Review- Viking Sea: From the Caribbean to the Amazon (Dec 16, 2017 to Jan. 6, 2018)

[Cahpek]

Seems like Viking Sea has been having some rather mixed reviews in the recent past on Cruisecritic.com including someone who described that entertainment on board was for most part lacklustre :

 

https://www.cruisecritic.co.uk/memberreviews/getreviews.cfm?action=ship&ShipID=993

Edited January 9, 2018 by Cahpek

[Cahpek]

Thanks for sharing your interaction with Viking. Was there any acknowledgement that they need to do better in the areas where many have suggested they are falling short?

 

There may be certain things that Viking can perhaps fix at a relatively short notice, but others , like entertainment quality, may take a while longer. For that reason, over the next 6-9 months, if we book any cruise, we will very likely avoid Viking and book with other cruise lines (e.g. Oceania, one of their keenest rival and which is very, very good too! ) unless we have read reviews/reports that they (Viking) have substantially improved the standard of their entertainment offering early. Hopefully after that time, they will have sorted themselves out. We'll wait and see.

Edited January 9, 2018 by Cahpek

[Vineyard View]

Incredibly valuable information and feedback here and on the roll call regarding this Amazon cruise. Clearly way more misses than acceptable.

On top of the multiple topics of issue, I want to focus on the Amazon portion.

We did our homework on what to expect via other lines before we booked this trip. What I read here supports our research....that others’ Amazon Cruise trips with non-Viking lines were great experiences. So it should be a realistic expectation that Viking can make the changes necessary to provide the same if they continue this itinerary. Other cruise lines typically make 5 port stops while in the Amazon. We knew this - and that Viking offered 4.....now that Belem is deleted from the February sailing (rightfully so from the feedback) having only 3 ports when you have gone this distance to experience the Amazon is not acceptable. Period. If this stays permanent - not so sure we will.

It is also pointed out repeatedly that the excursions on this voyage were far less than acceptable (with Boi Bumba being the exception).....I feel this needs to be a top priority. As pointed out, this isn’t Europe, so DIY is much more difficult on several levels. In my mind, this outweighs by far the entertainment levels....and I am not dismissing that there was a high level of frustration with this area for some.

Some excursion examples I have read:

1)When you go on a nature walk with 100 fellow passengers all at the same time on trails in the same exact area - that has to truly destroy the experience. The ship was in port all day. Stagger the excursions and reduce the headcount -

2)Taking included tours that completely bypass or just drive by the significant attractions/landmarks - ie: Opera House in Manaus.....not only not going inside but no performance offerings as other lines do.....

3) not allowing passengers to get off the bus at the Market in Manaus and take the shuttle back towards the end of an all drive by boring excursion....

4) taking 80 people out in canoes with one guide (way to many) where the VOX cannot possibly reach much past a few of them.....etc.....

 

I know that in two ports, there were private non-Viking excursions taken by a few passengers.....and that they were much better, particularly Manaus. So it is possible. There are quality tours out there.

 

I am discouraged by what I am reading about this trip, and have to say that - for me - there will be a need to know how Viking is going to address all of this. I would ask Viking to share what those actions/changes will be. I feel it fair that this be communicated prior to the 120 days preceding the November - and then December cruises.

It could be that this itinerary (as was suggested) is not a good fit for Viking....I don’t know the answers. All that said, I have to be encouraged that Viking is communicating with Shoalwater and other passengers who were on this trip to find out what did and did not work. I also have to believe that they will want to make all this right....whatever that ends up looking like.....

Edited January 10, 2018 by Vineyard View

[PGI GUY]

We were on this cruise up the Amazon, and agree with everything that Shoalwater said in his review and I think he was very fair in his comments. I would say that the biggest problem seemed to be Vikings inexperience in this part of the world, we also had some issues in the dining room when it came to very slow service, but the vast majority of our meals were very nice.

This was our first Viking cruise, but not our first ocean or river cruise and have visited over 90 countries so we have some experience in world travel.

We did speak to the future cruise representative about a cruise to Australia and SE Asia, but after this trip we decided to wait and check other options. We both enjoyed the Viking Ocean cruise experience while on the ship and will very likely travel with Viking again. We do like many of the features that Viking offers, but on the at sea days they need to offer more things to do.

[Cahpek]

Not only the Viking Sea has mixed reviews on Cruise Critic, but seems like the Viking Sky has mixed reviews too:

 

https://www.cruisecritic.co.uk/memberreviews/getreviews.cfm?action=ship&ShipID=992

 

Really, with Viking planning to more than DOUBLE its fleet size by 2023, it may need to take a good look into its entire system. RIGHT NOW. These problems will not go away if they do not address them. And Viking management should not allow it to get any worse. Sure, to date, Viking has achieved wonders, it has done so much in such a relatively short space of time, but its (possibly) lack of experience in new regions, and some areas which are "work in progress" (ie excursions, lacklustre entertainment, and its website which gave confusing information or not always up-to-date ) needs to be addressed.

 

We hope the Viking Ocean team will read all these comments and take them as being constructive and fix those issues. Go on Viking, you are a talented team, go and do it - the sooner the better.!They cannot expect people to spend their hard-earned $$$$ on their relatively HIGH FARES with Viking if they do not provide HIGH STANDARDS in ALL DEPARTMENTS . By just providing (generally) fine dining and comfortable accommodation is not quite enough, for what they charge.

 

Viking Ocean really, really needs to cross it's "T's" and dots its "I's" in all areas, and shown to do it. Clearly, they have not done so yet.

Edited January 10, 2018 by Cahpek

[Richard2]

Not only the Viking Sea has mixed reviews on Cruise Critic, but seems like the Viking Sky has mixed reviews too:

 

https://www.cruisecritic.co.uk/memberreviews/getreviews.cfm?action=ship&ShipID=992

 

Really, with Viking planning to more than DOUBLE its fleet size by 2023, it may need to take a good look into its entire system. RIGHT NOW. These problems will not go away if they do not address them. And Viking management should not allow it to get any worse. Sure, to date, Viking has achieved wonders, it has done so much in such a relatively short space of time, but its (possibly) lack of experience in new regions, and some areas which are "work in progress" (ie excursions, lacklustre entertainment, and its website which gave confusing information or not always up-to-date ) needs to be addressed.

 

We hope the Viking Ocean team will read all these comments and take them as being constructive and fix those issues. Go on Viking, you are a talented team, go and do it - the sooner the better.!They cannot expect people to spend their hard-earned $$$$ on their relatively HIGH FARES with Viking if they do not provide HIGH STANDARDS in ALL DEPARTMENTS . By just providing (generally) fine dining and comfortable accommodation is not quite enough, for what they charge.

 

Viking Ocean really, really needs to cross it's "T's" and dots its "I's" in all areas, and shown to do it. Clearly, they have not done so yet.

 

I do not understand the point of the link you are providing to reviews of the Viking Sky. As of this time, there are 286 reviews, of which 213 are excellent, 48 very good, 20 average, 3 poor and 2 terrible. Every cruise ship has a range of reviews. Viking Ocean cruises certainly are not typical - no casino, modest entertainment - and are guaranteed to disappoint those who have not done their homework. There is nothing here, and most customers are very pleased with the ship. If you have something substantive to say, say it, and shouting (capitalizing) is not needed. There has been some discussion about issues with their first season in the Caribbean. I am confident they will be worked out.

Edited January 10, 2018 by Richard2
Identified incorrect ship

[Azulann]

Not only the Viking Sea has mixed reviews on Cruise Critic, but seems like the Viking Sky has mixed reviews too:

 

https://www.cruisecritic.co.uk/memberreviews/getreviews.cfm?action=ship&ShipID=992

 

Really, with Viking planning to more than DOUBLE its fleet size by 2023, it may need to take a good look into its entire system. RIGHT NOW. These problems will not go away if they do not address them. And Viking management should not allow it to get any worse. Sure, to date, Viking has achieved wonders, it has done so much in such a relatively short space of time, but its (possibly) lack of experience in new regions, and some areas which are "work in progress" (ie excursions, lacklustre entertainment, and its website which gave confusing information or not always up-to-date ) needs to be addressed.

 

 

 

We hope the Viking Ocean team will read all these comments and take them as being constructive and fix those issues. Go on Viking, you are a talented team, go and do it - the sooner the better.!They cannot expect people to spend their hard-earned $$$$ on their relatively HIGH FARES with Viking if they do not provide HIGH STANDARDS in ALL DEPARTMENTS . By just providing (generally) fine dining and comfortable accommodation is not quite enough, for what they charge.

 

Viking Ocean really, really needs to cross it's "T's" and dots its "I's" in all areas, and shown to do it. Clearly, they have not done so yet.

 

As we all know, Viking does read these threads, so your concerns are heard. Also by writing a reivew or email Viking at tell us they will acknowledge your concerns.

Thanks for the link.

It proves that , like Trip Advisors , one must read many reviews to get the feel for a hotel or cruise line for your needs and what you value.

Viking Sky statisitcs from reviews : for comparison: Crystal Serenity 134 excellent, 49 very good, 24 average, 13 poor, 3 terrible.

213 excellent 134 excellent

48 very good 49 very good

20 average 24 average

3 poor 13 poor

2 terrible 3 terrible

 

Also in your link there are two very different reviews of the Viking Sky and same itinerary: Both are very experienced cruisers. One called their review Polished Perfection, the other, We had great expectation, but we were so disappointed.

Both are experiences of the same product with different opinions based on their Personal experience.

All good information for each of us to take into consideration in our own reseach for our next cruise.

[Vineyard View]

I have to agree that these links (I clicked on them) do not show any high levels of dissatisfaction with either Viking Ship - in fact they show the opposite for overall reviews.....they dont really correlate with this specific cruise, which is what this specific thread is about.

Yes, Viking does read these threads, and in doing so (as well as onboard feedback) are learning that this specific cruise had really big issues. Point in fact, Viking reached out to me last night via email as well as phone. We did not connect live, but will later today.....so they are listening.....and responding. I rather doubt that many other cruise lines would take that extra step.....so we will see where all this goes.....but I am pretty sure they now know this itinerary needs serious help.....and I appreciate their individual effort.

Edited January 10, 2018 by Vineyard View

[Gnoelj]

I have to agree that these links (I clicked on them) do not show any high levels of dissatisfaction with either Viking Ship - in fact they show the opposite for overall reviews.....they dont really correlate with this specific cruise, which is what this specific thread is about.

Yes, Viking does read these threads, and in doing so (as well as onboard feedback) are learning that this specific cruise had really big issues. Point in fact, Viking reached out to me last night via email as well as phone. We did not connect live, but will later today.....so they are listening.....and responding. I rather doubt that many other cruise lines would take that extra step.....so we will see where all this goes.....but I am pretty sure they now know this itinerary needs serious help.....and I appreciate their individual effort.

 

The links show in the reviews that there are still some very good things about Viking - probably more good than bad . That is not to say that those issues which showed they are lacking are not any less important.

 

Glad to read your reassurance that Viking is reading these threads, and that they have reached out to you. That is a good sign. You are right to say many cruise lines would not take that extra step.

 

Viking Ocean is basically a good cruise line, so we should all support them and give them a chance to succeed - especially if you know they are trying hard and responding to client's views and wishes.

 

Next to look out for is that they are not just taking in the information and views of guests on issues they are not satisfied with, but doing something about . Some of those problems may not be able to be able to be solved overnight, so we may have to be a bit patient. That is why we will wait a few months before deciding to book any future cruises with Viking. And probably very unlikely book on any routings/regions that are completely new to them, not until after they have time to iron any "teething" issues out.

Edited January 10, 2018 by Gnoelj

[SantaFe1]

I just enjoyed a long conversation with a Viking Ocean representative following up on evaluations of the Amazon cruise. I would say that Viking listens, and the rep was not defensive nor did she try to substitute constructive criticism with excuses. I trust they will take the comments offered by many and use them to build and improve their brand and offerings. She was able to address many of my concerns about the World Cruise in 2019.

 

Shoalwater, May I ask what concerns you expressed to Viking about the 2019 WC and what their answers were? My husband and I just had a lengthy discussion about the cruise and we are about to make a down payment. My only real concern is that there are 73 Sea days to 55 days in port. I worry about cabin fever, and although I don’t go in much for the evening spectaculars (if any) I would like some good education and entertainment during the day. That and a good hair salon, which Viking promises they have!

[Cyber Kat]

Shoalwater, May I ask what concerns you expressed to Viking about the 2019 WC and what their answers were? My husband and I just had a lengthy discussion about the cruise and we are about to make a down payment. My only real concern is that there are 73 Sea days to 55 days in port. I worry about cabin fever, and although I don’t go in much for the evening spectaculars (if any) I would like some good education and entertainment during the day. That and a good hair salon, which Viking promises they have!

 

 

There is a very lengthy, very informative and very interesting roll call thread for the 2017 WC. We aren’t doing a WC - though I would love to, but I highly recommend that anyone considering doing so, read all the way through it.

Viking Sun 12/15/17 World Cruise

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2411108

 

 

 

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[msmardell]

I will second what Shoalwater said, Viking also contacted us and seemed to be listening to both the bad and the good there were serious issues on this cruise and I think the next Amazon cruise will probably be better.

 

My hope is you will see some changes in ports of call for Brazil, more varied entertainment, more wait staff and better supply planning.

 

It is to bad for those of us on the 12/16/17 we spent a lot of money but can't go back and change it so will move on and will still have fond memories we met a lot of wonderful people and the ship is very nice. I told Viking of a private tour that we took in Manaus and the Rep seemed interested in hearing the details so maybe they will add it or parts of it to their tours.

[Vineyard View]

The links show in the reviews that there are still some very good things about Viking - probably more good than bad . That is not to say that those issues which showed they are lacking are not any less important.

 

Glad to read your reassurance that Viking is reading these threads, and that they have reached out to you. That is a good sign. You are right to say many cruise lines would not take that extra step.

 

Viking Ocean is basically a good cruise line, so we should all support them and give them a chance to succeed - especially if you know they are trying hard and responding to client's views and wishes.

 

 

 

Good point about issues on the links that Cahpek provided, showing areas lacking and not being less important. I agree. Thank you for highlighting that.

 

I want to circle around after having a fairly lengthy conversation this evening with Viking about this itinerary. I pointed out that the details are here for them to gather from those who just sailed, along with the reactions for those of us who are looking to do so. We coved a lot of ground around the areas of dissatisfaction and the ripple effect from that. They are researching the feedback from on board comments as well as here and are gathering it all into a cohesive report in order to make required recommendations.

They want to hear from those who were on the sailing, as well as those concerned about doing so. I would encourage all to reach out to Viking - Tellus@Vikingcruises.com..... and tell them. Viking wants to do the right thing and make this a desired itinerary.

They do not have the answers, nor the action plan in place yet, and quite frankly if they told me that they did I would be highly concerned.

We agreed upon follow up - knowing that it may take more than one of those as well as time. She admitted that swift actions are necessary and I truly felt that she listened, that she understood, and that she was very honest in her responses - in other words, it wasn’t canned nor corporate line reaction.....

[Shoalwater]

Shoalwater, May I ask what concerns you expressed to Viking about the 2019 WC and what their answers were? My husband and I just had a lengthy discussion about the cruise and we are about to make a down payment. My only real concern is that there are 73 Sea days to 55 days in port. I worry about cabin fever, and although I don’t go in much for the evening spectaculars (if any) I would like some good education and entertainment during the day. That and a good hair salon, which Viking promises they have!

 

There is a very lengthy, very informative and very interesting roll call thread for the 2017 WC. We aren’t doing a WC - though I would love to, but I highly recommend that anyone considering doing so, read all the way through it.

Viking Sun 12/15/17 World Cruise

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2411108

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First, Jim Avery currently aboard V. Sun for the WC has started a thread at https://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2578678. This is sort of a "Live from" thread and lots of info about the current WC should appear there (it has already). I plan to keep referring to this thread for updates about how Viking is managing their first WC.

 

When talking with the Viking Cust. Relations rep, I raised concerns about dining room staffing, perhaps a general issue fleet wide. I also drilled down about my issues with shipboard activities and worries that a schedule like we had for the Amazon cruise would be a deal breaker for buying the WC. You can read my issues in my review, no point in repeating here (https://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2582323 ). I'm not asking for glitz and glamour, over the top Broadway extravaganzas. Its more a question of variety, something additional to classical trios playing in public spaces after dinner or audience participation games in the main theater or a "classic" old movie also available on the cabin tv as the evening entertainment. I understand they have a bridge master aboard who is teaching classes and organizing play on sea days The rep did understand my points as she has cruised on other lines, so I am confident she got my drift. She did say that the home office was already planning the 2019 WC, and intended to use the same formula as for this year's voyage. Remember, the Viking WC is not sold in segments, so all passengers are aboard for the whole enchilada. She said it's Viking's intention to keep them interested by adding variety through bringing in variety acts in addition to the Viking singers and dancers, who will perform Viking production shows such as they are. They will also rely on folkloric shows. I imagine these will be more for ports where we overnight of have late departure. They will also be bringing in chefs to change up the dining room menus, and will add new menus for the Chef's Table that are related to the area where we are cruising. I take all these comments at face value and will base my go/ no go decision at final payment on the experience of the 2017/18 WC underway. The ship is great, and very enjoyable on sea days. The enrichment and destination lecturers for all of our three Viking cruises have been outstanding, and these will be changed out as the voyage progresses. So where am I? I trust Viking to do what they have professed, but will use the current WC as my barometer. If things continue as they seem to be doing on this present WC I think most of my concerns will have been answered in their favor.

[SantaFe1]

Thank you. both. I have perused the 2017-8 WC roll call, but not entirely and that is a good suggestion, if it is still up. I am on the 2017-18 WC thread, and have gotten many kind and informative responses from Jim Avery , deec, and eaches. I guess I wonder if Viking, with another totally new cruise for WC 2019, will have the shore excursions in place satisfactorily. I can see the included ones, but when I called Viking, they had no info to give about the others, yet, and probably not for months. I do not want to run into the Amazon excursion problem at this price.

Anyway, thanks to you all. I appreciate any and all info.

[LadyImpactOhio]

Wait a minute---you mean when they show movies at night they are showing things like 'Some Like it Hot'?!?!

That's from 1959. Exactly what demographic are they targeting---centenarians?

I am going to have to make sure I have more movies downloaded before I leave.

 

It was either New Year's Eve or day they showed La Boheme from the Met. Only a few people in there.

[LadyImpactOhio]

Thanks for sharing your interaction with Viking. Was there any acknowledgement that they need to do better in the areas where many have suggested they are falling short?

 

Yes. Dining and bar staff. This is our third ocean and they have cut way back on staff. We sat 15 minutes at the dinner table in the main dining room one night before we even got water. Not enuf staff on pool deck. Dirty dishes everywhere sometimes I returned myself because I can't stand to look at them and barely existent bar staff.

[LadyImpactOhio]

Thanks for your detailed review of the Viking Sea. We have our first Viking cruise coming up in February, so these types of reports are very helpful.

 

I would like to make one comment about the Amazon and the people. We just returned from a Regent cruise there, and I have to say that our experience and observations of the stops along the river were not the same as you experienced. I agree it's not the Mediterranean, and it can be terribly hot and humid. However, no one on our sailing (to my knowledge) were victims of thefts or assaults during our time on the river. In Manaus, for instance, after our ship excursion we walked from the ship over to the nearby mercado (a replica of the Les Halles market in Paris) for some shopping. Our interactions with people on the street and in the shops were pleasant. In fact, we had pleasant interactions at most all of our stops. My advice is to go the region with an open mind, and exercise the same precautions as you would in any foreign city or town. It was an amazing trip... not necessarily one that I'd want to repeat, but definitely worth it for an initial visit.

 

I know there was one couple in Manaus who got mugged and they beat the mugger with the Viking umbrella they were carrying. When they reported this to Viking, they said don't worry we won't charge you for the umbrella.

[PEverdell]

My wife and I are planning on going on Caribbean to the Amazon in November of 2018 on Viking Sea and we have been very interested in this thread and have been concerned about some of the comments on excursions more than any thing else.

I have also been reading River of Doubt byCandice Millard and more recently the Story of the Amazon by John Hemming. I have read now that this vast area has a long history of mystery, dreams of riches, destruction and cultural and environmental abuse by foreigners from the dreams of El Dorado in the 16th century to the current continued cultural and environmental destruction of the rainforest by the use of planes, chainsaws and the construction of highways through the jungle. It seems it has never been a "nice" place for people who want to change the jungle and its people. The ones who truly are happy living there it appears are the indigenous people who are very well adapted to it and have been for thousands of years. They seem to be the ones who have outlasted the slaughters by the spaniards and Portuguese and the introduction of disease by Europeans and other foreigners. Whether they can survive the destruction of their ancient environment is up to us as outsiders and the governments of Brazil and others who have made disastrous decisions in the region in the past which not only affected the indigenous people but caused serious long term affects on the biome.

 

As Viking works to improve its excursions, I am reminded that they advertise as "the Thinking Person's cruise" and that is an important part of the excursions and on board lectures. Having been on Viking Homelands we loved the visits to historic sites and the guides that taught us the history and culture of the places we visited. On board seemed to be the place relax, read, catch up, have good food, perhaps enjoy quiet entertainment or just enjoy the sea. With such a fascinating region as the Amazon on our itinerary there should be no shortage of history, exploration, stories, and culture to experience. I have only tapped the surface in my reading of the lore of the region and I can't put it down. Lets go out and see whats left of the jungle in small groups with a naturalist being forwarned of the hazards and the climate. Lets find about and even visit the old site of Fordlandia, Henry Ford's planned city of the jungle. Belem has a fascinating history and we could learn about it with the right tour guides and being prepared for the dilapidated city we see. Poverty of the region should be something to explore. I think we all probably could be better prepared to know what to expect and could always use more tips on how to behave as we "invade" a foreign country. I hope these can be constructive suggestions to Viking as they work out some of the kinks from the first Amazon cruise.

[Vineyard View]

Really like your post PEverdell. Thank you for taking the time. I completely concur with the same desires as you present for port excursions.

That said, likely to do those in-depth type of in-jungle experiences may require private tours. We can see as we get closer. I would love to see Viking figure this piece out....I have some information around that for Manaus if you want to connect offline.

Fordlandia outside of Santarem actually looks very interesting, as well as exploring the forest....in smaller groups only.

I also have a feeling that Belem will not be revisited after this initial experience....so Viking will need to determine a replacement port.

So those of us already booked are looking forward to how Viking addresses the excursions piece in the Amazon. It is critical that they do and they are aware of the need to.

[LadyImpactOhio]

My wife and I are planning on going on Caribbean to the Amazon in November of 2018 on Viking Sea and we have been very interested in this thread and have been concerned about some of the comments on excursions more than any thing else.

I have also been reading River of Doubt byCandice Millard and more recently the Story of the Amazon by John Hemming. I have read now that this vast area has a long history of mystery, dreams of riches, destruction and cultural and environmental abuse by foreigners from the dreams of El Dorado in the 16th century to the current continued cultural and environmental destruction of the rainforest by the use of planes, chainsaws and the construction of highways through the jungle. It seems it has never been a "nice" place for people who want to change the jungle and its people. The ones who truly are happy living there it appears are the indigenous people who are very well adapted to it and have been for thousands of years. They seem to be the ones who have outlasted the slaughters by the spaniards and Portuguese and the introduction of disease by Europeans and other foreigners. Whether they can survive the destruction of their ancient environment is up to us as outsiders and the governments of Brazil and others who have made disastrous decisions in the region in the past which not only affected the indigenous people but caused serious long term affects on the biome.

 

As Viking works to improve its excursions, I am reminded that they advertise as "the Thinking Person's cruise" and that is an important part of the excursions and on board lectures. Having been on Viking Homelands we loved the visits to historic sites and the guides that taught us the history and culture of the places we visited. On board seemed to be the place relax, read, catch up, have good food, perhaps enjoy quiet entertainment or just enjoy the sea. With such a fascinating region as the Amazon on our itinerary there should be no shortage of history, exploration, stories, and culture to experience. I have only tapped the surface in my reading of the lore of the region and I can't put it down. Lets go out and see whats left of the jungle in small groups with a naturalist being forwarned of the hazards and the climate. Lets find about and even visit the old site of Fordlandia, Henry Ford's planned city of the jungle. Belem has a fascinating history and we could learn about it with the right tour guides and being prepared for the dilapidated city we see. Poverty of the region should be something to explore. I think we all probably could be better prepared to know what to expect and could always use more tips on how to behave as we "invade" a foreign country. I hope these can be constructive suggestions to Viking as they work out some of the kinks from the first Amazon cruise.

 

My husband is from Brazil and I have visited his home country 4 times, mostly in the south but we spent a week alone together in Salvador. I'm not going to try and discourage you from going on this cruise, but if you want the kind of experience you are describing in your post IMO you need at least a week in each port, with a private guide and camping equipment for a trek in the jungle, who takes a maximum of 6 people.

 

This cruise gives one only the bare taste of the Amazon and doesn't begin to go on any inland trips. It would be like traveling from NY to Frisco in a week's time and expecting to see the entire country. Most don't realize how huge the Amazon is and the size of the basin and area it covers. Going through the estuary takes almost a day before you see any signs of civilization.

 

Belem is rich in history, and most don't know it was named after Bethlehem. There is also a Belem in Portugal. It's a huge city with sky scrapers, and because I don't believe Viking judged this stop and the time it took to get there and back correctly and the need to tender in, I'm guessing and from what I've read they won't be returning.

 

There are many lectures on board from several knowledgeable people. Perhaps this cruise could help you decide where you might want to return on your own for longer stops.

[PEverdell]

Thank you Vineyard View and Lady Impact for your support. I would now leave it to the Viking wizards to figure out Intro 101 courses that get us all thinking about this crucial area and maybe equip us to return in the future for more extended advanced courses of the area such as the weeklong overnights or an ecotour of the jungle What can be done to develop excitement or maintain excitement for such a crucial part of the globe in such a short period? I am and I hope Viking is open to suggestions. Thanks for the feedback. PE

[Eaches]

We also prefer a leisurely dinner followed perhaps by a drink while sitting in the explorer lounge listening to music, or the classical trio downstairs. We avoid the cruise lines with thousands of passengers and lots of splashy entertainment as it just doesn't appeal to us. But we have friends who want nothing else, and I am afraid they might be disappointed on their upcoming Viking cruise.

 

 

 

We are also thinking about the 2019 WC. It is indeed very different from the 2018 cruise, and Viking told me when I called, that that was intentional, as many doing the 2018 WC are also signed up to do the 2019. So a well-planned marketing tool, I think. I, myself, prefer the 2019 itinerary, but to each her own.

 

 

 

I believe I’m right on these figures but you can ask your travel agent to confirm. More than 30 percent of the people ( myself included ) have booked Viking’s 2919 WC while on board the 2018 WC . Viking must be doing something RIGHT ! Many of the larger cabins are sold out or will be by the end of the cruise! People better decide or you will left on the dock AGAIN !

 

 

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[lackcreativity]

I believe I’m right on these figures but you can ask your travel agent to confirm. More than 30 percent of the people ( myself included ) have booked Viking’s 2919 WC while on board the 2018 WC . Viking must be doing something RIGHT ! Many of the larger cabins are sold out or will be by the end of the cruise! People better decide or you will left on the dock AGAIN !

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Thanks for sharing this. If you have heard the correct information, it does support my perception that Viking does lots of things right. Even when things go awry, most of the time they do work to improve things.

 

Even though a World Cruise will never be on our agenda (unfortunately), we are still looking forward to our next two trips this year and next. Thanks for sharing details of this voyage for all of the rest of us.

[SantaFe1]

I believe I’m right on these figures but you can ask your travel agent to confirm. More than 30 percent of the people ( myself included ) have booked Viking’s 2919 WC while on board the 2018 WC . Viking must be doing something RIGHT ! Many of the larger cabins are sold out or will be by the end of the cruise! People better decide or you will left on the dock AGAIN !

 

We booked the 2019 WC on Friday in a PV1, one of my favorite cabins! And I jumped on it because we saw that they were going fast, from the top down. Great to know there will be some experienced W cruisers who will know the ropes! I am so excited, and spending the day reading articles about preparing for a WC.