Viking Cruises

B I O G R A P H Y Olivier Marien is Captain of Viking Octantis expedition ship, built specifically to explore the world's most remote destinations Did you always love the idea of a life at sea? When I was just six I had command of a small dinghy at sailing school and enjoyed the stories of Jacques Cousteau, learning about his discoveries on board e Calypso. What is good seamanship? I would say it is about understanding and anticipating the external forces affecting your vessel. Such as the winds, current, waves, tides … and knowing how to use them to your benefit. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you choose? at will be on my sailing boat with my family and somewhere in the South Pacific Islands. What has been your biggest adventure ? A few years ago, I was Captain of a large sailing expedition schooner named Tara. It was part of a global scientific expedition where the scientists on board were studying plankton and coral reefs. During one leg sailing near Djibouti, we sailed in and explored Lake Goubet – that was true exploration! Best advice you would give a passenger? Switch off Wi-Fi and open your eyes to where you are in the world. What did you enjoy most about the shakedown cruise on Viking Octantis? I had been involved with this project for almost two years prior to the vessel delivery – building and training the team, the first sea trials, taking delivery of the vessel, sailing her across the Atlantic down to Antarctica and starting the first expedition operations. I enjoyed seeing our first guests with a big smile, watching their shock at how stunning Antarctica is and having the experience of a lifetime. Did it all go to plan? I would say it all went "to plan(s)". Expeditions are all about being ready for plan B, C and more. You have to adapt to the icy conditions, weather as well as last-minute changes or the wildlife giving good opportunities – and then try to make the right decision at the right time to maximise the guest experience opportunity. So yes, it went according to my plans! What's your favourite cruise destination? is is a difficult question since the world is full of treasures. My top three? Alaska, Antarctica and French Polynesia. All of those have beautiful things to see and have so much wildlife to discover. What did being awarded the 'Chevalier de l'Ordre du Mérite Maritime' mean to you? I was awarded following an important successful rescue at sea I was involved with as a Captain. It is an honour to get such a meaningful recognition from my country and the maritime community. If you had to describe the Antarctica cruise in three words what would you say? Stunning / Wild / Unpredictable. B I O G R A P H Y Olivier Marien is Captain of Viking Octantis expedition ship, built specifically to explore the world's most remote destinations viking.com 97

• Cover