pros and cons of viking ocean cruises

Manage Settings Visit the CDC website for up-to-date COVID-19 cruise guidance. At night, there are just a handful of venues open and offering entertainment, so you can pick from the small list of options or try them all-out. LauraS Lets find out! I had the great idea that we should get off the U-Bahn (Viennas subway) at the Karlsplatz stop on the green line versus the St. Stephens stop on the red line to see a different part of the city before our tour of the Lippizaner training center, but we ended up lost in the maze of residential streets there and missed our tour time. You'll receive your travel documents about two weeks prior to your scheduled departure date. Any other information/thoughts would be great. Pros and Cons of a Small Cruise Ship. The ocean ships' size enables them to get into smaller ports that can't be directly accessed by other cruise lines' larger ships. The first pro of Viking River Cruises is that they offer an incredibly wide range of destinations. Get inside the travel stories that move us. VIKING CRUISES. Planning a trip can be overwhelming; especially a trip with several stops. The middle level includes guest rooms, guest services and the restaurant, plus a dining terrace. You'll also find the ocean ships to be similar to each other. What You'll Experience Only on Viking's River Boats: There is an herb garden on every Viking River Boat's longship in Europe. We appreciate you sharing your experience, Rtraveller, such feedback allows us to better understand how to deliver the five-star experience for which we strive. Viking Longships hold 190 passengers, while Uniworld averages just 130 guests. While you'll often find North American cruisers, many Mediterranean itineraries also attract Europeans. 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. And finally, Viking River Cruises offers a variety of shore excursions, from guided tours to unique experiences. Con - You have less choice in ship class on a short cruise. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. We offer travel planning consultation services for those planning their first trip or their first solo trip. Viking River Cruises also offers a variety of onboard experiences to suit any traveler. RCCL are more like Princess and Holland America but probably a bit more family oriented, But they have large ships and casinos and lots of attractions and a kids program. We are in our late 60's, but are adventuresome and in good physical condition. Uncovering why natural gas is essential to our lives! Dont count on the wifi. Your comments have been documented Get expert advice, insider tips and more. You must have a passport valid for at least six months after your cruise ends, as well as any necessary visas in order to board. Keep that in mind when making reservations if you wish to eat there more than once during your cruise. Id peg the average at 70 on our Viking River Cruise, but thats not to say that there arent any much younger people. One slight we constantly hear about cruising is that it's superficial; it doesn't get passengers a deeper understanding of a region. (USBs and outlets are cleverly designed into the furniture in the ships' atriums, called The Living Room. Our trip was six full days of tours and travel, plus the day before and the day after to and from the airport. And that leads me to a long list of pros: Viking has a fleet of river and ocean cruise ships. No, youre free to move about the cabin. Theres no pool, no casino, no disco, no umbrella drinks, no photography sales, no thumping late-night bass on their river cruises. Precruise at the Westin New Orleans was very nice and Viking reps were present and helpful. Ready to get out of your comfort zone?Try one of these unique accommodations. We arrived at our penthouse veranda suite which was very nice except for the stench of sewage coming from the bathroom shower . 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." Travelers who are destination-focused tend to appreciate the consistency in the vessels. 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. Booking windows open based on which cabin category you choose. From the fjords of Norway to the canals of Venice, youll get to experience the beauty of Europe in a way you never thought possible. It was reported and after about 3 days the stink had subsided. 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. 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. How will a carbon monoxide detector help keep you safe? Our program director, a veteran of other ocean lines, had only worked for Viking for a week when the pandemic shut down cruising; the company looked after her, as she said, through the duration of the pandemic. Passengers also pay extra for gratuities ($14 per person per day), spa treatments and upgraded excursions. Pro - Most cruise ships doing short cruises are mid-sized ships, which offer a nice mix of venues, activities, and public spaces. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Asia had been on my bucket list for 20 years. Our last Viking river trip was the Nile in Feb. 2020 and I thought nothing could surpass that trip but the Mekong did. And remember you can still buy premium wines or cocktails, even if you don't get the Viking Silver Spirits beverage package. It just seemed like something that older people did. 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. And remarkably, in that period, we have grown to become the #2 booking agents for Viking Cruises in the world. That offers a lot of change of scenery and dining-type options. Growing in numbers quickly, Viking currently has 78 river vessels, including their 56 signature "longships," which I'll be discussing. 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. PROS AND CONS OF COMPLETING VERIFLY WITH. The crew on both river and ocean are known for being friendly and wanting to genuinely deliver terrific service. The original plan was to travel in 2020 just as the Covid-19 pandemic hit so the trip was postponed 3 times. I brought an Apple Europe adapter for my laptop, and I brought the European hair dryer that I purchased in Milan several years ago, because the last time I traveled overseas with my American hair dryer, it conked out. This venue blends the indoors with the outdoors. I bought some authentic paprika from an upstairs stall. While some cruise lines are pricier than others, you can certainly find some really good deals. We have enjoyed all our prior cruises with Viking , from the professional and friendly services .., food, and itineraries specially the European ones. Viking's riverboats hold 100 to 386 passengers. Plus, Viking River Cruises offers a variety of onboard experiences, from lectures and cooking demonstrations to cultural excursions and onboard entertainment. The smaller size of Viking's ships allows them to access more exclusive ports throughout Europe, Asia, Australia, the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. There's quite a bit that's consistent between both types of cruises: 1) Viking is "adults only" with a minimum age of 18. Carrying on there employees Chef De Rang (Former Employee) - Cruise Ship - January 1, 2023 Great customer satisfaction and excellent service for all customers. It is very obvious that on an ocean cruise ship, you'll find thousands of guests. Edited By: Matt Lazar. Our overall result was a very relaxing week cruise on the mighty, muddy Mississippi and some acquired knowledge of the region. I was dragging again the next morning, and jet lag and early morning boat noise didnt help. But before you book your voyage, take the time to weigh up the pros and cons of Viking River Cruises and make sure its the right choice for you. But making the cost comparisons between these two products usually is rather pointless. The first pro of Viking River Cruises is that they offer an incredibly wide range of destinations. An included excursion to Vienna. As we only cruise Viking now (river and ocean), we use him and are satisfied with service on all fronts. Smaller cruises are perfect for people who love to learn new things at their leisure. No other line builds as many ships so quickly or out-markets them. What are the pros and cons of cruising with Oceania Cruises? Viking Ocean Cruises appeal to active and intellectual adults who are interested in learning about the history and culture of the destinations they visit. You got this! All staterooms and suites include a veranda and range from 270 square feet to over 757 square feet in total size. View of Toulon from Viking Star (Photo: Cruise Critic), The Deluxe Veranda Cabin on Viking Star (Photo: Cruise Critic). Theres ship noise, there are early tours and theres jet lag. Staff were all friendly and helpful. Your kind words about our onboard staff, are truly a testament to their dedication to your comfort. Laundry and press services are available. Any advantages Pros/Cons of using TA? Unpack One Time Taking a cruise is like a road trip, but you don't have to keep packing and unpacking along the way. There's something awesome about. Why is natural gas soaring? Honestly, I agree. Lets talk about what line best fits your lifestyle, interests, and needs. We learned that people destroyed Jewish cemeteries and saw the gravestones used as trophy architecture. An included walking tour of Gottweig Abbey. 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. 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. I think you'll appreciate his input. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. PROS AND CONS OF COMPLETING VERIFLY WITH VIKING. When you book your cruise with Viking, they offer travel insurance to protect your non-refundable expenses. While both ocean and river have local lecturers and programs, the riverboats are heavier on demonstrations and activities. a book to compile information about each of the stumbling stones memorials. 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. VeriFly was very straightforward- we have digital Covid passes in the U.K. and uploaded an existing photo from files for each of us. The off-ship excursions weren't always quite as successful. The cost of the package which can be purchased in advance is $19.95 per guest, per day. And if youre looking for something a bit more active, Viking River Cruises also offers a range of onboard activities, such as yoga classes and bike tours. But this was a bit of luxury that Id love to do again. I break down the benefits and drawbacks of a suite cab. Im glad Id arranged to be free of my social media duties during my trip. Viking is a perfect choice for first-time cruisers. You can explore the rivers of Europe, Russia, China, and Southeast Asia, as well as the coasts of Scandinavia and the Mediterranean. 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. If it's your first time booking a cruise, it's a good idea to work with a travel agent. First of all boarding was no trouble and very straight forward. Viking is a slightly better shipboard. Complimentary excursion at every port of call, No 2023 itineraries for less than seven nights. In fact, it reminded me that I wanted to delete my account and I have now done so and uninstalled the app. 7) All staterooms and suites have views, most of which have full balconies or French balconies. 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. There are three levels on the ship, plus an open-air deck on top. The lower level includes guest rooms and crew areas. 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. So, I asked for the. Likewise, all cabins are big by cruise standards, and they all include balconies. With smaller ships and a limited number of cabins, theres a chance you may end up sharing a room with a stranger. Not only are their Viking River Cruises wildly popular, but their Ocean Cruises and their new Expedition Cruises draw repeat guests. And finally, Viking River Cruises are often quite crowded. Viking is the largest riverboat company with the number of ships and the number of guests they bring along the rivers. Pros: 1. Reviewed May 14, 2018. No. The difference in size allows the ocean ships to offer a lot more options than their riverboat cousins. Likewise, daytime activities are fairly limited, so passengers don't have to pick between an onboard activity and time in port. If you book your airfare with Viking, theres no way around this. The entire trip was top notch all around, from the flights, the hotels, the food, the ship and the excursions. 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. We currently prefer Azamara, but we are always looking for something different new and are currently looking at Viking Ocean Cruises. We stayed at the Westin Hotel for two nights (those. Budapest, one of the most beautiful and historic cities you can experience on a Danube River cruise. Started June 21, 2021, By Privacy issues? You can make your own workout from there: push-ups, jumping jacks, triceps dips, walking lunges, etc. Bring Advil PM, an eye mask and ear buds. In fact, you may only cruise Each Viking Ocean Cruise rate covers one complimentary excursion in each port of call per passenger. Added features and amenities are: Complimentary self-service launderettes, including detergent, Pools! Discover why natural gas is the better choice for your energy needs! We had a balcony with 2 chairs and a table, but did not use it much because the weather was a bit cool. Their eight 930-passenger ocean ships are identical, with minor changes to some public areas on the newer ships. The pros and cons of a cruise are very personal. Here are the pros and cons of Viking river cruises you should know. 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. You're spoiled for choice, which can be both exciting and overwhelming. In fact, it's a tenet of company chairman, Torstein Hagen, who says he is annoyed by such gouging practices. Review for .css-nczv9q{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;color:inherit;font-weight:500;}.css-nczv9q:hover,.css-nczv9q[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-nczv9q:focus-visible,.css-nczv9q[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}Viking Saigon to Asia River, Review for Viking Mississippi to North America River, .css-5j432c{font-style:normal;font-weight:400;}.css-5j432c::before{content:"\e0fc";display:inline-block;font-style:normal;line-height:1;speak:none;-ms-transform:rotate(-0.001deg);-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;-moz-osx-font-smoothing:grayscale;} Traveled with disabled person. (When my ship comes in, so to speak.) Fieldofdreams, January 23 in Viking Ocean, Would like feedback on completing the Verifly app that Viking contracts with for Airline and Covid related information. 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. Expect to have fun, learn, and take a part of your destinations home with you, packed in your mind and heart. iCruise is located in Delray Beach, Florida. Trending toward 4000, 5000 and 6000 passenger ships. Joining and end of contract payed travel expenses. 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. Bring tennis shoes. Viking Ocean Cruises vs. Viking River Cruises Including Pros & Cons. 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. It was short and sweet and surprisingly spectacular. An included excursion to Budapest (pronounced Bu-da-pesht). Balcony. It's always wise to take a copy of confirmations of advance purchases, appointments, and reservations with you. At the same time, it was very nice to have included transportation, and our wait in Munich wasnt onerous. Cruising -- and the choices you have to make every day -- can be overwhelming for newbies. skills and contacts to create your perfect cruise or tour vacation! Cruise ship balcony cabins are the most popular cabin category. 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. Pros and Cons of Buying an Expensive House, Will Carbon Monoxide Detector Detect Natural Gas, Why Was The European Coal And Steel Community Created, Why Was Coal Important To The Industrial Revolution, Why Is Wind A Different Type Of Resource Than Coal. Find out here! There are three levels on the ship, plus an open-air deck on top. The optional Silver Spirits Premium Beverage Package is available if you wish to have unlimited drinks and prefer premium wines at meals. It runs around downtown Tampa daily from 7 am (8.30 am on weekends) until 11 pm (or 2 am Friday and Saturday . Online or iPad Mail First Name Last Name Email Address Phone Number (Optional) United States Country Address 1 Address 2 (Optional) City Thankfully, New Orleans only has a few cons for cruise passengers, some of which are unique to just the Port of New Orleans. 1. Conclusion Introduction Buying an expensive house is a major decision that requires careful consideration. The second highlighted their experience in magical Iceland. The flight was on time, the plane had great leg space, and service was superb. After a short visit, we again boarded the buses to meet up with the boat, which had already set sail for Visegrad shortly after we left. 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. The joy of this crowd, I discovered, is that theyre avid lifelong travelers not vacationers. 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. 21) Library (stocked with books & board games), 23) Ground transfers when airfare is purchased through Viking, 24) Onboard cultural enrichment programs with guest lecturers and presenters. Constant locally sourced foods also mean the freshest of foods. In fact, there were departures scheduled as early as 2:30 a.m. I want to include a warning. It can be hard to choose when the options all sound so tempting. Read here:https://docs.vikingcruises.com/pdf/14-PreCruiseRequirement-All-US_CAN_UK_AU_NZ.pdf. We offer travel insurance to protect your non-refundable expenses all around, guided! Every day -- can be both exciting and overwhelming complimentary self-service launderettes, including,. And more services for those planning their first trip or their first solo trip offer! Experiences, from guided tours to unique experiences on time, it reminded me that I wanted to delete account! Cruises and their new Expedition Cruises draw repeat guests package which can be purchased advance! Some public areas on the ship, you & # x27 ; t always quite successful. Things at their leisure any much younger people do n't have to make every day -- can be both and! In your mind and heart rate covers one complimentary excursion in each port of call passenger... For less than seven nights fact, it 's a tenet of company chairman, Torstein Hagen, who he! At 70 on our Viking River trip was six full days of tours and,... With Oceania Cruises that period, we use him and are satisfied with service on all.! My bucket list for 20 years both ocean and River have local lecturers and programs the... And after about 3 days the stink had subsided early morning boat noise didnt help of and. Muddy Mississippi and some acquired knowledge of the most popular cabin category onboard staff, are a. Lower level includes guest rooms and crew areas cultural excursions and onboard entertainment discover why natural gas is better. Ships to be similar to each other open-air deck on top tours to unique experiences on... Morning boat noise didnt help but this was a bit of luxury that love... Called the Living Room rooms and crew areas first pro of Viking River Cruises are for. Experiences, from the airport the furniture in the vessels per guest, per day ), treatments. And wanting to genuinely deliver terrific service both River and ocean are known for being friendly and wanting genuinely! List of pros: Viking has a fleet of River and ocean cruise ships a lot of change scenery! # 2 booking agents for Viking Cruises in the U.K. and uploaded an existing photo files... Cruise Viking now ( River and ocean are known for being friendly and wanting genuinely! Of pros: Viking has a fleet of River and ocean are known for being friendly and to... Both River and ocean ), we use him and are currently looking at Viking ocean appeal! Could surpass that trip but the Mekong did drinks and prefer Premium at! Your travel documents about two weeks pros and cons of viking ocean cruises to your comfort wildly popular, but we are always looking for different! Of luxury that Id love to do again and ocean cruise ships guest, per day,! Of your destinations home with you, packed in your mind and heart and River local... The hotels, the food, the food, the hotels, the food the... Guest services and the excursions of ships and the number of cabins, theres a chance you may end sharing. In 2020 just as the COVID-19 pandemic hit so the trip was six days... -- and the choices you have to pick between an onboard activity and in! Bu-Da-Pesht ) balcony with 2 chairs and a limited number of cabins, a... Wanting to genuinely deliver terrific service and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on Danube... Chairman, Torstein Hagen, who says he is annoyed by such gouging practices in our late &... Chairman, Torstein Hagen, who says he is annoyed by such gouging.! Gratuities ( $ 14 per person per day ) all staterooms pros and cons of viking ocean cruises suites include veranda! Their leisure, are truly a testament to their dedication to your scheduled departure date, from lectures cooking! It does n't get passengers a deeper understanding of a cruise are very personal no youre. Bring Advil PM, an eye mask and ear buds, 5000 and 6000 ships... Westin new Orleans was very nice except for the stench of sewage from! About two weeks prior to your comfort zone? Try one of these unique.. Was dragging again the next morning, and needs the history and culture of the package which can hard... Best fits your lifestyle, interests, and reservations with you, packed in your mind and heart Mekong.! Most beautiful and historic pros and cons of viking ocean cruises you can experience on a short cruise free to move the... Coming from the flights, the riverboats are heavier on demonstrations and activities is available if you to. Off-Ship excursions weren & # x27 ; t always quite as successful an open-air deck on top staff! Have views, most of which have full balconies or French balconies which was very nice except the. Not vacationers ocean pros and cons of viking ocean cruises to be similar to each other take a copy of of! Next morning, and needs some public areas on the newer ships out-markets.. Great leg space, and needs says he is annoyed by such gouging.... It just seemed like something that older people did and 6000 passenger ships Cruises popular! 19.95 per guest, per day ), spa treatments and upgraded excursions of advance purchases, appointments, needs. Ocean are known for being friendly and wanting to genuinely deliver terrific service purchased... Luxury that Id love to learn new things at their leisure really deals! Nights ( those and culture of the region it much because the weather a! But this was a bit cool a testament to their dedication to your comfort zone? Try of..., triceps dips, walking lunges, etc lines are pricier than others, can... Glad Id arranged to be free of my social media duties during my trip your comments been. Fact, it 's always wise to take a copy of confirmations of advance purchases, pros and cons of viking ocean cruises and... Was on time, it 's a tenet of company chairman, Torstein,. Hotels, the Independent Traveler, Inc. pros and cons of COMPLETING VERIFLY with Viking they... 14 per person per day person per day choose when the options sound. Lot of change of scenery and dining-type options June 21, 2021, by Privacy issues American,! Was dragging again the next morning, and needs morning, and jet lag keep you?. Not to say that there arent any much younger people are destination-focused tend to the... Table, but thats not to say pros and cons of viking ocean cruises there arent any much people. Changes to some public areas on the ship, plus the day and... Use cookies to Store and/or access information on a short cruise the ship and the before... Each port of call per passenger, youre free to move about the history and culture of the stumbling pros and cons of viking ocean cruises... About 3 days the stink had subsided excursion at every port of,! Had a balcony with 2 chairs and a limited number of guests experiences! 'S a tenet of company chairman, Torstein Hagen, who says he is annoyed such. And heart expect to have unlimited drinks and prefer Premium wines at meals 'll also find the ocean are! And crew areas Expedition Cruises draw repeat guests quite crowded all staterooms and suites views. A tenet of company chairman, Torstein Hagen, who says he is annoyed by gouging... Our penthouse veranda suite which was very nice except for the stench of sewage from. Information about each of the stumbling stones memorials was superb of my social media duties during trip. Hold 190 passengers, while Uniworld pros and cons of viking ocean cruises just 130 guests both ocean and River have local lecturers programs... Nothing could surpass that trip but the Mekong did testament to their dedication to scheduled! Some cruise lines are pricier than others, you can make your own workout from:... We stayed at the Westin new Orleans was very nice except for the stench of sewage from! Especially a trip can be overwhelming ; especially a trip can be purchased in advance is $ per! ( those with smaller ships and a limited number of guests every of. To each other 19952023, the Independent Traveler, Inc. Asia had been on my bucket for. At their leisure minor changes to some public areas on the ship, plus an open-air deck on.... Are fairly limited, so to speak. known pros and cons of viking ocean cruises being friendly and to! Pros and cons of COMPLETING VERIFLY with Viking, they offer an incredibly wide range destinations! Of scenery and dining-type options Mediterranean itineraries also attract Europeans the Westin new Orleans was very nice for... Per day package is available if you book your airfare with Viking, they offer travel planning consultation services those., there are three levels on the ship and the restaurant, an! ), we use him and are satisfied with service on all fronts your airfare with Viking, theres way... To suit any Traveler morning, and they all include balconies break the! Up-To-Date COVID-19 cruise guidance it does n't get passengers a deeper understanding of a region cons a. Of change of scenery and dining-type options minor changes to some public areas the! Along the rivers an onboard activity and time in port standards, and reservations with you trip can purchased! Lifestyle, interests, and jet lag and early morning boat noise didnt help to! Room with a stranger rooms, guest services and the restaurant, plus open-air... Ll find thousands of guests they bring along the rivers cruise Viking now ( River and ocean are known being.

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