For those of you that think of moving on to Viking

[jabrown40]

I’ll try to answer some of the questions. Yes, our Celebrity cruise was also Caribbean. Did not try the Nordic spa, I’m from Chicago, have no desire to sit in the cold, I’m not really into the spa stuff. There are two pool areas. The aft pool is the infinity pool, has just a few loungers, usually full. There are also table and chairs because it provides seating for the pool grill or you can take your buffet items out there. The main pool was pretty easy to get a lounger, but I think it was because of the age average of the passengers. My parents don’t spend the day out in the sun, and the shaded areas were pretty full. I didn’t eat at the Celebrity buffet, but we’ve gotten a few items on Viking. They have cold shrimp and sushi nightly, and a decent selection. They serve wine or beer at meals for free. I didn’t enjoy the ship excursions at all, and prefer to find my own in the Caribbean. Did a free walking tour but left the group after 1 hour. If you’re very active, you’ll find them too slow. In Europe, may be much more helpful to have them arranged. But it’s part of the cost of a Viking cruise, so something to be aware of. Service is excellent.

 

 

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[Silkroad]

Thanks very much indeed to both the OP and mrsgoggins for posting your Viking experiences. We’ve considered trying Viking, though I wouldn’t say we’re so unhappy with Celebrity that we wish to “move” to Viking. Though we’re in the pre-retired demographic, our musical tastes are quite broad so I’m confident we’d enjoy at least some of the music on either line. mrsgoggins, I quite liked your “horses for courses” analogy. Regardless of the decade of our birth, generations aren’t monolithic, moving in lockstep, having precisely the same tastes.

 

I’ve been most interested in hearing about the quality of the “included” amenities on Viking, particularly the shore excursions, lectures and the wines at meals. After all, it makes no sense for us to pay a premium above the fares on a similar Celebrity cruise if the included amenities don’t meet our needs. I’m certain we’d enjoy the smaller ship experience, but our vacation budget does have limits;)

[Azulann]

We have been thinking about Viking for a Baltic cruise versus Celebrity. I like the idea of only 900 or so passengers versus 2000 plus. We have been told Viking can get closer to Estonia and St Petersburg for example, versus a Celebrity or HAL ship. Is this true? What about the shore excursions included with Viking? Are they worth it? I was disappointed with Celebrity shore excursions in Alaska. Thank you for your comments.

 

I suggest you go to the Viking forum and ask your question about the included shore excursions on the the various Viking Baltic cruises. There are many posters over there that woudl be more than happy to help answer your questions.

[cluso]

We have been thinking about Viking for a Baltic cruise versus Celebrity. I like the idea of only 900 or so passengers versus 2000 plus. We have been told Viking can get closer to Estonia and St Petersburg for example, versus a Celebrity or HAL ship. Is this true?

 

Technically, this is true for a lot of the smaller ships. However, there are a lot of things that pre-empt scheduled dockings (that are scheduled @ 2 years in advance). We were on Azamara, and ended up out with the big ships in St Petersburg due to a city celebration. Has also happened with scheduled/unscheduled dock maintenance, military maneuvers, weather ,etc. If it does work, it is great! ;)

[derekjp47]

Thanks for your post. Everything you described about Viking is exactly why we just booked a cruise on the Viking Star next year.

 

"the Viking product is great if you love to read, love classical music or quiet piano music. The evening entertainment is decent with a collection of singers, and the band excellent. But the songs so far have definitely appealed more to a older generation. Not really a club for dancing if you enjoy that. The pool is definitely quiet, no games, but no music either"

 

Sounds like what cruising used to be before it turned into an over-amplified, alcohol-fueled, county fair with the Beverly Hillbillies and their feral children.

 

If I wanted that atmosphere I would move to a nursing home.

[jabrown40]

Please, it’s not like that. Tonight there was quite a group dancing to the band on the pool deck, and some great music choices. Unfortunately it ended at 10:30. I just read so many comments about people wanting to move up to Viking, and wanted to share my opinion, especially since the cost difference was pretty significant.

 

 

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[SargassoPirate]

Please, it’s not like that. Tonight there was quite a group dancing to the band on the pool deck, and some great music choices. Unfortunately it ended at 10:30. I just read so many comments about people wanting to move up to Viking, and wanted to share my opinion, especially since the cost difference was pretty significant.

 

 

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And thanks for posting. Sounds like Viking is more like what cruising used to be like before it was dumbed down for the mass market. We are looking forward to trying Viking next year.

[Keys2Heaven]

My wife and I have seriously entertained Viking for a future cruise and for precisely the reasons you mention as possible negatives. We see these as positives for us. I think we would rather enjoy the laid back atmosphere and no casino (neither of us has really ever gambled).

 

It's nice that there are so many cruise lines that cater to one's particular preferences regarding their expectations of what a cruise should be. Cruise with a line that makes your experience enjoyable.

[Flatbush Flyer]

After much anticipation, we are finally on our Viking ocean cruise in the Caribbean. We decided to try Viking after reading all of the great reviews and seeing their numerous awards. Like many of you, we to get tired of jewelry sales, photographers, and the push to upsell.With that being said, after one week so far on the Viking Sea,my husband and I Are booking our next cruise again with celebrity. We have only taken one celebrity cruise in the past, on the silhouette, and we really enjoyed it. We are 58 and 70, and have found the average age on Viking to be higher than what we expected. I think the Viking product is great if you love to read, love classical music or quiet piano music. The evening entertainment is decent with a collection of singers, and the band excellent. But the songs so far have definitely appealed more to a older generation. Not really a club for dancing if you enjoy that. The pool is definitely quiet, no games, but no music either. Things we miss from Celebrity - Martini and Sunset bars. There was more activity, and more of a “vacation vibe”. I’m not looking for a raucous party, but I like to feel some sort of “hey, we’re on vacation!” spirit. It seems most everyone on Viking is retired, so maybe coming from a different perspective. We stayed in Aqua on celebrity, and I think our room was just as nice as what we have here on Viking. Balcony is just the same. A lot of people have talked about how good the Viking food is an over all it is good. However, there’s just nothing special about going to dinner on Viking. It’s almost too casual, And although some people like the clean Scandinavian design, I think it is rather cold. We felt that our dinners in blu and especially Murano were just as good as what we’ve had On board here. If anyone has more questions, I’d be glad to answer them but for now it’s off to one of our excursions here in Aruba!

 

 

 

Time to try Oceania.

 

 

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[excitedofharpenden]

Time to try Oceania.

 

 

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How did I guess that when I saw your name and before I’d read your post you’d say that? Are you on commission for them or something? Your post history tells the story.

 

Phil

[4774Papa]

If I wanted that atmosphere I would move to a nursing home.

We love Classical music, but Celebrity usually has some of that in its entertainment.

 

We are 70 and find Celebrity to be a great balance with activities, entertainment and dining.

We enjoy the socialization with our new cruise friends (or sometime those we have been on a cruise with in the past).

 

You mention the nursing home. I had to put my Mom in assisted living and always enjoyed meeting her friends for lunch or dinner. However, I must admit that I prefer not to be on a cruise with a multitude of scooters, walkers, etc. Celebrity doesn't usually have a lot of that. We also cruise from time to time on NCL, which does have a younger attraction with more activities that appeal to the young. Still, NCL doesn't have as good a dining or service.

[ChucktownSteve]

We NEVER get our picture taken anymore (except for the Sea Pass :) - we just say no thank you and walk on by and no one has ever hassled us. Even when first boarding, "no thanks" and we're on our way.

 

When they ask to take a picture, I always say no thank you too but then add, I'll take YOUR picture for only $5. They don't take me up on my offer either. :D

[Flatbush Flyer]

How did I guess that when I saw your name and before I’d read your post you’d say that? Are you on commission for them or something? Your post history tells the story.

 

 

 

Phil

 

 

 

Not on the payroll.

 

Rather, just passing on what was for me (years ago) an "aha!" experience.

 

After a long hiatus from cruising (due to work), we contacted a well respected "cruise specialist" travel agency (first identified via Condé Nast Traveler).

 

The specific TA with whom we worked (a former HAL cruise director) interviewed us regarding our hotel/dining/et al. travel experiences/preferences and suggested a relatively "new" cruise line - Oceania - rather than HAL or Celebrity at the lower end of our comfort spectrum and Crystal et al. at the upper end.

 

She also suggested that I use a pricing comparison that included all anticipated travel costs "door to door" - something I now refer to as "net daily rate."

 

Once I started looking a the bottom line, bolstered by what would be avoided by choosing a premium line (e.g., thundering herds, nickel-diming, smoky casinos, cheap "art" shows), it only took that first Oceania cruise - to Alaska - to win us over.

Oceania was pretty much a perfect choice for us- particularly when it came to food and service quality versus daily cost.

 

For me, recommending Oceania is not as much about pushing the specific line. Rather, it is trying to get other cruisers who are looking for a better experience to do the math of "net daily rate." IMO, Oceania, while neither the epitome/expense of ultimate luxury nor the disappointment of mass market "wannabes," is the best value at sea for folks who have worked hard for their money and have some cosmopolitan savvy.

 

Of course, we still always comparison shop desired itineraries. But, because we do longer cruises (usually 3 +\- weeks, often with significant sea days), the ship as destination becomes extremely important. Ergo, Oceania.

 

YRMV!

 

 

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[jabrown40]

We have a cruise booked with Oceania summer 2019, looking forward to it. Again, I’m not saying classical music, or a quiet, restful atmosphere is a bad thing, just putting it out there for people who are trying to decide what works for them. Viking brought a local steel band on board last night,so it was a nice change of pace. And the people on our cruise are very active, rarely have walkers or wheelchairs have been spotted. They have a couple of places to get afternoon treats or light snacks, pool bar burgers are very good. So I hope some of this helps anyone looking for info.

 

 

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[jabrown40]

Oh, and as to the last person who posted before me - I wish I had the ability to do longer cruises, but still in the workforce, and 10 days to 12 days is about the longest that I can cruise. That is one other issue with Viking, that some people may find very attractive-most of their cruises are longer in length. Of course this also increases the cost, so that may be a factor for others who would like to try their line But just find it too pricey.

 

 

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[excitedofharpenden]

Oh, and as to the last person who posted before me - I wish I had the ability to do longer cruises, but still in the workforce, and 10 days to 12 days is about the longest that I can cruise. That is one other issue with Viking, that some people may find very attractive-most of their cruises are longer in length. Of course this also increases the cost, so that may be a factor for others who would like to try their line But just find it too pricey.

 

 

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I too have looked at Viking as I’ve friends who have been on them and loved the ships and service, but with reference to your final words, they are in a different price league to Celebrity. So are Oceania. And Azamara these days too.

 

Phil

[Host Jazzbeau]

I too have looked at Viking as I’ve friends who have been on them and loved the ships and service, but with reference to your final words, they are in a different price league to Celebrity. So are Oceania. And Azamara these days too.

 

Phil

 

For us, Celebrity only comes under consideration for a Sky Suite or better (to get Luminae). At that level, the cost comparison to Viking (or Oceania or Azamara, or even sometimes Crystal) is much closer.

[Cruisenouvelle]

"Sounds like what cruising used to be before it turned into an over-amplified, alcohol-fueled, county fair with the Beverly Hillbillies and their feral children."

Your assessment made me lol...really.

[keithm]

The killer for me is no casino. My wife and I like to visit the casino after dinner. We find more fun interaction with other guests at the casino than at any other venue.

We just did 10 days on the Oceania Riviera. We actually "bumped" the Jan. cruise on the Eclipse to the 14 day trip on the Reflection next Jan. I will say the food was leaps & bounds over what Celebrity offers & it's all complimentary, Except La Reserve, which has the food paired with wine. There IS a casino on that ship(rather small, but it's a smaller ship) Overall excellent trip. Price ran about $2880pp this includes the $200pp upgrade from interior to B-1 veranda. cabin.

Edited February 12, 2018 by keithm
spelling

[keithm]

For us, Celebrity only comes under consideration for a Sky Suite or better (to get Luminae). At that level, the cost comparison to Viking (or Oceania or Azamara, or even sometimes Crystal) is much closer.

We're foodies & in the food business. Luminae is nice, but the Riviera still has FAR better food. All soft drinks are included(nice)the "standard" cabins have a full bath & separate shower & are larger. Cabins on Riviera are larger overall, with excellent storage. NO Chair hogs!!(they really enforce anti hogging rules.)The daily Tea service is a most elegant affair. Haven't seen anything quite like it since the Queens Grill on Cunard.

For Celebrity(S-class as example) The entertainment overall is better, the excursions I feel are very similar & more reasonably priced when compared to Oceania, as well.

Pax were older without a doubt on Riviera.(fine by us) The elegance, even though it's "Country Club Casual" is still better on Riviera: Absolutely NO kids. The "Sidewalk" sales are more elegant & smaller. NO Photographers!!!(hooray!)If price were no object, we'd probably be Oceania customers for life, but price has to be a consideration when booking 10(or more) days. We did this trip simply, because the food quality in the MDR. last Jan. on the Eclipse had so dramatically declined. We're back to a 14 day cruise next Jan. on the Reflection. If the food quality is the same, we may reconsider going to another line.

Edited February 12, 2018 by keithm
additions

[amusea]

I find that sailing on a variety of ships and cruise lines gives me the best overall experience. It is obvious that Viking Ocean has filled a gap in the cruise experience that was not being filled. It reminds me of my sailings on the old QE2 when lectures and reading and conversation were the diversions of choice. On my sailng, Viking Ocean had four extremely interesting guest lecturers.

 

You could feel that the design of these ships is less lavish than many others but in actuality the beautiful Scandinavian design features bright, open spaces and the ships are furnished with copies of many classic modern museum furniture pieces. A refreshing change from overstuffed, hotel lobby design. There is definitely a nod toward folks in or near retirement age. Background music is just that. Soothing orchestral music, not screaming vocals and thumping music. The comment about walkers and scooters is only half correct. No motor scooters are allowed on the ship but walkers are. Rooms can only have two occupants. Teenagers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult over 21 and thus they are few and far between simply because there is no entertainment for that age group. On all Viking cruises and cruise journeys, minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied and share a cabin with a parent, legal guardian or other responsible adult over the age of 21. Viking Oceans reserves the right to limit the number of minors under the age of 18 years on board

The food can be criticized for lack of adventure. Seasonings are kept to a minimum but the quality is high. For more exciting menus I think Oceania is unbeatable. But the buffet served some excellent dinners. I especially remember fantastic soft shell crabs and great sushi.

The only semblance of a class system is that those who book the highest cabins or suites have first access to excursions and dining reservations. But in my DV4 cabin category I was able to book everything that I required while onboard my 14 day cruise.. Otherwise all parts of the ship are open to everyone. For instance, the spa is magnificent. The men’s locker room has a separate lounge with comfortable sofas and chairs as well as a private dip pool - all for no extra charge. I am sure the women’s area is equally luxurious.

Lastly, Viking treats you as an adult. You can bring liquor or wine aboard. No minimum. You can even take your bottle of liquor to a bar and have the bartender make whatever you desire. What a nice change.

As far as the complimenery wine at lunch and dinner, I found one red and one white that were very pleasant. At one point they seem to have run out of my choices but when I expressed my disappointment the servers always found a bottle for my consumption. And the wine flows freely.

 

Looking back at my first comment. I would not want to sail exclusively on Viking or any line. Thus my upcoming trans-Atlantc cruise is on Celebrity as an Elite Plus passenger. Besides another Viking Ocean cruise later in the year I also am booked on the 28 day Holland America Tahiti cruise next March from San Diego round-trip.. HAL offers some of the best itineraries on the market and I always look for new destinations. There are a few lines that I have crossed off my list for future sailings but there is still an excellent variety for all tastes.

[CCruiser1234]

... Beverly Hillbillies and their feral children.

 

 

Dude. The original poster was trying to be helpful. ‘Feral’? Mind your manners a bit better.

 

 

 

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[CCruiser1234]

After much anticipation, we are finally on our Viking ocean cruise in the Caribbean. We decided to try Viking after reading all of the great reviews and seeing their numerous awards. Like many of you, we to get tired of jewelry sales, photographers, and the push to upsell.With that being said, after one week so far on the Viking Sea,my husband and I Are booking our next cruise again with celebrity. We have only taken one celebrity cruise in the past, on the silhouette, and we really enjoyed it. We are 58 and 70, and have found the average age on Viking to be higher than what we expected. I think the Viking product is great if you love to read, love classical music or quiet piano music. The evening entertainment is decent with a collection of singers, and the band excellent. But the songs so far have definitely appealed more to a older generation. Not really a club for dancing if you enjoy that. The pool is definitely quiet, no games, but no music either. Things we miss from Celebrity - Martini and Sunset bars. There was more activity, and more of a “vacation vibe”. I’m not looking for a raucous party, but I like to feel some sort of “hey, we’re on vacation!” spirit. It seems most everyone on Viking is retired, so maybe coming from a different perspective. We stayed in Aqua on celebrity, and I think our room was just as nice as what we have here on Viking. Balcony is just the same. A lot of people have talked about how good the Viking food is an over all it is good. However, there’s just nothing special about going to dinner on Viking. It’s almost too casual, And although some people like the clean Scandinavian design, I think it is rather cold. We felt that our dinners in blu and especially Murano were just as good as what we’ve had On board here. If anyone has more questions, I’d be glad to answer them but for now it’s off to one of our excursions here in Aruba!

 

 

Thank you. Your post appears to be objective and is definitely helpful.

 

 

 

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[Silkroad]

Thank you for your very informative post, amusea.

[cruisewmn]

Sending out a big thank you to the OP for posting. My DH and I (early 50's) have been on the fence about trying Viking Ocean. The itineraries are interesting and we appreciate sailing on newer ships. We were on the Silhouette in December and regretted the lack of flow in entertainment. Just as we were enjoying dancing in the atrium to a mix of Motown and modern music, the band would leave and we'd have to seek out another venue to keep the vacation vibe going. When we sail in the Caribbean, the ship is our destination and we want to have a little more fun at night. However when we sail in Europe, we use the ship as more of a floating hotel. After a day of touring, we pretty tired at night and know that another early morning awaits us. From the OP's description, I think Viking would suit us for that kind of vacation.

Thanks, OP!

 

 

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