Q: How has your career journey been with Viking?
So far, I have completed contracts on two ships: Viking Jupiter and Viking Eden.
Q: What part of your job energizes you the most?
The moments when I build a connection with guests. Not only with repeat guests who return to sail again, but also when I unexpectedly meet a guest ashore who recognizes me and greets me, or when I hear they enjoyed a place I recommended. Receiving such unique feedback makes me feel the joy of working in this role.
Q: Is there something unique or behind-the-scenes that you think people don't typically know about your role or department?
Especially during the Japan season, Explorer staff interact with nearly every department. One day I might be asked by the Second Officer to translate immigration documents in the back office, another day I might guide guests through the galley on a tour, or interpret the Captain’s words during a bridge tour. In the evening, I might join a dance event. It is a very dynamic position, requiring me to walk all over the ship each day.
Q: How did you start in this role, and what steps or support did Viking provide to help you grow?
Previously, I worked in overseas hotels and with another cruise line as a Japanese-English interpreter. I was drawn to Viking because of the close connection with guests on a mid-sized ship. Before boarding, I completed online courses that taught me how to interact with guests and build meaningful connections. After joining, I also received STAR Service training, which provided continuous support.
Q: What skills or strengths have you developed since starting here?
I have gained the ability to respond flexibly to irregular situations. Since itineraries are heavily affected by weather, such as delayed arrivals due to fog, I learned to quickly create and print temporary event schedules, support the gangway, and decide on the spot what I can do to help in each situation.
Q: Has mentorship or leadership support played a role in your development? Can you share an example?
I am very satisfied with the relationship I have with my supervisor. They understand my usual behavior, and if they notice even small changes, they check in and create opportunities to talk. When I make a mistake, instead of scolding me, they advise me on how to prevent and improve in the future. This has allowed me to continue working positively without feeling discouraged.
Q: How would you describe the company culture—what makes working at Viking different or rewarding?
Viking has a culture that respects tradition while flexibly embracing new influences. Management is approachable and regularly provides opportunities for open discussion, creating an inclusive team environment. It is also a place where your personal ambitions are encouraged and supported.
Q: What is one contribution or change you are proud to have helped create in your team?
Once, I was suddenly asked to lead a bridge tour for a guest. Although I was worried due to the use of technical terms, I already knew the guest’s interests from prior conversations. By adding clear explanations to the Captain’s words, I was able to facilitate smooth communication and ensure the guest’s satisfaction.
Q: Can you share a memorable success or milestone you are particularly proud of?
Midway through my last contract, I was entrusted with creating the Japanese edition of the onboard newsletter script. Balancing this responsibility with my daily duties and handling irregular situations, I managed to continue until the end of the Japan season. This accomplishment gave me both great satisfaction and confidence.
Q: What recent projects or events stand out as especially meaningful in your career here?
One of the most memorable experiences was the Grand Asia Cruise during my over-six-month contract. It was the first time I spent more than a month with the same guests, and many of the countries we visited were new to me. I had to fully learn about each port, tourist attractions, transportation, and highlights to be ready for guest questions. By the end, I had created many lasting memories with the guests I saw daily.
Q: What traits or mindset do you think are key to thrive in your role?
It is important to maintain consistency and energy across various shifts, while also being empathetic to each guest and flexible enough to provide personalized support or suggestions. A positive attitude is essential.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering joining Viking in a similar capacity?
This position is ideal for those who are curious and value teamwork. It involves not only desk work but also accompanying shore excursions, offering new discoveries every time. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys such a dynamic environment.
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of work that keeps you balanced or inspired?
I love visiting new places and exploring museums. Even during short breaks, I try to go outside, and those experiences often help me give genuine recommendations to guests. During my own vacations, hiking in nature is my best way to recharge.
Q: How do you feel about your journey—was there a particular moment where you felt especially fulfilled or at home here?
Especially during the Japan season, I am one of the few native Japanese speakers on board, so I am often relied upon in many situations. Striving to help has given me long-term fulfillment. Also, being part of such a wonderful team that I want to spend time with even outside of work has helped me get through long contracts.
So far, I have completed contracts on two ships: Viking Jupiter and Viking Eden.
Q: What part of your job energizes you the most?
The moments when I build a connection with guests. Not only with repeat guests who return to sail again, but also when I unexpectedly meet a guest ashore who recognizes me and greets me, or when I hear they enjoyed a place I recommended. Receiving such unique feedback makes me feel the joy of working in this role.
Q: Is there something unique or behind-the-scenes that you think people don't typically know about your role or department?
Especially during the Japan season, Explorer staff interact with nearly every department. One day I might be asked by the Second Officer to translate immigration documents in the back office, another day I might guide guests through the galley on a tour, or interpret the Captain’s words during a bridge tour. In the evening, I might join a dance event. It is a very dynamic position, requiring me to walk all over the ship each day.
Q: How did you start in this role, and what steps or support did Viking provide to help you grow?
Previously, I worked in overseas hotels and with another cruise line as a Japanese-English interpreter. I was drawn to Viking because of the close connection with guests on a mid-sized ship. Before boarding, I completed online courses that taught me how to interact with guests and build meaningful connections. After joining, I also received STAR Service training, which provided continuous support.
Q: What skills or strengths have you developed since starting here?
I have gained the ability to respond flexibly to irregular situations. Since itineraries are heavily affected by weather, such as delayed arrivals due to fog, I learned to quickly create and print temporary event schedules, support the gangway, and decide on the spot what I can do to help in each situation.
Q: Has mentorship or leadership support played a role in your development? Can you share an example?
I am very satisfied with the relationship I have with my supervisor. They understand my usual behavior, and if they notice even small changes, they check in and create opportunities to talk. When I make a mistake, instead of scolding me, they advise me on how to prevent and improve in the future. This has allowed me to continue working positively without feeling discouraged.
Q: How would you describe the company culture—what makes working at Viking different or rewarding?
Viking has a culture that respects tradition while flexibly embracing new influences. Management is approachable and regularly provides opportunities for open discussion, creating an inclusive team environment. It is also a place where your personal ambitions are encouraged and supported.
Q: What is one contribution or change you are proud to have helped create in your team?
Once, I was suddenly asked to lead a bridge tour for a guest. Although I was worried due to the use of technical terms, I already knew the guest’s interests from prior conversations. By adding clear explanations to the Captain’s words, I was able to facilitate smooth communication and ensure the guest’s satisfaction.
Q: Can you share a memorable success or milestone you are particularly proud of?
Midway through my last contract, I was entrusted with creating the Japanese edition of the onboard newsletter script. Balancing this responsibility with my daily duties and handling irregular situations, I managed to continue until the end of the Japan season. This accomplishment gave me both great satisfaction and confidence.
Q: What recent projects or events stand out as especially meaningful in your career here?
One of the most memorable experiences was the Grand Asia Cruise during my over-six-month contract. It was the first time I spent more than a month with the same guests, and many of the countries we visited were new to me. I had to fully learn about each port, tourist attractions, transportation, and highlights to be ready for guest questions. By the end, I had created many lasting memories with the guests I saw daily.
Q: What traits or mindset do you think are key to thrive in your role?
It is important to maintain consistency and energy across various shifts, while also being empathetic to each guest and flexible enough to provide personalized support or suggestions. A positive attitude is essential.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering joining Viking in a similar capacity?
This position is ideal for those who are curious and value teamwork. It involves not only desk work but also accompanying shore excursions, offering new discoveries every time. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys such a dynamic environment.
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of work that keeps you balanced or inspired?
I love visiting new places and exploring museums. Even during short breaks, I try to go outside, and those experiences often help me give genuine recommendations to guests. During my own vacations, hiking in nature is my best way to recharge.
Q: How do you feel about your journey—was there a particular moment where you felt especially fulfilled or at home here?
Especially during the Japan season, I am one of the few native Japanese speakers on board, so I am often relied upon in many situations. Striving to help has given me long-term fulfillment. Also, being part of such a wonderful team that I want to spend time with even outside of work has helped me get through long contracts.