Air promotion applies to roundtrip flights only from select Viking Cruises U.S. gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. In saying that, consider carefully what shoes you will pack for a river cruise. I sympathize with you since its a terrible situation all around. Its good that Viking had a back up plan so you could still at least experience the cities on the itinerary. Once you book a tour, Viking has a section of their website called my viking journey where you can see the optional tours offered and it makes it very easy to see the tour times so that you dont double book yourself. Another bonus of river cruising is the ample time spent ashore means you can easily pick up any necessary toiletries along the way. They are also good if visiting dusty areas for covering your face. Privacy Policy, Terms of Service, Disclaimer. All the rooms are quite nice, the more expensive rooms get you more a bigger floorplan, higher floor and potentially a small outdoor balcony. Be sure to get travel insurancefor your river cruise. For that, I believe you would need to rent a car and do a road trip as theyre not on the water. Or, you can take a walking tour that covers the history of Ann Frank, these are pretty popular. And, would we be able to leave our suitcase on the ship and go to the museum? You have the choice to take meals either in the formal dining room or upstairs in the more casual Aquavit restaurant. A bit worried about water levels on the Rhine river. With an Owners Suite, youll receive laundry service for 4 complimentary items. For the best possible time, youll want to be flexible. And do they really divvy it out to everyone on board? You should also research tipping policies for your vessel; while tips are voluntary for both ocean and river cruises, Viking ocean cruises have a discretionary hotel and dining charge of $15.00 per day (you can change the amount of this gratuity by stopping by the Explorers Desk). We depart on 9/15/21 and are so excited our rescheduled 2020 trip is happening this year! Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit We have nothing but great things to say about the meals! You could do the Viking Rhine cruise above, and then do a post cruise trip to Copenhagen. We also loved our river cruise! Should you wish to cancel your trip, you will lose your deposit if you dont want to re-book for a later date. I really like to go to Bonn. Or, pack a separate anti-theft clutch that wont take up much room in your bag. We did started in Basel, and Viking also organized a nice extra walking tour for any passengers who arrived early the first day. AmaWaterways leans heavily on its array of European river cruises, with itineraries on the Rhine, Danube, the Seine, the Rhone and the Douro in Portugal. You may wish to choose one additional dressier outfit or elegant top to dress up one of your mix and match combinations. Join Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen and Norwegian soprano Sissel Kyrkjeb, the ships godmother, as It was a well-balanced pace and I truly felt on vacation. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers. Its a 15-day journey through four different countries that begins in Budapest and disembarks in Amsterdam. My companion is in his late eighties but wants to see the Rhine Im in my late seventies and just want to see something again. For the Rhine cruise, most of the drives were pretty short. According toViking River Cruises, your dailygratuitiesare shared between the Program Director,waitstaff,stateroom stewards,galley staff, nautical staff, and others; this charge will also be shared with the Program Director for the land portions of ourElegant Elbe,Cities of LightandParis to the Swiss Alpsitineraries.. Quite a thorough review. Make sure to book your tickets online before your trip, you can do that on their official website. Hope that helps! So you can join that group for the walking tour and it will be a more leisurely pace and route. We started in Basel, Switzerland (up north on the Rhine River) and ended at Amsterdam in The Netherlands. I enjoyed this blog so much, we were thinking of doing a cruise, but now you have convinced me. Its disappointing that Viking does not seem to care that much. Lots of helpful info there :). Look for easy-care, wrinkle-free dress shirts you can wash and not worry about ironing like this travel range from Bluffworks. I would like to see beautiful interiors. Is there any night life for the evenings (we dont want to be in large touristy areas but do want to experience as much as possible)? After the main palace, we did a quick tour of the hunting lodge as well, which was just as stunning. Thank you for sharing this very detailed and encouraging insight into the Viking Rhine River tour. Feel free to do so if you want to tip drivers, guides, theVikingemployee who picked you up at theairport, or others that made your cruise memorable. If you dont want to tip the cruise staff, ensure that you dont prepay thegratuitiesbefore departure asgratuitiesare non-refundable. I dont mind cool temps; how much of a difference weather wise do you think going in October would be? This cruise packing list is for a seven to ten-day cruise. I had already been to Cologne on a previous trip so instead, we opted for a palace excursion. I felt the tours were quite leisurely paced and if at any time you dont want to continue, you can leave the group to explore at your own pace or do your own thing altogether. Would April be a good time to go? Depending on the season and destination, the weather could be changeable from port to port. Hi great article, comprehensive & thoughtful! Im thinking of going next April. The waiters and all the staff are exceptionally friendly / helpful and can make menu substitutions if you dont like anything or are allergic. If you prefer a really social atmosphere, European hostels are the best bet or Ive had friends who went solo and joined something like a G Adventures tour for the social atmosphere. Hi,I have taken two Viking trips, the Danube Waltz two years ago and the Balzel to Amsterdam last year, I cant say enough about how wonderful the trips themselves were, however, the air fair provided was another story. I did receive the Rhine cruise complimentary, along with several other journalists, in exchange for taking photos and showcasing the cruise on my Instagram account. I cant wait! Travel Insurance: Get a free quote from World Nomads Travel Insurance. The drink package costs $20 per day for eachpassengerand lets you enjoy all their alcoholic beverages whenever you feel like a drink, except for champagne. Unless of course, you need a specific product. You can also buy local wine and bring it onboard, a Viking Cruises representative tells TravelAwaits via email. Because of this, they have the flexibility to turn each propeller a full 360 degrees for precision and smooth sailing so you shouldnt experience any seasickness on board. You can find our top-rated womens travel jackets here and mens travel jackets with hidden pockets here. Owned and operated by Viking, Viking Osiris is a brand new vessel, the most upscale ship in Egypt, and the sister ship to Viking Aton. We have reviewed some of the best and most stylish fanny packs for travel here, but these are a few of our favourites. One night we had an Austrian / German night, with local specialties like sauerkraut, sausages, pretzels, schnitzel and plenty of German beer. In the morning, we learned how to make cuckoo-clocks, put together Black Forest cake and walked a bit throughout the Black Forest. Find out who to tip and how much. 1 Dressier pant/skirt/dress for special evenings. Hi, very interesting blog. Set to debut in summer 2022, the Viking Mississippi will sail Vikings highly anticipated voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi River, between New Orleans and St. Paul. I was glad to hear that if the pace of the tour was too fast or slow that you could break away from the group, however are cabs fairly easy to find if you find yourself needing to return to the boat? Sometimes you can buy tickets online in advance, especially for really popular sights that hoards of people want to see. Just found your blog and am loving reading all about this cruise! I would suggest trying out 1 or 2 of the included free walking tours since you can always leave the group to go back to the ship or explore on your own if you no longer want to participate. All the bathrooms have heated floors which I loved and now want to install in my bathroom. In fact,the crewoften circulate a list ofcabinsthat have removed automaticgratuitiesamong themselves. So just personal preference. If you are thinking of this, heres a quick guide to the best hotels in Baselto help with accommodation. (a packable down puffy jacket is good for cold or winter weather). It seems the company has relationships with partner airlines and is able to typically find flights cheaper than you can do on your own. Were taking this exact one for our honeymoon in April and its getting me even more excited! Highly recommend a visit to the Cathedral! Hi Sunny! Hi Liz yes the coaches all have bathrooms on board. But for the Rhine itinerary its not like that at all, and sometimes the ship can dock right in town and you walk off the boat and are in the city center! Ill admit I didnt know too much about the country outside of Amsterdam and our guide was quite helpful to explain the history of the nation and the purpose of its many windmills. And thats it! Most people go to the lounge to socialize or get a drink, or relax in their room on the balcony. Hi Shelley, Cost depends on so many factors (time of year, cabin, add on tours, flight pricing, etc), but Viking has a dates + pricing chart on their website that you can use to compare. If our flight gets in early enough we would like to try to see one of the museums. By day 5, we had reached the middle Rhine! Well be on the Rhine Getaway cruise this coming August. So since you book those ahead, you book them all on credit card. Thanks so much for this post! Since you have more time, I really liked visiting the Hague and Bruges. I remember they had ipads during dinner service to jot notes & things. Bluffworks Lightweight Travel Utility Scarf. :), Hey Tiffany I had a connection in Europe. We are from Canada and meeting up with friends from UK and have booked a Rhine cruise in September. 3. What time is the afternoon on-board for passengers, and what time in the morning can passengers generally leave the ship? Get aquote for your trip here. My pictures of our room didnt come out so nice because my stuff was sprawled everywhere ha.. but we had a veranda room as well! Or do you mean what are the rooms like without a balcony? Hi Hud and Susan, thats so sweet of your kids! Amsterdam to Basel. Have enjoyed and learned so much reading your review and insights. (As recently as 2012, the line operated just 29 river ships.) We had lunch a couple times there and its quite nice to see the river views and sit outside. There are multiple bathrooms on board Viking, and in town there is always a cafe where you can get a cup of coffee and use the facilities. I think my mom would have appreciated binoculars, especially since she has poor vision. Vagrants of the World Travel are a World Nomads affiliate, meaning we receive a fee for any quotes generated via this site at no extra cost to you. 2. Complimentary in-room breakfast service; Complimentary laundry & shoe shine services; Silver Spirits beverage package included; Private arrival/departure transfer in destination; Under-bed suitcase storage space; Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers; Complimentary Viking Air Plus (US & CA only) View the Explorer Suite (ES) in our 360 Tour We leave today for our 1st river cruise with Viking! Unfortunately the Christmas markets dont open until late November but I would think October would be a beautiful time to see fall folliage along the river? Our Veranda stateroom was spacious, bright and airy with minimalist Nordic furniture and a cozy balcony. Theyre quite small so I noticed lots of hooks for hanging, curved bunk-bed type rooms and lots of stair ladders. The last time they were the ones to say to dispute the claim. In the end, though, they are still a bit more expensive than a traditional ocean cruise. They list the Rudesheim am Rhein optional on the Koblenz Day, not the Heidelberg day. Second, if you choose not to prepay your tips, they will be automatically added to your onboard ship account. River cruise cabins may not be as spacious as a hotel room or on an ocean-going vessel, so you dont want to clutter it with unnecessary stuff. We wandered mostly on our own, ducking into gelato shops and chocolate stores while enjoying the colorful, medieval feel. Very disappointed! We have heard from friends who have taken ocean cruises that sometime the evening entertainment is very risque. People were pretty casual (pants, jeans, cold weather jackets etc) but I also went in May when the weather was still pretty chilly. 20232024 Viking World Cruise Prop 30 is supported by a coalition including CalFire Firefighters, the American Lung Association, environmental organizations, electrical workers and businesses that want to improve Californias air quality by fighting and preventing wildfires and reducing air What do you think? hm in our experience you can generally board the day your cruise starts. Hi there! I think most of us are familiar with large ocean liners that sail to the Caribbean. There is also a small shop on board should you require something urgently. Being retired, we are quite used to our lazy mornings and worried that the excursion departure times will be a bit early for us. We set fare alerts and browsed for flights on our own, and after comparing it to the Viking customer service rep, found that they were able to get us a better deal. 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. It was loads of fun, but only half the people were on board (other half chose between the optional dinners and they came back very happy too). Hm.. Were doing the Lake Como extension before our cruise and staying in Amsterdam for two days on our own after the cruise. Hi Gail! The coronavirus pandemic has had a financial impact across the cruise sector to varying degrees. We are taking this cruise in September of 2020 but from Amsterdam to Basel. Expect prices between $2.00 $8.00 USD per item. My concern would be what if youre out sightseeing and you want to experience the local cuisine by eating lunch or dinner in the town? There is a laundry service onboard the Viking river cruises. In general, cruises were canceled, and when they resumed, cruise lines found it more challenging to fill their ships with passengers. There is no prepaidgratuityoption. Great ship, staff, food, and itinerary. Highly recommend this day trip if you love castles half as much as I do! Colmar, France: Is this Beauty in the Beast Town Real? I just looked them up and they seem to have very similar luxury river cruises. Some passengers were very upset. Ie: a window that rolls all the way down? Hi Patsy! As one of the apps reviewers puts it: This app is an essential tool for getting the most out of your cruise.. It sound silly, but with all that eating Ill want to do something to keep the weight off. All so confusing. Since the world is not fully over COVID, what are the chances that that is going to have us in masks the whole time, or worse yet end up quarantined somewhere? have fantastic customer service and you can file a dispute online very easily. I saw people drinking on their balcony. Is there and particular must dos in the other places where you dont have the more thorough blog posts? Youll also want to check out Manfredis Italian Restaurant and The Chefs Table, the cruise lines premium restaurants. We did Avignon to Lyons last year on Viking and loved it! Bluffworks Wrinkle-Free Travel Zenith Dress Shirt. We definitely spend a lot more time in our rooms on river cruises vs. ocean cruises, as theres not as much on board entertainment. What I really liked was that theres no pressure to stay with the tour. Kinderdijk is home to the Netherlands famous windmills. Heidelberg is a university town with a energetic, small town feel. Should you take the Rhine Getaway for your group trip? Many travelers play it safe, sticking with contemporary American fare at the buffet, but our Viking source strongly recommended exploring all of the ships culinary options. We just booked this cruise for April 2020. Nothing about this on their website apart from the fine print but cruisers are blogging actively about this issue. Depending on the type of excursion, you may want to pack specific clothing such as comfortable, versatile hiking/walking shoesfor optional easy hikes. Wines are included during dinner times, which I personally havent seen on any other cruise! Hope that helps feel free to reach out if you have more questions. Specifically built to navigate the Nile, she is a state-of-the-art vesseldesigned in the clean, elegant Scandinavian aesthetic for which Viking is known. I usually am a night owl, but on trips I think its a little easier to get up early since Im excited and with the time difference. I find it a little odd that your friend mentioned that about tipping to get good service. Viking River Cruiseshave suggested tip amounts perpassengerper day. A smart dress shirt or polo can quickly dress up a casual look for men, and a lovely shawl and change of shoes can quickly transform a casual outfit for ladies. Hi Jerry! Vikingdoes offer you the ability to change your cruise date up to 14 days before departure. If the ship is staying in town and not sailing onward, you can stay out on your own after the tour, have lunch in town instead of on the ship, wander etc. Our room was kept immaculately clean and always stocked with fresh fruit and water, thanks to a diligent cleaning staff. I would highly recommend that you sail from Amsterdam to Bucharest if you sail in the Explorer Suite. Viking River Cruises offer a 3.3 percent discount for travelers who pay via e-check, so if youre looking for a way to reduce your expenses, but remember that every stateroom includes access to a self-service laundry. so excited. Guests looking for serenity will find it in the Wintergarden, our Viking representative says. Our goal, to share the worlds unique, hidden and once in a lifetime locations with you to create unforgettable memories. I brought a gigantic zoom lens to take those photos, the castles are high up on hills while the ship sails in the middle of the Rhine. I chatted to the staff one day and they spend the winter season breaking everything down, cleaning and doing engineering things to keep it in great shape. FTo be honest, every land group tour that Ive been on and when I travel personally, I get up very early to see as much as possible so I felt like Viking was nice and a slower pace. That was a nice surprise! All river cruises offer complimentary umbrellas on board as just one of the. At last count, Viking had more than 80 river ships in its fleet an astounding number that is the result of blistering growth over the past decade. I would like to visit here. I ended up loving the trip so much that I decided to write a more in-depth review on my website. Baggallini womens Horizon Travel Crossbody cross body handbag, Baggallini Womens Cross Over Bag with Wristlet, Travelon Anti-Theft Boho Clutch Crossbody Bag, Related: A Complete Guide to the Best Anti-theft Travel Gear. This is the case if you prepay your gratuities through Viking River Cruises or your cruise agent before sailing. Would the Viking staff be able to help us with getting admission tickets when we arrive at the ship? Im obsessed with this blog! You can try asking the crew when you go on board. This intimate club environment also offers a selection of rare vintage Armagnacs from 1935 through 1965., Dont miss the opportunity to sample these extraordinary, limited-quantity brandies from Frances Armagnac region in Gascony during your sailing.. I almost forgot to mention Viking includes wifi on-boardfree of charge. With both artificial hips, spine issues, etc., I dont walk so well, or far, anymore. Hi, Sher Best of all, they are in good sized bottles (not those tiny hotel-style bottles) and are replenished daily or as you need. Their casual dress code means you can wear shorts in the winter months and comfortable shoes. One of the great advantages of a river cruise is being able to unpack once and relax for the rest of your cruise. Our Rhine Getaway hit a couple towns throughout Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands in one convenient week. 4000+ site blocks. Relying on acredit cardchargeback instead of travel insurance is risky, particularly since theres a time limit for making claims. You maximise the room in your cabin this way and only have to worry about one case while you are travelling. This would not be appealing to us, so we were wondering if that is what we might experience? To book your Viking River Cruises river cruise with us, or to get more information about a Viking River Cruise, call us at (480) 550-1235, OR, use our convenient online information request by clicking the red button below. Do you think the Rhine Getaway would be a good choice for this group based on my description above? I got one of the glass ornaments and hung it on my tree this past Christmas! The crowd has a good mix of age groups, predominantly 40+ to retirees and I would say Viking is a more active program than other river cruises. His business is Glas Haus Wertheim. Dandelion Travel Adapter with 2 USB Ports, Power strip with 3 AC Outlets, 2 USB Ports, The Smallest and Lightest High-Speed Power Bank. I understand beer and wine is included with dinner. Two Things You Need To Know Before You Book Your Next Flight On American Airlines, 11 Fabulous Free Things To Do In Venice, Italy, 7 Fascinating Experiences In New Mexicos Hidden-Gem National Monument, 6 Fascinating Facts About Vikings New Expedition Ship Octantis, 17 Best Things I Ate On My Viking River Cruise, 5 Important Things To Do To Prepare For Your Viking Cruise, Viking River Cruises Romantic Danube: How To Make The Most Of Every Stop, For details on Quillt's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our. What is the restroom situation on the tour buses or in the various towns ? Its a great cruise. If you use a straightener or curler, you will need to bring this. If you are worried about acruise lines financial condition, make sure to purchase a travel insurance policy that will refund you in case a particular line goes bankrupt. If you find you need more charging space for cameras, phones or even a laptop, we recommend bringing apower strip from your home country. One thing I liked about sailing with Viking is how leisurely the day to day pace is. One word of caution, while the glassblowers demonstration was awesome, he has yet to send us any of the items we ordered and paid for. Its one of the THE most popular attractions in Amsterdam so expect really long lines. Reply. This is partly because they have to pay their staff more and use smaller ships. Anatomie Skyler Travel Pant (use code GET15OFF for 15% off your order). True? Hm.. each excursion is different, but generally the programmed activities would start each day around 8am (if I remember right). While the restaurants offer a fine dining experience, the dress code is optional. Many of us either have German and/or Irish heritage so we were wanting to fly to Ireland at the end of the cruise. Internet service is a slower than usual, as its satellite service on the river and therefore inherently slower. Autumn is my favorite season so Im sure it will be even more magical in Europe. Thank you very much for sharing your experiences. Im wondering about the shore excursions, many of which are walking tours. Although manycruise linessay that this wont affect the service you receive, your mileage will vary. Naturally, its Gothic cathedral is the hallmark draw! Recently, I sailed on my first Viking River Cruise up the Rhine River to explore Switzerland, Germany, France and The Netherlands on their classic Rhine Getaway river cruise. So wed get up around 7 to get ready and have breakfast. Yes, you can refuse to pay agratuityon a cruise, including onViking River Cruises. Theres also the option to purchase a Silver Spirits drink package if you wish to indulge in wine, beer and/or soft drinks before or after dinner. Complimentary in-room breakfast service; Complimentary laundry & shoe shine services; Silver Spirits beverage package included; Private arrival/departure transfer in destination; Under-bed suitcase storage space; Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers; Complimentary Viking Air Plus (US & CA only) View the Explorer Suite (ES) in our 360 Tour We thought it would be fun to do the Dine in City Rudesheim that evening for $158 total. But, I do lots of group tours with my family and I would say its more of the active older / retired crowd vs those who just like to be shuttled from place to place. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. River cruises offer a very different experience theyre much smaller ships, typically seating only 150-200 passengers. The person that didnt like it said the food was so so, and you were only treated well at meals if you tip. Thanks. When booking your cruise, youll have an easier time finding staterooms during certain months of the year. We prefer a soft duffle style bag with wheels and a telescopic handle. Hi Deborah, Yes if I remember correctly theres laundry service on board. Hm.. its definitely an older crowd, most people in their late 40s 50s if I had to guess their ages. We had a wonderful guide for this day who guided us throughout the small canals, pointing out colorful streets and letting us know about Strasbourgs tangled history in the hands of Germany and France. I think she could do it. With this in mind, consider baggage weight allowances if your river cruise includes domestic flights within the country. Hi Peter it depends on how much you like to drink ;) Viking includes house wine with lunch and dinner. My boyfriend and I loved this particular itinerary but did not see it on the viking site when we searched for this particular 7 day cruise. Thank you for any insights you can provide especially since you traveled with you Mom. They really encourage you to make the most of your trip. Basel is an underrated tourist attraction and the third largest city in Switzerland. Weather is hard to predict but I definitely find that winter seems to get longer every year. Your pictures are Stunning!! The city itself is very popular, a bit crowded, so try to go early for things like the Anne Frank Museum. We are trying to find the best river cruise from Amsterdam to Basel,Switzerland, and this trip you took sounds wonderful. If you leave the group tour (we did a couple times), its pretty difficult to find them again, since the group is constantly on the move. If you go to Vikings website here and scroll down, they have a floorplan of the Europe river ships and each room. Is it really a bummer to be in the economy rooms? Hi JoAnne, weve been to Amsterdam on a previous trip so we didnt opt for the 2 day extension tour with our Viking cruise. We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. Is it easy to find a public restroom (even in a small coffee shop and then buy something from them in return) along the walking tours or during afternoon free time ? If youre planning aViking River cruise, then this article on tipping onViking River cruisesis a must-read. It is much appreciated! Otherwise, skip the beverage package and enjoy your free beer, wine,soft drinks, and caffeinated beverages during meal times. I dont think Viking has anything to do with the airline (ours wasnt free) and we had a couple options for flight options/ seats etc. Use down arrow key to expand the menu and up arrow key to collapse the menu and hit enter to select the link Cities like Colmar and Basel have compact Old Towns so the walking is quite short, but Marksburg Castle was very uneven inside (lots of cobblestone old steps) that I even found that shaky. Does Viking also include included wine and beer with lunch? Strasbourg is its larger cousin and also located in Alsace, France. Here is the cruise we took, its called their Rhine Getaway route. Sometimes certain people on board go out of their way to make your trip memorable. Looking for practical and stylish travel wear? Hi John glad you liked my recap! For the optional tours, I would recommend booking those in advance. Do ALL the tour buses have an emergency restroom on them ? You will need to plan for how long you are away taking into consideration clothing, medications and toiletries. Travelon Anti-theft Signature Slim Backpack, Pacsafe Anti-Theft Backpack with Detachable Pocket, Read Our Complete Guide to Buying an Anti-Theft Backpack. There is nothing worse than a sunburn on your holiday. Are there Laundry Facilities on Board. Do you remember which ports you were docked at overnight? There was a man on our tour who was blind and used a cane and he did all of the walking tours. Best Way to Book an Ocean or River Cruise, Viking River Cruises: Our First Impressions | The Roaming Boomers, Experiencing a Viking River Cruises Veranda Suite | The Roaming Boomers, Flash Sale: Viking River Cruise Grand European Tour | The Roaming Boomers, https://www.theroamingboomers.com/best-time-of-year-for-a-european-river-cruise/, https://www.vikingrivercruises.com/ships/longships/viking-kadlin.html?agenturlid=roamingboomers, http://www.amawaterways.com/agent/RoamingBoomers, Viking Orders Seven New River Cruise Ships | The Roaming Boomers, https://www.vikingrivercruises.com/cruise-destinations/europe/grand-european-tour/2018-amsterdam-budapest/index.html?agenturlid=roamingboomers, https://www.theroamingboomers.com/roaming-boomers-travel-services-information-request/, https://www.theroamingboomers.com/best-way-to-book-an-ocean-or-river-cruise/, Silversea Cruises: Silver Endeavour Expedition Ship, Worlds Most Popular Luxury Cruise Destinations, Hotel-style beds 79 inches x 63 inches (with optional twin-bed configuration), Private wraparound veranda off the spacious living room offers 270-degree views, Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, known as a French balcony, in the bedroom, Large bathroom with double sinks, shower, heated mirror & floor, premium bath products, Bathrobe and slippers available upon request, Sony 40-inch flat-panel TV with premium entertainment package including: BBC News, CNBC, CNN, National Geographic, TNT Series, Sky Sports, videos on demand and View From the Bridge, Full-size veranda off the spacious living room, Large private bathroom with shower and premium bath products, Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open to a full-size veranda, Private bathroom with shower and premium bath products, Telephone, refrigerator, safe, hair dryer & bottled water replenished daily, Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open to create a French balcony. Also in Cologne we docked overnight so you could hang out all night until the early AM if you wanted! Start creating amazing mobile-ready and uber-fast websites. My husband and I are going on the Rhine Getaway this summer. I always do that before I travel! The Viking expedition ship Viking Octantis. These photos make me want to head out on a cruise right now. You can find the best deals by choosing a less popular cruising month or looking at unsold cruises sailing in the next month or two. My question is: can you remember the time in the morning that the excursions start? While this might seem unfair to you, the fact is thatcruise linestaff receive the majority of their income fromgratuities. I didnt do the exact route youre mentioning so some cities would be different, but in general I find that the stops were small European towns so its easy to wander and find your way back to the main square. Standard staterooms are much less expensive, and while theyre not exactly roomy, that doesnt matter if youre just using them as a sort of home base. I have wanted to go on a Viking River Cruise for awhile now. Usually the clean the ships in the winter and do maintenance, upkeep etc, so I dont think March sailings for the Rhine river are available. Most likely Ill be fine. How did you obtain your tour guide for Strausburg, was it through Viking or an independent source? PS just started following you on Instagram!! Thank you! Hi Cliff The ship has an elevator on board that you can use. Plus it had the added bonus of only unpacking once! usually they put out lunch too, and sometimes a bonus walking tour if the ship is docked near the city (depends on which itinerary youre taking). Cruise NEW! Theres no dress code and Viking is pretty casual. Usually October in central Europe is ~50s during the day and as low as ~40s around night time. Then there are the river ships. Hope that helps. Both long and short-sleeved. If I remember correctly its something you can sign up for on one of the slow days when were cruising. From listed gateway cities; call for details. Free for any use. For the most part, I spotted large chain stores & restaurants. Any additional tipping is up to you. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. Your pictures are absolutely stunning. I *love* an over the top, beautifully decorated mansion and have a whole series dedicated to them here. The cruise line provides luxurious river and ocean cruises, with luxurious being the key word; while most people think of a cruise vacation as a by-the-numbers affair, Viking has redefined guest expectations by providing a carefully cultivated all-inclusive experience. Im not a huge drinker but spent lots of mornings enjoying my coffee on the balcony.. it was so relaxing! While mostcruise linessay that the service you receive shouldnt change, the fact is that word travels quickly among thecrewabout non-tippers. Flushable, individually wrapped wipes for travel. Viking has a beautiful premium range of products designed exclusively for them by Freyja. We will be doing the same trip the first week of November and its so nice to hear we made a great decision! A great first day! Empty suitcases or bags slide easily under the beds to minimise clutter. I especially like whats scheduled on the third day. Its very relaxing and you can do as much or as little as you want :) I also really loved the Rhine itinerary and the whole river cruising experience. It will only be something for you to worry about on the cruise. 1. I would really love to do one of these holidays but with 6 children i worry about all the water! Have a great trip! Youll find lots of German and French spoken as a result! And even if youre extremely particular about your shampoo, you dont need to bring any onboard. If air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. This was another ruined fortress high above the river. Many thanks! We are doing the Rhine Getaway in August 2020. River cruises are highly dependent on local water levels, and abnormally low water can negatively impact your trip by forcing the boat to re-route. Enjoy your cruise. On Viking River Cruises, there is no need to bring basic toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, soap, or body lotion. Were likely going to book it for May 2018. I understand it is offered free, BUT, when you are stuck in the last row in the plane, get told this is the only food option that is left and sorry there is NO WATER AVAILABLE, it made for a very long ride home from France with a man in front of us who had definitely not showered in a while. So its about enough time to do the tour + have some free time then time to leave. To help you with the dress code on a river cruise, we give you some ideas for day and evening wear. The best viewing point is on the roof deck, but there is also a smaller room with floor to ceiling windows, the Aquavit casual dining room, where you can enjoy the view indoors. Your photography is oustanding. And not to hammer home the point, but Viking cruises are truly luxurious. Vikingrequires a cruisefaredeposit of $500 per person to confirm your reservation. A pair of lightweight gloves and hat that can slip easily into your daypack or handbag. Some even transition beautifully from day to evening. I would probably pack jeans/long pants, light sweaters and either a wool coat like this http://bit.ly/2vz4X6w or if youre wearing layers, a windbreaker like this one: http://bit.ly/2wz0plj. Hi thanks for all the info in your blog.sounds like we have signed up for the right cruise. As a result, Viking Cruises offer incredible itineraries with unmatched onboard amenities. Ours offers it without fees. (Accurate Cruise Tipping Guide), Carnival Gratuities (Tips) Cruise Line Tipping Guide, The Best Disney Cruise Line Tip Calculator (Easy to Use), Can You Opt Out Of Tipping On P&O Cruises. any recommendations or comments on that trip? Plan Your Hanoi Itinerary. I noticed that the cruise includes 3 meals/day. If youre taking a river cruise, do a bit of research on the cities youll be visiting. Just curious what your trip cost. Were very much looking forward to the trip but was curious if our suite is worth the cost. Thanks so much for the helpful information. I cant wait. Thats the add-on dinner youre referring to right? Viking World Cruise Set sail on board Viking Neptune as she traverses the globe. We either went back into town, had drinks in the lounge or stayed in to watch Downton Abbey (LOL). Hi Tracy, sounds like a great birthday trip! Oh and I asked what time of year, because we took a winter cruise and did not use the balcony at all, whereas in the summer the extra outdoor space was very nice and a great way to enjoy the sailing portions. The applicable tip amounts depend on which cruise you are taking since they vary by region. I have found your website to be very informative. Most of the other stops, the ship will be close to town but docked for only a couple hours. Each day for the included walking tours, there is a designated group for those who want to explore at a slower pace. Thank you for all the great information. Your review of the Rhine River Cruise is most helpful! the dining staff especially are very very nice. And please pray for rain or do a rain dance. Sher, you have a great style in presenting activities as well as the cruise experience. 4. I stumbled onto this blog while doing research for our up and coming River cruise. Welcome to four destination-focused, culturally enriching journeys along the Mississippi Riverdesigned for curious, experienced travelers seeking an in-depth look at the history and heritage of Americas heartland and the soul of the South. I think Viking and all the cruise ships may change docks from season to season, as routes depend on water levels, weather conditions + town permits. We are looking forward to our trip even more thanks to you! So much so, some days will barely allow time to change before dinner. I rarely bring cash to be honest, I bring a couple credit cards which carry no foreign fees and I bring my debit card for the atm / emergencies. Oh! When youre sitting in the Explorers Lounge perusing vintage maps or enjoying a thermal bath on the spa deck, youll know why Viking Cruises are held in such high regard. Usually everyone does the morning one and if you book an optional tour, that would be your afternoon option. Having sailed on a couple other river cruises, I loved how distinctively luxurious the Viking ship and rooms were. Viking River Cruises offer a 3.3 percent discount for travelers who pay via e-check, so if youre looking for a way to reduce your expenses, thats a great place to start. You can see the route we took in the Rhine River cruise map below. My fianc and I are scheduled to go on the first Viking Rhine Getaway on Aug 1 after COVID! At each port, you will have numerous shore activities and excursions to choose from including lots of free walking tours. Any insights you can give??? I have two questions: what are the temperatures like and is there a fitness or exercise room on board? Ocean cruises have similar options, though exact room sizes and features will vary. Curious to know, are there better views on one side of the ship than the other? If the intinerary shows a tour for morning or morning and afternoon does that mean they leave after the tour or do they stay till evening so you can mull around? Hi Patrice ooh Zurich to Paris sounds like a nice itinerary! Everything to See & Do in Heidelberg, Germany, German Castles: A Photo Diary of Castles on the Rhine River, Fun Day Trips from Amsterdam: Visiting A Dutch Windmill Home, Those photos are just perfect! Keep in mind that the crew will know if you choose to remove your tips while youre on the ship. There are also extra tours available at an additional charge for some of the stops. My favorite was the glass blowing demonstration by a glass master from Germany! Single supplement savings are off applicable rates. Leaving from Miami to Basel. If you are taking a fly-cruise package and your luggage is lost by the airline, it could take time for your luggage to be found and may even have to be delivered to the ship at the next port of call. I would say you can wear whatever you want. I actually recommend skipping this street to explore the quaint alleyways and backstreets instead. We like the Samsonite wheeled duffel bags because they are lightweight, easy to carry and with changeable packing options, are so easy to pack. The cruise ship fuel surcharge is additional revenue to Viking Cruises, as are any additional charges relating to currency fluctuation other than for fully paid cruise fares and full fares, which fluctuations are beyond our control. VikingRiver Cruises are expensive compared to a discount ocean cruise, but they are all-inclusive journeys on their luxurious longships. Do you think, in your experience, she will have issues with the walking tours that are provided by Viking? Do you have Chase bank? Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, the new state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by our award-winning Viking Longships and ocean ships and will feature clean Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but that have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. Except for a few evening experiences such as the ballet, an evening at theorchestra or opera, most evenings will be spent dining on board. Are you headed on a river cruise? The Most Picturesque Alsatian Town of Colmar, A Photo Diary of Castles on the Rhine River, Israels Exploding Culinary Scene: 10+ Foods You , Where to Stay in Copenhagen: The Ultimate , How to Get to Kaieteur Falls Waterfall (, Paris Sightseeing - Seine River Cruise | Voyager, Review: Is the Lenovo Yoga Book Right For You? Even though Viking was saving money by paying for one airfare instead of two, they would not agree to honor the promotions. Some of the most beautiful castles Ive ever seen are in Copenhagen I wrote about them in this post. Any suggestions of things we must see or do? Does the transport from the airport take you directly to the ship even if hours before the 3 pm check in time? It depends on when the ship gets into town and if its departing for a different town that evening or docking overnight. I havent done any fall sailings but I think it would be much less crowded and perhaps the leaves would change. If you want more relaxed, casual food with perhaps a table for just 2, the Aquavit upstairs is a great alternative. At least once during your sailing, the ship will offer behind-the-scenes tours of the bridge, where the captain and crew manage the direction and speed of the ship, and the galley, the kitchen, a Viking representative says. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. We are in the planning phase of our trip. For our flights, we took advantage of Vikings flight booking service. Can you tell me where the above picture was taken with the yellow/cream colored building with all of the decorations and red hearts? What would be comparable to a cabin with a balcony ? Given the luxurious nature of the Viking vessels, its easy to understand why a traveler would want to stay on the boat. Sadly Viking no longer provides this walking tour of Basel on the day of arrival. Hi Donna, thanks! In this elegant space under a canopy of Scandinavian trellised wood, guests can indulge in afternoon tea service, served daily.. And then you can fly to Ireland after and party :) Dublin is a great city for that, and all over Ireland, the pubs are fantastic, the people are so friendly, its a great country to have a good time in! Decided to go business class with Lufthansa and that will also be a treat. Viking uses these headphone systems which are pretty good and they split the passengers into smaller groups, so if you see yourself wanting to explore more of the city just let the guide know youre leaving the group and you can find out about local cabs or meeting points, etc. You may like to take a second pair of day shoes for around the ship that can transition to evening and one pair of dressier shoes for evening excursions. Ive always wondered about Viking River Cruises and have strayed away from them because I just had never heard much about them. Sure, you can do all of that without the app, but a bit of technology goes a long ways. Hope that helps! Also, very important. So they have time to clean the boat before the next sailing route. Each of the optionals has their own price, but they should be listed on Vikings website. Ive never heard anyone else mention such an early start. If you plan to eat most meals on the ship, I dont really think you need much else, except for how much you want to spend on souvenirs. Great article and pictures! For dinner, there are always several options to choose from, including a vegetarian one. It was wonderful reading about someone elses experiences and recommendations. If you login to the My Viking Journey website it will show you, day by day, which tours are available and also will warn you if youre booking overlapping tours or things that conflict. Im sure other banks do it too. Thank you so much. Loved the article. Whether at an airport or on a shore excursion, throw a few in your bag, and you will never get caught out. May 10, 2018. When using Viking recommended visa service. As most of us have never been overseas and an international trip is a once in a lifetime opportunity for us, we need a trip that is easy to navigate for newbies and gets us the most bang for our buck (see all we can). Hm, I dont personally have any dietary restrictions so Im not sure. Our Viking program director gave a guided audio tour along the way, pointing out castles left and right. Hi Dina ah, hard to say. Weve all had about 18 months of lounging at home in sweats, so I dont think anyone will look twice at wearing athleisure :). Im taking this trip in April 2018 but in reverse. Some retirees as well. Hi Nancy glad to hear you liked the cruise as well! If you choose to prepaygratuities, thegratuityrate forEuropean river cruisesis $18 per day, per person. Considering this same cruise in 2019. While i can walk pretty well for longish distances (up to 2 miles at a time), I have trouble with steep inclines and with steps unless there is a rail to hold onto and I am hoping the rating is simply because it involves a full day of walking from place to place, rather than because of a lot of stairs and steep terrain, etc. I always find that kind of stuff interesting (how things work, how they became ships captain etc). I booked two cruises that had free air promotions. We always travel with one just in case. Im not sure if Viking can get you tickets when you arrive.. I think its the same night as the German dinner night on board so whatever you pick youll have a fabulous dinner. May 10, 2018. Viking River Cruises. Hi Bonnie I went in mid May and it was still chilly..anywhere from 40-60 degrees. Will appreciate your feedback we must enjoy this trip. Wow, I had no idea about the glassblower. And whichever stateroom you choose, you will find it beautifully designed in the understated elegance for which Viking is known. There is no need to bring any fancy jewellery. Oh that looks amazing and your photography is beautiful. They said theyd look into it but nothing happened. Are you asking about accommodation on Viking? Jerry. Here's the only Disney Cruise Line Tip Calculator you'll ever need. Sounds like an amazing anniversary trip! Strikeout fares reflect our Standard Cruise Fare. All fares and offers are for new bookings only and are subject to availability, may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Travel Credits and Viking Referral Rewards, are capacity-controlled and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Of course, you may choose to dress up, but many passengers will opt for elegant casual. Question: Recommendations for hotels in Amsterdam? in Category V2; other categories may be higher, please call for details. An Afternoon in Basel, Switzerlands Most UnderratedCity! Most river cruises are quite cozy and I typically keep my clothes in packing cubes this was the first time Ive fully unpacked! Note a couple others from the cruise did the optional dinner excursion on this day and raved about it. Consider leaving a tip of 2 euros per person for each day to the guide and 1 euro to the driver. 1) Im a bit of a photo fanatic so I was very glad I brought my zoom lens. Some of the popular ones fill up. I wouldnt say theres a best European cruise per se, but there are a couple main rivers in Europe that offer river cruise experiences. If youve cruised before youll appreciate this luxury! In every other sense, though, its unmatched, especially when compared with cruises from other major companies. Viking probably does get a kickback. Prices vary depending on the length of the cruise, but for around $19.95 per night per guest, youll never have to worry about what youre spending. Complimentary in-room breakfast service; Complimentary laundry & shoe shine services; Silver Spirits beverage package included; Private arrival/departure transfer in destination; Under-bed suitcase storage space; Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers; Complimentary Viking Air Plus (US & CA only) View the Explorer Suite (ES) in our 360 Tour I love cruising on the big ships though, so Im sure I would love a river cruise as well! Whereas, in the summer months in parts of Asia, you can expect a lot of rain. Double check opening times for any attractions you want to visit, and also see if fall foliage will take place in October or November! In recent years, the Elba river has occasionally suffered from extreme low water levels perhaps due to global warming? Itll come in handy the morning where we saw the german forts on the Rhine. For ladies Dresses, skirts or pants witha blouse or sweater are appropriate. Enjoy your trip, its a fab river cruise experience :). But, most of the castles on the Rhine river are ruins or old medieval castles, theyre not so much Disney like castles. Just wondering if this will really be a downer? Accommodating just 82 guests, she offers the ultimate in comfort. Should I prepay gratuities on a cruise? It does sound like this would be a great first-time visit to upper Europe (We have been to Rome, Athens & Crete). Seeing The Night Watch by Rembrandt is on his bucket list. He tells you how the ship steers and has some fun facts about the mechanics. She was completely stripped down to her steel frame and reconfigured to be a modern, elegant vessel, launched in 2018. You photos are sensational. Really enjoyed reading about your experiences. Obviously the more expensive cabins are nicer, but if you like to socialize and plan to hang out in the bar and common areas, then the room is really just a place to sleep. Viking also makes a effort to include local cuisine. Is the Night Watch a big attraction? 20232024 Viking World Cruise Savings: Im about to book the Basel to Amsterdam for my 60th bday with my wife in Sept. Lots of helpful info there! If you buy your own bottle of wine or spirits in the town, you can definitely bring it on board. I will likely skip breakfasts before the included (typically morning) free tours but cant skip all meals ! Pair winter shoes opt for lightweight over heavy boots. The Viking River Cruises website contains gratuity recommendations for various cruises, along with currency recommendations. I think if you havent been, it might be nice for convenience but Amsterdam is also a very easy city to see on your own. A common question for first-time river cruisers is how to pack for a cruise? On our second day,we sailed northward to dock at Breisach, Germany. Water levels are a huge deal, though. I could be wrong! If you want to bring an additional purse for evening excursions or for evenings on board, consider a handbag for travel that comes with a small anti-theft wristlet or clutch for evenings. I love the idea of a river tour, especially the unpacking bit. Tipping on cruises can surprising both new cruisers and those coming from countries without a strong tipping culture. The interiors were really unique and the guided tour was excellent. In between, you can enjoy the onboard comforts that your cruise ship provides, enjoy being with family, make new friends, and take in the scenery as the cruises down the river. I know the currency is euros, do local vendors accept credit cards? For the most part, we stuck to the Old Medieval Town but drove through the modern section. i dont remember much stairs or steep terrain. Hi Sarah sounds fun! The ocean cruises (which I have not been on) are much larger ships with entertainment on board. 1 pair of dressy shoes for special evenings. Unlike a discount ocean cruise, you wont have to pay much more once youre onboard. For the arrival, our bus picked us up at the airport in Basel and left straightaway, which we really appreciated! We opted to extend our stay in Europe after the cruise. Long story, but neither myself or my companion has had a vacation in over 13 years and I feel as if Im planning in a vacuum. /oceans/images/Moorea_Coast_Sailboats_Palms_478x345_tcm13-161473.jpg, Ground transfers to and from the ship; private car transfer for Owner's Suite or Explorer's Suite, Our Silver Spirits beverage package, including virtually all drinks on board, Free luggage shipping services for embarkation, Alternative restaurant dining at no extra charge, Access to top-rated spa & state-of-the-art fitness center, Self-service launderette available to all guests; laundry, dry cleaning, shoe shine and pressing available based on stateroom category. We arrived in the small, quaint town of Basel after our international flight. We have booked the cruise from Basel to Amsterdam for late September, our 50th anniversary. So is the best way to book the cruise on line directly with Viking ? I dont think the optional is necessary. What did you do on your amsterdam 2 day extension tour and do you know where I can find more specific info on the Viking extended tour. European River Cruise Trip Planning Checklist. Thanks for the great pictures and information. To save money on yourViking cruise, book a trip during a less popular month or look for cruises departing in the next month thatVikingis having difficulty filling. Hm, Im not sure if you will have time to see Bonn when in Cologne. We are planning our trip on Viking River Cruises from Amsterdam to Basil in mid May, and Im trying to figure out what and how much to pack. Different tipping amounts apply if youre taking aViking river cruisein China,Egypt,Russia, or Ukraine. I think you would love the cruise and will try to provide my perspective. Thank you! Air Promo: If youre planning on drinking regularly no judgments here, were talking about a vacation there are a couple of ways to keep your budget in check. If you receive poor service, make sure also to bring it to the attention of thecruise manager. While you might think ofgratuitiesas a bonus, the dirty little secret of the cruise industry is that their staff are forced to rely on tips for the majority of their income. And then one night theres a fancy dinner in a palace I didnt sign up for it but almost regretted it bc it got rave reviews from those who did! Theres a range of prices for every budget with cruises starting at $1,899 per person and going to $9,198. Weve also done the Paris to Normandy cruise and the day you visit Normandy is a very long day with long (2 hr) drives. 1 pair of day shoes for around the boat or casual evenings. Here are some of the most common questions people ask. Hm, I cant remember the name of our room but we had a small narrow balcony with 2 chairs and a side table where we could drink coffee outside. They are still operating and looking forward to putting the covid-19 pandemic behind them. Yes, I would definitely suggest you skip Marksburg. enjoying the comfortof a luxurious ship without worrying about transportation from town to town and only unpacking once. Does Viking allow you to bring your own liquor on board? Layering is the best way to combat changeable conditions when travelling even from morning to night or when transiting in airports. Oh and bring binoculars if you have them! A hard suitcase is ok; just make sure it is not so big you have trouble sliding it under the bed as there is limited space inside the cabin. I think honestly it is a nice to have, but the thing you remember most about a vacation is the destination and the memories, not the rooms :). Viking estimates that their amenities are worth about $200, per guest, per day. *All prices are per person based on double occupancy and reflect our Special Cruise Fare. I have a few questions. 3 A tie and jacket are always optional. If not, what are the options? Your cruisefareincludes allshore excursions, port charges, onboard meals with beverages (including beer and wine), self-service laundry, access to the spa, daily24-hour room service, and Wi-Fi. Ive taken several European river cruises cruises with family before and immediately knew my mom would love the smaller atmosphere, quaint towns and relaxing vibe, so I brought her along for the trip! David Porter June 15, 2017. Most of the rooms are booked and only economy ones left. Do you know which stops where the ship docks you are able to walk off the ship right into a town or very close to it? Most river cruises are between 7 to 15 days. I mentioned it in the post because I didnt bring binoculars on a safari trip to Africa and while I could see the animals just fine, a kind man lent me his for a day and it was such a better view! Can you opt out of tipping on P&O Cruises? 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