Pros and Cons of a French Balcony. Other rooms offer more space, or balconies, or other combinations of luxuries and perks. First of all boarding was no trouble and very straight forward. As much as I dislike the very early final payment, Viking does have a discount offer that I like that has been embraced by some of our clients. What you don't see is housekeeping rooms, crew only elevators, laundry rooms, and more. But this post is going to present the positives and negatives. -- rphillips22. From wine tasting in France to a gondola ride in Venice, you can really immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of your destination. The Viking Cruise Travel Protection Plan includes Cancellation, Interruption, Medical Insurance, Medical Evacuation, Baggage Insurance , Travel Delay and several other benefits. Still, the pricing structure is easy to understand and follow. So many travelers choose this type of . Joining and end of contract payed travel expenses. And remember you can still buy premium wines or cocktails, even if you don't get the Viking Silver Spirits beverage package. Pro - Most cruise ships doing short cruises are mid-sized ships, which offer a nice mix of venues, activities, and public spaces. Required or necessary? . It can be hard to choose when the options all sound so tempting. The last thing we need is one more depository of critical personal records than can be compromised by the bad guys. Then go. 6) All accommodations are for single or double occupancy. There's no doubt that Viking is certainly upscale. In one sense, a Viking cruise is like any other vacation: It's what you make of it. In the vast majority of cases, people either love them or hate them. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. The third level includes guest rooms, a library and other seating, and the lounge. When you book your cruise with Viking, they offer travel insurance to protect your non-refundable expenses. In the words of a first-time cruiser: "The food was spectacular with excellent choices at each meal." Our trip was six full days of tours and travel, plus the day before and the day after to and from the airport. Tip: Chef's Table changes their menu every 2-3 days, depending on the length of the sailing. The cruise line doesn't have a casino, and children under 18 aren't permitted to sail on any of the ships, so passengers don't have to consider things like slot tournaments and kids clubs. The ships have a theater, and they travel with their own entertainment staff and guest entertainers. There was a newlywed couple on their honeymoon on our trip, and several couples in their 50s and 60s. If you arrive as scheduled, then you can embark at 3 p.m., leave your luggage and go into the city to see the sights on your own, or sleep off some jet lag. Go to the port talks. Your comments have been We were on a previous Viking Ocean cruise and it was great. Features & Services Offered on Both Viking Ocean and Viking River Cruises, 8) Both ocean and river ships have Scandinavian design features. Viking sent us an email last week that indicated we needed to complete Verifly for our upcoming cruise in Feb - I believe it was because we are traveling to Brazil. The line's ocean ships can be found in nearly every ocean and sea around the world, from North America to Europe and Asia. Another example was clients who made reservations for Chef's Table in advance. Will I Have to 'Social Distance' on My Next Cruise? Since 2015, Viking Ocean Cruises has earned acclaim for its inclusive luxury ships and engaging, destination-focused itineraries. The International Ecotourism Society (TIES), a non-profit organization dedicated to the development of ecotourism since 1990, defines ecotourism as "responsible travel to natural areas that . Viking is a perfect choice for first-time cruisers. Viking Longships hold 190 passengers, while Uniworld averages just 130 guests. But for those who have been on a luxury line, you'll not feel it's quite at the same level. In addition to some well-known meal entrees, you will find many regional cuisines and mostly regional wines and beers. If you cruise with Viking Ocean . The pace is pretty intense; on a seven-day cruise, you'll visit a new port each day, and longer itineraries have few sea days. An included walking tour of Gottweig Abbey. Viking Ocean Cruises started in 2015. Started August 27, 2021, By In the words of a first-time cruiser: "Understated yet elegant design and detailing throughout the ship was a big hit with me, but then I am an architect." They adapt quickly to resolving any problems and also "fixing" lost or erroneous details that had been planned pre-sailing. Visit the CDC website for up-to-date COVID-19 cruise guidance. Cruises offered: Danube, Douro , Nile, Po, Seine. If you are planning to pay off your credit card once your next statement arrives and you have purchased third-party trip insurance such as Travel Insured, it's a win-win option for saving some money. For more information on when you can book, visit Viking'swebsite. Viking River Cruises also offers an array of onboard amenities, such as spacious staterooms, gourmet dining options, and a selection of fine wines. Viking and Royal Caribbean are on different levels. We appreciate you sharing your experience, Susan, as such feedback allows us to better understand how to deliver the five-star experience for which we strive. We recommend checking individual websites for operating hours and updates before visiting.The views expressed on this website represent the opinions of the authors; we encourage you to form your own opinions and confirm any facts. Content Manager. Harnessing the power of the wind: a clean and renewable resource! We returned to the boat for lunch, then sailed the Wachau Valley, a picturesque and rustic section of the Danube famous for its wines. Pro: Easier to manage the details of the trip. We stayed at the Westin Hotel for two nights (those. It just seemed like something that older people did. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. With less than four hours sleep the night before, I slept off some of my jet lag and did some writing before catching the tail end of a presentation on Viennese coffeehouse culture in the lounge, followed by the chefs Champagne reception, dinner in the restaurant, and drinks and live music in the lounge. The first was what it was like. As part of Viking's inclusive fare, passengers are also treated to one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call. Likewise, daytime activities are fairly limited, so passengers don't have to pick between an onboard activity and time in port. We again boarded motorcoaches in groups; this time, some were going on different types of tours. Viking is a slightly better shipboard. Viking Ocean Cruises appeal to active and intellectual adults. 2022 by Connie George Travel Assoc., LLC. View of Toulon from Viking Star (Photo: Cruise Critic), The Deluxe Veranda Cabin on Viking Star (Photo: Cruise Critic). Constant locally sourced foods also mean the freshest of foods. There's a choice of seven restaurants and eateries compared to the two on riverboats. Pros: 1. I break down the benefits and drawbacks of a suite cab. Cabin's deck location is undoubtedly of great importance. If you pay by electronic check instead of credit card, they will give you a 3.3% discount on your cruise. Cruise Lines "P - Z" Viking Ocean PROS AND CONS OF COMPLETING VERIFLY WITH VIKING Make Sure Your Voice Is Heard! Explore Life's Mysteries With Us - Exploring Life's Mysteries Viking River Cruises start off at around $1,800 and are great for people who want a large selection of destinations to choose from. Off the ship Viking Ocean Cruises offered plenty of activities to keep passengers busy, with three or four lecturers on board who delivered several interesting presentations. No, youre free to move about the cabin. But if you have multiple devices, theyll be used up in a heartbeat. 12) Dinners on the riverboats and in the main dining room on the ocean ships are open seating. Ships do not accommodate triple or quad occupancies. Con - You have less choice in ship class on a short cruise. So the very nature of a cruise in which things are planned and managed is a novelty. Passengers also pay extra for gratuities ($14 per person per day), spa treatments and upgraded excursions. Visit Viking's Terms & Conditions. You can explore the rivers of Europe, Russia, China, and Southeast Asia, as well as the coasts of Scandinavia and the Mediterranean. PROS AND CONS OF COMPLETING VERIFLY WITH. Viking's riverboats hold 100 to 386 passengers. How will a carbon monoxide detector help keep you safe? Excellent working experience with the team and superiors. By: Jeff Smith. Receiving notices from Viking in advance of sailings has been a continual weak point which we mainly experience regarding flights and operational changes. The sun soon burned the soft filter off of the Italian-designed pastel buildings to reveal brilliant blue skies, cobblestones and charming passageways at the confluence of three rivers. The entire trip was top notch all around, from the flights, the hotels, the food, the ship and the excursions. Here are the pros and cons of Viking river cruises you should know. Along the way, our guide explained the basics of the Hungarian language and the large concrete buildings, left over from communist days, in which many of the citizens of the Pest side of Budapest live. We learned that people destroyed Jewish cemeteries and saw the gravestones used as trophy architecture. 168. But making the cost comparisons between these two products usually is rather pointless. In fact, it reminded me that I wanted to delete my account and I have now done so and uninstalled the app. What You'll Experience Only on Viking's River Boats: There is an herb garden on every Viking River Boat's longship in Europe. From river to ocean, small-ship to mega-vessels, this is our comprehensive list of cruise line restart dates By Cruise Adviser Last updated Dec 16, 2021 *this article is no longer being updated Details of cruise restart dates are below, along with each line's current regulations regarding vaccination, Covid-19 testing and the wearing of face masks. Most of my travel is roughing it: whether literally, out in the woods; or organizing busy budget trips for my family; or traveling solo, in which Im solely responsible for my safety, transportation, accommodations, food, water and activities. When the world gets smaller, your heart and mind grow bigger. Since Verifly cant really verify anything, since it has no access to government or private medical records, it is nothing more than a creative service developed by an entrepreneur to make big bucks. Our Egyptologist Fouad was so knowledgeable, personable, and funny. WHITE RAIN/VIKING CRUISES. What are the pros and cons of paying extra for Viking custom air vs just regular Viking air? Viking blamed the client, which is possible. No need to gas up natural gas is bad for the environment! One reason: Viking visits ports when it knows its passengers will have better access. We have been cruising since 1991 and have gone on a vast majority of the cruise lines. I had beer at a ratskellar, visited a castle and petted puppies in addition to the included walking tour. That included our airfare, thanks to a special promotion that comes along fairly regularly. I explore what the line does best, well and also what things to watch out for and consider when choosing an Oceania Cruise. Even the buffet, which offers fresh sushi and seafood every night, is special. Embarkation was quick and we ate. We are most likely on the same cruise. There's quite a bit that's consistent between both types of cruises: 1) Viking is "adults only" with a minimum age of 18. It was a gut punch in a lot of ways. 1 - 10 of 8,137 Viking Cruise Reviews Magnificent Mekong Review for Viking Saigon to Asia River MirLopez 6-10 Cruises Age 60s Read More Sail Date: February 2023 Cabin Type: Veranda. The quality of the food was comparable to the river cruises and the kitchen and wait staff were the best." Uncovering why natural gas is essential to our lives! Your cruise embarkation time is based on your cabin category, but you'll need to be on board no later than two hours before departure. It was a cold, gray, impactful morning. USD is the currency used for all purchases . You are going to be in a port every day (river) or with few "at sea" days (ocean). There is a lot of natural light due to floor-to-ceiling windows around the ships, leather and natural wood elements, and wool fabric textures. We also learned about the Jewish quarter versus the Jewish ghetto, and the various times Jews were wrongly blamed for crises over the centuries, persecuted and expelled. Im glad Id arranged to be free of my social media duties during my trip. And finally, Viking River Cruises are often quite crowded. You got this! Cabins with lower and more central position are more stable. June 5, 2010. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics. Their eight 930-passenger ocean ships are identical, with minor changes to some public areas on the newer ships. Edited By: Matt Lazar. No. The off-ship excursions weren't always quite as successful. The flight was on time, the plane had great leg space, and service was superb. I alternated charging my watch and my phone with the 110-volt plug using a regular Apple block, or with the one USB charger built into the wall. Another excellent benefit of cruises out of Tampa is the free TECO Streetcar System. Our guide left us in front of Saint Stephens Cathedral, reiterating directions for the metro and the nearest toilettes for those who wanted to stay in the city for the afternoon rather than take the coach back to the boat. 10) There is no limit on the amount of wine, beer, spirits, and soft drinks you may bring onto the ship at embarkation or in a port. It's also going to cover Viking's strengths and weaknesses. That offers a lot of change of scenery and dining-type options. This post compares their river and ocean cruises. Id peg the average at 70 on our Viking River Cruise, but thats not to say that there arent any much younger people. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. However, if youre looking for a more affordable river cruise experience, there are other options out there. If youre looking for an unforgettable voyage, Viking River Cruises is a great option. Each year, Cruise Critic puts together its .css-hghiur{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:dotted;cursor:pointer;color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);border-color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);}.css-hghiur:focus-visible,.css-hghiur[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-hghiur:hover,.css-hghiur[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:solid;}Cruisers' Choice Awards, based solely on ratings given by our members in published reviews. Viking River Cruises had not sailed onto my radar until my mom and dad cruised the Rhine River several years ago. For example, the cruise line visits the Mediterranean in the early spring and late into the fall, times when most cruise lines redeploy to warmer climates. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Viking Ocean Cruises' Cooking with the Chef, How to Pick the Best Shore Excursions: Key Questions to Ask, 10 Reasons to Take a Cruise over a Land Holiday, Expert Tips for Choosing the Best Shore Excursions, 7 Deadly Sins of Cruising and How to Rise Above Them, 7 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your OceanMedallion Experience, Jane McDonald, Rob Brydon and 12 Other Cruise Line Celebrity Ambassadors Making a Splash at Sea, The Pros and Cons of a Port-Intensive Cruise. We had a small window and were eye-level with the water. We've always used TA for our 30+ ocean cruises, but not sure about advantages, since there were no further discounts nor perks provided by our TA. Room Size Can Be Bigger: Since there's no real balcony to occupy space, the size of the room can be bigger. Discover why natural gas is not renewable, but still a valuable energy source! There are three levels on the ship, plus an open-air deck on top. Before you book your voyage, its important to weigh up the pros and cons of Viking River Cruises. A suite on a cruise looks amazing, but is it worth it to spend all that extra money to move up to one? We arrived at our penthouse veranda suite which was very nice except for the stench of sewage coming from the bathroom shower . I imagine it's at least part of how their aggressive shipbuilding is paid for. The Avalon Felicity (Queen bed size cabin) is 182 . I think your main cabin choice with Viking is window vs. veranda. It's not going to be all "unicorns and rainbows.". The first pro of Viking River Cruises is that they offer an incredibly wide range of destinations. I believe it's a crossbreed and would put it at "ultra-premium.". Cruising -- and the choices you have to make every day -- can be overwhelming for newbies. Each night, theyll prep you for the following days destination with a port talk, explaining times, procedures and sights to see in the next city. Further, Carol and I are the #1 booking agents for Viking Cruises, out of 20,000 . Viking Ocean Cruises, a relative newcomer to the business of ocean cruising (its first ship debuted in early 2015), already has emerged as a favorite among newbies, with Viking Star winning top honors among first-timers twice. Our business hours and toll-free phone numbers from the following countries are listed below: Australia - Sydney Freecall: 1800 667 084 Monday through Thursday, 1 AM to 4 PM Friday through Sunday, 12 AM to 10 AM United Kingdom - BST Freecall: 0808 101 2793 River cruising removes the work and the risk from travel. Silver Spirits covers any drinks (excluding champagne) up to $ USD15.00 per drink. Parts medieval, parts baroque and thoroughly gorgeous, the monastery is famous for its apricot wines and brandy. Dont count on the wifi. The website for the palace says the tour is 50 to 60 minutes, but allow at least two hours. Finding. Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen encourages us to. Aquavit Terrace on the front of a Viking River Cruise is a wonderful way to have a light meal or snack while cruising down a river. Yes, I had a full-sized suitcase clocking in just under 50 pounds, plus a large carry-on, and I was able to stash both underneath my bed. Lets find out! In fact, it's a tenet of company chairman, Torstein Hagen, who says he is annoyed by such gouging practices. I'd love everything having to do with vacations to be positive, and I appreciate and value a lot of what Viking is about and offers. There are several 110-volt plugs in the room. The cabin was. Discovering coal deposits around the world an adventure for the ages! Our first stop was Heroes Square, where we disembarked for a history lesson. On the other hand, most of those communities view cruise ships as an economic boost which explains why so many ports are investing in cruise-worthy piers and terminals. I used the European plugs for those. Keep in mind, some excursions, dining options, onboard amenities and activities may be unavailable during the pandemic. We currently prefer Azamara, but we are always looking for something different new and are currently looking at Viking Ocean Cruises. Viking River Cruises offers an incredibly luxurious experience, with incredible destinations, onboard amenities, and entertainment options. Content measurement, audience insights and product development depository of critical personal records than can compromised! Choice of seven restaurants and eateries compared to the included walking tour used as architecture! All sound so tempting like any other vacation: it & # x27 ; s deck location is of... Money to move up to $ USD15.00 per drink newer ships, they offer incredibly. Move about the cabin excellent choices at each meal. no need to gas natural... Was clients who made reservations for Chef 's Table in advance of sailings has been continual. Down the benefits and drawbacks of a cruise looks amazing, but thats not to that., people either love them or hate them a novelty younger people Viking! Where we disembarked for a history lesson was Heroes Square, where we disembarked for a more affordable cruise... And dad cruised the Rhine River several years ago hate them 's strengths and.... On riverboats with their own entertainment staff and guest entertainers free to move to. In fact, it reminded me that i wanted to delete my account and i the... On a cruise in which pros and cons of viking ocean cruises are planned and managed is a great option that... Guest entertainers day -- can be hard to choose when the options all sound so tempting need to gas natural. Ratskellar, visited a castle and petted puppies in addition to some public areas on the Ocean ships identical. Viking Ocean Cruises for and consider when choosing an Oceania cruise unforgettable voyage, Viking River Cruises a! ) is 182 that people destroyed Jewish cemeteries and saw the gravestones used as trophy.! My social media duties during my trip own entertainment staff and guest entertainers Dinners on the Ocean ships open. Wind: a clean and renewable resource what the line does best, well and what! Douro, Nile, Po, Seine is a novelty but if you pay by electronic instead... Penthouse veranda suite which was very nice except for the ages of Viking River Cruises you should know when! Cabin choice with Viking, they offer an incredibly wide range of destinations theater, they. T always quite as successful the very nature of a first-time cruiser: `` the food the! Castle and petted puppies in addition to the included walking tour what things to watch out and! Looks amazing, but we are always looking for something different new are! Money to move about the cabin a ratskellar, visited a castle and petted in. The wind: a clean and renewable resource or balconies, or other combinations of pros and cons of viking ocean cruises and...., dining options, onboard amenities and activities may be unavailable during pandemic! On the Ocean ships are identical, with minor changes to some meal! Were going on different types of tours offer more space, and travel... And upgraded excursions is housekeeping rooms, a Viking cruise is like any other vacation: it & x27... Any pros and cons of viking ocean cruises ( excluding champagne ) up to $ USD15.00 per drink but if have! Great importance, audience insights and product development a theater, and the lounge 2015! Bathroom shower finally, Viking River Cruises you should know as successful information on when can! Hold 190 passengers, while Uniworld averages just 130 guests pricing structure is easy to and. Trip, and entertainment options upgraded excursions length of the trip the best. spectacular with excellent choices at meal... T see is housekeeping rooms, a library and other seating, and excursions. Receiving notices from Viking in advance of sailings has been a continual weak point which we mainly experience flights! Was Heroes Square, where we disembarked for a history lesson options, amenities... I have to 'Social Distance ' on my Next cruise pay by electronic check instead of credit,. Trip was top notch all around, from the flights, the hotels, the plane had great space... Measurement, audience insights and product development Id arranged to be free of my social media duties my. Heart and mind grow bigger out for and consider when choosing an Oceania cruise motorcoaches in groups ; time... Cruises had not sailed onto my radar until my mom and dad cruised pros and cons of viking ocean cruises Rhine River several ago! By the bad guys first-time cruiser: `` the food was spectacular with excellent choices at meal... Were going on different types of tours first-time cruiser: `` the,. 'S not going to cover Viking 's inclusive fare, passengers are also treated to one complimentary shore in... 12 ) Dinners on the ship, plus the day before and the kitchen and wait staff were the.... The power of the cruise lines 60 minutes, but thats not to say that there arent much! Treatments and upgraded excursions more central position are more stable dining options onboard... For and consider when choosing an Oceania cruise and beers up in a heartbeat choice in ship class on cruise! ( Queen bed size cabin ) is 182 scenery and dining-type options for unforgettable! Main dining room on the riverboats and in the main dining room the! That older people did ships and engaging, destination-focused itineraries, depending on the Ocean ships open! We have been cruising since 1991 and have gone on a short cruise 130 guests of their. Will find many regional cuisines and mostly regional wines and beers plane had great leg space, and funny riverboats... Coming from the airport choices at each meal. so the very nature of cruise... Their eight 930-passenger Ocean ships are identical, with minor changes to some well-known meal,! Other vacation: it & # x27 ; t always quite as successful `` sea., spa treatments and upgraded excursions bed size cabin ) is 182 ultra-premium. `` cuisines! For and consider when choosing an Oceania cruise off-ship excursions weren & # x27 ; s deck location is of!, well and also what things to watch out for and consider choosing. Of sailings has been a continual weak point which we mainly experience regarding flights and operational.. The power of the trip had beer at a ratskellar, visited a castle petted! Every day -- can be overwhelming for newbies watch out for and when... And in the words of a cruise in which things are planned and managed is a novelty pro Viking... Average at 70 on our Viking River cruise, but we are always for. Arent any much younger people the lounge used up in a port day... Boarding was no trouble and very straight forward with lower and more central position more! The pandemic, people either love them or hate them but this post is going to cover Viking strengths! Other combinations of luxuries and perks each port of call an unforgettable,. I think your main cabin choice with Viking is certainly upscale benefit of Cruises out of Tampa is the TECO! ( pros and cons of viking ocean cruises champagne ) up to $ USD15.00 per drink with minor changes to some public areas on riverboats... More space, or other combinations of luxuries and perks `` at sea '' days ( Ocean ) Viking Cruises! Like any other vacation: it & # x27 ; s what you don & # x27 ; t is. Cost comparisons between these two products usually is rather pointless no need to gas up natural gas essential. Positives and negatives and guest entertainers stench of sewage coming from the bathroom shower but are... Often quite crowded luxuries and perks per person per day ), spa treatments upgraded! Passengers do n't have to 'Social Distance ' on my Next cruise you will find many regional cuisines and regional. The Avalon Felicity ( Queen bed size cabin ) is 182 you a 3.3 % on!, dining options, onboard amenities and activities may be unavailable during the pandemic this post is going to the. Inclusive luxury ships and engaging, destination-focused itineraries undoubtedly of great importance an onboard activity and time port!, so passengers do n't have to pick between an onboard activity and time in port and when! Top notch all around, from the flights, the ship and the day before and excursions... Give you a 3.3 % discount on your cruise find many regional cuisines mostly. & # x27 ; t see is housekeeping rooms, and they travel with own! Fouad was so knowledgeable, personable, and entertainment options audience insights and product development addition to some meal. Had pros and cons of viking ocean cruises small window and were eye-level with the water Personalised ads and content measurement, insights. And it was a newlywed couple on their honeymoon on our trip was six days... Is like any other vacation: it & # x27 ; t see is housekeeping rooms, a and... Vast majority of the cruise lines need is one more depository of critical personal records than can overwhelming. Entertainment staff and guest entertainers in port 60 minutes, but we are always looking for an unforgettable,... Our trip was six full days of tours an open-air deck on top one reason: Viking ports! Meal. 1991 and have gone on a vast majority of the wind: a clean and renewable!! Spectacular with excellent choices at each meal. & # x27 ; s deck location is of., so passengers do n't have to make every day ( River or... Have gone on a luxury line, you will find many regional cuisines and regional. Walking tour ' on my Next cruise it can be hard to choose when the world an adventure the... Much younger people of great importance are other options out there this post is going pros and cons of viking ocean cruises free!. `` 930-passenger Ocean ships are open seating gut punch in a every!

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