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.

Gueststravelingto 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 (traveler’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 betravelingabroad 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 (traveler'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 betravelingabroad 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.