THE 17 BEST Viking Ocean Cruises to the Caribbean with Prices 2024 & 2025 on Cruise Critic

Table Of Content

• Dining aboard Viking Sea
• Norwegian Prima Review and Photos
• Newest Reviews
• Carnival Cruises
• Related Cruises
• To Europe and Beyond 2018 – Day 6 and the Secret Breakfast Place
• Night West Indies ExplorerDetails

Choose from a variety of international flavors at the World Café, enjoy al fresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace, or regional specialties in The Restaurant. The food was very good, with the exception of "The Chef's Table". Our first dinner there was a Mexican theme which was ok, but portions are tiny. The second time it was a California theme which was flat out bad. One potato chip, one, with garnish for the appetizer!

Dining aboard Viking Sea

Lunch and dinner frequently offer a carving station. Seafood, Greek, Mexican, Asian and other theme dinner items are featured throughout cruises. With an extensive array of palate-pleasing food, gorgeous views and open indoor/outdoor seating, the World Café is a popular dining option. At dinner, choose from frog legs and sushi on one end and six flavors of gelato on the other—with an incredible number of light bites and dense delights in between. Everyone in the tram were passengers on the Viking Sea, one of six Viking Ocean ships. Many of us had earlier cruised on a Viking river cruise in Europe.

Norwegian Prima Review and Photos

This makes for a more refined experience than cruising on a family-friendly ship. Indeed, Viking is one of the best cruise lines for adults. Now, ever since branching out into ocean cruising in 2015, it’s also made a name for itself with its affordable-luxury, ocean-going cruises. The ship is Norwegian themed with light woods, dozens of decor and cultural items, art works, books as well as their signature Mamsen’s gourmet deli.

Newest Reviews

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing. There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience.

Carnival Cruises

Viking Octantis Sets Sail on First Longitudinal World Cruise - Cruise Industry News

Viking Octantis Sets Sail on First Longitudinal World Cruise.

Posted: Wed, 28 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Viking is a welcome change from schlock art auctions, psuedo tv shows, casinos and bingo, and cruise directors characterized as buffoons. Viking is definitely for the mature traveller who loves to wander, but is never lost. No screaming kids at the pool or drunk millenials at the bars. We rank Viking up there with Silversea, different in some ways, but high end and very enjoyable. The premium wine pairings were baffling also, Riesling?

Viking Air likely could have booked something for us, but as time was of the essence so we did it ourselves. When Viking learned of our difficult day, they issued us a future cruise credit. Unnecessary as it was not Viking’s fault, but we were impressed and appreciative. On the Aquavit Terrace at the rear of the ship there is an infinity pool and hot tub.

The Spa (and fitness center)

For any cruises listed, Cruise Critic does not guarantee any specific rates or prices. In addition, average cruise prices are updated nightly. Walk through one of our serene, state-of-the-art sister ships - from spacious staterooms to the al fresco Aquavit Terrace. Admire St. Thomas’s spectacular views from Mountain Top and enjoy the array of water sports. Stroll the narrow lanes of Old San Juan, explore Fort San Cristóbal and sample local food.

To Europe and Beyond 2018 – Day 6 and the Secret Breakfast Place

Follow our social media and blog for the latest cruise and travel news, including our best vacation deals. Maybe you've found a last-minute travel deal to that far-flung destination you've always dreamed of visiting. Norwegian Cruise Line has announced new culinary experiences that include their first Thai restaurant that will debut on their next new ship, Norwegian Aqua. It may be possible to work remotely while at sea, but there are some important things to keep in mind.

Night West Indies ExplorerDetails

In this review, I will share various aspects of the Viking experience, specifically a Viking Sea cruise ship review, to provide insights into what you can expect on this ship. I hope sharing this Viking Ocean cruises review will help you decide on your next adventure. Barbados is rich in British history and spectacular sandy beaches. Home to the Commonwealth's third-oldest parliament, Barbados is often called “Little England” for its lasting British influence. Bajans, as islanders are known, exude a hearty love of their small island country and delight in sharing its culture.

Celebrate the diverse cultural heritage—British, Mayan, Spanish, Taíno, African, Emberá—of the Caribbean and Central America, in ports from San Juan to Colón. Gain an intimate view through carefully curated itineraries, more time in port and enriching excursions on land and sea. Viking Ocean Cruises aims to provide value for money. The cost of the cruise, considering the inclusions and amenities, is competitive in the cruise industry.

We offer varied Caribbean itineraries that reveal the spirit of the islands as only Viking can. And with cruises designed to maximize your discovery,you’ll enjoy fewer days at sea and more time to explore. Our journeys are for discerning adults who value enrichment over indulgence, and serenity over distraction. Complimentary shore excursions are rare on ocean cruises, unless they’re expedition-oriented.

We had the penthouse veranda suite which was a well proportioned 320 or so sq. There’s no extra charge either for the specialty restaurants or to use the Nordic Spa (complete with hydrotherapy mineral pools, steam room and “snow grotto”). Indeed, in Sint Maarten, where a behemoth ship also docks, we stick close to “home” – which means we don’t miss afternoon tea. “We offer our guests the thinking man’s cruise, not the drinking man’s cruise,” Torstein has said.

There are two (occasionally three) specialty restaurants on the Viking Oceans Cruises ships. On our trip the third option – the Kitchen Table – was not open. Reservations are required for these restaurants but if you’re not able to secure a reservation before the trip, check with the dining desk managers as there are usually spots available. With an overwhelming world of choices, we understand you may need some personal assistance to plan your perfect vacation. From finding the right destination to choosing the best departure date, we're here to help. Plus, our experienced travel consultants have access to exclusive vacation deals to make sure you get the best value for your time and money.

After a steamy excursion it was nice to put our feet up and enjoy a platter of cheese or a Caprese panini. One of the challenges of traveling anywhere is managing expectations. Throughout the ship there are unique spaces where you can get away for a quiet read.

Most of the adult guests are well-traveled retirees. We opted to use Viking’s air program and were pleased when offered a charter flight from Manaus to Miami and a hotel night in Miami before transiting home. And doubly pleased when we learned they organized a late (11 pm- 2 am!) dinner for us in Miami. Very professional of them to make these arrangements at their own expense after our cruise days had ended. Purchasing the Silver Spirits beverage package for $25 per person per night affords the guest upgraded wines, beers, and unlimited cocktails and spirits. As this was our first Viking cruise, we decided to test the value of the package.

How much does it cost to go on the Viking Sea?

Table Of Content

• Airlines
• Viking World Cruise
• Destination-focused journeys on all seven continents
• Mississippi River Cruises
• Viking cruise cabins and suites: A guide to everything you want to know
• Destinations and itineraries

Our signature cultural immersion, destination insights and great value place the entire globe within reach. There really is no easier way to travel than unpacking once, and then watching the changing scenery from the comfort of your stateroom veranda. Your award-winning Viking ocean ship will take you closer to your destinations, accessing ports that large cruise ships cannot.

Airlines

Cruise Critic is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site. When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees as required by the U.S. Viking's ocean ships also offer a large number of suites, many of which are quite spacious. Even the smallest cabins on Viking's ocean ships are large by cruise ship standards at 270 square feet, and the largest suites measure nearly 1,500 square feet. 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. This makes the process of booking a room on a Viking vessel relatively simple compared to booking a room on many other ships.

Viking World Cruise

The company's core market is people who range in age from 55 to 75 years, although it does draw some passengers who are younger or older. Viking River Cruises may be the best option for experiencing more inland and culturally exciting sites. These cruises have received multiple honors and provide unique excursions along the world's major rivers. Design-wise, Viking's cabins are relatively upscale, with soothing, Scandinavian-influenced decor and lots of luxury touches like heated floors in bathrooms. Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris have what some in the cruise industry call an "infinite veranda" — a balcony-like space created by a window wall that opens from the top down. You'll find beds topped with crisp, white duvets and Scandinavian throws, comfortable contemporary sofas and chairs in neutral tones, and light wood desks and side tables that combine to offer a residential feel in bedroom areas.

Viking Cruises promised traveler a Delta flight, but now it wants another $600 - NOLA.com

Viking Cruises promised traveler a Delta flight, but now it wants another $600.

Posted: Sun, 10 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Destination-focused journeys on all seven continents

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your credit card spending when paying for the cruise by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases. This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve, which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, which offers 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel (and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on dining). Other interior spaces that are part of the ocean ships include a stylish spa with a thermal suite area that is open to all passengers at no extra charge (something that is not common on cruise vessels) and a fitness center.

Complete terms and conditions may be found in the Passenger Ticket Contract. Viking also offers many balcony cabins and suites on its river ships — something that isn't always the case in the river cruise business, where space on vessels is at a premium. However, unlike its ocean ships, Viking's river ships aren't all-balcony-cabin vessels. Some can have as many as 25 cabins per ship that are below the waterline and have windows high in the walls. Viking also offers lots of balcony cabins and suites on its river ships, something that isn't always the case in the river cruise business, where space on vessels is at a premium.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONSCruise fares listed are cruise only in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy. Full brochure fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date.

Viking cruise cabins and suites: A guide to everything you want to know

In general, it's an educated crowd, with many passengers coming from professional backgrounds or a life of running their own businesses. In addition, in early 2022, the line began its first cruises to Antarctica with its first expedition ship, Viking Octantis. That summer, the same vessel launched the line's first voyages in the Great Lakes — a destination that only a handful of cruise operators visit. At 47,800 tons, these ocean ships are less than a fourth the size of the giant megaships being built by the likes of Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises, in keeping with Viking's focus on intimate, upscale voyages.

The cost of Viking Sea Cruises

The ultimate guide to Viking cruise ships and itineraries - The Points Guy

The ultimate guide to Viking cruise ships and itineraries.

Posted: Fri, 30 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Unlike its ocean ships, Viking's river ships aren't all-balcony-cabin vessels. Viking's two expedition ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, also have three categories of balcony cabins with a similar array of amenities and services. They also have a different type of balcony that makes them feel more spacious than their square footage suggests.

On all ships, smoking (including electronic cigarettes) is only allowed in designated outdoor areas. Designwise, Viking cabins and suites across all categories are modern and elegant in an understated sort of way, with Scandinavian-influenced furnishings and decor that tie to the Norwegian heritage of the company's founder. Most Viking Longships are 443 feet long, the perfect length to fit into the locks on many of Europe's rivers. Viking has also built slightly shorter versions of the Longships measuring 262 feet, 361 feet or 410 feet in length specifically to sail on rivers where lock sizes or other navigational factors require a smaller vessel. The 410-foot-long versions of the vessels, for instance, were specifically built to be able to sail into the heart of Paris on the Seine River.

Just like the Viking Ocean Cruises above, Viking River Cruises was also voted the best in its category. Conde Nast readers proclaimed Viking the best river cruise line in the world and have done so ever since this category was introduced. Viking River Cruises has won awards for two decades now, highlighting how great its cruises actually are. Viking doesn't have a loyalty program in the traditional sense — one where passengers earn points every time they travel with the brand and progress through multiple tiers that bring an ever-expanding array of perks. The line asks passengers to keep things "elegant casual" when heading to any of the ship's dining venues, performances or special events. To Viking, that means a dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse for women, and trousers and a collared shirt for men.

Viking River Cruises also includes a variety of extras, such as lodging, eating, and cultural enrichment programs. Specific inclusions may differ depending on the cruise, but you can anticipate a similar level of value and service as with Viking Ocean Cruises. Viking operates ships with a very easy-to-understand array of cabins, unlike some of its competitors. Design-wise, Viking cabins and suites across all categories are modern and elegant in an understated sort of way, with Scandinavian-influenced furnishings and decor that tie to the Norwegian heritage of the company's founder. The bottom line is that you'll be much less flummoxed when trying to choose the perfect cabin for you on a Viking ocean ship than when trying to choose a cabin on most other vessels. Best-known of the river lines, Viking River provides solid cruises with a great variety of itinerary and cabin choices.

Always expanding and improving, Viking Ocean Cruises is the opposite of what many people consider ocean cruises to be like. There aren’t any casinos on board, no white-gloved butlers or formal nights outs. If Viking stands for anything, it’s “experience and exploration”.

In addition, most Viking vessels offer laundry and pressing services. Such services are complimentary for passengers staying in certain categories of cabins. Otherwise, fees are comparable to what you'll pay cleaners at home. Dry cleaning is available on the line's ocean ships but not on Viking river ships. Most cruise lines see the islands and coastal nations of the Caribbean as sun and fun destinations where you can make a quick stop in between long days at sea. But we see that beyond the blissful beaches and resorts, the Caribbean is rich with stirring history, amazing biodiversity and true multiculturalism.

It's important to note that the Viking Sea offers diverse cruise alternatives from Scandinavia to Australia, the Mediterranean, and the Far East. Your budget can direct you to the best Viking Ocean Cruise for your tastes and interests. Step on board the newest and most modern ship on the Mississippi with all outside staterooms, private verandas, spacious public areas and our signature, clean Scandinavian design, reimagined for the Mississippi River. In a similar nod to functionality and ease of use, Viking had the remote controls for cabin televisions specially designed so they would only have a few buttons.

Gain an intimate view through carefully curated itineraries, more time in port and enriching excursions on land and sea. For any cruises listed, Cruise Critic does not guarantee any specific rates or prices. Prices vary according to the cruise duration and destinations, but typically, they fall within the $1,699-$4,999 range.