalists entitled “The Beatles Songbook." Although this is one of Viking’s classic shows, the Sky Theater was full, and the audience clearly enjoyed the music.

The Beatles Songbook