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Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises

CRUISE DEPARTURES: 1,639
FLEET SIZE: 14
KNOWN FOR: Thinking Persons Cruise
43 Reviews (4.7/5)

Featured Cruises View all

15 Days Bergen to Stockholm

Operator: Viking

From 12,441
Save 668

13 Days Montreal to New York

Operator: Viking

From 10,291
Save 1,304

11 Days Vancouver to Seward

Operator: Viking

From 8,815
Save 250

32 Days Sydney to Sydney

Operator: Viking

From 20,389
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Popular Destinations View all Explore the following regions on one of 1,639 cruises with Viking

Viking Alaska Cruises
Alaska
Viking Antarctic Cruises
Antarctica
Viking Arctic Cruises
Arctic
Viking Asia Cruises
Asia
Viking Australia & New Zealand Cruises
Australia & New Zealand
Viking Baltic Cruises
Baltic
Viking Canada & New England Cruises
Canada & New England
Viking Caribbean Cruises
Caribbean
Viking Europe & Med Cruises
Europe & Med
Viking South America Cruises
South America
Viking Transatlantic Cruises
Transatlantic
Viking Worldwide Cruises
Worldwide

Cruise Fleet View all Inclusions, itineraries, onboard facilities & deck plans of each Viking cruise ship.

Viking Mira
Ship Class: Mid-Size Cruise Ship

Embarking on her maiden voyage in 2026, the latest addition to Viking's luxurious ocean cruise fleet is Viking Mira. Currently offering51 unique cruise itineraries around the world, Viking Mira features a blend of refined simplicity,...

Viking Vesta
Ship Class: Mid-Size Cruise Ship

Embarking on her inaugural journey in 2025, the latest addition to Viking's esteemed luxurious fleet is Viking Vesta. Currently showcasing 45 unique cruise itineraries around the world, Viking Vesta promises a blend of refined simplicity,...

Viking Vela
Ship Class: Mid-Size Cruise Ship

Embarking on her maiden voyage in 2024, the Viking Vela is the latest addition to Viking's esteemed luxurious fleet. Currently showcasing 49 unique cruise itineraries around the world, Viking Vestapromises a blend of refined simplicity,...

Viking Saturn
Ship Class: Mid-Size Cruise Ship

Viking Saturn debuted in 2023 and this season is sailing around the world on 67 unique cruise itineraries. Each of her 930 passengers will experience understated elegance, modern Scandinavian design, verandas from every cabin and a ship...

Viking Cruises Reviews View all

4.7
AVG. RATING 4.7 / 5
43 Reviews
5 Star
72%
4 Star
26%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
China Discovery   0 , VIC, Australia, Sep 2024
Well organised by Global Journeys and Viking Cruises. The ship was very comfortable the crew were professional and entertaining.
The tours were outstanding. The lectures very interesting and the entertainment was unbelievable. Pickups , transfer and flights well organised by Tracey at Global Journeys. Looking forward to our next cruise next year.
British Isles and Iberia cruise   0 , NSW, Australia, Sep 2024
Wonderful cruise but very American orientated. Lectures onboard were informative but also directed to the American audience. Shore excursions were well organised and entertainment fantastic. Size of ship is also appealing. Global Journeys were great to book through and will continue to organise my travel arrangements through Georgie.
Great Lakes Explorer with Viking   0 , NSW, Australia, Sep 2024
The trip highlights included outstanding expertise and knowledge of the expedition crew. Our talks were succinct and informative and you could participate in a wide range of scientific discussions and activities. We loved the zodiac and special operation boat rides, would have loved the option to do both rather than choose. Optional shore excursions ...read more were rather expensive and some should have been included (walking tours of towns). Safety was always paramount.The ship’s crew also were most attentive and accomodating. We had a lovely time and Viking’s standard of service remains very high.
Viking Homelands and Majestic Iceland Cruise     0 , TAS, Australia, Jul 2024
This was our first cruise with Viking and won’t be our last. The Viking Venus had a wonderful ambience in all public areas. With a crew member for every two people, the service was quick in the restaurants, cafes and bars. Food, drinks, entertainment, lectures and port talks were first rate.

There are no internal cabins, they all have balconies ...read more and serviced twice a day by friendly stewards. There are two specialist restaurants, as well as the main restaurant and World Cafe which is a buffet style and has special food nights, like pasta, kebab, lobster and Asian. Unless you particularly want yo drink premium wines, those served at lunch and dinner are of good quality.

In every port there was an included tour, some were better than others. We didn’t know before we went that there would be shuttle buses in some of the ports. Would have used one in Gdańsk to do the Amber Museum instead of paying for an optional tour. Go in the morning, as we had not time to shop for amber as the heavens opened up in the afternoon. A large storm with torrential rain, lightning, flooding cut our tour short and absolutely drenched and sitting soaked through on a bus for an hour.

In Oslo, go to Museum Island on the first day in port. As we were doing an included tour in the afternoon and the ship sailed before lunch the next day, we did not have time to do this. Kon-Tiki, Explorers and Folk museums are all near each other and you can take a boat from the wharf over to the island. Scandinavian cities are all situated around a wharf area, have brightly coloured houses, lovely gardens and many souvenir shops. Sailing into the fjords is very scenic and many waterfalls cascading down from the mountains.

The Majestic Iceland cruise continued from Bergen to the Faroe Islands and around Iceland to Reykjavik. We stayed two extra days there and did three tours. The first with Arctic Adventure, who offer a combo tour - the lava tunnels and Golden Circle. The second was with Gateway to Iceland to the Rekjanes Peninsula, which is the geo-thermal area and more interesting than the commercialised Golden Circle. We stood between the two continents, the North American and European plates that are pulling Iceland apart slowly.

Tracey at Global Journeys was always in contact with us from booking to departure and answered any queries promptly. We could pay by instalments, which spreads the payments easily during the months before our trip. We have now booked several trips with Global Journeys with no problems and appreciate the discounts and attention to detail.
Fabulous Trip   1 , NSW, Australia, May 2024
Everything went so smoothly. This Viking cruise was exceptional. The staff, accommodation, tours, talks and of course the food were excellent. Highly recommend this trip and of course Global Journeys.
Viking cruise highly recommended   1 , NSW, Australia, May 2024
The Viking cruise was amazing. The Mars Viking was tastefully decorated and only 2 years old. The staff were fabulous as was the food. We were given the opportunity to try wines from all over Europe at each meal but were still able to request your favourite wine. Norway is beautiful and we had amazing weather. It was a shame the weather meant we missed ...read more one port in Iceland but it was too dangerous because of icebergs. The included tours were good and we added some extra tours which were great.
Viking ticks all boxes again! Empires of the Mediterranean   2 , VIC, Australia, Apr 2024
Our second Viking ocean cruise did not disappoint - the ships are so elegant and comfortable. The service is fantastic and it a great way to experience multiple destinations. The included tours and port information provided is excellent, a great experience all round. As always, Hannah’s professional and friendly service with the booking procedure ...read more was appreciated.
Great memories on a sensational Viking excursion!   1 , NSW, Australia, Apr 2024
Having travelled with Viking twice in the last few years, my wife Sue and I decided to venture out on our third adventure …this time with Viking Odyssey. With extensions available at both ends of the journey, we opted to take on both options that had us visit Madrid and Venice. These adventures were ‘must do’ experiences that were supported by Viking ...read more staff that presented amazing knowledge and information that were highly appreciated.

On board with Viking Star, we once again booked the Penthouse Verandah suite….just sensational on all avenues. Our experiences on ship were all a 10 out of 10. All staff members are genuinely friendly and helpful… through the roof. The restaurant venues and choices are second to none. l must say, the quality and range of options is outstanding. I must say, it’s not difficult to understand why people continue to travel with Viking. It really is a case of ‘when you travel with the best, forget the rest. Many thanks Viking… our next adventure with you is now very close.

Viking Brochures View all Download the latest Viking brochures to read at your convenience.

Ocean Cruises

Ocean Cruises (2024-26)

The ocean horizons are filled with possibility, with destinations to explore, cultures to welcome you and fantastic natural beauty to behold A glimpse into the world of Viking reveals enriching itineraries covering some of the most rewarding and fascinating...more locations on the planet Whether you choose to explore Scandinavia, the Mediterranean, North America, South America, the Caribbean, Asia, Australia or New Zealand, or experience one of our magnificent Grand Voyages, we look forward to welcoming you aboard a journey of discovery.
World Cruises

World Cruises (2024-25)

While every Viking journey is created to be a meaningful experience focused on the destination, our World Cruise Collection provides the extraordinary opportunity to explore more of the world during a single itinerary. These once-in-a-lifetime voyages...more offer the same discovery and enrichment for which Viking is known — on a larger scale.
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The Viking Cruise Experience Choose to travel with Viking on your next adventure!

Reinventing Ocean Cruising
Reinventing Ocean Cruising

If you prefer an elegant, serene ship ambiance, more time in each port and an inclusive experience complete with exquisite dining and thoughtfully curated shore excursions, Viking's ocean cruise line was created for you.

you'll sail into the heart of your destination, so you can explore up close and in-depth. The size of each mid-sized ocean ship - with just 930 guests - provides greater maneuverability, allowing Viking to dock where the mega-liners cannot.

From our prime, central berths in the world’s great cities and seldom-visited ports, enriching discoveries are just a short walk from your ship.

Onboard & Inclusive
Onboard & Inclusive
  • Every stateroom on a mid-sized ocean ship has it's own balcony
  • One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call
  • Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner
  • Unlimited free Wi-Fi
  • Multiple dining venues including alternative restaurant dining
  • 24-hour room service, specialty coffees, teas & bottled water
  • Top-rated spa and state-of-the-art fitness center
Inaugural Expedition Voyages
Inaugural Expedition Voyages

Viking have just announced the launch of their fleet of Expedition ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris.

The new Polar Class 6 expedition vessels will host 378 guests in 189 staterooms. Optimally designed for expedition cruising — small enough to nimbly manoeuver, yet large enough to offer extremely comfortable sailing.

A first for polar expedition cruise vessels, all staterooms on board Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris feature a Nordic Balcony, a sunroom that converts into an al fresco viewing platform. Now you can take the views in, while keeping the elements out!

The Thinking Person's Cruise
The Thinking Person's Cruise

Viking's cruise itineraries are designed to help you explore the most intimate nuances of your destination: its food, culture, countryside and customs. Ashore, you might accompany the ship's chef on a visit to a local market; step behind the scenes at a famous theatre company; tour a glassblower's workshop; or view private collections and hidden vaults at world-class museums.

Onboard activities are also designed for the thinking traveller including informative lectures on history and art, cooking demonstrations, restaurant menus inspired by local cuisine and other opportunities to share the region's culture with like-minded travellers.

Destination Focused Dining
Destination Focused Dining

Whatever your tastes, Viking believe dining is an important part of your journey. That is why they celebrate dining both on shore and onboard. Fine dining in The Restaurant, which serves three full meals and the widest selection of culinary options.

Viking's alternative restaurants, The Chef's Table and Manfredi's Italian Restaurant, feature regional cuisine and specialty dishes.

Explore More Explore more Your guide to travelling with Viking Cruises

Unveiling Icy Wonders: Polar Adventures with Viking Expedition Cruises in 2024-2025

09 October, 2023

Unveiling Icy Wonders: Polar Adventures with Viking Expedition Cruises in 2024-2025

Viking, renowned for its luxury river cruises, is breaking ice with its collection of expedition cruises in 2024 and 2025. With bucket-list polar voyages to the Arctic and Antarctic, Viking’s immersive itineraries allow guests an in-depth exploration of some of the most remote and captivating...

Michaels Viking Valhalla Cruise

10 February, 2023

Michaels Viking Valhalla Cruise

I recently had the pleasure of going on the Iconic Western Mediterranean cruise with Viking on the Viking Sea and it was an absolutely amazing experience. The ship was absolutely beautiful and had everything we could possibly need for an enjoyable trip. One of the things that really stood out...

The Vikings are Coming!

06 April, 2022

The Vikings are Coming!

Cruising is returning to Australia and New Zealand we are so excited! After what seems like a very long time, the Australian Government has announced that the ban on cruise vessels entering Australia will not be extended when it ends on April 17. This means only one thing… Cruising is coming...

 Discover Antarctica, the Arctic & the Great Lakes in Comfort and Style with Viking

09 March, 2020

Discover Antarctica, the Arctic & the Great Lakes in Comfort and Style with Viking

Following the recent launch of Viking expeditions, you can now look forward to exploring Antarctica, the Arctic and North America’s Great Lakes on board Viking’s two new purpose-built expedition ships. Maintaining its reputation as The Thinking Person’s Cruise, Viking has developed an...

Viking Cruise FAQ's Frequently asked questions for those considering travelling with Viking Cruises

When can I book shore excursions?

Once your booking is confirmed by your Global Journeys cruise consultant, you receive information regarding setting up a "My Viking Journey" account directly with Viking. You'll then have full access to browse all shore excursions from the moment you open your account. Bookings open for each based on your stateroom grade. Viking will alert you when it’s your time to book.

  • Owners Suite - 107 days from sailing date
  • Explorer Suites - 97 days from sailing date
  • Penthouse Jr. Suites - 87 days from sailing date
  • Penthouse Verandas - 77 days from sailing date
  • Deluxe Verandas - 67 days from sailing date
  • Verandas - 60 days from sailing date
When can I book my dining and spa?

You'll have full access to browse dining options and spa bookings from the moment you open your account. Bookings open for each based on your stateroom grade. Viking will alert you when it’s your time to book.

  • Explorer Suites - 90 days from sailing date
  • Penthouse Jr. Suites - 80 days from sailing date
  • Penthouse Verandas - 70 days from sailing date
  • Deluxe Verandas - 60 days from sailing date
  • Verandas - No priority reservation
Can you accommodate a disabled passenger?

Viking Cruises welcomes disabled guests but wishes all guests to understand that challenges will exist on board and during shore excursions. Our ocean vessels have elevators, but there may still be thresholds that could make movement difficult. Shore excursions may require movement over cobblestones or up and down stairs; accordingly, a physically challenged guest will require the services of a responsible adult since crew availability is limited. Guests need to provide their own wheelchairs, except in an emergency. Motorized scooters are not typically suited on international cruises and cannot be accommodated. Viking does not accommodate animals except for certified therapy or Seeing Eye dogs on our international itineraries.

When you make your reservation, please let us know of any disability that will require special attention while you are on your Viking Ocean Cruise itinerary. Should you have any medical, physical or other special needs, check the fleet information on our website to gain an understanding of the layout of any particular ship.

When will we receive our final documents?

Your Global Journeys cruise consultant will send through your travel documents approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure. Until then, you can always see an overview of your cruise and booking on our site or in your "My Viking Journey" account.

Do I need a Visa to travel with Viking Cruises?

All guests should seek advice from their respective embassy, consulate or consultant to determine which documents are needed; be sure to obtain and carefully review for accuracy all your required documents prior to departure to avoid delays or additional cost.

Algiers falls under the first line if guests contact the respective embassy, consulate or travel agent.

Gueststravellingto Istanbul on Viking Cruises who require a Turkish E Visa, can apply online and also keep a printed confirmation in their passport of their online application.

What is the dress code?

Dress during the day is casual including shorts (if the season is warm), pants or jeans and comfortable shoes for walking tours. Swimsuits, brief shorts, cover-ups and exercise attire should be reserved for the Fitness Centre, pool areas and Sports Deck. There are no "formal nights" in the evening; evening dress is "elegant casual" for all dining venues after 6:00 PM, performances and special events. On these occasions, required attire for ladies includes a dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse; for gentlemen, trousers and a collared shirt. A tie and jacket are optional.

What don't I need to pack?

Every stateroom has a pair of binoculars. All staterooms bathrooms are equipped with soap, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion. A hair dryer is also provided, and irons are available in the complimentary launderette. Dry cleaning service is available too.

So what should I pack?

Viking suggest you pack comfortable walking shoes, dressier shoes, a collapsible umbrella/lightweight rain gear; items you can layer like lightweight jackets/sweaters; sunglasses, a sun hat/visor, sunscreen; and toiletries including a travel-sized hand sanitizer. Depending on the season and destination, you may also want to add a warm coat, gloves and water-resistant footwear. To visit religious sites, ensure you have modest clothing that covers your knees and shoulders or you may be denied entry.

When can I get on board once I arrive at the port?

Mid-sized ships, embarkation begins at 11:00AM for all categories. See below for stateroom availability times:

  • 11:00 AM: Owner's Suite, Explorer Suites and Penthouse Junior Suites
  • 1:00 PM: Penthouse Veranda Staterooms
  • 2:00 PM: Deluxe Veranda Staterooms
  • 3:00 PM: Veranda Staterooms

If you arrive before your stateroom is available and wish to explore your port of call, please drop your luggage shore-side in the terminal where Viking will gladly look after it. Please keep in mind, if you do go exploring, you need to be back on board the ship at least 2 (two) hours before scheduled departure time.

Are there refrigerators in individual staterooms?

Each stateroom is equipped with a mini-fridge. Depending on your stateroom category, your mini-fridge may be replenished daily with drinks and snacks. Purified water is provided in all staterooms and refilled daily.

Is there Internet access aboard the ship?

All our ships offer free Wi-Fi. You may use your personal device or one of the ship's computers in our Guest Business Office on Deck 1. Due to the nature of data bandwidth and latency, as well as potential interruptions in satellite signals based on terrain and weather, you may experience slower online connections than you are accustomed to at home.

In order to ensure fair usage for all, we reserve the right to limit heavy-bandwidth applications, downloads or software upgrades so that all our guests have access to Wi-Fi. We suggest that guests limit large uploads/downloads and live streaming.

What is the electrical voltage in the staterooms?

You will find both 110V and 220V electrical outlets in your stateroom. All outlets are European style (2 pin) with a ground, except for two US 110V sockets above the desk and one US 110V socket on each side of the bed; there are no UK 3 pin sockets. Should you need an adapter, they are available for sale in the on board shop or can be found at most electronics or travel stores. (Remember that if you’re staying in a hotel for part of your journey, you’ll want the appropriate adapter for that country as well.)

In your stateroom, you will also find a USB socket to charge cell phones and tablets; just bring the appropriate cable with you. Most modern electronic devices can accommodate different electrical currents, so you probably won’t need a current converter; exceptions to this are curling irons and other appliances that produce heat; hair dryers are provided on board.

Is there a fee associated with the alternative restaurants?

With Viking Inclusive Cruising there is no additional fee should you wish to dine in one of our alternative restaurants, such as Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant or The Chef’s Table.

Can you accommodate my dietary restrictions?

In most cases Viking will. Every meal has vegetarian options and their chefs will make reasonable efforts to accommodate requests. Guests requiring special diets (low salt, diabetic, gluten-free and low cholesterol) should alert us 90 days prior to departure and remind the Maître d’ when on board.

Can I upgrade the complimentary beverages?

Yes. Viking offer complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with on board lunch and dinner service, plus specialty coffees and teas are available 24 hours a day. For those who would like premium cocktails or wines and spirits, Viking offers the Silver Spirits beverage package. Ask for details on board or when making your reservation.

Is the ship non-smoking?

All Viking ship interiors, staterooms and balconies are non-smoking except for the designated outdoor smoking area on the starboard side of Deck 8. Smoking restrictions also apply to e-cigarettes.

How will payments on board be handled?

Although most services are included in your cruise fare, discretionary purchases will be charged to a shipboard account. These accounts, along with all prices and currency on board the ship, are in US dollars and may be settled with US dollars or a major credit card before disembarking the ship (traveller’s Checks are not accepted). You can also pay in cash with GBP and Euro.

What is the tipping policy?

Shipboard gratuities for shipboard personnel are included in your cruise fare on Viking Cruises. Additional tipping is at the guests discretion.

Do you have foreign currency exchange?

Viking do not have a foreign currency service available on board. For incidentals and small vendors, Viking recommend getting local currency, which can be purchased in the ship’s terminal, or from ATM’s, which are widely available in most large European cities. Should you wish to use ATM’s, confirm with your bank prior to departure that your ATM/credit card and PIN will work abroad, and inquire about possible foreign transaction fees. Also notify your credit card company that you’ll betravellingabroad to avoid unnecessary holds on your account.

Can I use my credit card throughout my journey?

MasterCard, Visa and American Express are accepted in major shops, restaurants and hotels as well as to settle your shipboard account. Notify your credit card companies that you will be traveling abroad to avoid holds on your account. American credit cards with magnetic stripes may not work in European automated ticketing machines (such as transit vending systems) as these require chip and pin cards; contact your credit card company for details.

Are ATMs (Automated Teller Machines) available?

Yes. ATM's are a good source of cash overseas; however, they may or may not be conveniently located in the larger cities and may be rare in smaller towns along the rivers. And, your itinerary may not always allow you sufficient time to locate one. Your Program Director or tour guide can probably help you.

When available, ATM's dispense local currency for internationally accepted ATM cards and/or credit cards, and have a service fee of approximately 3%. If you are planning to use ATM's, you should confirm with your bank prior to departure that your ATM/credit card and Personal Identification Number (PIN) will work abroad.

When can I get on board once I arrive at the port?

Expedition ships, embarkation begins at 11:00AM for all categories. See below for stateroom availability times:

  • 11:00 AM: Owner's Suite, Explorer Suites and Nordic Junior Suites
  • 1:00 PM: Nordic Penthouse
  • 2:00 PM: Deluxe Nordic Balcony
  • 3:00 PM: Nordic Balcony

If you arrive before your stateroom is available and wish to explore your port of call, please drop your luggage shore-side in the terminal where Viking will gladly look after it. Please keep in mind, if you do go exploring, you need to be back on board the ship at least 2 (two) hours before scheduled departure time.

Are there refrigerators in individual staterooms?

Each stateroom is equipped with a mini-fridge. Depending on your stateroom category, your mini-fridge may be replenished daily with drinks and snacks. Purified water is provided in all staterooms and refilled daily.

Is there Internet access aboard the ship?

All our ships offer free Wi-Fi. You may use your personal device or one of the ship's computers. Due to the nature of data bandwidth and latency, as well as potential interruptions in satellite signals based on terrain and weather, you may experience slower online connections than you are accustomed to at home.

In order to ensure fair usage for all, we reserve the right to limit heavy-bandwidth applications, downloads or software upgrades so that all our guests have access to Wi-Fi. We suggest that guests limit large uploads/downloads and live streaming.

What is the electrical voltage in the staterooms?

You will find both 110V and 220V electrical outlets in your stateroom. All outlets are European style (2 pin) with a ground, except for two US 110V sockets above the desk and one US 110V socket on each side of the bed; there are no UK 3 pin sockets. Should you need an adapter, they are available for sale in the on board shop or can be found at most electronics or travel stores. (Remember that if you're staying in a hotel for part of your journey, you'll want the appropriate adapter for that country as well.)

In your stateroom, you will also find several USB ports to charge cell phones and tablets; just bring the appropriate cable with you. Most modern electronic devices can accommodate different electrical currents, so you probably won't need a current converter; exceptions to this are curling irons and other appliances that produce heat. Hair dryers are provided on board.

Is there a fee associated with the alternative restaurants?

With Viking Inclusive Value, there is no additional charge should you wish to dine in one of our alternative restaurants, including Manfredi's Italian Restaurant.

Can you accommodate my dietary restrictions?

In most cases Viking will. Every meal has vegetarian options and their chefs will make reasonable efforts to accommodate requests. Guests requiring special diets (low salt, diabetic, gluten-free and low cholesterol) should alert us 90 days prior to departure and remind the Maître d' when on board.

Can I upgrade the complimentary beverages?

Yes. Viking offer complimentary house wine, beer and soft drinks with on board lunch and dinner service, plus specialty coffees and teas are available 24 hours a day. For those who would like to upgrade and enjoy unlimited beverages, Viking offers the Silver Spirits beverage package. Ask for details on board or when making your reservation.

Are there laundry facilities?

Self-service launderettes including irons and ironing boards are available free of charge, with detergent available for your use at no additional cost.

How will payments on board be handled?

Although most services are included in your cruise fare, discretionary purchases will be charged to a shipboard account. These accounts, along with all prices and currency on board the ship, are in US dollars and may be settled with US dollars or a major credit card before disembarking the ship (traveller's Checks are not accepted). You can also pay in cash with GBP and Euro.

What is the tipping policy?

Shipboard gratuities for shipboard personnel are included in your cruise fare on Viking Expeditions. Additional tipping is at the guests discretion.

Do you have foreign currency exchange?

Viking do not have a foreign currency service available on board. For incidentals and small vendors, Viking recommend getting local currency, which can be purchased in the ship's terminal, or from ATM's, which are widely available in most large European cities. Should you wish to use ATM's, confirm with your bank prior to departure that your ATM/credit card and PIN will work abroad, and inquire about possible foreign transaction fees. Also notify your credit card company that you'll betravellingabroad to avoid unnecessary holds on your account.

Can I use my credit card throughout my journey?

MasterCard, Visa and American Express are accepted in major shops, restaurants and hotels as well as to settle your shipboard account. Notify your credit card companies that you will be traveling abroad to avoid holds on your account. American credit cards with magnetic stripes may not work in European automated ticketing machines (such as transit vending systems) as these require chip and pin cards; contact your credit card company for details.

Are ATMs (Automated Teller Machines) available?

Yes. ATMs are a good source of cash while traveling; however, they may or may not be conveniently located in the larger cities and may be rare in smaller towns, and your itinerary may not always allow you sufficient time to locate one. Your Guest Services staff or tour guide may be able to assist you.

When available, ATMs dispense local currency for internationally accepted ATM cards and/or credit cards, and carry a service fee. If you are planning to use ATMs, you should confirm with your bank prior to departure that your ATM/credit card and Personal Identification Number (PIN) will work abroad.

When can I book shore excursions?

Due to their flexible nature, itineraries to the Arctic and Antarctica will not include pre-bookable shore excursions. Guests will be able to sign up on the waiting list for the different experiences with priority based on their stateroom category. All tours in those regions will be scheduled on board and guests will be assigned an excursion time based on the waitlist.

Once your booking for a non-polar itinerary is confirmed by your Global Journeys cruise consultant, you'll receive information regarding setting up a "My Viking Journey" account directly with Viking. You'll then have full access to browse all shore excursions from the moment you open your account. Bookings open for each based on your stateroom grade. Viking will alert you when it's your time to book.

  • Owners Suite - 107 days from sailing date
  • Explorer Suites - 97 days from sailing date
  • Nordic Junior Suites - 87 days from sailing date
  • Nordic Penthouse - 77 days from sailing date
  • Deluxe Nordic Balcony - 67 days from sailing date
  • Nordic Balcony - 60 days from sailing date
When can I book my dining and spa?

You'll have full access to browse dining options and spa bookings from the moment you open your account. Bookings open for each based on your stateroom grade. Viking will alert you when it's your time to book.

  • Owners Suite — 100 days prior to sail date
  • Explorer Suites - 90 days from sailing date
  • Nordic Junior Suite - 80 days from sailing date
  • Nordic Penthouse - 70 days from sailing date
  • Deluxe Nordic Balcony - 60 days from sailing date
  • Verandas - No priority reservation
Can you accommodate a disabled passenger?

Viking welcomes disabled guests; however, guests must realize that there are inherent risks associated with traveling on board ships that are unique to cruise travel. For people who are ill or have a mental or physical disability or impairment, the risks can be more significant. Guests must be able to independently move around the ship in case of an emergency or rough seas, cope with the lack of immediate access to medical services in certain parts of the world and acknowledge that access to some areas of the ship and ports of call may be limited or impossible. Shore excursions may require the ability to traverse cobblestones or go up and down stairs. We reserve the right to determine whether a guest is fit to travel and to deny boarding in the event that a guest represents a risk to themselves or to the safety and well-being of those on board the ship.

When you make your reservation, please advise us of any disability that will require special attention while sailing on a Viking cruise and provide a completed Fit to Travel Form along with a physician's letter. Should you have any medical, physical or other special needs, check the fleet information on our website to gain an understanding of the layout of any particular ship.

When will we receive our final documents?

Your Global Journeys cruise consultant will send through your travel documents approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure. Until then, you can always see an overview of your cruise and booking on our site or in your "My Viking Journey" account.

Do I need a Visa to travel with Viking Cruises?

All guests should seek advice from their respective embassy, consulate or consultant to determine which documents are needed; be sure to obtain and carefully review for accuracy all your required documents prior to departure to avoid delays or additional cost.

What is the dress code?

During the day, dress is casual—slacks or jeans and comfortable shoes/boots that are appropriate for excursions/landing or enjoying the ship. Swimsuits, brief shorts, cover-ups and exercise attire should be reserved for the Fitness Center and pool areas. There are no "formal nights" in the evening; evening dress is "elegant casual" for all dining venues, performances and special events. On these occasions, required attire for ladies includes a dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse; for gentlemen, trousers and a collared shirt. A tie and jacket are optional; jeans are not permitted. The evening dress excludes the World Café, where the dress remains casual, including jeans and boots, after 6:00 PM.

What should I pack for non-polar itineraries?

We suggest you pack comfortable walking shoes, dressier shoes and a collapsible umbrella/lightweight rain gear; items you can layer, such as lightweight jackets/sweaters; sunglasses, a sun hat/visor and sunscreen; and toiletries including travel-size hand sanitizer. Depending on the season and destination, you may also want to add a warm coat, gloves and water-resistant footwear. To visit religious sites, please ensure that you have modest clothing that covers your knees and shoulders or you may be denied entry.

What should I pack for polar itineraries?

A detailed packing list will be provided for your polar itinerary.

Which Viking ships travel to the polar regions?

Viking Octantis sails to Antarctica and the Great Lakes. Viking Polaris sails to Antarctica and the Arctic.

How will I board landing crafts and will it be easy to do so?

Landing craft will be easily accessible for our guests. Depending on the type of craft and weather conditions, embarkation will take place either from the midship area and/or The Hangar.

Will I be provided with a jacket and gear, or do I need to buy my own?

Viking will provide all outer clothing and gear required for your expedition, and will also provide a suggested packing list. In the polar regions, Viking will provide a Viking Expedition Jacket for use during your expedition which is yours to keep.

Will I be provided with binoculars or other equipment?

Viking will provide all specialized equipment and tools required for the expedition; however, you should bring your own camera.

Is my stateroom furnished with amenities that I do not need to pack?

All stateroom bathrooms are equipped with soap, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion. A hair dryer is also provided, and irons are available in the complimentary self-service launderettes. Depending on your stateroom category, laundry, pressing and dry cleaning services may be complimentary. If your stateroom category does not include these services, they may be purchased for a modest fee.

Transfers

When you purchase your flights in conjunction with Viking Cruises, airport transfers are included in your air cost, if your arrival and departure dates coincide with the first and the last day and destination of the cruise itinerary. If guests arrival and/or departure dates are different dates to these, then airport transfers are not included. Guests who are not arriving or departing to the destination on the first and the last date of the cruise/tour itinerary will have to make their own way to the hotel or vessel at their own expense. Passenger flight details must be given to Global Journeys 45 days prior to departure. Viking and Global Journeys will not be responsible for late arrivals or missed transfers due to delayed or cancelled flights, for missed cruise/trip days or for extra costs resulting from the foregoing.

Boarding Time

Embarkation begins at 11:00AM for all categories. See below for stateroom availability times:

  • 11:00 AM: Explorer Suite and Penthouse Veranda Suite
  • 1:00 PM: Penthouse Veranda
  • 2:00 PM: Deluxe Veranda
  • 3:00 PM: Veranda

If you arrive before your stateroom is available and wish to explore your port of call, please drop your luggage shore-side in the terminal where Viking will gladly look after it. Please keep in mind, if you do go exploring, you need to be back on board the ship at least 2 (two) hours before scheduled departure time.

Terms & Conditions All the boring small print. We recommend you read them, as no one likes surprises!