Planning a cruise? Well-traveled, active adults, and retirees alike are drawn to Viking Ocean Cruises destination-heavy itinerary. Our favorites on Viking Jupiter were the Aurora Experience and Hidden Universe. Just before boarding the plane, the fanny pack will be stuffed into the backpack (and pulled back out again once onboard). We kept ourselves going with plenty of coffee (Good thing its included! One day the spa gave me a Band-Aid. A lightweight sweater or sweatshirt is useful for chilly mornings or evenings (even on the ship). I've done three river cruises with Viking so far and we'll be doing our first Viking Oceans cruise in a few weeks. On the Viking Star I packed black slacks and some silk tops and knits and accessorized with either scarves or jewelry. Related Post: What is Included in a Viking Ocean Cruise. Heres what to pack for a Viking river cruise: Bottoms. Watch Port Talks in your room. The luggage tags are supposed to arrive around 30 days prior to your sailing date. You really do have some great secrets! Enjoy your upcoming Viking river cruise. (Figure-flattering Miraclesuits are a favorite of mine. All of these shows are first come, first serve (no reservations are needed). Weather forecasts help but can change on a dime, even during the course of a single day. I just dont remember from before as our cruise was cancelled twice due to Covid. The main pool on the ship has a retractable roof. Just wait until I get my olives. WebOur expert Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Sea review breaks down deck plans, the best rooms, dining, and more. (ebooks are a great way to keep from going insane). In fact, many of the top cruise destinations are seasonal ports. We only link to products and services we recommend. But the waffle is the star of the show. Luckily, we had onboard credit that we spent sampling some of these premium options. The Spa is located all the way forward on Deck 1. The Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex is a stacked card with a rewards rate that will help you earn bonus points on everyday and business-related purchases. Courtesy of Viking Cruises. In our latest cruise packing list for 2021, we detail what Altho, having suffered thru baggage claim for United Express at Dulles, I fully understand your approach to packing. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Some article links may be affiliate links where we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Before you set sail on your next voyage, we cover everything you need to know before taking a Viking Ocean cruise to ensure smooth sailing. I cut my foot on the bathroom door (dont try it!) I just don't agree. Bottled water is included at no extra charge on Viking Cruises and youll probably want to carry a bottle of water with you on shore excursions. If the weather gets exceptionally cold, he can layer the sweatshirt or sweater under his jacket. TIP: Some churches ask that women not wear anything too revealing and to cover their shoulders. You can book these shows only once onboard the vessel. They range in size from 757 to 1,163 square feet, including balcony space, and bring even more enhanced amenities and services. I would love to take a Viking Cruise & put some of these tips to work! See what a point or mile is worth with our appraisals of a loyalty programs currency, based on redemption values. You can accessorize and change the look of your outfit with one or two, Leave your diamonds and precious jewels at home. Any tips for Viking Orion Far East & Alaska in April/May ? They are so handy for keeping valuables in your pockets as you go through airport security. Pack light for your Viking ocean cruise and leave these items at home: binoculars, robe, slippers, umbrella, toiletries. Bathrooms in Viking cabins are serene, modernist escapes with luxurious travertine marble-lined walls; Scandinavian-influenced, wood-veneered vanities; shiny white sinks; and chrome fixtures. Don't Even Google It. Free laundry on board means we were able to pack light and do laundry mid-cruise. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. McCool Travel News Travel Articles We Appear In, Viking River Cruises Danube Waltz Highlights, 8 Great Reasons Viking Cruises Are a Fantastic Value, 12 Great Ice Cream Places in US to Cool Off, 12 Reasons to Go On a Viking Rhine River Cruise with Family - Food Fun & Faraway Places, Incredible Dog Encounters While Traveling | Buddy The Traveling Monkey, Create Your Own Airplane Travel Kit with In-Flight Essentials, 8 Great Reasons NOT to Use a Travel Agent, 7 Important Reasons I Did NOT Renew My AAA Membership, 8 Sensational Scenic Drives in Florida For Your Next Sunshine State Vacation, Secret Things to Do on Viking Ocean Cruises. Do you have any tips to share with those planning a Viking Ocean Cruise? tempting food and love to go to cruise on day. The rooms arent overly flashy, though. Is The White Lotus breaking up with Four Seasons ahead of Season 3? That happened for us with the Husky Hike. ), Miraclesuit Swimwear Scoop Neck Tankini Top. We have gone on 1 river and are about to do our 3rd Ocean (We prefer and LOVE Viking Ocean cruises!!) katmu, May 29, 2016 in Viking Ocean. widgetTitle:"Save With the Best Cruise Prices", Mamsens is located at the starboard entrance to the Explorers Lounge. Some travelers find a pre-printed packing list to bea helpful tool. Two times on our latest cruise, cooks set up stations in the back of World Cafe. I had originally posted this on the Cruise Fashions board but it was suggested that I might get more feedback here. As noted above, though, youll only find the latter two types of cabins on Viking ocean ships. For our 8 nights, there was a Captains Reception, a headliner act on two separate evenings, a local opera ensemble one night, an ABBA tribute, and a variety show on another evening. Before sailing on Viking Ocean Cruises, you do need to know that there is a recommended dress code for dinner. We did take advantage of the laundry service but we never did use the laundry room (I just didn't have the patience to sit there, even though the LR is well appointed with a sofa and TV) but my S-I-L actually used it a couple of times. Technically, these French balconies are balconies, even if theyre not quite as satisfying as a balcony with space to lounge. So, you can watch the fabulous Heather Clancy and the other Viking shows 247. Request an earlier or later included tour if desired. Do laundry last at night or during an excursion day. and the pool area, at these stations cooks prepared super fresh seafood (sea bass and mussels one night) and pasta dishes. Even better, you can request your own combos. I have been unable to confirm whether the spa services include the tip. Before you begin: Think about a packing strategy, The Ultimate Viking Ocean Cruise Packing List, 1) Packing evening wear for a Viking Ocean cruise, 2) Packing clothes for Viking Ocean cruise shore excursions, 3) Packing attire to wear onboard the ship, COVID Travel Packing List: 6 Essentials For Any Trip, Take the MTA Bus: Best Senior Travel Bargain in NYC, Wines of the Aosta Valley: Come Sip and Savor, Miriam Masciarelli: Growing Up In A Winery In Abruzzo, Celebrity Beyond Review: Creativity, Cuisine and the Captains Cat. Tops. I walked 5K (or more) on sea days in the North Sea and the foam ear plugs worked well for me. From the efficiency of the Viking Cruise breakfast room service to the gelato machines, it is fun to see. Depending on your departure point, there may not even be a cruise terminal. TIP: Water-resistant footwear will keep your feet dry in inclement weather. However, World Cafe usually only has romaine and mixed salads. WebIn this video you'll find out what to expect on a cruise and what cruise outfits and clothing to pack. The pool area is covered and thus can be used--and is used -- 365 days a year. For breakfast, the World Cafe on Viking Cruises chefs prepare made to order omelets and turkey bacon. Named Nordic Balcony, Deluxe Nordic Balcony and Nordic Penthouse, the cabins of these three categories are slightly smaller than the cabins of the three balcony cabin categories on the traditional Viking ocean ships at 215, 215 and 269 square feet, respectively. The afternoon session was booked very early. T-shirts and capris are acceptable. Add yourself to waiting lists for popular excursions. In general, avoid crowds by doing things when other people are not. There are no formal nights on Viking ocean cruises. What is Included in a Viking Ocean Cruise, Viking Cruises Sets Sail on the Longest World Cruise, Top Things to Do on a Viking Ocean Cruise, How to Cruise for Cheap: Top Tips and Advice, Complete Guide to Drink Packages on Celebrity Cruises (2023), Everything You Need to Know About Norwegian's Free at Sea in 2023, Complete Guide to Princess Cruises Drink Packages, Complete Guide to Drink Packages on Carnival (2023), Complete Guide to Drink Packages on MSC Cruises. Creating a Viking Ocean Cruise Packing List involves knowing, Extras (like medicines, toiletries, electronics, etc.). You will occasionally find a trivia session, but there will be no Bingo or belly flop contest on these cruises. Vat No. (This lightweight, water-resistant puffer jacket weighs less than 2 ounces. verandas and Scandinavian-inspired designs are common features in Vikings ocean Each of the Owners Suites has a separate bedroom, living room, dining area that seats six people and master bathroom that includes a sauna with a glass wall facing the ocean. On a cruise, you can wash the bottom with each wear but wear the top several times. See also8 Great Tips for Selecting a Cruise. Because of airline baggage weight limitations, Even in the largest hotel suite or cabin on a ship, its always a hassle to have too much stuff. When leaving port (and other scenic times), people arrive early for the front row chairs in the Explorers Lounge. Please view our advertising policy page for more information. The rest fall somewhere between the two extremes, but skewed toward casual. On a Viking Ocean Cruise, most passengers dress casually and aim for comfort. Priority spa treatment bookings that can be made 70 days in advance. Viking keeps it simple with the array of balcony cabins on its ocean ships. Dont forget your lingerie. Start with these stories: The credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. They will pack a box for you with a sandwich, apple, and goodies. We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. Don't Even Google It. But wifi is not the primary reason for a Viking ocean cruise. I had it twice on this last cruise. There are also a limited number of heated loungers for the ultimate relaxation experience. My SO and looking at Viking Star for our next cruise to the Caribbean, specifically the 11 day West Indies Explorer, and in looking at their website I'm struggling a bit to picture what exactly an "elegant casual" outfit would be for women. The port talks in the Star Theater are popular and informative, plus a chance to see the fabulous Heather Clancy live. You can accessorize and change the look of your outfit with one or two colorful scarves that are almost weightless. Unlike some cruise brands such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, which offer as many as 36 different sub-types of cabins, Vikings ocean ships offer just six. You may be getting on and off tenders, walking over cobblestone streets, and doing more walking than you usually do at home. This large facility holds the main swimming pool. On another evening, he may wear a collared long-sleeve shirt (we love the look of gingham checks) with the other pair of slacks. Are you ready to embark on your journey to sea the world, one port at a time? On the one warm and sunny day of our cruise, a few folks did snag loungers and take a dip in this outdoor pool. When you enter a restaurant, the waitstaff simply asks for your stateroom number. A tie Working on the list at least a couple of weeks before your voyage will help you remember and keep track of everything you want to take. This is one advantage of small ship cruising with a crew to passenger ratio of 1 to 2! Weather was cool on our cruise as we cruised up the Norwegian coast and above the Arctic Circle. No formal nights! Very few men wearing ties either. Comfy Aerosol Slide Sandal in polka dot print. Two guaranteed priority reservations at each alternative restaurant on board, which can be made 70 days in advance. Thank you, Doreen. the passengers I see lugging everything on board rather than using checkin for what are clearly items that don't belong on the plane. Powered by Invision Community. T-shirts and capris are acceptable. Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Your email address will not be published. It may have stains, bumped corners, creases, Read more Sale ends in: 22h 11m Price: US $8.99 Was US $9.99 Save US $1.00 (10% off) Buy It Now Add to cart Best Offer: Make offer Add to Eddie Bauer Infinity hiking shirt was easy to sink wash and hang for hiking The black/white was a sweater and I was very glad to have it. Award-winning company Viking consistently ranks among the best for both ocean and river cruises. Its comfortable and stylish and comes in a rainbow of solid colors and prints. And bring along a sufficient number of (but not too many) bras and panties. This is something you should not miss during your trip. Unfortunately, we never received our luggage tags in the mail, but the airport transfer staff were able to assist in assuring that our luggage got delivered to the proper stateroom. When you do, you will know some secrets. (It can be rolled up with its strap or folded into its zip pocket.). A traditional, super-soft Norwegian Marius-weave blanket for use in the room. Collared shirts (no jeans) for the men in the evening. Your guess about what elegant casual looks like is spot on. There are no additional service fees or gratuities. If youre looking for a room that is big and open on an ocean cruise (and are willing to pay extra for it), Viking has plenty of options. Vincent, one of the other bar servers around the ship, somehow also learned our names before we knew his name. While most people envision cruising to tropical locales, cruise ships visit various destinations across the globe. I like to dress up a bit at dinner, but I'm hoping to leave the cocktail dresses and uncomfortable heels at home if I can. For women, a nice dress (in the Caribbean a sundress would be great) or a dressy top and pants and sandals like the ones you describe. I also recommend bringing a pair of comfortable rubber-soled (deck) shoes to wear around the ship. We learned, though, that the talks are recorded and available to watch on the stateroom television system. I brought some casual dresses to wear to the nicer restaurants on board, but formal wear is not required on the Viking cruise line. If you think you can fit more, I always pack a few extra dresses, as theyre great to travel They have orthotic insoles for arch support). }); Have you sailed with Viking Cruises? Two, when cool stuff happens, people go to the outside deck and block your view. Wearing them also visually flags you as a tourist. Thank you, Kelly. You can either bring along a cardigan in your tote or else tuck a folded shawl there it is required. I know of two secret ways to see a Viking ocean cruise galley but ask Guest Services how you can best tour it. So, keep your eye out for them. Before sailing on Viking Ocean Cruises, you do need to know that there is a recommended dress code for dinner. The Restaurant is Viking Cruises take on the traditional cruise ship main dining room. There are separate male and female entrances which include a changing room, sauna, and plunge pool. Because most people are in the Explorers Lounge listening to the talks. You wont have trouble seeing the pages of the Viking Daily activity newsletter while lying in a Viking cabin bed. 862 817 892. I cause so much trouble! And get an apron and recipes as well as meet chefs. referral: "s33722.p856.sites.pressdns.com", With a port almost every day and late day or even overnight stops at some ports, you will be going from sunrise to sunset. You can check items off as you place them in your suitcase. They basically look the same. And oh I might break down and get dressier slacks that I can then wear to the office afterwards. I guess you are on this cruise now. On a Viking Ocean Cruise, most passengers dress casually and aim for comfort. Priority shore excursion reservations that can be made 77 days in advance of sailing. The Travel Village Group T/A Southampton Cruise Centre is a member of The Co-operative Consortium which is part of Midcounties co-operative Limited registered in England and Wales with registered number IP19025R. Overpacking is only likely to interfere withr. Ever. From a clean T-shirt and jeans to a jacket and tie, cruise line dress codes run the gamut from hyper casual to elegant (and don't forget Hawaiian shirt night, of I especially love the two-piece models with tankini tops. Jeans or shorts are not recommended for the Those who book a Deluxe Veranda (D2) or higher can make reservations at each restaurant pre-cruise. Every passenger room on its ocean ships is a balcony cabin or a suite, something that is unusual in the cruise world, and these cabins break down into just a few subcategories. Design-wise, Vikings cabins are relatively upscale, with soothing, Scandinavian-influenced decor and lots of luxury touches like heated floors in bathrooms. 6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program. The sixth ship in the brands ocean fleet, this vessel offers several of the same features as its predecessors. Oh, definitelyorder a scrumptious Mamsens waffle. Including at the Captain's welcome recoption in the theater. Even if you experience none of the following things to do on Viking cruises, you will still have a great time. Other drink options can be purchased from the bar. The Viking Orion, Viking Jupiter, and soon to be released Viking Venus, all feature a new complimentary experience called the Explorers Dome. Pretty small for laps. TIP: Bottled water is included at no extra charge on Viking Cruises and youll probably want to carry a bottle of water with you on shore excursions. Viking currently operates seven traditional ocean ships aimed at the English-speaking market and two oceangoing expedition ships. This was definitely the most laid back embarkation that we have ever experienced. Even in the largest hotel suite or cabin on a ship, its always a hassle to have too much stuff. You will also pay full price for these drinks, unlike most cruise lines where you only have to pay the overage of the drink package allotment. Be cautious about wearing flip-flops outside your cabin but if youre inside your stateroom, you wont have to step on carpets that have been stepped on by countless other travelers. t I'm hoping to leave the cocktail dresses and uncomfortable heels at home if I can. Announcing Our 2023 Cruisers' Choice Award Winners! It probably did not but it was cool to find some nearby video game tables. Layering your outfits allows you to put on or take off a top layer so you always feel comfortable. Youll need them for swimming in the heated pool, or during the time you spend in the Nordic Sauna or Snow Grotto. These excursions are typically walking tours or city bus tours. widgetTitle:"Check Prices for Viking Sea Cruises", Take a Galley Tour. Home Cruise Viking Cruises Viking Ocean Cruises What You Need to Know Before Taking a Viking Ocean Cruise. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Special Event: Q&A with Rudi Schreiner, President, Co-Founder & Co-Owner - AmaWaterways River Cruises, Q&A with Avoya Travel: Learn How to Turn Your Passion into Success by Becoming an Independent Travel Advisor. If you arrive about 20 minutes early, you should have no problem finding a seat. However, this also means that you will probably be tired. Include these attire for the evening on Cruise. If you make it all fit in your carry on you are my hero!:). The Restaurant has open seating during set times for breakfast and dinner. These include an upscale Italian restaurant, Manfredis, and the Chefs Table. Instead, take along a few playful pieces of, For men, the dress code is simple. The University Of Iowa's Only Student Newspaper. We finally tried theViking cruise room service. When he is not sailing the high seas, he does whatever his wife tells him to do-it only took 10 years to realize this. Soothing, minimalist colors think creams, grays and lighter blues are the order of the day. WebThough there are no formal nights on-board Viking River cruises, evening dress is elegant casual across all dining venues, performances and special events. On Viking Ocean Cruises, it is always possible to have a pool day. Ive bookmarked this for future as I learned a lot. True, Viking requires all passengers and crew to be fully vaccinated, and masks were to be required in all indoor areas on the ship except while eating and drinking. I'm feeling more comfortable about the dress code. Usually lightweight and easy to pack, its also the perfect attire for a morning walk on the deck. For more information see our article on how toSave Money on Cruise Excursions. The bathrooms are large, too. Limited Time Offer: Earn 125,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership. I usually take a pair of black, white and khaki slacks. I think he visits the main pantry (5 levels below) for these unusual ingredients. Viking Ocean Cruises is one of the few remaining cruise lines that still mails your luggage tags to you. After youve completed making the list; read it over and try to prune it to eliminate excess. Cruising regulars know that most cruise ships offer cabins in four broad categories: windowless inside cabins, ocean-view cabins, balcony cabins and suites. By the way, the bistecca (Florentine style steak) at Manfredis is remarkable. WebWhat do I wear on a Viking Ocean Cruise? any swimming is better than none for me. Check for special nights at The Restaurant. Like this McCool Travel article? Some optional excursions quickly fill up. Coffee Ties and jackets are optional. Men can wear collared or uncollared shirts during the day. Treat yo self! The menu changes daily with a list of always available classic dishes. Three guaranteed priority reservations at each alternative restaurant, which can be booked 80 days in advance. callback: function() { The thermal pool and whirlpool, as well as a steam room and snow grotto are open to both men and women. 1. It made for a yummy midnight snack. This complimentary activity is a fun way to unwind and chat about your days adventures with new friends. Your email address will not be published. Last cruise we took was RC and i jumped in expecting fresh water to be surprised by sea water LOL. Our points-obsessed staff uses a plethora of credit cards on a daily basis. Related: The best destinations you can visit on a Viking cruise. The Chefs Table has up to 5 different menus that rotate every 2-3 days depending on the length of the sailing. Most public spaces on cruise ships tend to be chilly. The tissue box in the bathroom makes a nice amplifier for your smartphone music. You can try to explain why, but you can't explain everything by the parts of its sum. Easy-on, easy-off sneakers are nice for travel. You can also make additional reservations, depending on availability, once you board the ship. Our stateroom attendant Jackie referred to us by name from day one. Each show is unique and worth seeing. This includes: Women Dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse. Plus, your own feed of TPG content. Thanks for sharing. The lines seven traditional ocean vessels aimed at the English-speaking market each have 418 balcony cabins that can be broken down into three categories: The first two categories, Veranda Staterooms and Deluxe Veranda Staterooms, are the same size at 270 square feet (a figure that includes balcony space). } Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. This 60-page Packing List offers a checklist of last-minute reminders to trigger your memory. They weigh almost nothing, so they are easy to pack in the space at the side of your suitcase. But I still like my walks and level 2 is a perfect 1/4 mile track. For dinner, women will feel comfortable wearing a few simple dresses, skirts, or slacks. Cruiseline.ui.init({ Should I bring a bathing suit?? Viking Ocean cruises offer complimentary, self-service launderettes with detergent, irons, and ironing boards on Decks 3-6. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Irene is a regular contributor to Forbes Travel/ Read her most recent stories by clicking the links. This makes the process of booking a room on a Viking vessel relatively simple compared to booking a room on many other ships. Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPGs editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. Enjoying it? Seamless Transfers As always, guests who arrange their flights with Viking Air receive complimentary airport transfers. Earlier access to shore excursion reservations (67 days in advance of sailing versus 60 days). The daytime activities on Viking Cruises will be very different than what you are used to on mainstream cruise lines. Viking is also known for a relatively simple-to-understand array of subcategories of rooms within its balcony-cabin and suite categories. Remember, there is limited space, and the popular tours and/or time slots do fill-up quickly. Within reason, people just seem to wear what they want, what they like to wear. Additionally, try to do a bridge tour and the video art tour. On the other hand, I didn't see many folks in The Restaurant in shorts. The Pool aboard Viking Octantis LivNordic Spa. Viking also offers many balcony cabins and suites on its river ships something that isnt always the case in the river cruise business, where space on vessels is at a premium. Located between the Aquavit bar (say hello to Eddie!) The only exception: If you are headed to a warm-weather Caribbean destination. Located aft on deck 2, this venue offers upscale dining and a menu with regional influences. WebOn day 6 of the cruise I put on a long billowy white linen button down and red lipstick and suddenly people were MUCH friendlier to me, like a night and day difference. No one thinks about rainy days when they are fantasizing about their next vacation but rain can happen any time, any place. However, you can only see the view on one side of the ship from your balcony. Two problems. I never travel without a small, lightweight, foldable tote bag to take on shore excursions. If you want to look stylish, these comfy Aerosol sandals are great. Although your stateroom has a safe, why bring jewelry that youll have to worry about possibly losing or misplacing? Wifi also works better during big shows, when most people are on excursions, and in the middle of the night. Please also see our articles about two Viking ocean cruisesInto the Midnight Sun itinerary on Viking Sea andRomantic Mediterranean voyage on Viking Star. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. For women, they can wear evening gowns, casual long maxi, slacks, and formal blouse, skirts, or cocktail dress Shore excursion For more information, please read my privacy and disclosure policies at the end of this page. Caribbean cruises are the most popular, but you can also visit several seasonal regions like Alaska on a cruise. P.S. Ive read that they include a 15% tip but wanted to be sure as I am planning things before I go. key: "e709d04de53049f94701c1c5a47e3cbb", Over 100 people work in the food operations on a Viking ocean cruise and their workspace is simply amazing. None of these drinks will be covered in the Silver Spirits Package. Its a heated pool that stretches the entire length of the large thermal suite that is open all day long and included in your cruise fare.. Cant sign up before your cruise, have to go to the excursions desk. When it comes to size, even the smallest cabins on Vikings ocean ships are large by cruise ship standards at 270 square feet, and the largest suites measure nearly 1,500 square feet. Choose a color theme to mix and match outfits. The ship's design is clever, everything is in its place and staff work incessantly to keep surfaces shining. Life starts really getting good in the 14 Explorer Suites on Vikings traditional ocean ships. I swim in a really small pool now only 13 yards in length so it takes a bazillion laps LOL. We highly recommend booking them on Day 1 as they do fill up quickly. ather than enhanceyour journey. Same with olives. A better grade of chino slacks and a polo shirt was my preferred "evening wear" when we did VR 2 yrs ago.