Guess not. If sharing a stateroom, both guests must pay for the package. Preparing for any trip involves planningas well as careful pruning: To do a good job, dont wait until the last minute. My #1 tip to people going on their 1st river cruise is laundry is quick & inexpensive dont overpack. There are laundry rooms on the ocean ships and a friend said do NOT think you will do laundry on the days you are sailing everybody has that idea. Some companies may take space from common areas to put into spas and fitness centers; others, like Viking, use all that available space for staterooms and common areas.). We cant say enough about how well-run and maintained the ships are. TIP: Take a picture of The Viking Daily each evening before heading to bed. Especially your tips on dinner were helpful I will pack his blazer. We just got back from the Viking Rhine River Cruise and these tips were very good. Very relaxing! What a great experience she has ahead of her! Poweradd 3-Outlet Power Strip 5-foot Heavy Duty Extension Cord with 3 USB Charging Ports. Electrical outlets in Viking Ocean staterooms run on either 110V and 220V so when packing for a Viking Ocean Cruise, there is no need to bring other adapterseven though youll be visiting different countries. Hoping you will enjoy your voyage and have good hair days, too! Oh, Im so glad you had a wonderful cruise with amazing service! with information on docking and reminders about impending excursion departures. Walking could be on unpaved or uneven surfaces and may involve many steps or steep inclines. I could have kicked myself for leaving my swimsuit at home when the weather unexpectedly turned warm and sunny! The link to this item can be found HERE. Next time I will ask for the extra pillow to be removed. (This is handy because you might encounter tour groups from other Viking ships that are docked in the same city at the same time.) Is there a restaurant seating option for introverts? Hi Karen, you will have the freedom to wander on your own in the evenings in some locations. We are going on the Grand European tour in October 2022. Male passengers generally opt for trousers and a collared shirt (short or long-sleeved) in the evening, generally without a sports jacket or tie. Stateroom size: 135 sq ft. River-view stateroom with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door) 12 PM Embarkation. Viking is an industry leader for a variety of reasons including their choices of fascinating destinations, varied excursion options, attention to detail in designing the private and common spaces, and a welcoming and hard-working staff. You got me on #1, 3 and 6! universal travel adapter. Cramming too much in your suitcase increases the odds of incurring additional airline fees for oversized or overweight checked bags. Im so glad you found the article helpful, Ronnie! My sister is taking her first river cruise in March and I found this site while trying to find info for her. That's where you'll need to use your hairstyling tools. Just inside is the Lounge where we ate one rainy lunchtime. In addition, theres a walking trail, a shuffleboard, and a putting green. Can you tell me which docking/ports might be too far from the cities/towns? Thank you! My husband had been to a number of these cities on business and wanted me to visit them too, and this makes it sound easy. However, if such devices are determined to pose a hazard, they will be removed and returned the last day of the cruise . Im hoping that other women will be wearing slacks with a nice blouse for our Viking Ocean cruise to the Caribbean. 3. Also, what shore excursions do you recommend while in Budapest? We took our first Viking River cruise in 2018 (Rhine Amsterdam to Basel) and leave in a month for the Danube (Budapest to Regensburg) with the pre and post cruise stays. The sun deck is a relaxing space with tables and chairs as well as chaise lounges. Every ocean (or river ship) weve ever been on has had a hairdryer tucked in a drawer or closet (although you often have to search for them). I definitely overpackedshoes and clothes. It makes me happy when I can help others get more comfortable with and enjoy their travels. They say they will be staying til X oclock and then leaving. She is also the goddess of consolation and brings comfort and solace to those who grieve, kissing away their tears. Also, regarding a curling ironI had one and used it and had no problem. Prior to dinner, the chef usually introduces the options including his/her recommendations. There are some cruise lines that try to be all things to all people. Viking had a sister ship sailing the same journey in the opposite direction from Budapest to Amsterdam so we switched ships. 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. After that point, guests still on board could use the common areas (Lounge or sun deck) until their transfer to the airport or other destination. More room in my suitcase! Lolly, We are going to cruise Viking July on European sojourn with pre post extensions Bucharest and Amsterdam. Really, just looking for your opinion on longer trips off-ship. My husband and I each have a Nook and our own cameras. Thank you all for your notes that you had no problems bringing them on board. Thanks so much for the kind words, Laura! Are they like $20 per person or more like $200? River traffic varies and the time to pass through the locks can change based on the number of ships, weather, etc. I am also taking that cruise. You will find both 110V and 220V electrical outlets in your stateroom. The Quietvox listening devices charger is plugged into a 220 outlet on the counter across from the bed. It has served my family well. Thank you Irene for this information! Doing so will help you remember months and years later where all your amazing pictures are from! What are your thoughts on the Silver Spirits package? Many folks do tend to change from the clothes they wore for daily excursions to something a little dressier for dinner, but I wouldnt call dinner attire dressy. Im so glad you found the article helpful, Rich! Has anyone dealt with thus recently? Since you need the refrigerator for your medicine, I would call the cruise line just to make sure it will be large enough to meet your needs or to see if a larger one can be placed in your cabin. Once onboard, youll be given more specific times, so youll be able to fine-tune your plans. Yes, there have been changes to address public health safety, but Im betting they wont interfere with your overall enjoyment. There is precise timing to docking and excursions. Electrical Appliances: All staterooms are equipped with standard 110 AC and 220 AC outlets. #2. Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows. I will also ask for a lighter bed cover. I would suggest he bring one pair of khakis. As standard in Viking Longships there are both USA type flat pin 110 sockets and European round holed 220V sockets, as well as USB sockets. And theres an extensive Room Service menu available at no extra charge 24 hours a day. In our documents from Viking regarding our river cruise in France, it says curling irons and flat irons are prohibited. Started October 12, 2018, Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. This was true in Passau, a city of over 50,000, and especially, There are times when river cruise ships have to have guests disembark a ship and then board a sister ship. Definitely needed that in the humidity. We are heading out on our first river cruise, the Kara from Basel to Amsterdam in late September this year. Besides being helpful, your thorough details helped me to envision and imagine, which is my favorite part of planning! We kept our itinerary full, which might have been an error trust me, you want to take a breather every few days! Tauck: 220v power is used onboard. We thoroughly enjoyed a Viking Ocean cruise in 2019 and have been eager to try river cruising. Once youve booked a Viking cruise, take the next steps, Once you book a Viking river cruise, take the next steps to ensure an amazing experience, Best Sights to See on Vikings Grand European Tour, Viking Cruises: Best Action Steps After Booking a Cruise, How to Experience Local Culture When You Travel, How to Create Trip Photo Books to Make Your Travels Last a Lifetime. They may be familiar enough with Vikings schedule to easily accommodate you. Once everyone was accounted for, we were able to leave, return our life vests to our stateroom, and resume what we were doing. If we were sailing during the day, the program director narrated scenic highlights along the river as we continued our journey. The lounge on a Viking river cruise ship has plenty of comfortable . I suggest that you call Viking Cruises to make surebut if I recollect correctly, although there were ample 100V outlets, you may not be able to use any appliance in the bathroom except for an electric shaver. 9 Plug Adapters for P&O Cruise Ships. I loved the Braun Satin Hair model in my Viking Ocean stateroom so much that I would like to purchase a similar model for home use. This happens when bridges are too low to safely pass under with guests on the sun deck. Scenic Tours: 220 V and international power adaptors required. Just thinking of the best options for meeting friends for a short visit. This means that your ship could be the first, second, or third ship docked. Each stateroom will have one or two 115V razor plugs available, generally in the bathroom. I bet youre planning your next cruise already. Viking Cruises begins sailings from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with the Viking Orion cruise ship on Caribbean and Central America itineraries. If you choose to eat on the Aquavit Terrace, dinner begins at 7:15 pm with all of the same options as in the dining room. Our next Viking cruise is coming up soon, and I cant wait. You never know what youll learn or who youll meet! Hope you have been able to enjoy more Viking cruises since your original one. Before we descended, we were able to step outside and soak in panoramic views of the city. . Sounds like youve got a great anniversary trip planned, Gary! We thoroughly enjoyed our Viking river cruise. The 110V electrical outlets (North American style) are located above the desk and on each side of the bed. I didnt read through all the comments, so I hope Im not being repetitive. In addition, some people research other (non-Viking) tour options in advance of their cruise and book a personal or small-group tour to suit their specific interests on their own. Theres an elevator onboard so its easy to travel from floor to floor if you dont want to use the stairs. When we cruised, the classics included Caesar salad as a starter; steak, salmon, and chicken as entrees, and Creme Brle, a selection of cheeses, a fruit plate, and ice cream for dessert. Although we have some other trips planned (that we organize ourselves, as we often do), we are contemplating which Viking cruise river or ocean we will be booking next. Lots of good options, just not sure how fast everything could charge if it needed to be all at the same time! most electronics or travel stores. Hi Robin, you pose a great question, but it isnt easy to answer! Viking has perfected hospitality on many levels. There are also bright red full-size Viking umbrellas to take along on excursions if its raining. NW Ohio. Youll find some additional cruising tips in our previous article on MoreTimeToTravel: Viking Luggage Tag (Credit: Jerome Levine), Viking Ocean Cruises Carves Out A Special Niche for Over-50 Travelers, Best Travel Accessories for Men: 28 Great Gifts for Travelers. Have you seen this post? We had to have our luggage packed and placed outside our stateroom door by 7:00 am on the day of the switch. We got off our ship, the Skirnir, in Nuremberg (one of our scheduled ports) before the damaged lock. Royal Princess plug sockets. Many of us cruise with quite a few battery-powered devices that we want to keep charged, but cruise ship cabins don't have as many outlets as we'd like. Since they are sister ships, they are the same, so the only thing that changed was the crew. We travel light with one roll aboard and one backpack. Here are some examples from our cruise: Tipping is the universal way to thank someone for providing excellent service and you will find excellent service on Viking. marked: the bus has a placard with the same number and letter to let you know you need to board that bus; the tour guide has a red and white sign on a paddle to indicate that group, as well. It sounds like you have a wonderful journey coming up this summer, Rosetta! Just be sure to unplug when not in use. Just wondering if there is a regular daily schedule and of course we understand the change caused by water level, weather, etc. Viking 1-866-984-5464. Everyone should read this as every question seems to be answered well and clearly! Have a wonderful time! has a variety of tables that can seat 6, 8, or 10 people. Let's look into your options, and briefly cover why power strips aren't allowed. Viking has guest departures timed to match their future travel plans. However, most guests sport a smart casual look for dinner. Posted November 9, 2014. 10 Best Adapters for plug sockets on P&O Cruises. I have been on 1 Viking River cruise and 3 (soon to be 4-I hope!) Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary) 55" OLED flat-screen TV featuring MSNBC, FOX News, National Geographic and more. And Cary Cruiser, all of our itinerary information, airline boarding passes, music, museum audio apps, RS walking tours, language translators, maps, $$ converters, public transportation apps & reading material are downloaded onto our devices. I like boiled water first up in the mirning, According to the Viking website, coffee machines with premium coffee and tea selections are available in Deluxe Veranda staterooms and above: https://www.vikingcruises.com/oceans/ships/viking-sky.htmlsin the room. Although there is ample storage space onboard Viking Ocean Cruises, bringing too much stuff only makes it harder to sift through your belongings to find what you want. Also located off the main corridor are a couple of, Naturally, safety is a primary concern of travelers and the crew. So an adapter will be needed on the ship? All guests left the ship for excursions (the times of the excursions were modified that day so they would all be timed for the same number of hours). Also note: They come with large print labeling so those over 40 dont need to take their peepers into the shower. I merely want to share our experience on a river cruise with my readers. We took the walking tour of Passau, enjoyed a leisurely lunch in town, went on a hike, and strolled around town afterward. I laughed out loud at the comments from Shelly and Mary. Is this allowed? Enjoy! I guess the bottom line is to remember that disruptions can happen whenever we travel, so plan to get the most out of each experience and cherish the time that you get to explore new places and meet new people. For a 14-night cruise, the cost is $279.30 USD p.p. Did you bring euros or use credit card? Its relaxed and has an abundant food buffet with soup, a variety of salads, meats, warm sandwiches (like paninis and Cuban sandwiches), fruit, and dessert. The only exception to the no-adapter rule below: Make sure you bring European-style adapters for the plugs, and that the hair tools can run on 220V current (for use near the makeup table in your cabin). The room stewards are wonderful and treat you like royalty! That includes any drinks up to $15 like cocktails, aperitifs, and premium wines by the glass. There are also 2. Usually there is an electrical outlet by the "desk" or vanity. As for the specifics about checking in to hotels and then embarkation timing, Id suggest you contact Viking directly (or your travel agent if you used one to book the trip). Every cabin type is listed as having. This is because some guests may have canceled their planned optional excursions prior to the cruise; so its a good practice to check on this and any other concerns once youre on board. On average, how much time did you spend on the boat sailing from each port? We also took along some thank you cards and put in some extra cash to give to those we felt went above and beyond during our cruise. Congrats on your 50th! One of many questions we have is how much currency (and what kind) to bring with us. Ive not taken a Viking optional tour that I didnt like, but I will say that there are passengers who also book tours independent of Viking due to a keen interest in something and the personal or small-group experience that is available with independent tour guides. Our preferred day at a town where we were docked included a morning walking tour (an included excursion) to get the lay of the land. We would charge the cameras/batteries in the evenings after returning from touring, and charge our Nooks during the day while we were out touring. The crew actually collapses the awnings, chairs, and tables and the ships bridge recedes into the ship all to reduce the ships height. Its important to note that when the ship docks somewhere in the morning and you go on an excursion, you sometimes will be brought back to the ship in a different location like another city further down the river. Essentially, each ship then turned around and went back to the city from which it originated. We walked from where the ship was docked to the Parliament building for the tour and enjoyed a stroll back to the ship along the river. Although lunch is available in the dining room, we favored the Aquavit Terrace (at the front of the ship) for our midday meal. Depending on your stateroom, you will probably have a desk or dressing table with a 100v outlet where you can fix your hair. The longships have both American 110v and Euro 220v service and outlets. Im sure we will need some pocket money for small purchases. As we age, carrying and lifting suitcases can exact a toll on our back and shoulder muscles. Is that a crazy thing to say?! Do you have any experience about this? I was delighted to spend seven days along the Rhne River on the Provence and Lyon itinerary. Ever consider a Viking European river cruise? This is by far THE BEST description and information on Viking River Cruises that I have ever read! My first question is, without using the laundry service on board , do you have suggestions on washing items in your cabin? Another question- my husband is thinking about bringing jeans to wear to dinner, but I thought I read that jeans are frowned upon for dinner. The 220V outlets are German Schuko 2-pin safety plugs. Started August 27, 2021, By Also, dinner is served on the Aquavit Terrace; service begins 15 minutes after dinner service starts in the restaurant. The good thing is there are always tomorrows treats to look forward to! There are 110V and 220V electrical outlets in staterooms, so you can plug in whichever fits your needs. How many outlets are available in the cabin? Attire on a river cruise is casual. So if your staying only on board you don't need a plug adapter. The rooms do seem smaller than ocean cruiser rooms: did you stay in your cabin a lot? Our stateroom steward kept the room immaculate. Viking says they are NOT allowed, but no one will confiscate. Other European ships have 220V electricity, and have the German Schuko safety plug, which has two pins. First timer on river cruise. Also can you remember if those two cities is where the boat docked. Some travelers prefer to book through Viking itself. Thanks. Only a few bucks anyway. Sometimes theres a lot of river cruise ship traffic in popular cities. The Aquavit Terrace is one advantage Viking has over its competition. Other European ships have 220V electricity, and have the German Schuko safety plug, which has two pins. Braun Hair Dryer on Viking Star (Photo credit: Jerome Levine). Thank you for your thoughtfulness. Viking assigns different colored luggage tags to guests depending on what their next travel destination is (a post-excursion through Viking, a trip independent of Viking, or a flight home). The Aquavit Terrace is a great place to have a meal. I would suggest that you call Viking. Many people were. Weve found there are a lot of commonalities as well as interesting folks to meet. I had a wonderful trip with Viking Cruises' Sun cruise ship, there was good food and with a balcony cabin I enjoyed the view of the sea, good speed Wi-Fi and enjoyed all the Viking offers on board and shore excursions included. Jeans are discouraged in the main dining room but if you want to eat and dress in jeans, you can get almost the same foods in the World Cafe, where there is no dress code. We enjoyed sitting with different people; it gave us a chance to learn about their travel experiences and lives a bit. There are lots of smiles and offers of help. On each of the two ships we were on, there was a duo in the evening that included a vocalist and a pianist. I also rarely take precious jewelry on any cruise. This includes the Viking Daily which provides information for each new day and the evening updates by the program director in the Lounge before dinner. You set the code, so its a cinch to remember. Thank you!! You will receive your final travel documents and Viking luggage tags within three weeks of your trip. I thought formal/dressy was the norm on all cruise ships! Yes. People are relaxed aboard Viking river cruises (no dressy occasions), and thats one thing people tend to enjoy about the experience. Just make sure you notify your bank before traveling, so they dont flag your ATM transaction in another country as suspicious! Naturally, safety is a primary concern of travelers and the crew. Spacious suites, locally-inspired gourmet cuisine and features like SeaSpa . In addition, there are quite a few optional excursions available at an extra cost. Good luck! Thanks for the great information. 110/220 V power outlets; complimentary Wi-Fi and Internet; . One thing to keep in mind is that things can change from day to day, week to week and that includes river levels. The maitre-d I am convinced is in league with the devil, as she tempted diners again and again with just try this ONE little pastry. One great thing about Viking is that many times their ships dock right in the towns, so its easy to get off and be on your way to make your own discoveries. That gives my husband and me plenty of money for tipping the local guides and bus drivers as well as Viking staff before we leave. Im going on a Viking River Cruise (Paris-Normandy). Getting my heart rate up while enjoying beautiful scenery passing by while the ship made its way down a river was a win-win. in staterooms, so you can plug in whichever fits your needs. The water levels are extremely low right now. Will the ship have a adapter for me for the bathroom or is there a 110v plug in there? Once youve booked a Viking cruise, take the next steps, like creating an online account with Viking, to ensure a wonderful adventure. 8 Ventura plug sockets. That makes it handy for your husband to fetch your morning cup! Now to your questions. You will find both 110V and 220V electrical outlets in your stateroom. We do the red eye and get into Amsterdam early morning. You answered my questions about docking locations (though understand they are subject to change) and the Hungarian currency. If you dont live in the U.S., Im sure other governments have similar programs for travelers. Posted February 21, 2009. So for 200 dollars, we got a 400 value good for tickets, flights, an excursion, or even the beverage package. (Its not uncommon for someone to forget to scan their card when returning to the ship.). All outlets are European style (2 pin) with . For example, this was the information for the Viking Star, which shows mini-bars in every category of stateroom: https://www.vikingcruises.com/oceans/ships/viking-star.html Likewise, when the ship is ready to leave, it leaves as long as all the guests are accounted for. Another great feature of a Viking River cruise is the ship's electrical outlets. when we traveled) to your shipboard account. We were docked next to other ships several times on our 15-day cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest.