After years of success in the river cruising market, Viking Cruises launched their innovative Ocean Cruise product in 2015. I remember whispers going around in the travel industry about how their ships wouldn’t have this and wouldn’t include that. I also remember having a chat with our Viking sales rep who told us that what Viking was not going to include was going to be a big part of what makes them special and how it was going to change the face of cruising. Turns out Viking was spot on, and leaving certain things out paid off for them…BIGTIME. So here’s what you’ll be missing out on if you decide to take a Viking Ocean Cruise:
Casinos
Do you dislike having to spend your hard earned money just to kill a little time? You’re not alone. Instead, Viking provides options to help you truly experience the destinations you’re visiting along the way…like Resident Historians, TED Talks, and Destination Insights. Leave your gambling money at home and bet on a terrific experience instead.
Kids
Absolutely no one under 18 can board the ship - it’s literally an adults-only haven at sea. Enough said.
Cheesy shows
Forget having to suffer through another not-so-funny comedian or listen to a second-rate singer on any of their ships. Viking Cruises provides top-notch entertainment through their Destination Performances which they use to showcase unique music and dance celebrating the destinations you’re visiting. Think traditional Greek dancing, Italian operas and Mariinsky Theatre from Russia as some of their fabulous performances to name a few.
Art Auctions
Going, going…gone are the days where you felt like you were being pressured into purchasing a one-of-a-kind, extremely rare and valuable piece of art on a cruise ship. Instead, Viking brings in top lecturers to host their Culture Curriculum discussing various subjects such as art, history and cultural topics. They also have a beautifully curated collection of Scandinavian art on display throughout their fleet for everyone to admire and enjoy.
Inside Staterooms
All staterooms begin at verandas and go up to their more exclusive suites from there. If you’ve never splurged on a balcony stateroom, this would be an excellent place to start!
Formal Nights
Yep - no need to rent or pack a formal dress, ladies. Men, there’s no need to bring your tux - you don’t even need to wear a tie! It’s a dressy casual atmosphere on Viking’s ocean cruises from the time you board to the time you leave.
Surcharges for specialty dining
No charge for specialty fine dining? Yes! Keep in mind that this depends on the room category you book since reservations for these restaurants open up earlier for those in the higher category staterooms. However, there’s no fee for anyone to dine at their specialty restaurants which is a rare treat in the cruise world.
Nickel & Diming
So much of your experience is already included in the cruise fare that there’s no need to pay for much once you’re onboard. One complimentary shore excursion at each port is included so there’s no need to shell out another few hundred dollars for sightseeing. WiFi throughout the ship is also included so you won’t have to worry about purchasing pricey internet packages. Also, specialty coffees and bottled water are complimentary throughout the day and sodas, wine and beer are complimentary during lunch and dinner.
If you’re wanting to go beyond the traditional cruising options, then you may want to consider a Viking Ocean cruise for your next adventure. They visit a lot of the more unique cruise ports and have put together some unbelievably interesting itineraries for 2019. Viking Cruises is also one of our preferred partners and they regularly run some really great promotions with either reduced airfare, free category upgrades and even free air! Be advised that their itineraries fill up quickly so if something catches your eye you’ll need to act fast. Space is already selling for 2020 so contact me soon if you’re interested!
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