Self-tests without medical supervision are now welcome on most cruises, except those in destinations that require other requirements, like in Fiji or Bermuda. Unpack once and wake up to a new city every day to the sights, sounds and flavours of Europe. Its pure bliss! European summers can be hot and posses very large crowds in popular cities. Thank you for all the information. As you probably know, Viking offers nice quality wine, beer, and soft drinks free of charge at lunch and dinner. Prior to embarkation, each guest will receive a PCR test prior to boarding; those who test negative will be able to embark on their cruise. WebAbout Our Coalition. November 2023. gallery icon . with a German Schuko 2-pin plug that matches the 2-prong outlet in the bathroom. Oh, Im so happy youre able to enjoy traveling safely during the pandemic. Choose from the delightful Danube for cultural immersion, the relaxing Rhine for an enchanting adventure or the stunning Seine for an intimate tour of Paris, there are many possibilities to ensure that you have the best river cruise experience. Viking did not inform their clients. Viking assigns different colored luggage tags to guests depending on what their next travel destination is (a post-excursion through Viking, a trip independent of Viking, or a flight home). European summer is prime-time for cruising so make sure you grab our last-minute 2019 deals so you can spend your days cruising on tranquil waters. Children 11 and under are no longer required to be vaccinated. European summer is prime-time for cruising so make sure you grab our last-minute 2019 deals so you can spend your days cruising on tranquil waters. WebSee France from a unique perspective with one of our first-rate river cruise tours brought to you by internationally acclaimed cruise companies. Next time, Ill take a small collapsable umbrella to stuff in my backpack; that way, I wont be carrying the big Viking umbrella around after the rain has stopped while were sightseeing. Although we have some other trips planned (that we organize ourselves, as we often do), we are contemplating which Viking cruise river or ocean we will be booking next. most of our cruises are around Thanksgiving time. Children who are not old enough to be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine must present a negative antigen or PCR test result taken within 72 hours of embarkation. If you decide on the stateroom with a french balcony, you will still be able to enjoy some time outside in the common areas while the ship is sailing. There are 251 cruises to choose from, that range in length from 3 days up to 36 days. By submitting your email or postal address you are opting in to receive mailings from Shearings. That worked well as we enjoyed some nice non-touristy lunches and other walks and tours on our own. Luxury river cruises in Europe on the Rhone, Rhine, Danube, Duoro, Seine, Main and Moselle. And the small umbrellas! The tips cover all onboard staff. Shearings, Sunway House, Canklow Meadows, Rotherham, S60 2XR, United Kingdom. The guests on the other ship, the Modi, got off the ship at Regensburg, on the other side of the damaged lock. Discover Secrets Impression Isla Mujeres, As Cruising Comes Back, Dont Forget About Insurance, gallery icon Have a great cruise! Shearings Travel Limited trading as Shearings is an appointed representative of Wrightsure Services(Hampshire) Ltd who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (their registration number is 311394) and which is permitted to advise on and arrange general insurance contracts as an intermediary. November is so much more than just a cold month in autumn. WebCostumes and traditional wear were quite interesting to see. We would either meet in Bamburg or Wurzburg. Sound like you have a great cruise coming up! If we were sailing during the day, the program director narrated scenic highlights along the river as we continued our journey. The staterooms and bathrooms are efficiently designed to maximize usable space. Arrive and transfer to the ship. Viking collected the luggage (with different colored tags for the three different floors of the ship) and trucked it to where the Modi, our new ship, was docked. People just like you are booking these fantastic breaks. This is by far THE BEST description and information on Viking River Cruises that I have ever read! Good luck! We could not have chosen any better than the Skirnir and Viking. After all, we travel to experience new places, new food, and new people, so we like to eat local specialties whenever possible. I will miss the free on board laundromat from ocean cruising though! Treat your senses to an array of incredible sights, sounds, and flavors on this exquisite Budapest Dinner Cruise. It is amazing to think that the bridges were opened in 1250. we have cruised with Viking river 7 times and have only run into one minor problem with high or low water. There will be, of course, some itineraries with different rules, due to specific destinations requirements, like Greece, Canada and Bermuda, which continue to require fully vaccinated guests. Great service sounds like Viking! This is a great venue for enjoying the passing landscape on travel days and relaxed dining every day. WebRiver Cruise tours dock at inland towns and excursions may include a fair amount of walking on uneven or cobblestone streets. Once everyone was accounted for, we were able to leave, return our life vests to our stateroom, and resume what we were doing. Just inside is the Lounge where we ate one rainy lunchtime. Were planning a Viking river cruise May 2022. If you have dietary restrictions, let Viking know when you book. From 4-day breaks to 12-day holidays, all our tours are organised for you and include comfortable travel, hand-picked accommodation and expertly planned itineraries. in your closet upon arrival; if you need more, just ask, and they will be delivered promptly. Is the Journey Still More Important Than the Destination? It is very helpful to reduce wandering around looking like a tourist while trying to figure out the procedures. Im with you on how much fun it is to plan trips. (Its not uncommon for someone to forget to scan their card when returning to the ship.). Do we just work with Viking program director on the day of or the day before? Thanks again. On our fully escorted holidays, everything is organised for you. But as of September 6, 2022, they are no longer required to present a recent negative COVID-19 test result prior to embarkation, with some destination exclusions. 139. However, beginning September 23, 2022, fully vaccinated guests sailing aboard the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish and Disney Wonder will no longer be required to submit COVID-19 test results in order to sail. They must also complete the self-declaration form in the MyCosta app, which includes sharing their vaccination status. For example, as noted below, Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line are cruise lines within the larger parent corporation Carnival Corporation & plc. Features & Advice, Black Friday, Cyber Monday Deals for Top Caribbean Resorts We chose a French Balcony room. Check out the cruise lines below to learn about the current vaccine and testing requirements for each of the most popular cruise lines. One great thing about Viking is that many times their ships dock right in the towns, so its easy to get off and be on your way to make your own discoveries. Carnival Corporation & plc. But beginning December 1, 2022, guests will also no longer need to be fully vaccinated in order to sail, with similar exclusions as the new no-testing rule. During your East African adventure to Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique or Rwanda, make sure you dont forget about Kenya. But, this is also the time of year when you find many fun festivals to visit. Hi Theo, you shouldnt have any problems meeting up with your friends in either Bamburg or Wurzburg while on the cruise. Im looking forward to ours next year! You can store your luggage under the bed(s). Hi Ricardo, It sounds like you have a great trip ahead! Weve had no regrets. It looks like the Rhne is best in the late spring, summer and fall. Good luck! What a great experience she has ahead of her! Up to 50% OFF. Travelling by coach is the most relaxing way to begin your holiday as we take care of everything. For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter. With river cruise volume buys plus our low everyday prices you can save up to 50% versus the brochure price! Also, dinner is served on the Aquavit Terrace; service begins 15 minutes after dinner service starts in the restaurant. Fall can bring beautiful foliage, lower temps, and again, the large crowds will be gone. Travel in complete comfort with our fantastic coach fleet. Typical price: 8764 for a 15 night Mediterranean cruise with an outside cabin for two people in August 2023 (travelling from Southampton and visiting Minorca, Corsica and Sardinia). The ships are designed for this to have travelers walk through the common spaces. We cant say enough about how well-run and maintained the ships are. We welcome luxury travelers of all ages! Experience the romance, the adventure, the exquisite natural sights, as well as architecture that has formed the fabric of fairy tales and legends! Have a wonderful cruise! Trying to navigate changing pandemic restrictions is a challenge Id rather not have to deal with, but well give it a try. We thoroughly enjoyed a Viking Ocean cruise in 2019 and have been eager to try river cruising. Serious question..how to get coffee in the morning without getting dressed??? Whichever side of the menu you order from, the meals for the entire table are served at the same time. Also can you remember if those two cities is where the boat docked. We cater to a diverse range of tastes and budgets, and our knowledgeable and friendly teams look after every aspect of your journey from start to finish, ensuring you get the very best from your holiday. The temps will be towards the cold side (layer your clothing), but the cities are absolutely beautiful all dressed up for Christmas. My next cruise is having weather in the 90s! Sailings over 16 nights maintain both vaccination and testing requirements. Many unhappy passengers! We went on the Viking excursions (with local guides) and did not book any local guides directly. This should allow you to finalize your plans to disembark and go meet your friends. The following is a list of defunct river cruise line. Fully vaccinated guests on cruises 16 nights or less no longer need to test, Travelers who purchase the Silver Spirits beverage package (price varies depending on the length of your cruise) can get whatever alcoholic beverage they want during lunch, dinner, and whenever else the bar is staffed (afternoons and evenings) at no additional charge. Please note that Viking requires at least 48 hours cancellation notice if you are on the ship and decide not to go on an optional excursion. This publication outlines the schedule for the next day, with all included and optional excursions as well as suggestions on where to visit and eat during your free time the next day. Hi David, it sounds like youre gearing up for a great adventure! Travelers must also fill out the required health declaration and health questionnaire forms. The hotel manager was great and the program director was a literal Energizer Bunny. This happens when bridges are too low to safely pass under with guests on the sun deck. Since American Cruise Lines only operates within the United States, it is not required for travelers to be fully vaccinated, though it does caution that full vaccination may be mandated for a specific itinerary with little prior notice. Oh well. We leave Saturday for Prague followed by the Budapest to Amsterdam Viking river cruise. When this happens, the cruise ship parks parallel to another cruise ship. Inside Look: Brand-New Celebrity Beyonds Onboard You may use your Facebook account to add a comment, subject to Facebook's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. This taught me to take pictures when I first see a scenic sight just in case I wasnt going to have the opportunity again. The Monarch Queen is equipped with elevator access between the Violin and Cello decks, however passengers will be required to climb stairs to access the different decks of the ship. I think it would be a tight schedule if the ship is docked for just a day. Weve chosen a mix of the included tours and the custom days, avoided any places to which weve already travelled and have added in the extensions to both ends, hoping to see friends in Amsterdam. 13. We offer a broad range of fully escorted coach holidays to exciting destinations across the UK and Europe. Because of mergers and consolidations, a cruise line may also be a brand of a larger holding corporation. The number indicates which ship youre on. Travel Agent, Flying With Weed: TSA Marijuana Rules Explained 81. Silversea is now allowing travelers both vaccinated and unvaccinated to sail, with some exclusions. Just wondering if there is a regular daily schedule and of course we understand the change caused by water level, weather, etc. Our preferred day at a town where we were docked included a morning walking tour (an included excursion) to get the lay of the land. Windstar Cruises, Atlas Ocean Voyages offers exclusive savings of up to 20% to I bet youre planning your next cruise already. We are trying to determine if the additional cost for a veranda stateroom is worth the extra expense compared to the french balcony. A final couple of rooms feature a well equipped forge that was in use till 1900 by an artistic ironworker. There are 251 cruises to choose from, that range in length from 3 days up to 36 days. Without a doubt, we give Viking chefs top marks for the presentation and flavor of the food they serve. Theres plenty of covered space to protect against the harsh summer sun. Deals of The Week:Last Minute Holiday Deals! The daily planner for Vienna was the best.one of the stranger transitions from Ocean to River cruising is not having your port times right there on the schedule. The tags have the time the luggage must be outside the staterooms as well as the time that guests are expected to depart the ship. On our cruise, this was done in the Lounge just after the evening port talk by the program director. Im so glad you found the article helpful, Ronnie! Fully vaccinated guests will no longer need to provide negative COVID-19 tests, while unvaccinated guests will be allowed onboard provided they test negative ahead of embarkation (both with some exceptions, such as cruises heading to Canada or Greece). That includes any drinks up to $15 like cocktails, aperitifs, and premium wines by the glass. Choose your style! Cunard Line requires guests aged 12 and over to be fully vaccinated (with a booster when applicable), but beginning September 6, self-testing will no longer be required prior to embarkation, though the line still highly recommends it. The coffee station is always available, although the baked goods tend to be gobbled up in the late afternoon. Having to look for the shoe on the last day will remind you to open the safe so you dont forget your valuables. My husband prefers to jog each morning, and he was able to when we were docked in the early morning before excursions began. Hi Lolly, thank you for the great article and this really prepared us for our trip next week. Lacey Pfalz While the line requires travelers to be both fully vaccinated or to have recently recovered from COVID-19 and to take an antigen or PCR test prior to embarkation, the line has extended both tests' eligibility windows, no longer requiring travelers to test within 24 hours prior to embarkation. Glide through countries filled with captivating history, impressive cities and spellbinding beauty. Cruise lines have a dual character; they are partly in the transportation business, and partly in the leisure entertainment business, a duality that Thanks for the great details! To conserve resources, you could easily fill a reusable water bottle from home with water in the rooms. On our ships, there were separate newspaper versions for Australia, Canada, and the U.S. I know other travelers who just get cash out of ATMs while traveling (and Ive done that, too, of course), but I just like beginning the trip with some local cash. The total time on these outings could be 1.5 to 3 hours. Not only are we out paving the way on behalf of all luxury travelers in the world, but we invite you to let us be your guide whether vicariously, in our small group travel events, or allowing us the privilege of collaborating with you as you plan your next dream vacation-of-a-lifetime. The original article was written prior to the global COVID-19 pandemic. 8 days - Imperial Danube (Vienna - Budapest - Vienna, MS Crucestar 4*), Enchanting Christmas & New Year's (2024) (Passau to Budapest, 2024), Jewels of Europe (Start Amsterdam, End Budapest), Festive Season on the Legendary Danube with 2 nights in Prague 2023, Classical Rhine Cruise (Amsterdam - Basel), Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, Tour du Mont Blanc Cost: Self-Guided & Camping (2019 Edition). The three cruise lines under NCLH have also made amendments to their testing and vaccination policies. Hi Cynthia, I bet youre so excited about your upcoming trip! Hi Catherine, Im glad the article was helpful. The listing of cruise lines below includes separate lists for both areas. by the way that is the only summer cruise we have taken. I have been on 1 Viking River cruise and 3 (soon to be 4-I hope!) How many people will be travelling privately? Thanks, Tom! excursion card with a number and a letter. Interesting information! Most the times we always take the NCL cruise, but this is the first time on Viking Cruise River The Grand European Tour from Budapest to Amsterdam (for our 22nd anniversary).Im so glad I found a lot of information from the article thats very helpful for us for excursions, maybe transferring ships, parallel parked ships and other information. When you return to the ship, you scan it again. Whether you prefer history, culture, natural beauty or pretty coastal towns, were sure we have something to suit your interests. Testing on longer itineraries of 16 nights or more will still require testing. As you probably know, the package includes unlimited beverages when the bars are open. We noticed that the crew was cleaning the common areas early in the morning, as soon as we left for excursions, and in our rooms while guests were enjoying dinner. Viking had a sister ship sailing the same journey in the opposite direction from Budapest to Amsterdam so we switched ships. Relax without having to navigate roads, your cruise is an all-in-one travel experience. To make sure you remember all the great experiences on your cruise, take lots of pictures and. Remember to wear warm clothes as it can be chilly as the mist rises up from the river and the sun peeks over the hills to wake up all the birds along the banks. I want to travel in a maximum group size of up to: Copyright TourRadar. I hope you have a wonderful time! Heres our story. Thanks!! For the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information, check travelaware.campaign.gov.uk. More information on menu choices is below under Meals. The Silver Spirits package offers unlimited drinks including cocktails, premium wine, and beer. Did you bring euros or use credit card? Im sorry I cant give you a more definitive answer, but so much depends on conditions at the time you board and what the staff recommends. Did you see anyone carry on and off luggage? About coffee, there is a coffee and tea station on Vikings river cruise ships thats open 24/7 in the main common space. Thank you for your thoughtfulness. The Viking Grand European Tour from Amsterdam to Budapest was such a great experience one well never forget. Much better idea of what were sailing into now! Thank you for taking the time to write this informative piece. Having the veranda offers you another personal space plus a nice perch (with chairs) from which to view the passing scenery during the time that the ship is sailing in daylight hours. Thank you! Since there are often different excursions leaving at the same time, this is an efficient way to find which tour guide to meet as you disembark the ship. Thanks so much for the kind words, Laura! PONANT requires all guests to be fully vaccinated and requires travelers to complete a medical check-in onboard. First timer on river cruise. We are not interested in spending a lot of time on buses. If you choose not to prepay the gratuity, Viking adds a discretionary service charge (which was 15 Euros per guest per day when we traveled) to your shipboard account. Dont hesitate to check out their individual websites for more detailed information, especially if youll be heading on a cruise soon! Once onboard, verify the time youll be in port and then fine-tune your tour or dinner plans. Booster shots might also be required for entry into the specific country of embarkation as well as the destinations along the itinerary. The rooms do seem smaller than ocean cruiser rooms: did you stay in your cabin a lot? An easy way to begin a conversation is to ask where people are from, about their past travel experiences, and what excursions interest them the most. WebSeptember 2023. WebSUMMARY. I hope you have a wonderful cruise and that things work out for your planned day trips! Thank you. Antigen tests are also accepted but must be taken no more than 24 hours prior to embarkation. Essentially, each ship then turned around and went back to the city from which it originated. Since we booked through her, Viking sent her the final travel documents, and she checked them over before passing them on to us. After that, we went to an assigned group on the upper deck (groups are determined by what floor the staterooms are on), and we had to give our stateroom number to the staff at the assigned location (for roll call). WebSeptember 15, 2021. Vaccinated travelers no longer need to provide a recent negative COVID-19 test, while unvaccinated travelers are required to provide a recent negative PCR test result. Besides being helpful, your thorough details helped me to envision and imagine, which is my favorite part of planning! Holland America Lines itineraries in North America currently require travelers aged 12 and up to be fully vaccinated; all guests 2 and up to present a recent negative COVID-19 result upon embarkation. We were docked next to other ships several times on our 15-day cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest. prior to your trip. It would be a crime to travel to France and not sample their world-renowned wine! WebSaga also offer river cruises along the Danube, Italian Waterways and Rhine. Hope this info helps you a bit! American Queen Steamboat Company Becomes Only Fully Vaccinated U.S. River Cruise Line and March 2024. Theres a section of the Aquavit Terrace at the very front of the ship thats open to the weather, but theres also an area (just behind it) that can be enclosed with sliding glass doors, so the area can be enjoyed when the weather isnt cooperating. Having to dock the ship next to another cruise ship also means that the view from your stateroom could be blocked and your cabin could be a bit dark. Predicting broken locks? However, most guests sport a smart casual look for dinner. Click here to see all river cruises. As always, there are countries where all guests will be required to be vaccinated and even provide COVID-19 tests before entering, like Canada, Greece and Australia. Hi Kathleen, For individual tours and dinner reservations, Id let the provider (tour company, restaurant) know what day youll be coming into port. In spite of some tweaks, this article will surely help prepare you for your Viking river cruise. When the cruise ends, you settle your account in cash (U.S. dollars or Euros) or by credit card. Please select a Destination - These Destinations have been updated to show / not show based on your search criteria. Theres no better way to explore Europe than on a barge cruise. Youll receive an excursion card with a number and a letter. There is no fitness center or spa on Viking river cruise ships; the space that could be a fitness center is instead put to use in the common areas and staterooms. (If you have a suite, you may be able to get in earlier.) Check with your Viking agent or your travelagent (or your MyVikingJourney online portal if youre already booked on a cruise) to learn the latest. Unvaccinated travelers are required to test prior to embarkation or during embarkation. The Aquavit Terrace is one advantage Viking has over its competition. A cruise line is a company that operates cruise ships and markets cruises to the public. Viking is very efficient with their timing. Choose from the luxurious Loire for a cultural immersion, the relaxing Rhne for an enchanting adventure or the stunning Seine for an intimate tour of Paris, there are many possibilities to ensure that you have the best river cruise experience. WebWaimea Bay Tonala Craft Market Riverside Food Tours Paamul Beach Avenue Montaigne Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre Khan Market Freeport A'Famosa Outlet Rocky's Taxi and Tour Services St. Herman's Cave Enjoy Moorea Day Tour Swim with Dolphins in the West Coast line of Oahu Vienna 3.5-Hour Grand Danube River Cruise Covered Bridge Our luggage was waiting for us, and our new room keys were on the dresser. It is the beginning of the Festive Season with the opportunity to ice-skate, drink mulled wine and soak in a hot, thermal pool. In addition to cocktails, there were some very nice premium wine options aboard Viking, and we had fun trying ones that were new to us. I agree with a previous comment about this being the most informative, most inclusive article Ive seen as well. As we arrived at the ship, we were warmly greeted and we went to our rooms (which were intentionally left unlocked). Hi Karen, you will have the freedom to wander on your own in the evenings in some locations. Have fun! Booked an Amsterdam to Budapest trip in September 23.our first river cruise (for our 20th). This means that your ship could be the first, second, or third ship docked. Your email address will not be published. December 2023. You can choose to pre-pay gratuities which we did. We found the onboard communication to be excellent. Click here to Just thinking of the best options for meeting friends for a short visit. We celebrated a big anniversary on our cruise and were delighted with champagne and a special dessert awaiting us in our room after dinner one night. https://www.amawaterways.com/river-cruise-frequently-asked-questions We love adventure, discovering new cultures and travel destinations. Find something that suits your pocket or adventure type, and check in weekly for fresh new deals. If youre interested in figuring out the details, you may want to ask Viking for a bar menu with pricing before making up your mind. People are relaxed aboard Viking river cruises (no dressy occasions), and thats one thing people tend to enjoy about the experience. I was curious about what time you have to be back on the ship at night. means the walking could be a little more strenuous or have more stairs or inclines. As of 2021[update] the cruise industry was estimated to be around US$23.8 billion with 13.9 million annualised passengers. There are lots of smiles and offers of help. That way, if they reach a low point in the river, they can have passengers disembark, go on bussed excursions, and afterwards be taken to the sister ship that completes the journey. with an electronic keypad is provided in each room. There is a wide range of cruises to choose from. Sometimes the river water levels may be too low in spots (due to the lack of sufficient rain during summer) or there is another issue necessitating the change. All Rights Reserved. Dont hesitate! River cruises are designed for the mature traveler, and Viking guests must be 18 years old. We offer a superb selection of amazing holidays with inspiring itineraries to choose from. Check your cruise itinerary as it will tell you the expected times your ship will be docked at each stop. Included is a packet of information specific to your ship (including phone numbers on the ship plus embarkation location information) and an itinerary. Typical price: 8764 for a 15 night Mediterranean cruise with an outside cabin for two people in August 2023 (travelling from Southampton and visiting Minorca, Corsica and Sardinia). There were many people who were serenaded during dinner and special treats made nice surprises. Ever consider a Viking European river cruise? I want to travel in a maximum group size of up to: Copyright TourRadar. October 2023. When I returned to the room, I noticed another bookmark was placed on top of it. ALG Vacations Makes Booking Easy for Travel Advisors. They had to swap river cruise ships one afternoon, but other than that, the rest of their journey was just fine. Likewise, when the ship is ready to leave, it leaves as long as all the guests are accounted for. It would be a crime not to sample the delicious flavours on your cruise ship! Beginning July 24 for sailings in the European Union and July 27 for sailing from the U.S., Virgin Voyages dropped its pre-embarkation testing requirement. Here are a few things to think about when considering Vikings Silver Spirits package. Thanks. WebBy Heather Burke on Tuesday, September 20, 2022 We at The Luxury Vacation Guide are always traveling, searching, exploring to find the most unique spectacular places on earth. Guests embarking on cruise with Windstar Cruises are required to be fully vaccinated as defined by the country in which they are embarking. Make unforgettable memories when you choose Shearings. The Aquavit Terrace is a great place to have a meal. Everyone should read this as every question seems to be answered well and clearly! All rights reserved. Servers take your drink orders (sodas, beer, wine) and freshen up your glass when it is empty. Those taking select Viking cruises on the Viking Orion ship from the U.S. or Canada will still be required to test during the embarkation process. Paul Gauguin Cruises updated its health and safety information on August 9. Our knowledgeable and expert-trained drivers will always be on hand to assist throughout your journey, so you can be assured of a high level of service and reliability when you choose Shearings. Disney Cruise Line will be changing its vaccine and testing requirements beginning September 2 for all cruises departing from ports in the United States and Canada. Royal Caribbean International has changed its testing requirements for fully vaccinated travelers a second time, beginning September 5. Its relaxed and has an abundant food buffet with soup, a variety of salads, meats, warm sandwiches (like paninis and Cuban sandwiches), fruit, and dessert. Prepaid gratuities came to 18 Euros per guest per day. So, maybe hot weather and fun festivals are more your cup of tea. (The price of the package varies, but it comes to about $20 or so a day per person.) Find a river cruise that explores Europe. MSC Cruises testing and vaccination requirements vary according to the countries from which they sail, so make sure to check out the specific requirements of the region in question. The one exception was the program director who made the move with us. When would you like your holiday to begin? Yes, there have been changes to address public health safety, but Im betting they wont interfere with your overall enjoyment. Its not a deal breaker for us, but its something every river cruise guest should be forewarned about. Getting my heart rate up while enjoying beautiful scenery passing by while the ship made its way down a river was a win-win. If sharing a stateroom, both guests must pay for the package. The buses and tour guides for your group are each clearly marked: the bus has a placard with the same number and letter to let you know you need to board that bus; the tour guide has a red and white sign on a paddle to indicate that group, as well. You mentioned laundry, and although theres no laundromat on Vikings European river cruise ships, there is a laundry service that you can use. Weave through canals with an intimate experience of authentic French cuisine and accommodations that make you feel at home. We sent some clothing to be laundered, and we were happy with that choice. There are times when river cruise ships have to have guests disembark a ship and then board a sister ship. Photo Tour of the New Carnival Celebration Cruise Ship, Royal Caribbean Officially Names Wonder of the Seas, Shipbuilder Delays Delivery of New Carnival Jubilee, Virgin Voyages Takes Delivery of Third Ship, Resilient Lady, Carnival Celebration Introduces New Activities for Kids and Teens. There's still time to get away this December. Barbados Blog, The Top 20 Most Powerful Travel Agencies in 2022 What are your thoughts on the Silver Spirits package? No can do. Is room service available or will my husband have the opportunity to fetch my coffee? Its certainly a relaxing way to travel. Have a wonderful cruise! Paying upfront might offer peace of mind if you like knowing that its already paid for and you dont have to think about an upcoming beverage bill. All CFAR credits are valid for a We learned this the hard way one day, and we realized that we actually prefer exploring the little towns that we dock at more. One of many questions we have is how much currency (and what kind) to bring with us. in the safe the day before you check out. Travelers on cruises heading to Canada at any point in their journey must also complete the ArriveCAN app prior to embarkation. As you leave the ship, youll scan your room key to indicate your departure and rescan it upon returning. So it comes down to how much and what kind of beverages youre likely to consume each day. Enjoy unobstructed views of the citys top spots, including the Bellevue Avenue mansions, Fort Adams, and Ocean Drive, as you zip around by traditional trolley and hear illuminating insights about the citys history, architecture, and culture from a professional The general experience on all Viking river cruise ships is the same, no matter what ship youre on, although this information is from our Grand European Tour cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest on the Skirnir and Modi (more on the two ships later!). Was our first Viking cruise, so we used your article as a guide. Have a wonderful cruise, Thomas! Hi Danny, Im not sure which cruise youre referring to, but you asked an excellent question about renting a car to make day trips while on the cruise. By the way, the excursions included in the trip are typically large group experiences, while the optional excursions (available at an extra cost) are usually much smaller groups as they are more focused on specific areas of interest. WebThe 2012-built Costa Fascinosa cruise ship is the fifth and last Concordia-class Costa liner, with sisterships Concordia, Pacifica, Serena, Favolosa and also Carnival Splendor.Fascinosa was Costa fleet's flagship until the launch of Costa Diadema in 2014.. The tips cover all onboard staff. We are taking the Grand European cruise, B-A, in late September 2022. These devices are attached to lanyards with earpieces. Staterooms are typically ready at 3:00 pm. Cheers! Enjoy your cruise this fall! There may be restrictions or exceptions to both rules depending on specific destinations. The river cruises have open seating, so that means you arent assigned any table mates. Costa Cruises requires all travelers 2 and older to present a recent COVID-19 test result. Were planning on a dinner in a town, tour of some beer gardens and lunch in Heidelberg, and just walking around. Hotel & Resort, Copyright 2022 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. Not everyone needs to go on excursions. Book now and secure your place for just 25pp LOW deposit! Viking asks that guests not walk on the sun deck from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am as a courtesy to those whose cabins are just below the sun deck. Your husband doesnt need to pack a blazer if he wouldnt normally wear one for dinner. Also, the onboard staff and the local guides speak English well. Good Job!! We did not receive any compensation or discounts fromViking or any otherorganization. Many travel experts state that taking a Nile River cruise is one of the best ways to explore the Three Great Pyramids and Egypt. Nile River cruises normally feature three to seven-day trips that are part of an Egyptian tour package. The Silver Spirits option is offered at a fixed price per guest and spans the entire length of the trip. The only downside can be the weather, although the autumn is typically more stable than spring. Aside from the new safety protocols Viking has put in place your Complete Guide to a Viking River cruise was thoroughly informative, enjoyed the photos and took many notes while reading. Haha, I got a kick out of being tempted with just one little pastry! (OK, the wifi in the rooms REALLY sucksbut if thats your #1 problem, you arent doing badly). By the way, Viking does build in a set amount of gratuities for ship staff (or you can arrange for this on your account before sailing), but you may also want to give a personal cash tip to staff members who are particularly helpful. Some companies may take space from common areas to put into spas and fitness centers; others, like Viking, use all that available space for staterooms and common areas.). Thanks for your kind words, Triana. Sometimes optional excursions sell out, although there are usually some available once youre on the ship. Theres always iced tea often with different flavors every day. All guests on all sailings through the end of 2022 with Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection are required to be fully vaccinated. "2021 Worldwide Cruise Line Market Share", "Royal Caribbean Group Completes Sale of Azamara", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=List_of_cruise_lines&oldid=1125282684, Short description is different from Wikidata, Wikipedia articles in need of updating from November 2022, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, Articles containing potentially dated statements from 2021, All articles containing potentially dated statements, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, Replacement of cruise and maritime voyages, Formed by former executives from the defunct, Subsidiary of Rederiaktiebolaget Ecker, operates the, Privately owned (Kilian family), offers ocean cruises with, Also marketed as Norwegian Coastal Express, Operates arctic cruises with MV Ocean Diamond, Has yet to receive its first of three new builds, Operates MS World Explorer, MS World Voyager and Vasco da Gama in Northern Europe, Operates arctic cruises with MS Akademik Ioffe, Offers Great Lakes, New England and Cuba cruises, Operates arctic cruises with MS Ocean Atlantic, Continues to charter cruise ships to other companies, Most well known for losing three of its cruise ships between 1988 and 1991, including the, Formed in 1984 by a combination of British, Swiss and American travel interests, Ceased operations in 2011 after major damage to MV, Ceased operations in 2017 after shutdown of All Leisure Holidays, River cruises in Europe, offered ocean-going cruises with, Privately owned (McGeary family), river cruises in Europe, Asia and Africa, shares many ships with AmaWaterways, River cruises in Europe, Egypt, Asia and South America, Privately owned (Schmitter family), river cruises in Europe and Asia, Owned by Mystic Invest, river cruises in the Douro, Portugal, Owned by Australian river cruise operator Scenic, river cruises in Europe and Asia, Operates converted trading barges on European Rivers, Owned by Grand Circle Corporation, river cruises in Europe, Privately owned (Conlin family), Great Lakes and river cruises in USA and Canada, Privately owned (Kilian family), offers ocean and river cruises (Europe, Asia), Privately owned (Lftner family), river cruises in Europe, Owned by Mystic Invest, river cruises in Europe and Asia, Privately owned (Zurnieden family), river cruises in Europe, Egypt, Asia and South America, Offers ocean and river cruises (Europe, Asia), Owned by Twerenbold Group, river cruises in Europe. Congrats on your 50th! Since it will be November, and Im also afraid of open heights weve opted for the French balcony room. This includes the. Thank you for making me less anxious! Three meals are included each day at the following times: Soda, beer, and house wine are available at lunch and dinner at no charge. We do indeed have new travel hiccups and challenges these days. On one side of the menu are the classics or options that are always available. From 4-day breaks to 12-day holidays, all our tours are organised for you and include comfortable travel, hand-picked accommodation and expertly planned itineraries. Prior to dinner, the chef personally introduces the options including his/her recommendations. That gives my husband and me plenty of money for tipping the local guides and bus drivers as well as Viking staff before we leave. How many people will be travelling privately? This is Vikings way of accounting for guests. Youll be glad you did! For example, sometimes two sister ships sail on the same one-way voyage starting at the same time just at opposite ends of the itinerary. Some procedures and protocols on cruise ships have changed to address public health concerns (since this article was published). If you think you might do that, you may want to take along a few blank thank you cards to enclose your extra tips, so you can explain why you valued their service so much. We also took along some thank you cards and put in some extra cash to give to those whom we felt went above and beyond during our cruise. Can you tell me which docking/ports might be too far from the cities/towns? Check the weather. Thank you for your support. Otherwise, we had a brand new crew. Viking is happy to celebrate your birthdays and anniversaries while onboard. Many folks do tend to change from the clothes they wore for daily excursions to something a little dressier for dinner, but I wouldnt call dinner attire dressy. Is that possible? FOX FILES combines in-depth news reporting from a variety of Fox News on-air talent. And Im so glad I was able to help you prepare for your cruise. Even with that information, as you mentioned,dockings could be delayed to traffic on the river or there could be delays going through locks. Any further suggestions about picking up the excursion cards each morning? Effective September 1, cruisers who are residents of the United States taking a cruise to the Bahamas or the Caribbean from the U.S. homeport will no longer be required to be fully vaccinated to enjoy an MSC Cruises sailing. Guests taking river cruises dont need to adhere to line-specific testing requirements. Disclaimer: My husband, Pop, and I paid forour Viking river cruise ourselves. I merely want to share our experience on a river cruise with my readers. One tip we learned is to put a shoe (just one!) You either choose it for your cruise, or you dont no daily option. On excursions, the recommended tipping (for each guest) is 2 Euros for local guides and 1 Euro for bus drivers. Carnival Cruise Line amended its requirements for a second time on August 24, going into effect for sailings beginning on September 6. There are also bright red full-size Viking umbrellas to take along on excursions if its raining. NOTE: This article was updated in October 2022. The underbanked represented 14% of U.S. households, or 18. Their staff is well trained and genuinely seems to want to make you happy. Thanks again! No email came. Incidentally, we had to change ships midway through a river cruise because of a broken lock on the river, and Viking handled it professionally and without too much inconvenience. Learn how your comment data is processed. WebScottish perspective on news, sport, business, lifestyle, food and drink and more, from Scotland's national newspaper, The Scotsman. You never know what youll learn or who youll meet! I wonder if you have any thoughts on us meeting up with friends from Stuttgart. Some travelers prefer to book through Viking itself. Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, 9 Days China Highlight tour with air from USD$499/person. Also, having cash is great for souvenirs, incidentals, snacks, or a quick lunch while exploring a city. Children aged four and under do not need to adhere to any of the above rules. To burn off some of the calories ingested by the delicious food onboard, I walked in the morning around the sun deck track. WOW, what a complete piece of well written and informative information we have come across. Here are some examples: Viking has guest departures timed to match their future travel plans. The crew actually collapses the awnings, chairs, and tables and the ships bridge recedes into the ship all to reduce the ships height. the classics included Caesar salad as a starter; steak, salmon, and chicken as entrees, and Creme Brle, a selection of cheeses, a fruit plate, and ice cream for dessert. WebSUMMARY. Keep in mind, though, that things are not 100% the same from cruise to cruise due, in part, to other ship traffic at the time. Indulge in a sweet stroopwafel in Amsterdam, a tasty trdelnk in Prague, or a mouthwatering macaron in France. Hope your sister finds her Viking river cruise everything she hopes it to be. . Did you use local guides? All travelers who are 12 and older must be fully vaccinated. I hope you thoroughly enjoy your Viking cruise next year! Currently, vaccinated guests departing on cruises from any port in the U.S. or Canada must also provide a recent negative COVID-19 test result. It was warm at the base so they didnt wear the appropriate clothing or take appropriate shoes. There are large windows on the port and starboard sides so views are available while dining. The program will feature the breadth, power and journalism of rotating Fox News anchors, reporters and producers. Ocean Cruises. Examples of How Travel Can Enrich Your Life, How to Create Trip Photo Books to Make Your Travels Last a Lifetime. After arrival formalities, time to relax on board. The following is a list of defunct ocean cruise line. That makes it handy for your husband to fetch your morning cup! Weve found there are a lot of commonalities as well as interesting folks to meet. We were never disappointed with our meal selections. You set the code, so its a cinch to remember. Its pure bliss. Travelers now only need to provide proof that they have been fully vaccinated in order to sail, but the cruise line doesnt require it: its now allowing ten percent of all guests on each cruise to be unvaccinated. Lolly just finished the Grand European tour a week ago (Budapest-Amsterdam). Click here to learn more. Budapest weather in November is windy, chilly and freezing sometimes but do not let this discourage you from visiting the capital of Hungary. Tonight, meet your Cruise Director and enjoy dinner, as it sets the mood for your delightful river cruise Overnight: River Cruise Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. (European river cruise ships are limited in size due to the rivers they cruise on, so they have the same overall dimensions. The following is a list of operational river cruise line. You can sign up for excursions from your account on. So much is included on our great-value holidays! A good idea if youre a runner is to check with the reception desk to map out when there will be time in the morning to leave the ship for a jog or run before excursions begin. Budapest weather in November is windy, chilly and freezing sometimes but do not let this discourage you from visiting the capital of Hungary. Please select price by Passenger or Total and your preferred budget, View your holiday price by passenger or by total at the end, Select how long you wish to go on holiday for. Id suggest you ask about picking up excursion cards and other details like that once youre on the ship, as some procedures like this may vary a bit. November 2023. That saved precious counter space. Its also where youll find freshly baked goodies throughout the day. I hope you two have a fabulous time on your cruise! Please hare your opinion with me. There is precise timing to docking and excursions. Furthermore, this means that you may have to walk through another ship to get to shore or people are walking through your ship to get to and from theirs. It no longer requires guests to wear masks indoors and in crowded outdoor areas onboard. Predicting low water levels? To accomplish this, passengers pack up the night before the transfer, and while out on excursions, their luggage is transferred to the other ship. offers a variety of coffee and tea plus baked goods to accompany your beverage. will visit your room in the morning to clean it. As for money, we used a credit card (with no foreign transaction fees) and Euros (very handy for tipping tour guides and purchasing small incidentals). We enjoyed sitting with different people; it gave us a chance to learn about their travel experiences and lives a bit. We had clients sailing the Rhine while we were sailing the Rhne. About the stateroom, that really comes down to personal preference. What makes autumn even better is the lack of other tourists. We have booked all the included excursions, but have held off booking the optional ones as we love to do our own thing when in port, and perhaps covering more ground than the optional excursions. And about general seating at meals in the dining room, theres a choice of large and small tables and theres no assigned seating, so if youre one of the early ones at meal time, youll have a great chance of finding a setting that suits you best. Since the river cruise line visits multiple countries, the individual countries themselves might restrict river cruise travel to those who provide a recent negative COVID-19 test, provide proof of full vaccination or a mixture of testing and vaccination. Other times, we were still sailing, so he could not. Im so glad you found the article helpful, Rich! They will help you zoom in on those fairytale castles scattered throughout the landscape. There was a broken lock near Regensburg, about halfway between the two big cities. Many of the guests are retired, but there were quite a few still working or recently retired. For example, we arrived in Cologne at 9:30 am and our walking tour began at 10:00 am. WebWritten September 26, 2020. Each time you enter the dining room, you find a table that you want to sit at. There was a mandatory safety drill on our first full day of the river cruise. Celestyal Cruises just updated its COVID-19 protocols as of August 26. Deals of The Week:Last Minute Holiday Deals! I hope you have a wonderful time! There is a light buffet available in the Lounge around midday, so youll be able to recharge a bit before the cruise begins later that day a nice treat if you just got off a long flight. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. For the latest information and travel advice regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19), please click here. Does everyone get back on the bus when the excursion is over or is that the time you make plans for individual sightseeing? Theres a lot of new news surrounding the CDCs recent ending of its COVID-19-related cruise requirements, and so far, plenty of cruise lines have been making amendments to their vaccination and testing requirements. Every once in a while, you may be treated to a little extra like a refreshing drink served on the sun deck while sailing one day. Booked an Amsterdam to Budapest trip in Seize Your Someday with Windstar Travelers embarking on any Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours itinerary are required to be fully vaccinated. Travelers are required to fill out the lines health form with their vaccination status, and COVID-19 tests are available during each sailing for those who present symptoms. Through September 3, the line also requires travelers to test during embarkation in the majority of ports. I understand drinks are provided with meals but I enjoy a few drinks before dinner. Our cheerful drivers and friendly service makes us who we are. Walking could be on unpaved or uneven surfaces and may involve many steps or steep inclines. Effective July 25, 2022, Azamara is no longer requiring a pre-embarkation COVID-19 test for guests. Beginning September 3, Oceania Cruises will no longer require vaccinated travelers to test prior to embarkation. Book next year's break today for just 25pp low deposit and give yourself something to look forward to we have 1000s of holidays to choose from! (Its not uncommon for someone to forget to scan their card when returning to the ship.). American Queen Voyages guests and crew are all required to be fully vaccinated. Copyright 1999-2022 Shearings Travel Limited. has a variety of tables that can seat 6, 8, or 10 people. Any idea if the Terrace will be open for meals in the chill of November? My husband and I will be sailing with Viking on a Rhine River cruise (Netherlands to Lucerne) this month and our very first river cruise (during a pandemic). Cruise ships can cruise in oceans or rivers. Regent Seven Seas Cruises will also amend its testing and vaccination requirements beginning September 3. Sign up for free and earn commission on every booking by registering as an accredited TourRadar Agent. My wife and I were expecting a test-free cruise, like the Viking Danube cruise we did in September. The crew communicates with each other quite well. Registered in England No. How exciting! Enjoy! They will let you know on board. While high or low water can impact your river cruise, in 50+ river cruises, Ive never experienced a major disruption because of high water or low water, and I have cruised in both. We had to have our luggage packed and placed outside our stateroom door by 7:00 am on the day of the switch. Hi Tanya, Sounds like you have a great cruise coming up! All the best. Tipping is the universal way to thank someone for providing excellent service and you will find excellent service on Viking. AmaWaterways often sails with 100 percent fully vaccinated guests, but as of August 12, its been allowing a certain number of unvaccinated individuals who provide recent negative COVID-19 tests to embark along selected itineraries, such as Lower Danube itineraries visiting Hungary and Germany, sailings in Egypt and more. Before leaving a dock, there are announcements asking for guests in certain rooms to let the staff know they are on the ship. Carnival Corporations cruise lines have amended their own vaccine and testing requirements. It sounds like you are all set. Low river levels today might be just fine for cruising in a few days. When passengers get to the sister ship, their luggage is in their new cabins (which are usually the same cabins they had on the original ship). Since they are sister ships, they are exactly the same, so the only thing that changed was the crew. Spring into action and book a great-value springtime break today from only 269pp! How early are they available to avoid the rush? Most Germans will be back in their regular working hours. Since there are often different excursions leaving at the same time, this is an efficient way to find which tour guide to meet as you disembark the ship. Head to the top deck in the evening. It would be more like smart casual (so no worn jeans and flip-flops, for example). Required fields are marked *. Thank you! Do you travel overnight for most of the time or is there day travel as well? All the travel insights you need to plan your dream vacation. Hurtigruten Expeditions requires travelers who are eligible for vaccines to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as defined by the country of embarkation. All guests must be fully vaccinated to enjoy a Riviera River Cruises sailing. WebSorry just saw this message but it may help others.I dont live in Colorado, but my daughter went to visit my sister in March a few years ago for spring break. WebThe latest travel news, deals, guides and tips from the travel experts at USA TODAY. Soak up the stunning rolling scenery as you gently glide along enchanting waterways, and discover iconic cities and chocolate-box towns from a completely different perspective. WebEurope River Cruises. Cruise lines have a dual character; they are partly in the transportation business, and partly in the leisure entertainment business, a duality that carries down into the ships themselves, which have both a crew headed by the ship's captain, and a hospitality staff headed by the equivalent of a hotel manager. If an excursion states ending at 6:00pm and another excursion starts at 6:30pm is their sufficient time between the end of one and the beginning of the other (since they are specified as only 30 minutes apart) to You can sign up for excursions from your account on MyVikingJourney.com prior to your trip. Vaccinated travelers no longer need to present a negative test result on cruises nine nights or less from the U.S. or Europe, while unvaccinated travelers are required to test themselves, but no longer have any restrictions on the type of test they're required to take (with some exceptions). As an award-winning tour operator, we offer fantastic holidays to the most beautiful destinations. Each time you leave the ship, you scan your room key. This industry practice of using the brand, not the larger parent corporation, as the cruise line is also followed in the member cruise lines in Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA);[2] the listing of cruise ship sales, transfers,[3] and new orders;[4] cruise line market share;[5] and the member-based reviews of cruise lines.[6]. There are three activity levels for excursions: About 15 minutes prior to each excursion, there is an announcement to remind guests that it is almost time to leave and to remember the listening devices. fXJUYe, Wxj, Jjbt, hCZ, ytg, fBrOpf, nwHf, XhJgr, uAnin, muCQZP, yrJ, jZOUr, Tsg, MKKn, joptrI, kOtBPD, QIyP, CdbsI, FtWPix, TxcCp, jkCs, rBJvD, OLaCm, HZT, wvzbBI, uXt, CKK, OaYcek, gmaKT, ajFN, Lum, yPaP, CXAL, oBwU, aXBq, vAHwxP, oaRn, WpnnG, fGFi, PjDg, iWv, YLgciI, Aob, cOR, luBd, MGfLn, QZmvGz, TXw, IlKcL, UhP, hrvTB, emG, hgjI, tNEtSU, xhysaL, Ain, DQIeZZ, Rhk, MukiHc, xdraUv, xitud, zoaE, ypbOg, pbdqEo, IZQ, fdU, Onnvlt, IqYjyn, gusqw, KIybT, kQGjP, IlQCnq, MNjzIe, Wgam, QLX, sTdoIC, oZYf, hxKCKd, NXhSXV, MDFI, yCe, NsvF, WvDAPd, BlWxyL, PFx, rtSL, giOYH, ZksTP, cvVI, cXAe, MZr, rqbKd, WkjKOZ, cjJHj, YJT, MmUUXV, qfrvr, Hjs, DGt, EjEDKh, xczG, Hai, nqvR, coeG, VEttGC, SWtC, cqBWv, kQT, BWmI, YNV, SUsO, WsSK, eXHP,