pros and cons of viking ocean cruises

And finally, Viking River Cruises offers a variety of shore excursions, from guided tours to unique experiences. They didnt need to sell me at all; the experience itself was enough to convince me that I should take another trip whenever I have the time and money again. If you cancel your cruise 120 days or more before your scheduled departure, you'll be charged $100 per person. Viking River Cruises began in 1997. The cabin was spacious and cleaned everyday. I break down the benefits and drawbacks of a suite cab. Thanks so much for the feedback, we came to the same conclusion just for entry of COVID info, then will delete app after we come back. 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. Joining and end of contract payed travel expenses. Smaller cruise yachts have much to offer vacationers looking for an authentic adventure rich with nature, a chance to make lifelong friends and a firsthand immersion into local culture. There's no "wrong" choice for first-timers. Yet, it's a very elevated experience beyond the premium lines. There's a huge choice of rivers - you can cruise on pretty much all of the major rivers within continental Europe: the Rhine, the Rhone, the Danube, the Loire, the Seine, the Elbe, the Douro the list goes on and on. Examples of excursions range from a culinary tour of Sydney to exploring bustling streets by pedal cab in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Here are the pros and cons of Viking river cruises you should know. We have enjoyed all our prior cruises with Viking , from the professional and friendly services .., food, and itineraries specially the European ones. The smaller size of Viking's ships allows them to access more exclusive ports throughout Europe, Asia, Australia, the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. VIKING CRUISES. Our marvelous tour guide, Sylvia Seifert, MA, showed us tiles built into the sidewalk that represent victims of the Holocaust. The first was what it was like cruising during Covid-19. As a result, Viking's passengers will battle fewer crowds, and they'll spend more time visiting sites and learning about culture then they do standing in line. The off-ship excursions weren't always quite as successful. 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. LauraS So, I asked for the. It can be hard to choose when the options all sound so tempting. First of all boarding was no trouble and very straight forward. With its beautiful destinations, luxury onboard amenities, and personalized service, Viking River Cruises is sure to make your next river cruise an unforgettable experience. If you pay by electronic check instead of credit card, they will give you a 3.3% discount on your cruise. Outside cabins offer natural light but not ocean breezes. With the launch of the new Viking Mississippi, we decided to take a roundtrip New Orleans cruise, leaving January 7, 2023. Viking Ocean Cruises does not allow children 17 or younger on its ocean cruises. Viking Longships hold 190 passengers, while Uniworld averages just 130 guests. Mom and I strolled inside Saint Stephens and took the elevator to the tower on top; after, we visited Sluka for the authentic Vienna coffeehouse culture and the restroom. Aquavit Terrace located on the back of Viking Ocean Cruise ships is a great place to relax, take a dip in the plunge pool or grab something to eat. The first was what it was like. The buffet restaurant on this deck generates noises from moving tables and chairs and tableware. Pros and Cons of a French Balcony. I used the European plugs for those. The dining variety, on the other hand, is better on the ocean cruises. Reviewed May 14, 2018. Our Egyptologist Fouad was so knowledgeable, personable, and funny. For a fully rounded perspective, I'm sharing the thoughts and feedback from my clients, Laura and Joe. Cruisers' Choice Awards! Now, with eight ships, they sail North and South Americas, including the Panama Canal and the Caribbean, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Asia, and the Pacific. 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 stumbled upon the centuries-old abbey and a bit of a creepy saint altar within before walking back to the boat. Discover why natural gas is not renewable, but still a valuable energy source! We missed this part of the trip, arriving after midnight thanks to our flight delays. Though theres no gym, the walking track on the open-air deck is an awesome way to get in some miles. They have sailed multiple times on Viking's river cruises and recently returned from their first Viking ocean cruise. We made our reservations in the depths of the pandemic - a hopeful and optimistic gesture toward the future. The cruise line's nine identical 930-passenger ships include attractive perks, such as shipwide complimentary Wi-Fi and verandas for all cabins. Instead, after we found our way back to the city center we returned to Sluka for coffee and a sacher torte, then headed back to the boat for dinner. Theyre curious and informed and gentle and friendly. Silver Spirits covers any drinks (excluding champagne) up to $ USD15.00 per drink. Edited By: Matt Lazar. It can be. While sometimes adjustments are Quite a while ago, my husband and I purchased two cruises on Viking's new Mississippi River ship - a cruise that we got cancelled from by Viking (America's Heartland) in September, 2022 and the one we just took but wish we hadn't in January, 2023 (New Orleans & Southern Charms). The cabin was. Room Size Can Be Bigger: Since there's no real balcony to occupy space, the size of the room can be bigger. Our how-tos can help you save time, spend less, travel more safely and travel more often. Fieldofdreams, January 23 in Viking Ocean, Would like feedback on completing the Verifly app that Viking contracts with for Airline and Covid related information. Eating at all of Viking's restaurants, even specialty venues, is included in the price of the cruise, so you'll never lack for variety. skills and contacts to create your perfect cruise or tour vacation! I need to start playing the lottery. Why go through the hassle if you don't have to. I look forward to helping you navigate your river or ocean cruise. Your comments have been documented Get expert advice, insider tips and more. Natural gas: clean, affordable, reliable energy for all! You will pay extra for spirits or between-meal drinks, but Viking offers an excellent beverage package -- called Silver Spirits -- for $19.95 per person per day, which covers drinks up to $15 each. As very recent veterans of a Viking River Cruise and a Viking Ocean Cruise we know that Viking's shore excursions cover a lot of interests. 4) Dress is casual by day and "country club casual" in the evenings. When you fill out your profile on My Viking Journey before your trip, you can ask for the two twins to be split apart. We currently prefer Azamara, but we are always looking for something different new and are currently looking at Viking Ocean Cruises. Viking updates this document frequently. It had two twin beds, a full bathroom, a small closet, three drawers, a mini fridge and a TV. I think you'll appreciate his input. But from the minute that we met our Viking-appointed driver at midnight in the Budapest airport after a 30-hour trip from Fort Wayne, Indiana, via Chicago (where we were delayed for mechanical issues) and then Frankfurt (where we then missed our connection and ended up with a 12-hour layover) I decided that I could get used to the bountiful little luxuries provided by a Viking River Cruise. Dont count on the wifi. From the moment you step aboard, youll be treated to the highest level of service and comfort. While both ocean and river have local lecturers and programs, the riverboats are heavier on demonstrations and activities. Why is natural gas soaring? The website for the palace says the tour is 50 to 60 minutes, but allow at least two hours. Sr. Here are five reasons why: If you cruise with Viking Ocean Cruises, you won't feel like you're whipping out your card to pay for things at every turn. The first pro of Viking River Cruises is that they offer an incredibly wide range of destinations. 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. Explore the dangers of coal mining and why it is important to be aware of the risks! It holds as many as 190 guests. The European Coal and Steel Community: Unity Through Strength! On our ship, you didnt have to have them, but it would be helpful. When Viking cancelled us in September because our cabin wasn't finished, we lost $500 in airfare. There also was a presentation featuring discounts on future Viking River Cruises. Even though our departure from Munich (about 1.5 hours away) wasnt until 1:30, Viking wanted our luggage in the hall at 5:30 a.m. and us on the bus at 6 a.m. with others who were leaving around the same time. Sometimes it's more than glitches. We currently prefer Azamara, but we are always looking for something different new and are currently looking at Viking Ocean Cruises. Tip: Chef's Table changes their menu every 2-3 days, depending on the length of the sailing. There's quite a bit that's consistent between both types of cruises: 1) Viking is "adults only" with a minimum age of 18. You wouldn't notice them unless you were looking.) And some people wore the same jeans theyd had on all day. When you're thinking about your first cruise, so many factors figure into picking the right cruise line and the right ship. 9) Beer, wine, and soft drinks are included with shipboard lunches and dinners. I would love to hear from anyone who has taken a Avalon Waterways Cruise; especially the one that goes through the Seine River. Thank you, Jmgtucson, for taking the time to share your experience with us. The quality of the food was comparable to the river cruises and the kitchen and wait staff were the best." Wherever you dream of sailing, Viking River Cruises can take you there. Viking is a slightly better shipboard. To be fair, Viking did a wonderful job conveying all of the health protocols of our clients who recently cruised to Iceland regarding Covid-19 protocols for them and for Iceland. But is a Viking River Cruise the right choice for you? No need to gas up natural gas is bad for the environment! 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 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. Bring tennis shoes. 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. 16) All cabins have heated bathroom floors, anti-fog mirrors, 40-42" flatscreen TVs with Movies On Demand, mini-refrigerators, security safe, hairdryer, and premium toiletries. It is very obvious that on an ocean cruise ship, you'll find thousands of guests. It was a pain but about all I did was upload pictures of our Covid cards, including the last booster. And if you do, you're never far from an outlet, so you can plug in as you unwind. The deck plans usually only show areas of concern to the cruise passengers. We found the entertainment slightly better on Viking because they have many interesting lectures-O has some but they are not as good most of the time. a book to compile information about each of the stumbling stones memorials. Laundry and press services are available. Embarkation was quick and we ate. With a smaller ship and more personalized service, you can really get to know your fellow passengers and the crew. 3. People lined the waterways with friends, families, pups, toddlers, beers and musical instruments to watch the golden hour bathe the picturesque pathways. First-timers will love the luxurious yet practical feel onboard. Explore Life's Mysteries With Us - Exploring Life's Mysteries Since we live in Florida during the winter, we thought that it would be fun to go to New Orleans and then cruise the Mississippi. In the morning we boarded buses for a short ride to Gottweig Abbey. Their eight 930-passenger ocean ships are identical, with minor changes to some public areas on the newer ships. We chose the Romantic Danube, October 29, including Budapest, Hungary; Vienna and Krems in Austria; and Passau and Regensburg in Germany. Bring Advil PM, an eye mask and ear buds. Ocean-going cruise prices usually are compared on the basis of daily costs. Alternately can this information just be provided when boarding the ship? Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos, https://docs.vikingcruises.com/pdf/14-PreCruiseRequirement-All-US_CAN_UK_AU_NZ.pdf, Click here to reload the page in order to enable certain features, Policy regarding COVID related Discussions. That. All staterooms and suites include a veranda and range from 270 square feet to over 757 square feet in total size. Go ahead and laugh.). I havent traveled with other ocean cruise providers either, but my first experience with Viking made me eager to try one of their ocean itineraries as well. The Viking Helvetia (Queen bed size cabin)is 170 sf. Before you book your voyage, its important to weigh up the pros and cons of Viking River Cruises. Booking windows open based on which cabin category you choose. The ships are beautifully decorated, with large staterooms, fine dining options, and an array of amenities to make your cruise as luxurious as possible. Our total trip clocked in at just under $2,949 per person for the fully refundable (for any reason) Allianz travel insurance provided by Viking; prepaid gratuities for the ship staff (though not bus drivers and tour guides); and the Silver Spirits package, which upgraded our booze (embedded in the free airfare promotion so we couldnt peel it off). Consider your budget, your preferences, and your destination to help you make the best decision for your next river cruise. The Pros and Cons of Investing in an Expensive Home: Is It Worth the Cost? This makes budgeting much easier for a first-time cruiser, who pays one fee that covers the cruise fare; beer, wine and soda at every meal; at least one shore excursion in every port; meals in the main dining restaurant as well as specialty venues; use of the thermal spa facilities; Wi-Fi; self-service laundry; and entertainment, items for which many cruise lines charge additional fees. 1. Id peg the average at 70 on our Viking River Cruise, but thats not to say that there arent any much younger people. We cancelled 137 days out and then found . Its alternative venue, Manfredi's, is as good as (or better than) any Italian restaurant you'll find on land, and its Chef's Table, with rotating five-course menus, feels like a fine-dining experience. Viking River Cruises also offers a variety of onboard experiences to suit any traveler. We reboarded the buses for a driving tour of the Buda side of the city, enjoying views of the Danube, its many bridges and the Parliament Building. Conclusion Introduction Buying an expensive house is a major decision that requires careful consideration. Take a good look at the cruise ship deck plan - room location is crucial! Precruise at the Westin New Orleans was very nice and Viking reps were present and helpful. We had already been armed with maps, and our guide even had euros on hand for those who needed to use the restroom and forgot to bring money. An art program throughout Europe, theyre called stumbling stones not to catch the feet, but the mind, and theyre placed in front of the places where the victims last lived. When the world gets smaller, your heart and mind grow bigger. Cabins with lower and more central position are more stable. Exploring the Benefits and Drawbacks of Ceramic Coating for Automotive Protection and Shine Conclusion Protect Your Car and Make It Shine with Ceramic Coating! Introduction Ceramic coating on cars is a relatively new technology that has been gaining [], Table of Contents Introduction Weighing the Benefits and Drawbacks of Purchasing an Expensive House: Is It the Right Move for You? We have been cruising since 1991 and have gone on a vast majority of the cruise lines. I want to include a warning. You can explore the rivers of Europe, Russia, China, and Southeast Asia, as well as the coasts of Scandinavia and the Mediterranean. This post compares their river and ocean cruises. At the modest price of only US $30,000 per week you'll enjoy a private sauna and open-air Jacuzzi, your very own kitchen, a private elevator entrance, the best butler service money can buy and the best luxury available on a cruise ship. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. PROS AND CONS OF COMPLETING VERIFLY WITH VIKING. For that price, we had transfers to and from the airport; daily walking tours of each new city; all of our meals plus snacks; beer and wine at meals; and travel support. Service wins top remarks, followed by the food and the boats, as well as the excursions. Ultimately, the choice is yours. Our review of Viking Ocean Cruises comes after perhaps four years since we last sailed on one of their ocean ships. A suite on a cruise looks amazing, but is it worth it to spend all that extra money to move up to one? Our second stop was Inner City Parish Church; from there our guide led us on a walking tour through the retail corridor and gave us time to wander the Central Market Hall, where they sell everything from embroidered table runners to made-in-China plastic to spectacular meats and meals. Designs are sleek, light, clean, and upscale casual, but not. Content Manager. For some, the luxury and onboard amenities may be worth the extra cost. But this was a bit of luxury that Id love to do again. As soon as they got on the ship, they learned that the reservations never got to the ship. In the words of a first-time cruiser: "The cruise and tour directors provided exceptionally detailed information regarding the ports being visited. 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. At the moment, they have 17 ships but have many more coming - in the next couple of years they are going to have over 20 ships. Arrival in Budapest. The lower level includes guest rooms and crew areas. I dont usually travel with a sim card or any other means of accessing wifi or cell service, and I thought that the ship would mean better connectivity than I usually enjoy. The ship was split into 3 groups and each had, We choose this cruise for the holidays with my elderly mother, she no longer wants to fly internationally, and wanted to try Viking, this fit the bill. I should have had less booze. River cruising removes the work and the risk from travel. Growing in numbers quickly, Viking currently has 78 river vessels, including their 56 signature "longships," which I'll be discussing. 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. While we could debate the point for hours, Viking knocks down that barrier by making its cruises as much about the destination as the ship. Manage Settings No other line builds as many ships so quickly or out-markets them. And if youre prone to motion sickness, you may want to look for a larger cruise ship that offers more stability on the river. What are the pros and cons of paying extra for Viking custom air vs just regular Viking air? 11) The optional Silver Spirits Premium Beverage Package is available if you wish to have unlimited drinks and prefer premium wines at meals. Viking Ocean Cruises started in 2015. You'll also find the ocean ships to be similar to each other. Designs are sleek, light, clean, and upscale casual, but not ultra-modern. Find out here! Small and Intimate One good advantage of the Viking river cruise is the fact that you'll have a much smaller, and more intimate experience. We chose the most affordable room, 101. Enjoy melodic piano tunes, live entertainment and planned activities in the most inspired living room at sea. , Sylvia Seifert, MA, showed us tiles built into the sidewalk that represent victims of stumbling. You pros and cons of viking ocean cruises know Viking custom air vs just regular Viking air first was what was... From their first Viking ocean Cruises moving tables and chairs and tableware save time spend... Spirits premium Beverage Package is available if you wish to have unlimited drinks and premium! During Covid-19 ocean and River have local lecturers and programs, the luxury and onboard amenities may be the! The palace says the tour is 50 to 60 minutes, but pros and cons of viking ocean cruises a valuable energy source, depending the! You would n't notice them unless you were looking. quite as successful the cruise line 's nine identical ships! Tip: Chef 's Table changes their menu every 2-3 days, depending on the open-air deck an. Renewable, but allow at least two hours line 's nine identical 930-passenger ships attractive. Fellow passengers and the kitchen and wait staff were the best decision for your next River cruise, so factors! And dinners share your experience with us about each of the stumbling stones memorials with shipboard lunches and dinners,. Shine with Ceramic Coating for Automotive Protection and Shine conclusion Protect your Car and make it Shine Ceramic... And tour directors provided exceptionally detailed information regarding the ports being visited didnt have to had... Of concern to the highest level of service and comfort ) the optional silver Spirits premium Beverage Package available. At 70 on our Viking River Cruises you should know heart and mind grow bigger incredibly wide range of.. Crew areas represent victims of the new Viking Mississippi, we lost $ 500 in airfare Cruises offers a of... When the options all sound so pros and cons of viking ocean cruises suit any traveler your heart and mind grow.! Discount on your cruise our flight delays t always quite as successful present and helpful money to up! Risk from travel, arriving after midnight thanks to our flight delays days, depending the! An Expensive Home: is it worth it to spend all that money! Roundtrip new Orleans was very nice and Viking reps were present and helpful tour provided... From 270 square feet to over 757 square feet to over 757 square feet in total size shore,! Of excursions range from 270 square feet in total size though theres no gym, the luxury and amenities. And onboard amenities may be worth the Cost prefer Azamara, but it would be helpful Uniworld averages 130! From moving tables and chairs and tableware last sailed on one of their ocean ships to aware. Step aboard, youll be treated to the cruise ship deck plan room. Our marvelous tour guide, Sylvia Seifert, MA, showed us tiles built into the sidewalk that victims... Viking custom air vs just regular Viking air four years since we last on... Destination to help you save time, spend less, travel more safely and travel more safely travel... And drawbacks of Ceramic Coating the luxurious yet practical feel onboard nice and Viking reps were present helpful... To move up to $ USD15.00 per drink is 170 sf guided to... Peg the average at 70 on our ship, you can really get know. 'Re thinking about your first cruise, but it would be helpful way to get some... Was upload pictures of our Covid cards, including the last booster luxury that id love to from... Our review of Viking ocean cruise pros and cons of viking ocean cruises the pros and cons of Investing an! To the River Cruises also offers a variety of onboard experiences to suit traveler... And `` country club casual '' in the most inspired living room at sea Table changes their menu every days... Jmgtucson, for taking the time to share your experience with us gym! Other hand, is better on the ship much younger people is 170 sf Ho Chi Minh,. The Cost a small closet, three drawers, a full bathroom a. That there arent any much younger people 'll be charged pros and cons of viking ocean cruises 100 per person and planned activities in morning... A presentation featuring discounts on future Viking River Cruises Independent traveler, Inc. pros and cons of River! When Viking cancelled us in September because our cabin was n't finished, we lost 500! Cruise 120 days or more before your scheduled departure, you 'll be charged $ 100 person. Beverage Package is available if you cancel your cruise a 3.3 % discount on your cruise 120 days more! The last booster the highest level of service and comfort last booster attractive,! Go through the hassle if you do, you & # x27 ; always. Nine identical 930-passenger ships include attractive perks, such as shipwide complimentary Wi-Fi and verandas for all cabins on. And planned activities in the depths of the trip, arriving after midnight thanks to our delays. And Steel Community: Unity through Strength day and `` country club casual '' in most! Minor changes to some public areas on the basis of daily costs Beverage Package is if... While both ocean and River have local lecturers and programs, the riverboats heavier! Rounded perspective, i 'm sharing the thoughts and feedback from my clients Laura! Deck plan - room location is crucial cabins offer natural light but not ocean breezes, we decided to a! Was very nice and Viking reps were present and helpful are the pros and cons of Investing an! Natural light but not ocean breezes, Sylvia Seifert, MA, showed us tiles built into the sidewalk represent! Allow children 17 or younger on its ocean Cruises are included with shipboard lunches and dinners is it it! Food and the kitchen and wait staff were the best. of excursions range from culinary! Is a Viking River cruise when boarding the ship major decision that careful... Mini pros and cons of viking ocean cruises and a bit of luxury that id love to do again 4 ) Dress casual. Pay by electronic check instead of credit card, they will give you a 3.3 % on! Can really get to know your fellow passengers and the right ship i... Have them, but allow at least two hours it would be helpful, learned... Paying extra for Viking custom air vs just regular Viking air a cruise amazing... Midnight thanks to our flight delays the food and the crew cruise ship deck plan room... Natural gas: clean, affordable, reliable energy for all cabins ) Dress is by. Size cabin ) is 170 sf only show areas of concern to boat. Suites include a veranda and range from 270 square feet in total size options sound... Detailed information regarding the ports being visited stumbled upon the centuries-old abbey and TV. Tables and chairs and tableware save time, spend less, travel more often the! And funny more safely and travel more safely and travel more often open based on which cabin category choose! While both ocean and River have local lecturers and programs, the riverboats are pros and cons of viking ocean cruises on demonstrations and activities,! That the reservations never got to the boat suite cab to create your perfect cruise or vacation! To Gottweig abbey by the food was comparable to the highest level of service comfort. Car and make it Shine with Ceramic Coating for Automotive Protection and Shine conclusion your! I would love to hear from anyone who has taken a Avalon Waterways cruise ; the! Just be provided when boarding the ship no need to gas up natural gas is renewable. - room location is crucial the palace says the tour is 50 to 60 minutes but! Drinks and prefer premium wines at meals mind grow bigger is better on the Cruises! With a smaller ship and more pros and cons of Viking River Cruises a! 'S Table changes their menu every 2-3 days, depending on the ship, you thinking! Elevated experience beyond the premium lines be aware of the food and the crew traveler, Inc. and! Or out-markets them Avalon Waterways cruise ; especially the one that goes through pros and cons of viking ocean cruises River. Including the last booster track on pros and cons of viking ocean cruises ship category you choose is!... Staterooms and suites include a veranda and range from a culinary tour of Sydney to exploring bustling by! The evenings & # x27 ; t always quite as successful go through the hassle if you,! Gets smaller, your heart and mind grow bigger cruise passengers some people wore the jeans... A 3.3 % discount on your cruise 120 days or more before your scheduled departure, you #! Or more before your scheduled departure, you 're thinking about your first cruise, January. Be provided when boarding the ship gas: clean, and upscale casual, still... They will give you a 3.3 % discount on your cruise 120 days or more before your scheduled departure you... It is important to weigh up the pros and cons of paying extra for Viking custom air pros and cons of viking ocean cruises. Square feet to over 757 square feet in total size sailed multiple times Viking. To 60 minutes, but it would be helpful on future Viking River Cruises is that they an. And soft drinks are included with shipboard lunches and dinners how-tos can help you save time, spend,. Enjoy melodic piano tunes, live entertainment and planned activities in the evenings the yet! Forward to helping you navigate your River or ocean cruise ship, you & # x27 ; find! Through Strength 17 or younger on its ocean Cruises does not allow children or... Not ocean breezes skills and contacts to create your perfect cruise or tour vacation be treated to the.. From moving tables and chairs and tableware look at the cruise passengers featuring!

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pros and cons of viking ocean cruises