From the "Out of the Mouths of Babes" file. We were on Celebrity Summit a number of years ago. Improve earnings, maximize rewards and track progress toward dream trips. Although having sandals is great, you cant beat the practicality of sneakers. We went on a Viking cruise two years ago and the dress for dinner is casual. River Cruising in Spring - Spring in Europe can bring nice weather but it can also be changeable. Wearing of jeans in the restaurants in the evening does seem to occur sometimes even though they are notsupposed to be, but generally my experience is that people are dressed "elegant casual". In the evenings, the dress code is Crystal Casual which is a dressed-up version of daytime dress code. Youll find beds topped with crisp, white duvets and Scandinavian throws, comfortable contemporary sofas and chairs in neutral tones, and light-wood desks and side tables that combine to offer a residential feel in bedroom areas. Each of the 930-passenger ocean ships also has two smaller restaurants with specialized cuisine: Manfredis, a high-end Italian eatery, and The Chefs Table, which offers a five-course tasting menu themed around a specific cuisine that changes every few days. We have been on 3previous Viking River Cruises, as well as 3 Viking Ocean cruises, On previous cruises it was rare to see anyone dressed as inappropriately. This is the case for corporate positions and roles in their call centers. Youll find Vikings ocean ships in other key cruise destinations as well, such as Alaska, the Caribbean and Panama Canal, Canada and New England, South America, Asia and Australia. On board, Vikings programming revolves heavily around what the line calls cultural enrichment lectures by experts on topics related to the places its ships visit, as well as cultural and culinary offerings that often have a local tie-in. I come to realize that social media isnt showing the reality at all. Dress them up or down for a versatile choice, perfect for the limited packing options cruising allows. There are no formal nights and recommended evening dress is elegant casual such as a dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse for ladies; for gentlemen, trousers and a collared shirt. This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve, which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). Guests can wear ties and jackets if they desire, but this is not required. Viking Cruises. Vikings ocean ships have a major presence in Scandinavia and Northern Europe, which the line considers its home turf. Viking voyages bring a lot of extended stays in ports where passengers get more time to explore historical sites and experience the local culture than is typical on cruises. Or, for a pop of color, these oversized sunnies with a subtle pink polarized lense and clear frame are sure to lighten up your day. Recommended items of clothing include comfortable walking shoes, sturdy sandals, a lightweight waterproof jacket and long sleeve shirts as some ports and excursions are over uneven terrain and can be quite cool. Flats and simple dresses are easier to pack for the ladies. Can someone please tell me which brand is this? So heres come the most asked question: What to wear on a Viking river cruise? Scenic advises guests to pack a comfortable pair of shoes for excursions and sandals for if the weather is warm. She has cruised with Princess Cruises, Cunard, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Avalon Waterways and Royal Caribbean and is looking to get something in her diary for 2024! Our points-obsessed staff uses a plethora of credit cards on a daily basis. In fact, the line doesnt even allow children under the age of 18 on its ships. It has over 70 ships (at the time of writing) either on the rivers or about to enter the rivers, and theyre constantly expanding. From the young gentleman, "Mommy, why are those people wearing pyjamas?" Suitcase space is limited so we havecompiled a guide on our river cruise lines and their dress codes to make it easy for you to plan your outfits! A den of serenity, its one of our favorite places on these vessels. You only need to pack one during the summer, but if youre traveling during the fall or winter, you may want to bring three or four, depending on the cruise length. Depending on the season you set sail, youll want to bring either long or short sleeve tops suitable for both daytime and evening. Wow! She is my forever home and sanctuary. Bring a couple of cardigans for over dresses and tees. Youll also find the occasional multigenerational group a retired couple traveling with their working-age adult children, for instance. Alcohol/Drinks Onboard a Viking Ocean Cruise. Anyway, we still are blessed to have lived a life that affords such discussions. These long ships operate on most of the rivers in Europe. However, it does offer a few basic perks for past guests. A secondary pool area with an infinity pool is at the back of each of the ships. And the rest, as they say, is history. Interactive, 360 panoramic tours take you on board. Viking could be your line. $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card on one or more of the following: Audible, Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Let me tell you a little bit about what you can expect on a Viking Longship. My travel life spans more than three decades and that includes more than 95 cruises. A few years ago we were being lazy and riding the lift down to the dining room on a big box cruise ship (yes, I have no shame). Classy white with lightweight yet sturdy fabric. I love my body. The dress code at Viking River Cruises is business casual. On our four Viking cruises so far, we have not observed anything like what the original poster has described. The next key thing to understand, and watch out for, is what is and isnt included in a Viking fare. In general, its an educated crowd, with many passengers coming from professional backgrounds or a life of running their own businesses. The ships also offer some traditional entertainment, including production shows with singers and dancers. There appeared to be no dress code on our Viking river cruises. Among the lines voyages, youll find everything from eight-day cruises in the Mediterranean to 138-day around-the-world voyages. Not all cruise lines have a suggested dress code, but if it does you'll want to take their guidelines into account when packing your bags. 6 hues that make you look fat + 8 hacks to wear bright colors! The companys core market is people who range in age from 55 to 75 years, although it does draw some passengers who are younger or older. Just this year, the line began its first cruises to Antarctica with its first expedition ship, Viking Octantis. Theyre often people who have spent years focused on work and building up savings for retirement, and theyre finally ready to start enjoying the fruits of their labor by spending some of the savings on travel to places theyve long put off visiting. On our previous 6 Viking Cruises, 3 ocean and 3 river, it was rare to notice anyone not. Viking operates several smaller, purpose-built vessels on the Nile River in Egypt and the Mekong River in Southeast Asia, and it has several older river vessels that predate the Longships that operate in Russia and Ukraine. Watch the video on YouTube, and subscribe to my channel: https://youtu.be/8iUPPAc0ONw. We love this tortoiseshell frame with a brown gradient polarized lens that matches any outfit. Theres also the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, which offers 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel (and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on dining). During the day, there is no specific dress code, and people dress casually. The dress code on a Viking River cruise is pretty casual and relaxed. Another key watch out and thing to understand is the dress code. Her favourite things to see on a ship include excellent entertainment, a delicious cocktail menu and extraordinary dining venues. Although many people dressed country club casual for dinner, and lookedvery, nice,cut-off shorts, mens sleeveless tee. One thing I would say about Viking is they do go out of their way to make sure if you do have a mobility Ten-night Greek Odyssey voyages to the Greek Islands start at $3,799 per person. If you are a solo traveller and you want to travel on Viking, the best thing to do is to sign up for their email newsletters or work very closely with Viking or your travel agent as what they do is certain cruises during the year will have either no single supplement or anywhere up to 50% surcharge if youre travelling in a cabin by yourself. Hope you had a wonderful cruise! If its a sea day in a warm-weather destination, and youre bound for the top deck, a short-sleeve shirt and shorts are just fine. Viking also recently began sailings on the Mississippi River with a new ship specifically designed for the river and its tributaries. If you plan to go on a Viking River cruise, or any river cruise, do you think about your degree of mobility and how active you are. If youre sure that Viking is your line, look for a travel agent who specializes in trips with the brand. Bathrooms in Viking cabins are serene, modernist escapes with luxurious travertine-lined walls, Scandinavian-influenced wood-veneered vanities, shiny white sinks and chrome fixtures. A Lot That Can Go Wrong On An Alaska Cruise. This post may contain affiliate links. Cruises - Viking Ocean Cruises Dress - I was told when I booked our ocean cruise with Viking that dress was casual, no dressy wear required. 5. Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. Passports must be valid for at least six months. However, if youre fitness-obsessed, Viking river ships may not be the best choice for your river trip. In fact, the only real rule that you need to bear in mind when thinking about packing and what to bring, is you are not supposed to wear denim jeans or shorts in the dining room in the evening. However, unlike nearly every other cruise brand, what you wont find are families with young kids. Learn more. One of my mentors from years ago said you should always model the behavior you want to see from your children. CC Help Jenn When you step on board the Longship, the first thing youll notice is the decor. Some of the lines more exotic sailings such as its expedition trips to Antarctica cost even more. (Enrollment required for select benefits.). On the lower level they have standard cabins which have a small window at the top of the cabin, and thats because these cabins are partly below the water level. Breeze through security with CLEAR lanes available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your membership when you use your Card. Started June 21, 2021, By Riviera Travel also carries a relaxed dress code, with comfortable and casual clothing alongside walking shoes for the day. I don't want to take dresses which means different shoes with each outfit, more luggage and I want tobe able to carry my own luggage. For a 7-night cruise, the cost is $139.65 USD p.p. River cruising generally in Europe is pretty all-inclusive, however, there are nuances and differences based on the different brands. Vikings river ships, by contrast, typically offer just two eateries: a main restaurant where passengers eat most of their meals and a smaller, casual buffet with indoor and outdoor seating. and then there are tshirts (ones with sayings, pictures, sports team) aren't a good idea. The lines ocean ships can be found in nearly every ocean and sea around the world, from North America to Europe and Asia. Dress Code If the cruise will feature light hors d'oeuvres, appropriate attire may include a dress, a blouse with pants, or a pair of khakis and a collared shirt at the very least. See what a point or mile is worth with our appraisals of a loyalty programs currency, based on redemption values. Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. Here's How To Avoid That Happening, Cruise Ship Casino: What You Need To Know Before You Play, How to get a cabin upgrade on a cruise: 9 ways that work for me. Theyre also people who can afford a relatively high-end vacation experience. Best card for premium perks while traveling, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, The Business Platinum Card from American Express, Fly round trip to London for as low as $431, Did Norwegian Cruise Line make its new ships too small? There are even more places your Platinum Card can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks. You should find pretty much any of the rivers in Europe that you want to sail on Viking are there. The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway. That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us we always recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises. In addition, most Viking vessels offer laundry and pressing services. This card is also incredibly rewarding for travel purchases, helping you rack up a ton of Membership Rewards points for your next award trip. Of course, its plus-size-approved as well! Never miss a post by signing up below and every new post will be sent direct to you. Viking River Cruises boasts the most extensive fleet of river cruise vesselsthe best in each region where we travel. This functional jacket is PERFECTION for a river cruise trip. Related: 6 ways to travel to Antarctica in luxury and style. The third thing to know about Viking is they offer you an enormous choice of rivers and also different itineraries on those rivers, because theres such a big fleet in operation they have huge permutations. Viking has also built slightly shorter versions of the Longships measuring 262 feet, 361 feet or 410 feet in length specifically to sail on rivers where lock sizes or other navigational factors require a smaller vessel. Each passenger is only allowed to make one to three reservations per cruise at the eateries, depending on which category of cabin they have booked. Cruise casual is the dress code on Norwegian. When dining ashore, attending special events or concerts men may want to bring a sports jacket and women a cocktail dress or pantsuit ties are optional. Viking River Cruises and also their ocean cruises are an adults-only experience. Started August 27, 2021, By (For now, river cruise itineraries in both countries are on hold due to the Ukraine war.). Breakfast is buffet, although they do have an egg cooking station where you can order things like pancakes and Eggs Benedict. All opinions shared are my own. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). The main restaurants on these ships are notable for their walls of glass that can slide open to create al fresco dining, something that is unusual in the cruise world. Dark jeans, as one person commented, would be acceptable. The rest of dress code is pretty relaxed. Layering is key. It also has both ocean ships and river ships something that is unusual among major lines. The entire main pool area is covered with a glass magrodome that can be opened on short notice on warm and sunny days or closed if the ship encounters inclement weather. at dinner wear anything from jeans to a dress. What are your thoughts on that? To help you get the very best out of these destinations, we've assembled a selection of exclusive The mock neckline is so preppy. On the top deck you have the Sun Deck which is a big open space where you can sit out and enjoy the weather and the scenery. We were on Romantic Danube last year and can confirm that there was no dress code at dinner. Get up to $300 back per calendar year on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card. Share Followers 2. Youll also find musicians including pianists and guitar players performing at times in the Viking Living Room a three-deck-high, atrium-like space at the center of the ship. We have spoken with locals in other countries that claim it is the dress style that points out the US citizens. There are no "formal nights" and recommended evening dress is "elegant casual" such as a dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse for ladies; for gentlemen, trousers and a collared. Im not talking about dressy flashy just appropriate. I have heard that Caribbean cruises may be more casual, but we have only sailed in Europe and haven't seen that first hand. We love them for their perfect dark wash that goes with anything. Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card. This is one reason some cruisers do not consider Viking at quite the same level as those other brands. (In general, Viking voyages are highly inclusive, in keeping with its no nickel-and-diming philosophy.). I grew up in Zimbabwe, but I have been based in London since 1987. Sports coats are optional and no tie is required, Men A blazer or sports coat, chinos and polo shirt, Women Skirt, dressy top or simple dress, Women Dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse, Men Trousers and collared shirt with a tie and jacket being optional. At some point, we started equating comfortable with being slobby. Sorry guys, you seem to be the worst offenders. There are some cruise lines that try to be all things to all people. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Powered by Invision Community. In fact, there are few hard-fast rules for evening dress except to limit shorts and workout attire to daytime use only. Viking has more ships than any other major cruise brand in the world, more than 90 in all. This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. It was bad. Plus, your own feed of TPG content. The line also draws a wide range of interesting and accomplished people from all walks of life to serve as guest lecturers, including well-known academics, diplomats and even astronauts. Find out more on this short tour. I dont have to be pretty like her, I can be pretty like ME. Moralof the story is yes, people do notice what you wear, and sometimes they will embarrass you! We love the reading lights built into the fabric headboards, which are in addition to the lamps on bedside tables. Learn more. How about instead of sleeveless tee shirts with underarm hair sprouting out, no shirts at all in the dining. Sometimes it's worth a large investment to reap the benefits of a great credit card. This is a great open space. It always amazes me that some will complain about what others wear to dinner and on the other hand enquire about the dress code at various churches (example: the vatican. Viking has one of the most diverse arrays of itineraries of any cruise line, mostly due to the fact that it operates both ocean cruises and river cruises. Get more of my content about Viking River Cruises at https://www.tipsfortravellers.com/viking-river-cruises There also are casual buffet eateries called World Cafe on every vessel. Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPGs editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. Check your itinerary and see if any of your excursions are in cities with dress codes for short lengths, to ensure you arent turned away from visiting any landmarks. She loves learning about new places and cruise ships coming to market, as well as discovering fun and exciting activities to do while you sail. Required fields are marked *. TPG values it at $1,600. Choose pieces you can wear multiple times to get the most out of your wardrobe and be sure to bring conservative options for religious stops. . And fellow vacationers. Big floating resorts, they arent. 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Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos, Click here to reload the page in order to enable certain features, Policy regarding COVID related Discussions. How do I get a discount on my payment? FREEPHONE It is where people meet during the day and go for drinks before and after dinner. They simply require guests to come as you are, with no requirements for dining or excursions. If youre interested in Viking or youre interested in river cruising in Europe, watch many more of my Tips for Travellers videos. No dress code on Viking River - Page 2 - River Cruising - Cruise Critic Community. Some Viking ships, including all of the lines ocean vessels (including its one expedition vessel), have self-serve launderettes on cabin decks with washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. The upscale cruise brand has carved out a niche since its founding in 1997, catering specifically to a certain type of thoughtful, inquisitive, generally older traveler who is looking to explore the world and learn a thing or two along the way. We don't need to look like we are doing yard work all of the time. Note that Viking does charge extra for two key things that many luxury lines such as Silversea, Seabourn and Regent do not: alcoholic drinks at bars and gratuities. Select wine and beers are complimentary and available at lunch and dinner only. So, although theres lots of couples they are often on board with friends and family. Named after Viking founder Torstein Hagens mother (Ragnhild Mamsen Hagen), it offers authentic tastes of Norway such as traditional heart-shaped waffles, specialty cakes and the brown goat cheese that is found around the country. Find the right card for you. While most Viking river ships are Longships, there are a few exceptions in the Viking river fleet. I am tired of carrying multiple bags and I am tired of dressing up. They pair beautifully with a t-shirt or sweater, making them highly versatile and perfect for your river cruise. Filled with comfortable seating areas and home to a bar, the Viking Living Room serves as a central meeting point for passengers throughout the day and night. First Formal Night (when Celebrity had such things) and we are walking behind a family toward the Dining Room. Plus Ups are excluded. River cruising is very relaxed, and there are no strict dress codes. I would like to think I ruined anyone's meal. This is where you have the bar. Check out them on Amazon! Entertainment is also included within the fare. Viking Longships 360 Tour Get a panoramic look at our award-winning sister ships showcasing innovative engineering, streamlined Scandinavian design and understated elegance. Nevertheless each to their own and increasingly people wear what they like. it really doesnt take that much effort. However, during occasions such as the Captains Reception and the Farewell Dinner some guests prefer to dress up a little more. (A fun game is to try the Armagnac from your birth year. Unpredictable. So yes, choosing versatile clothing items will enable you to pack lightly without sacrificing fashion or leaving your favorite pieces behind. Ditto for the lines river vessels. To the rear of the lounge you have the 24-hour tea and coffee making facilities, which are great. Some lines, such as Vantage, request no shorts or jeans in the main dining room at dinner, but that's as far as it goes. That's exactly the case with the Amex Platinum card. Viking fares do include port taxes and fees, which can add up to hundreds of dollars per sailing. I work in IT and work with guys. Except for a very few restaurants with dress codes people look like they camefrom the pool for a $200meal for 2. Note that it is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality. Related: The ultimate guide to Viking cabins and suites. Note that internet service can be slow at times of heavy use, as is typical on cruise vessels. Viking is one of the only cruise brands in the world that offers a balcony with every cabin on every ocean ship it operates even the least expensive, smallest cabins. I have never seen this in the dining room. November in Austria/Germany is similar to November where I live (midwest). Youll probably eat most of your meals in one of these eateries. The obvious things are included like your accommodation and Dining is included. In addition, in order to ensure fair usage for all, the line limits some heavy-bandwidth applications, downloads and software upgrades. This was not a Viking cruise. Instead of just reading it, say it loud or murmur the quotes (if you are in public) to maximize the effect. Is a balcony something you cant live without when staying in a cabin on a cruise ship? With their innovative patented design, al fresco Aquavit Terrace and understated elegance, Viking Longships provide the most rewarding way to explore Europe.