Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1043876
44 V I K I N G C R U I S E S Christened in June, the brand-new Viking Orion will spend three months each summer season cruising between Sydney and Auckland. Guests from Australia and New Zealand will no longer need to fly to Europe to experience the Viking difference, and they will now have the opportunity to explore some of the natural wonders and dynamic cities that their own home countries have to offer. Managing director of Viking Cruises Australia and New Zealand, Michelle Black, says she's "very excited" to begin home-porting Viking's ocean ship fleet. "Over the last two decades, we have led the industry in river cruising, and now as the leading small ship ocean cruise line, we're delighted to have the opportunity to introduce more Australians and New Zealanders to a new style of cruising that has evolved to meet changing consumer tastes in the industry," she said. On Viking's brand-new Australia & New Zealand cruise, guests will witness the breathtaking iconic sites of both Australia and New Zealand, from the beautiful Blue Mountains and Sydney's Opera House to Auckland's glittering harbour and the gorgeous wine country that the Kiwis are so well-known for. Guests will also have the chance to uncover some of the more hidden gems of these two beautiful nations – the historic neighbourhoods of Tasmania, the thermal region of Rotorua and Melbourne's Victorian-era architecture. is local itinerary was created so that our guests can really immerse themselves in Australia's vibrant energy, and revel in New Zealand's natural beauty. You can experience the Viking difference onboard the newly-christened Viking Orion with the Australia & New Zealand and Komodo & e Australian Coast itineraries. Whitsundays, Australia