Instead of watching new lectures, whose subjects were not too interesting to us, Tim and I decided to catch up on ones that we had missed as we spent the time on this last sea day before we arrive in Halifax, Nova Scotia, tomorrow. Russell Lee is always a favorite lecturer, so we viewed “The Pursuit of the Northwest Passage.” Here, we learned about the explorers who searched for a western sea route from Europe to Asia.
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| The Pursuit of the Northwest Passage |
Ever since the majority of World Cruise passengers disembarked in London on May 6, 2025, more than a few of the remaining passengers have taken issue with an apparent inconsistency in Viking’s definition of a World Cruise. Shortly before our arrival in London, for example, we received an invitation to celebrate our “continued adventure beyond the official Viking World Cruise.” I admit that was a bit strange, as I thought the official World Cruise ended in New York. Other special events arranged just for us referred to us as “all of you continuing with us” or “ongoing voyagers” or “in-transit guests.”
Although I, too, was puzzled by these references, I was not bothered by them. The officers and crew of the Viking Sky have made it a point to create special events for those of us remaining onboard until New York, and I have not been too concerned about what I am called. I still consider myself a World Cruiser. These special events and gestures by the crew have made me feel appreciated and valued, and I am sad that others have not felt the same way. Several days ago, I did prepare a letter to Viking to make the company aware of this issue, as I thought it could rear its ugly head on future World Cruises.
I was reminded of this matter when we received an invitation “to share one last special moment just with you” for a private gathering this evening. It seemed to be all that people talked about today.
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| An Invitation to a Private Gathering |
When Tim and I arrived at the Star Theater, there was a “receiving line” along both hallways. Of course, Captain Markus and other officers were there, but so were kitchen and housekeeping crew members, including our Stateroom Steward Gusti and Assistant Cook Ashwin, whom we have fondly called “Pizza Man.” Special cocktails and canapes were plentiful.
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| We Were Welcomed by Both Officers and Crew Members |
The event, “Honoring Our Journey – World of Thanks,” prominently featured “World Cruise” on the backdrop, hopefully satisfying everyone present. Cruise Director Cornelia invited the officers to the stage, and we all raised a glass to celebrate our amazing voyage.
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| Honoring Our Journey – World of Thanks |
After a performance by the Viking Vocalists, various officers and crew members appeared on screen, offering their best wishes and thoughts about what had made this voyage so special. The invitation had promised smiles and a few tears, and I doubt there was a dry eye in the audience. I was certainly happy that I had brought a few tissues with me. All in all, it was most definitely a very special event.
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| Beautiful Words and Sentiments from Many Beautiful People |
The evening was not over, however, as we headed to the Pool Deck for a Surf and Turf culinary highlight. Delicious and fun!
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| Enjoying Lobster Surf and Turf with Tim, Nancy, and I Made |
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