In fact, the line doesnt even allow children under the age of 18 on its ships. Note when you can begin booking and that it is very specific including the day and hour in your time zone. See end of article for more details. Read this over and become familiar with all the extras Viking offers as this will be important when you start booking shore excursions, restaurant reservations, and drink packages. Otherwise most everyone displayed common sense in how they dressed for dinner, nice but still casual. Bring your headphones I find the earpieces issued with the audio devices for tours very uncomfortable and difficult to attach to my ear. Packing for a Viking Ocean Cruise: What NOT to pack Here is our advice on 6 things you should definitely NOT take: 1) NO formal evening attire There are no formal nights on Viking so there's no need for long dresses for women or dinner jackets for men (even neckties are discretionary). Ladies, forget your fabulously bulky shoulder tote bag that looks great in any season. This way you can be warm in the cooler mornings and evenings and shed easy to carry layers as required during the day. Disclosure Policy | Privacy Policy | Web Stories, 20142023 Vagrants Of The World Travel | Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blogs author and/or owner is strictly prohibited | Trellis Framework by Mediavine. What they are is eminently functional, with storage in all the right places, lots of outlets for charging your devices and lighting right where you need it. Viking also operates river trips on the Nile in Egypt and the Mekong River in Southeast Asia, and it recently began trips on the Mississippi River. Ten-night Greek Odyssey voyages to the Greek Islands start at $3,799 per person. If its a sea day in a warm-weather destination, and youre bound for the top deck, a short-sleeve shirt and shorts are just fine. Its not a line that offers megaships topped with every sort of amusement known to humans. Viking is best known for its river cruises, but its Viking Star ocean line has received enormous accolades since its launch, including being named Best New Ocean Ship by the editors of Cruise Critic with a 5-star rating.. That demographic has traditionally included the Greatest Generation and Baby Boomers, but now Gen Xers and even Millennials are finding Viking a perfect fit. Think practical anti-theft crossbody purses that cant be overfilled (for comfort), dont stand out yet still look good. Comfortable walking shoes will be very important. Scarf/stole either lightweight for summer or woollen for winter. The Viking Octantis gets into the list as she is the largest or one of the largest purpose-built expedition ships (intended for the Arctic and Antarctic regions). If youve seen one, youve seen them all. Now make a list and pick two or three selections (this gives you a backup if your first choice is booked) for each day so that you are prepared when sign-up day opens. Most cruises to Iceland depart between the months of May and September. To avoid overpacking for your cruise choose clothing that will work for multiple combinationsso you can mix and match outfits. Bergen was very windy when we visited in early October. On the lines river ships, youll also find onboard lectures, usually related to the destinations the ships are visiting, as well as destination-related demonstrations and tastings. The evening dress excludes World Caf where the dress remains casual after 6:00 PM. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. Viking has been called the "thinking person's cruise" because its target audience includes mature adults with interest in geography, history, culture, cuisine, and the arts. They are also good if visiting dusty areas for covering your face. The unique and luxurious amenities they offer on their ships make Viking Star the top-of-the-line for couples and solo travelers longing for a relaxing, rejuvenating voyage. I like that Viking provides excursions that cover a wide variety of fitness levels and interests. Good to know! Dry cleaning is available on the lines ocean ships but not on Viking river ships. Forsake Davos MidMens Waterproof Outdoor Sneaker Boot, Skechers Mens Relaxed-Fit Memory Foam Slip-On Loafer. Even though there are no formal evenings, the evening dress code for all eating venues, entertainment, and special events aboard a Viking River cruise is elegant casual. In my case, it is Viking Homelands, and I went to the section on Resources. Lastly, review the calendar. Things fill up fast, and you dont want to miss out. The handover ceremony for Viking Saturn took place at Fincantieri's shipyard in Ancona, Italy. I also read trip reports. 1. Even the summer months in some parts of Europe can be unpredictable. Its one of the only major cruise brands in the world with such a rule. They are not expensive and can be a lifesaver when you really need that bit of extra battery. You will need your booking number to register. Cruise Packing Tips How Much to Pack - If you are creating a packing list for a seven day cruise, select five to seven tops to compliment three to four bottoms. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Jeans are not permitted. Viking Ocean Cruises Scandinavia & Northern Europe; The Americas & Caribbean; Mediterranean; Quiet Season Mediterranean; Asia & Australia; Grand Voyages; Viking Expeditions Antarctica; Great Lakes & Canada; Grand Journeys; Call Viking at Call Viking at 1-866-984-5464 1-866-984-5464 . Its also known for an extensive collection of Armagnacs, with one from almost every year of the past eight decades. Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the authors alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Note that Viking does charge extra for two key things that many luxury lines such as Silversea, Seabourn and Regent do not: alcoholic drinks at bars and gratuities. They are easy to pack, easy to carry and pack flat when not in use. We carry yak-trac type spikes for our boots in our small day pack and put them on when necessary. Once you book your cruise, there is still quite a bit of planning to do. Also review the Passport and Visa Requirements. Even in the shoulder seasons the sun can be very harmful so always be prepared with at least the basics. Viking Ocean Cruises provide Freyja shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and body-wash, replenished daily; frequent cruisers say that the high-quality products are one of the best perks of every trip. Passports must be valid for at least six months. An invitation to a members-only Viking Explorer Society cocktail party when sailing on Viking ships. They will pack a box for you with a sandwich, apple, and goodies. In general, its an educated crowd, with many passengers coming from professional backgrounds or a life of running their own businesses. I went in March and the streets were a sheet of ice. See below for the complete list. However, unlike nearly every other cruise brand, what you wont find are families with young kids. You maximise the room in your cabin this way and only have to worry about one case while you are travelling. This is where your research in cultural immersion will pay off in helping to decide what you want to do. You will be doing a lot of walking around towns and cities on a river cruise. Taking long walks is a good way to increase your fitness level. As noted above, Viking doesnt allow passengers under the age of 18 on its ships a key differentiator for the brand as compared to other cruise lines. To begin, go to your cruises itinerary page. The Explorers Lounge also is home to Mamsens, the food counter serving tastes of Norway mentioned above. Check Your Passport's Expiration Date. Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Viking ship. If sailing on Viking ocean cruises, there are numerous guest laundries available to use free of charge on each deck. On a river cruise, you will be launching straight into tours and excursions; there would be nothing worse than trying to squeeze swollen feet into shoes for a walking tour. So this is less a "souvenir" and more a thing purchased that created a memorable moment: A small container of Orkney Island milk from a tiny local downtown grocery that I chugged right there on the spot. Length: 665 ft. Alcohol/Drinks Onboard a Viking Ocean Cruise. Such access almost always comes with an extra charge on cruise vessels. 2. That pretty much summarizes the official dress code. - A brightly coloured scarf, shawl or jacket will give you additional options for each combination and can be used to dress up any outfit. #2. Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise. Related: The ultimate guide to Viking cabins and suites. When we resumed our travels, we packed lightweight and easy to pack rain jackets . Winter jacket Lightweight packable puffy down jacket for travel. Its also home to the ships Explorers Desk the equivalent of a guest relations area on other ships. We did not have icy conditions but did walk through lots of slush. The name of her travel blog came about from her friends constantly asking her, "Peggy, Where Should I Go?". This is the first time Viking Ocean Cruises has offered a . Note that it is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality. It is part of the onboard cultural enrichment program included with your cruise. A secondary pool area with an infinity pool is at the back of each of the ships. For some reason I was craving milk. Tweed jackets dont take up space in luggage the way sweaters do which serve the same purpose for me. There may be swimming or bathing opportunities, such as the traditional Russian Banya or the therapeutic spas in Budapest, which will require a swimsuit. Whereas, in the summer months in parts of Asia, you can expect a lot of rain. Offer ends 5/3/23. Whether at an airport or on a shore excursion, throw a few in your bag, and you will never get caught out. As for the big question, "should my husband bring a sports jacket? Each passenger is only allowed to make one to three reservations per cruise at the eateries, depending on which category of cabin they have booked. Related: 10 Travel Safety Tips to Put in Place Before You Go. Take plenty of warm clothing! I feel like food is such an important part of travel and can give you an insight into the local culture. There really is something for everyone. It will only be something for you to worry about on the cruise. Allow for one heavier, windproof jacket, although leave overly bulky or heavy clothing at home. Realize the Neptune is a 2022 ship and the Sky is a 2016 ship. 2x points on all other eligible purchases. People typically book their Viking cruises many months - or even a few years - before the actual trip. Women can wear sandals, so Id be surprised if men couldnt. Terms and Conditions Apply. Other little touches in Viking cabins that show a line thinking about functionality as much as decor include the large and clear lettering on the Freyja toiletries that youll find in every Viking cabin bathroom. Some Viking ships, including all of the lines ocean vessels (including its one expedition vessel), have self-serve launderettes on cabin decks with washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. Travelon Anti-theft Signature Slim Backpack, Pacsafe Anti-Theft Backpack with Detachable Pocket, Read Our Complete Guide to Buying an Anti-Theft Backpack. We find the ones that clip to your bag are the best as you never leave them behind and they are easy to access when you need them. See our guide to the must-have travel essentials for women for more travel packing list tips for ladies. The line asks passengers to keep things elegant casual when heading to any of the ships dining venues, performances or special events. Viking Ocean Cruises Scandinavia & Northern Europe; The Americas & Caribbean; Mediterranean; Quiet Season Mediterranean; Asia & Australia; Grand Voyages; Viking Expeditions Antarctica; Great Lakes & Canada; Grand Journeys; Call Viking at Call Viking at 1-800-304-9616 1-800-304-9616 . Disclaimer Vagrants of the World Travel are participants in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. While this is an open invitation to pickpockets, it is also how people often lose phones, wallets and other personal items when travelling. It really will enhance your experience. You wont have trouble seeing the pages of the Viking Daily activity newsletter while lying in a Viking cabin bed. Lightweight, breathable tops. (You can also increase the tip amount if so desired.) All of the lines vessels have standard North American-style, 110-volt outlets in rooms as well as European-style, 220-volt outlets and USB ports in cabins. It should be okay in the World Cafe, but Ive never seen men in sandals in any of the dining rooms. The first thing you should do is review the Viking Inclusive Value webpage. We always keep some of these handy wipes in our bag. I'd highly recommend upgrading to the Silver Spirits package which covers any drink (minus champagne), including premium wine by the glass, cocktails, house wines, beer . Weve been to Norway in June and it was lovely. Foldable and Packable Sun Hats for Travel, Foldable & Packable Fedora Panama Straw Hat. You'll earn 15 elite night credits each calendar year, and receive automatic Gold elite status. See our top five best womens travel pants that are stylish, comfortable and versatile perfect for river cruising. The launderettes are stocked with detergent for the washing machines that, unlike on many cruise ships with launderettes, do not come with an extra cost. We set out in mid-February on a 12-day cruise that took us from Bergen, Norway to Tilbury, England with stops along Norway's west coast. Your cabin size will determine when you can book these options. Powered by Invision Community. Also, a 15% gratuity is added to bills at bars and for drinks at restaurants. Every one of the lines 930-passenger ocean ships has a main restaurant (called, simply, The Restaurant) with rotating menus that include dishes that tie to the destination where the vessel is sailing. Once you travel with the brand for the first time, you will automatically be enrolled in the Viking Explorer Society. If you find you need more charging space for cameras, phones or even a laptop, we recommend bringing apower strip from your home country. Depending on the time of year and destination, I like to fly wearing a tweed jacket. In addition to a room on board and all meals, the fares include beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; specialty coffees, teas and bottled water around the clock; shipboard Wi-Fi; and (perhaps most notably) a shore excursion in every port. DH has worn a suit and tie for work most every day of his working life.