You Need To Think About What All
Courtesy of Viking Cruises
If youve cruised before, you know that Viking cruises arewell, expensive. You can expect to pay several thousand dollars for your trip , which seems costly compared to the $500-600 rates youd find from other cruise companies.
However, once youve paid, you dont need to spend much more. Your fare includes a shore excursion in each port of call , onboard meals with beer and wine, Wi-Fi access, self-service laundry, spa access, and 24-hour room service.
Viking estimates that their amenities are worth about $200, per guest, per day. To get that value, youll have to use as many of the onboard services as possible, but it beats constantly taking out your wallet for things like internet access and port fees.
And not to hammer home the point, but Viking cruises are truly luxurious. Standard features like heated bathroom floors and high-quality wooden deck furniture really help the cruise line stand out from its competitors . With that said, some If you want to enjoy a cocktail outside of lunch or dinner service, youll have to pay for the privilege. However
Learn More About Viking River Cruises
Viking is a cruise company which was founded in the year 1997. The company successfully bought the KD River Cruises of Europe in the year 2000. This gave a boom to Viking’s growth because not only did KD River Cruises increased its fleet to 26 river vessels but also gave it a 40 year experience as a leverage and provided Viking with access to some of the best docks in the key cities of Europe. Viking opened its marketing headquarter in Los Angeles, California in the year 2000. This gave the company a chance to enter the United States’ cruising market. After so many successful endeavors like these in such a short time, Viking became one of the World’s largest River Cruise Line. All of which happened in less than a decade of it being introduced into the River Cruise industry. The itineraries that Viking offers have always focused on the destinations that will be visited by the cruise. Since, most of Viking cruises operate from Switzerland it gives a chance to the company to access some of the very best naturally rich destinations located in Europe.
Viking Mississippi River Cruises
The company plans to add cruise ships on Mississippi River . However, the process is slowed due to issues regarding the so-called “Jones Act” . It imposes restrictions on where USA-based ships can navigate and how to be staffed.
Company’s plan to enter the US river cruising market was officially announced in 2015. In October 2018 was announced as a potential start-up the year 2021. By 2027, Viking plans to increase river’s annual passenger shipping capacity to over 100,000 by deploying six Viking riverboats. The 7-day cruise itineraries will include roundtrips from New Orleans, as well as one-ways between New Orleans and Memphis TN, and between St Louis MO and Minneapolis-Saint Paul MN.
Viking’s USA-based riverboats will be newbuilds , each with 5 decks, passenger capacity 386, all-balcony staterooms , an aft-located infinity pool, bow ramp . All the 6 ships will be built and owned by ECO Shipyards and operated under charter by Viking Cruises USA.
The first boat starts operations in August 2022. Bookings opened in 2020 – on March 31 and on April 15 . Currently, Viking River Cruises USA offers 4 itineraries, themed as:
- “Heart of the Delta” – prices started from GBP 3390 pp
- “America’s Heartland” – from GBP 4790 pp
- “Southern Celebration” – from GBP 3390 pp
- “America’s Great River” – from GBP 8690 pp
Viking’s main competitors on the US market are American Cruise Lines and American Queen Voyages .
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How Much Do Viking Cruises Cost
- River
Originally a cruise line that focused solely on river cruises, Viking Cruises has now also conquered the ocean cruising market. In fact, it dominates both categories, overshadowing many of its competitors because of its sheer quality. We dont want to raise to trumpet of praise to much here, but its hard to ignore how well Viking does what it does. Now, we also know that you might be interested in going on a Viking Cruise, but you might be wondering how much a Viking Cruise costs.
Youll Need To Use Your Phone
Courtesy of Viking Cruises
Part of the fun of a cruise is getting away from the stresses of your everyday life, and for many of us, that means turning off the smartphone for a while. However, Viking offers a few apps to make your cruise more enjoyable, and if you dont install them, youll miss out.
The Viking Art Guide offers a self-guided audio tour of the artwork throughout the public spaces of the ships, with insightful commentary from your host, Vikings Senior Vice President Karine Hagen, as well as a variety of curators and experts, our source says.
Another essential download is the Viking Voyager app, which lets you see daily events, plan your cruise program, and book shore excursions, spa appointments, and dinner reservations. Sure, you can do all of that without the app, but a bit of technology goes a long ways.
As one of the apps reviewers puts it: This app is an essential tool for getting the most out of your cruise.
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Booking Terms & Conditions
PRICE GUARANTEE: Once you have paid in full for your trip, you are safe from any additional charges. Airfare increases, currency fluctuations, increased fuel surcharges, new government taxesnone of these will apply to you.
20222024 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR SAVINGS: Offer valid on bookings made from Mar 1-31, 2022. Special fares plus FREE international air valid on 20212023 departures of Grand European Tour European Sojourn Waterways of the Tsars. Airfares vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise/tour offer. All prices are in CAD dollars and for CA residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. Book by Mar 31, 2022. 2022: Pay in full by Mar 31, 2022 or at time of booking if within 90 days of departure. 2023: Pay in full by Jun 30, 2022. 2024: Pay in full by Dec 31, 2022. Offers expires Mar 31, 2022.
AIR OFFER RESTRICTIONS: Offer expires March 31, 2022.
Asia River Cruise Prices
The biggest difference in river cruising in places like China, Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar is that the trip also includes a land component that’s often longer than the cruise itself. For instance, a typical three- or four-night Yangtze cruise is generally wrapped in a tour that lasts 10 or more nights. There are additional costs associated with Asian travel that the passenger should consider, as well. Unlike in Europe, visas are required for entry to places like Southeast Asia and China. Visa services generally range from $60 per person up to several hundred dollars, but tend to be easier to acquire now that many countries are issuing electronic visas.
Depending on where you reside, airfare to Asia may also be more expensive, though for those residing on the west coast of North America, fares to Asia may actually be more affordable than European airfare.
However, there are “value” seasons associated with the weather and, consequently, limited demand periods. The most affordable time to cruise the rivers of Asia is between June and August. Yangtze and Mekong river cruise tours can be had for as low as $300 per person, per night, during the low season, climbing to $350 during peak travel times. Trips on the Irrawaddy in Myanmar runs about 20 percent more.
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Tour The Bridge And The Galley
Courtesy of Viking Cruises
If youre on an ocean cruise, you can actually take a tour of the bridge and galley, but youll need to act quickly in order to get a spot.
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.
These are limited capacity and can only be booked once onboard, so talk to the guest services team once you arrive and watch your Viking Daily newsletter to make sure you can secure your spot.
That might not interest every traveler, but if youre interested in the inner workings of a major cruise vessel, its well worth the time.
Consider Stateroom Options Carefully
Courtesy of Viking Cruises
If youve got money to burn, you wont be disappointed by the premium suites on a Viking cruise. That doesnt necessarily make them a great value.
For example, each river cruise has two 445-sq.-foot Explorer suites with private wraparound verandas, floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors, individual climate controls, and a roomy wardrobe. Veranda suites are smaller , but feature large private bathrooms, climate controls, 40-inch flat-panel TVs, and various other amenities. Ocean cruises have similar options, though exact room sizes and features will vary.
However, if youre looking to save money, think about whether youll actually spend much time in your suite. If youre an active person , a less expensive stateroom could save you a tremendous amount of money.
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. You wont have much of a view, but youll still get the 24/7 room service, and if youre feeling claustrophobic, you can always head to a different part of the ship.
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Are European River Cruises Worth The Money
In a nutshell: yes, river cruises in Europe are worth their cost if your main concern is not the price tag itself but instead the value of what youre getting in return. Clearly this is not the cheapest possible way to travel around Europe you get good value, yes, but lets not beat around the bush here.
Review Of Viking Cruises
This is CruiseMapper’s page for the three Viking Cruises subsidiary companies – the sister-brands Viking RIVER, Viking OCEAN and Viking EXPEDITIONS, their fleets , cruisetour itineraries, destinations, homeports, cruise tracker. We have listed all Viking ships as schedules and current position tracking maps. Similarly named is the Finland-based cruiseferry company VIKING LINE .
In April 2021 was inaugurated the joint venture company China Merchants Viking Cruises . The new company’s fleet currently includes only Viking Sun but will be expanded by adding China-made newbuilds in the following years. China Merchants Viking Cruises’ General Manager is Wu Wei. Viking Cruises China’s Managing Director is Brendan Tansey.
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Get Your Timing Right
Courtesy of Viking Cruises
When booking your cruise, youll have an easier time finding staterooms during certain months of the year. For the best possible time, youll want to be flexible.
Guests sailing the rivers in December can experience the traditional European Christmas markets and see the cities in a new way while enjoying local holiday treats and hot mulled wine, our source notes.
If youre taking a river cruise, do a bit of research on the cities youll be visiting. Find out whats happening, then plan your itinerary appropriately. An easy approach is to sign up for the Viking Weekly, an online newsletter with recommendations, itinerary spotlights, videos, and more. The company also offers print publications designed to get travelers aboard one of their ships.
With ocean cruise, timing is less of an issue, but youll still want to plan as far in advance as is possible. Viking cruises can be booked several years in advance, and for some travelers, that extra planning time can ensure a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Special Offers Available On River And Ocean Departures
Off the back of traveller sentiment expressing a desire to travel for longer when borders reopen, Viking has released a range of cruise deals packaged with popular pre- and post-touring extensions giving guests the chance to explore more and make the most of their next cruise.
These limited-time package deals, available until 30 April 2021, include an additional saving of $150 per person, per extension on top of any current cruise savings, equating to total package savings of up to $6,200 per couple.
Our guests tell us that, after 18 months of no international travel, when they are able to travel again they want to make the most of it to go for longer and spend more time in their chosen destination, said Michelle Black, Managing Director of Viking ANZ.
So we have made it easier than ever for them to do this combining our popular cruise itineraries with two extensions to create one remarkable journey at one incredible price. And this means just one booking taking away the stress of managing multiple bookings, connections and transfers, Black added.
to keep up to date with everything in the luxury cruise space.
Vikings pre- and post-cruise extensions provide guests the chance to experience more of their destination accompanied by a dedicated Viking host plus all transfers, included excursions, daily breakfast, and overnight accommodation in quality hotels.
River itinerary options include:
Ocean cruises options include:
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Book A Cruise On Scenic
Typical starting price: $2,195 for 7 nights
Where do they sail: Danube, Main , Rhine, Moselle, Rhône, Douro , Seine, Bordeaux, Volga , Mekong , Irrawaddy
Duration: 7 to 21 nights
Specialty cruises: National Geographic, Christmas markets
Onboard amenities : Laundry, wellness area, gym, massage services, hair salon, Wi-Fi, e-bikes, L’Occitane products, pillow menu, shoeshine
Inclusive: Meals, butler service, gratuities, transfers, excursions, beverages , minibar fully restocked daily, chef-prepared picnics, 24-hour in-room dining, entertainment
Pros: Having a butler on call is a big perk. They will tend to your needs throughout the journey including nightly turndown service and laundry concierge. Scenic also has the Tailormade App, which works as an audio guide and offers independent city tours, and an offline navigation system.
Cons: There are different levels of service depending on the cabin category you book. For example, guests staying in suites enjoy exclusive dining, priority reservations, and a private Captain’s cocktail party, while those staying in standard rooms will lack many special perks.
Scenic operates custom-made vessels and a variety of cabins types. Standard suites are sparse, small and lack balconies. A good mid-tier option is the Royal Balcony suite, which comes with a great view and perks like daily fruit skewers, canapes, and petit fours. All upgraded suites come with butler service, nightly turndown, and a laundry concierge.
Days Danube River Cruise
Another top river cruise location choice, the Danube River offers a stunning and unforgettable sailing opportunity. Enjoy Budapest, Belgrade, Cruising the Iron Gates, Vidin and more. Oceanview guestroooms start at just $3199 per person.
Whether you are searching for the best cruises for first timers or the best cruises for couples, a European river cruise should be at the top of your list! Immerse yourself in the famed cities and towns of Europe and enjoy each port of call like a local. Learn about specials and unique itineraries happening in 2018 through a skilled www.CruiseExperts.com agent travel advisor.
Visit www.CruiseExperts.com or contact us directly at to learn more. And, dont forget to like us on and join our InnerCircle for exclusive offers and cruise news you can use! Also, check out our new Resource Center, where you can receive expert knowledge from us before your next cruise or cruisetour.
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Viking’s World Cruise Record
On August 31, 2019, Viking Sun started the 245-day “Viking World Voyage 2019” spanning 6 continents and visiting 51 countries via 111 call ports . The London City roundtrip itinerary was officially listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s “longest continuous passenger cruise”.
VIKING OCEAN’s 8-month long westbound voyage included a Transatlantic crossing and passing through Suez Canal.
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“Viking World Cruise 2019” prices started from USD 90,000 per person .
American Queen Steamboat Company
Typical starting price: $2,199 for 7 nights
Where they sail: Mississippi, Ohio/Tennessee/Cumberland, Columbia/Snake Rivers
Duration: 7 to 15 nights
Specialty Cruises: Music festivals, music of the ’50s and ’60s, bourbon, Cajun/Creole, wine, Kentucky Derby
Amenities : Wi-Fi, bicycles for shore, library, fitness center, smoothie and juice bar, pool, sun deck, spa, fitness, hiking sticks
Inclusions:All meals, unlimited beverages , in-room dining, one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, hop on hop off buses onshore, ground transfers, Wi-Fi, daily entertainment
Pro: You’ll save money as you won’t have to pay to fly overseas.
Cons: Excursions cost extra, starting at around $79. The least expensive cabins are interior and have no windows.
As the name implies, the American Queen Steamboat Company uses old-school-style riverboats for their journey. These state-of-the-art, authentic paddle wheelers can accommodate from 150 to 400 guests, depending on the ship.
Choose from a wide variety of accommodations from well-appointed suites to small no-frills single staterooms that are a mere 80 square feet. Some sailings have Loft Suites, which are two stories with floor-to-ceiling windows and have two full bathrooms, a dining area, a lounge with a Queen sofa-bed, a balcony, and an upstairs bedroom.
Notable Excursions :
COVID-19 vaccinations are required for all guests and crew. COVID-19 procedures are available here.
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On A River Cruise Get Off The Boat
Courtesy of Viking Cruises
Given the luxurious nature of the Viking vessels, its easy to understand why a traveler would want to stay on the boat. Thats fine if youre on an ocean cruise, but for river cruises, make sure youre taking advantage of the local culture.
Sailing down rivers puts you in the heart of many of the cities you visit, our source tells us. During each port of call, guests can explore the destinations with a short walk from their ships dock. Plus, the ships sail smoothly down Europes waterways, meaning, no waves for those who get seasick.
This is where a carefully planned travel itinerary can really elevate your trip. Of course, if you miss a stop, you can still enjoy the cities: Vikings Culture Curriculum program provides onboard performances and lectures from artists, musicians, and historians, along with authentic culinary demonstrations.
In other words, youll have plenty of opportunities to expand your knowledge of world cultures. Just make sure to make an effort!