Question 1

Can children travel with Viking?

Accepted Answer

All guests must be 18 years old on or before the day they are scheduled to embark on their cruise; we do not maintain facilities or services on board for younger individuals.

Question 2

Can I take a virtual tour of the ship? Is there a deck plan? How can I learn more about the ship layout?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Get to know your Viking ship a little better by taking our  virtual 360\u0026deg; tour  of the ship\u0026rsquo;s public spaces and staterooms. 
 
Additionally, you can find detailed deck plans, stateroom layouts for our fleet in the  Ships \u0026nbsp;page.

Question 3

I have been told that I need to complete a Guest Information Form. What is that, and how do I take care of it?

Accepted Answer

The  Guest Information Form (GIF)  enables us to create your reservation, produce travel documents and make any airline reservations. You must complete a GIF for each person traveling in your party as soon as possible. If you haven\u0026rsquo;t already done so, you can fill out the form online on My Viking Journey under the  Guest Information  section.

Question 4

Is there Internet access on board the ship? Are there computers, or should I bring my laptop?

Accepted Answer

All our ships offer free Wi-Fi. You may use your personal device or one of the ship\u0026rsquo;s computers in our Business Center on Deck 1. Our connection relies on a VSAT satellite terminal\u0026mdash;the best possible solution for ocean cruising. Due to the nature of data bandwidth and latency, as well as potential interruptions in satellite signals based on terrain and weather, you may experience slower online connections than you are accustomed to at home. In order to ensure fair usage for all, we reserve the right to limit heavy-bandwidth applications, downloads or software upgrades so that all our guests have access to Wi-Fi. We suggest that guests limit large uploads/downloads and live streaming. Please download your content prior to your cruise, as bandwidth will affect your service and cannot be guaranteed. We would be pleased to help you with your device settings once you are on board. We hope you will understand that we will do our very best to provide you with an enjoyable online experience, and remember you will likely be able to access standard Wi-Fi and data roaming services on shore in most towns and cities you visit.

Question 5

What is Viking doing to reduce the risk of COVID-19 for guests and crew?

Accepted Answer

Viking has worked in coordination with an international team of scientific and medical advisors to develop one of the most well-researched and comprehensive COVID-19 prevention and mitigation plans in the travel industry. Learn more about the  Viking Health \u0026amp; Safety Program  and access frequently asked questions about our protocol enhancements.

Question 6

What is your single supplement?

Accepted Answer

On occasion, Viking will make special solo traveler fares available. Please check back for pricing updates. In the meantime, explore special offers currently available on Viking cruises. With  Viking Inclusive Value , we offer you great value every day, in a category that will fit all your travel needs.

Question 7

When can I book my dining reservations and spa appointments?

Accepted Answer

Your  My Viking Journey  account gives you all the tools necessary to tailor and personalize your complete cruise experience. You have full access to browse all dining options and spa treatments from the moment you open your account. Booking opens for each guest based on stateroom category\u0026mdash;as subsequently listed. We will alert you when it is your time to book.
 
	 Owner\u0026rsquo;s Suite\u0026mdash;100 days from sail date 
	 Explorer Suites\u0026mdash;90 days from sail date 
	 Penthouse Junior Suites\u0026mdash;80 days from sail date 
	 Penthouse Veranda Staterooms\u0026mdash;70 days from sail date 
	 Deluxe Veranda Staterooms\u0026mdash;60 days from sail date 
	 Veranda Staterooms\u0026mdash;No priority reservations 
 
Visit the My Viking Journey\u0026nbsp; Dining \u0026amp; Beverage  page or\u0026nbsp; Spa  page in the Onboard Experience section for additional details.

Question 8

When can I book shore excursions?

Accepted Answer

Your  My Viking Journey  account gives you all the tools necessary to tailor and personalize your complete cruise experience. You have full access to browse all shore excursions from the moment you open your account. Booking opens for each guest based on stateroom category\u0026mdash;as subsequently listed. We will alert you when it is your time to book.
 
	 Owner\u0026rsquo;s Suite\u0026mdash;107 days from sail date 
	 Explorer Suites\u0026mdash;97 days from sail date 
	 Penthouse Junior Suites\u0026mdash;87 days from sail date 
	 Penthouse Veranda Staterooms\u0026mdash;77 days from sail date 
	 Deluxe Veranda Staterooms\u0026mdash;67 days from sail date 
	 Veranda Staterooms\u0026mdash;60 days from sail date 
 
Visit the My Viking Journey  Shore Excursions  page.

Question 9

When is disembarkation?

Accepted Answer

Disembarkation begins after the ship has docked in the port and after all customs and immigration formalities have been successfully completed. The times will vary due to the specific immigration and customs procedures in the specific port.

Question 10

When is embarkation?

Accepted Answer

Embarkation begins at 11:00 AM for all categories. Stateroom availability times are listed as follows:
 
	 11:00 AM: Owner\u0026rsquo;s Suite, Explorer Suites and Penthouse Junior Suites 
	 1:00 PM: Penthouse Veranda Staterooms 
	 2:00 PM: Deluxe Veranda Staterooms 
	 3:00 PM: Veranda Staterooms 
 
Should you arrive before your stateroom is available and wish to explore your port of call, please drop off your luggage shoreside in the terminal where we will gladly look after it. Please keep in mind, if you do go exploring, you need to be back on board the ship at least two hours before the scheduled departure time.

Question 11

When will we receive our final documents?

Accepted Answer

Your electronic documents will be emailed to you 14 days prior to your embarkation. You may also access all documents and information regarding your booking by visiting your My Viking Journey account  Booking Summary  page. In addition to your electronic documents, approximately 14 to 45 days prior to your departure you will receive a package in the mail which will include your personalized embarkation tags and one red transfer sticker per guest if applicable.

Question 12

Are pets allowed on board?

Accepted Answer

No pets or other animals are allowed on board the ship, other than service animals and certified therapy dogs as Viking may choose to permit at its sole discretion. Guests who require the aid of a service animal or certified therapy dog must advise Viking at the time of booking, and complete and submit the Service Animal Request Form to Viking before final payment is due. Failure to do so may result in a denial of boarding. Please contact Guest Services at 1-855-884-5464 (1-855-8-VIKING) for more information.

Question 13

Are there refrigerators in individual staterooms?

Accepted Answer

Each stateroom is equipped with a mini-bar. Depending on your stateroom category, your mini-bar may be replenished daily with drinks and snacks. Purified water is provided in all staterooms and refilled daily. A full listing of amenities by stateroom category can be found on each  ship page .

Question 14

Can I take a virtual tour of the ship? Is there a deck plan? How can I learn more about the ship layout?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Get to know your Viking ship a little better by taking our  virtual 360\u0026deg; tour  of the ship\u0026rsquo;s public spaces and staterooms. 
 
Additionally, you can find detailed deck plans, stateroom layouts for our fleet in the  Ships \u0026nbsp;page.

Question 15

Is my stateroom furnished with amenities that I do not need to pack?

Accepted Answer

All stateroom bathrooms are equipped with premium bath toiletries. A hair dryer is also provided, and irons are available in the complimentary self-service launderettes. Depending on your stateroom category, laundry, pressing and dry cleaning services may be complimentary. If your stateroom category does not include these services, they may be purchased for a modest fee.\u0026nbsp;A full listing of amenities by stateroom category can be found on each  ship page .

Question 16

Is the ship nonsmoking?

Accepted Answer

Viking vessels are generally nonsmoking. In order to accommodate guests who choose to smoke, there is a designated outdoor smoking area on the starboard side of Deck 8. All other areas of the ship, including your stateroom and veranda, are designated nonsmoking areas. Smoking restrictions also apply to e-cigarettes.

Question 17

Is there a library on board?

Accepted Answer

Yes. On board Viking ocean and expedition ships, the Library is located in The Living Room, and has selections specially curated by London bookseller  Heywood Hill  to enrich and enhance your journey. 
 
Learn more about our  curated libraries and recommended reading  or visit the  Ships  section for deck plans and details.

Question 18

Is there Internet access on board the ship? Are there computers, or should I bring my laptop?

Accepted Answer

All our ships offer free Wi-Fi. You may use your personal device or one of the ship\u0026rsquo;s computers in our Business Center on Deck 1. Our connection relies on a VSAT satellite terminal\u0026mdash;the best possible solution for ocean cruising. Due to the nature of data bandwidth and latency, as well as potential interruptions in satellite signals based on terrain and weather, you may experience slower online connections than you are accustomed to at home. In order to ensure fair usage for all, we reserve the right to limit heavy-bandwidth applications, downloads or software upgrades so that all our guests have access to Wi-Fi. We suggest that guests limit large uploads/downloads and live streaming. Please download your content prior to your cruise, as bandwidth will affect your service and cannot be guaranteed. We would be pleased to help you with your device settings once you are on board. We hope you will understand that we will do our very best to provide you with an enjoyable online experience, and remember you will likely be able to access standard Wi-Fi and data roaming services on shore in most towns and cities you visit.

Question 19

We need twin beds; is this possible?

Accepted Answer

Most staterooms have beds that can be set up separated or together. Please inform us of your bed configuration preference so we can make sure your stateroom is set up properly when you arrive. Visit the  Stateroom Preferences  page in your My Viking Journey account to update this online.

Question 20

We plan to go a few days early and then make our way to the ship. Can you please provide the docking location?

Accepted Answer

Approximately two weeks prior to departure, your travel documents will be e-mailed to you with this information. In addition, Viking is pleased to offer a selection of local cruise extensions before and after your departure. Pre \u0026amp; Post Cruise Extensions are listed on each cruise itinerary page or you may visit the  Extensions  page in your My Viking Journey account upon booking for additional details.

Question 21

What is the electrical voltage in the staterooms?

Accepted Answer

You will find both 110V and 220V electrical outlets in your stateroom. All outlets are European style (2-pin) with a ground, except for two US 110V sockets above the desk and one US 110V socket on each side of the bed; there are no UK 3-pin sockets. Should you need an adapter, they are available for sale in the onboard shop or can be found at most electronics or travel stores. (Remember that if you are staying in a hotel for part of your journey, you will want the appropriate adapter for that country as well.) In your stateroom, you will also find several USB ports to charge cell phones and tablets; just bring the appropriate cable with you. Most modern electronic devices can accommodate different electrical currents, so you probably will not need a current converter; hair dryers are provided in your stateroom.

Question 22

Will I be able to watch TV in my stateroom?

Accepted Answer

All staterooms have a color television with a selection of live TV channels, including news, sports and finance channels, on-demand movies and in-house programming. Because satellite coverage is dependent on weather conditions and location, there may be times when programming is temporarily unavailable. 
 
A full listing of amenities by stateroom category can be found on each  ship page .

Question 23

Are there luggage restrictions during the trip? Which personal items are allowed on board and which are prohibited?

Accepted Answer

Each airline has its own luggage policy regarding fees and other restrictions; please contact your airline directly for the most up to date information. 
 
On board, luggage must be stored in the guest\u0026rsquo;s stateroom. Additional information will be made available with ample time for you to plan for your voyage. For a full list of allowable and prohibited items on board, you may download our  Prohibited Items List (PDF) .

Question 24

Are transfers included?

Accepted Answer

Transfers are included with Viking Air purchase and all of our extension packages. Intra-itinerary air does not need to be purchased separately.

Question 25

Do I need a visa to travel with Viking?

Accepted Answer

Requirements may vary and can change at any time. All guests should seek advice from their respective embassy, consulate or Travel Agent to determine which documents are needed for their specific Viking cruise. Please be sure to obtain and carefully review for accuracy all your required documents prior to departure to avoid delays, denied boarding/entry or additional cost.\u0026nbsp; 
 
In order to assist with visa services for US citizens traveling internationally, Viking has contracted with GenVisa, whose representatives will facilitate the visa process for Viking guests for a fee. Visit  genvisa.com/viking  for more information regarding visas for your cruise.\u0026nbsp; 
 
Guests who hold a passport for a country other than the US should contact their respective embassy, consulate or Travel Agent to determine whether visas are required for their cruise.

Question 26

Do I need travel protection? Should I consider purchasing flight insurance?

Accepted Answer

While travel protection is not required, we do recommend it. Emergencies sometimes arise, and you want to protect your travel investment. When you purchase the Viking Travel Protection Plan within 14 days of your initial deposit/payment for your cruise, you also receive the Viking Enhanced Cancellation Waiver Benefit that allows you to cancel your Viking travel arrangements before your scheduled departure for any reason and receive a Viking Cruises Voucher for the cancellation penalty amount. Viking\u0026rsquo;s Travel Protection Plan also covers your flights purchased through Viking. Learn more about the plans we offer in the Viking Travel Protection Plan section on the  Travel Information  page. 
 
If you have other insurance, please check with your provider for coverage.

Question 27

How can I send a Bon Voyage gift to a Viking guest?

Accepted Answer

Send your friends or loved ones off in style with a Bon Voyage gift delivered directly to their stateroom. You can order a gift for delivery on board to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or special occasion. Our Bon Voyage gift packages include delightful surprises, such as champagne, wine, chocolate-dipped strawberries and more. 
 
Simply download, fill out, and mail or fax our  Gift Order Form (PDF) . Please note that for Mississippi itineraries, the Gift Order Form is not yet available. Please check back closer to departure. 
 
You can also use the  Silver Spirits Beverage Package Order Form (PDF)  to order the beverage package as a gift for a Viking guest.

Question 28

I have been told that I need to complete a Guest Information Form. What is that, and how do I take care of it?

Accepted Answer

The  Guest Information Form (GIF)  enables us to create your reservation, produce travel documents and make any airline reservations. You must complete a GIF for each person traveling in your party as soon as possible. If you haven\u0026rsquo;t already done so, you can fill out the form online on My Viking Journey under the  Guest Information  section.

Question 29

We have traveled with Viking before and are thinking of inviting friends to travel with us. Are there benefits for referring friends?

Accepted Answer

See our  Viking Explorer Society  and  Viking Referral Rewards  pages.

Question 30

What is My Viking Journey?

Accepted Answer

My Viking Journey  is a website designed exclusively for guests who have booked a cruise with Viking. If you have a Viking booking number, you can create an account anytime to customize and manage your upcoming journey. Browse and book  shore excursions  and  spa treatments ; make  alternative restaurant reservations ; get answers to your top questions; access and print  visa applications  and travel itineraries; complete your  Guest Information Form ; view  air services  and flight details; and manage your daily schedule in your  personalized calendar . You can enhance your trip with our  Silver Spirits beverage package , gain peace of mind with the  Viking Travel Protection Plan  and make easy  online payments .

Question 31

What is the cancellation policy for my booked shore excursions?

Accepted Answer

In order to ensure quality guides and sufficient transportation, we must provide the tour operator with guest counts at least two days in advance. Therefore, no refunds will be given within two days of any shore excursion. 
	 Tours require minimum participation levels to operate so please sign up as early as possible. 
	 Tours operate rain or shine. 
	 Online booking and cancellations will close seven days before your cruise sets sail. 
	 During this seven-day pre-sail period, you can cancel items by calling us. 
	 Once you arrive on board, you will have the ability to manage your shore excursions again, with one exception\u0026mdash;all shore excursions that occur during the first two days of sailing will be non-refundable. 
	 Please note, whether an optional tour is booked through My Viking Journey or on board, refunds are only processed on board and will be applied as a credit toward your shipboard account balance. Should you have a negative balance at the end of your voyage, the refund toward your credit card will be processed on board. Please allow 14 business days for this to reflect on your statement.

Question 32

What is Viking doing to reduce the risk of COVID-19 for guests and crew?

Accepted Answer

Viking has worked in coordination with an international team of scientific and medical advisors to develop one of the most well-researched and comprehensive COVID-19 prevention and mitigation plans in the travel industry. Learn more about the  Viking Health \u0026amp; Safety Program  and access frequently asked questions about our protocol enhancements.

Question 33

What is your single supplement?

Accepted Answer

On occasion, Viking will make special solo traveler fares available. Please check back for pricing updates. In the meantime, explore special offers currently available on Viking cruises. With  Viking Inclusive Value , we offer you great value every day, in a category that will fit all your travel needs.

Question 34

When is disembarkation?

Accepted Answer

Disembarkation begins after the ship has docked in the port and after all customs and immigration formalities have been successfully completed. The times will vary due to the specific immigration and customs procedures in the specific port.

Question 35

When is embarkation?

Accepted Answer

Embarkation begins at 11:00 AM for all categories. Stateroom availability times are listed as follows:
 
	 11:00 AM: Owner\u0026rsquo;s Suite, Explorer Suites and Penthouse Junior Suites 
	 1:00 PM: Penthouse Veranda Staterooms 
	 2:00 PM: Deluxe Veranda Staterooms 
	 3:00 PM: Veranda Staterooms 
 
Should you arrive before your stateroom is available and wish to explore your port of call, please drop off your luggage shoreside in the terminal where we will gladly look after it. Please keep in mind, if you do go exploring, you need to be back on board the ship at least two hours before the scheduled departure time.

Question 36

When will we receive our final documents?

Accepted Answer

Your electronic documents will be emailed to you 14 days prior to your embarkation. You may also access all documents and information regarding your booking by visiting your My Viking Journey account  Booking Summary  page. In addition to your electronic documents, approximately 14 to 45 days prior to your departure you will receive a package in the mail which will include your personalized embarkation tags and one red transfer sticker per guest if applicable.

Question 37

Are pets allowed on board?

Accepted Answer

No pets or other animals are allowed on board the ship, other than service animals and certified therapy dogs as Viking may choose to permit at its sole discretion. Guests who require the aid of a service animal or certified therapy dog must advise Viking at the time of booking, and complete and submit the Service Animal Request Form to Viking before final payment is due. Failure to do so may result in a denial of boarding. Please contact Guest Services at 1-855-884-5464 (1-855-8-VIKING) for more information.

Question 38

Can I bring alcoholic and other beverages on board?

Accepted Answer

Guests may bring alcohol and beverages with them, purchase alcohol ashore at destinations that sell alcohol, or purchase them from the onboard shop. Alcohol can be consumed in the guest\u0026rsquo;s stateroom or in public spaces, including the restaurants. There is no corkage fee.

Question 39

Can I upgrade the complimentary beverages?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer complimentary house wines, beers and soft drinks with onboard lunches and dinners, plus specialty coffees and assorted hot teas that are available 24 hours a day. For those who would like to upgrade and enjoy unlimited beverages, Viking offers a Silver Spirits beverage package, which covers any drinks (excluding champagne) up to $15.00 USD, including premium wines by the glass, cocktails, all house pouring wines, beers, liquors, well drinks, mixers/long drinks and soft drinks throughout the day for a flat fee per guest. You may purchase the package prior to sailing, including on the My Viking Journey  Dining \u0026amp; Beverage  page, or once you are on board. 
 
You can also use the  Silver Spirits Beverage Package Order Form (PDF)  to purchase the package for yourself or as a gift for another Viking guest. 
 
Please note you must be 21 years of age or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. Both guests in a stateroom must purchase the package for the full length of the cruise in order for it to be valid.

Question 40

Can you accommodate disabled guests? What about the shore excursions?

Accepted Answer

Viking welcomes disabled guests; however, guests must realize there are inherent risks associated with traveling on board ships that are unique to cruise travel. For people who are ill, or have a mental or physical disability or impairment, the risks can be more significant. Guests must be able to independently move around the ship in case of an emergency or rough seas, deal with the lack of immediate access to medical services in certain parts of the world, and acknowledge that access to some areas of the ship and ports of call may be limited or impossible. Shore excursions may require the ability to traverse cobblestones or go up and down stairs. We reserve the right to determine whether a guest is fit to travel and to deny boarding in the event that a guest represents a risk to themselves or to the safety and well-being of those on board the ship. 
 
When you make your reservation, please advise us of any disability that will require special attention while sailing on a Viking cruise and provide a completed Fit to Travel Form along with a physician\u0026rsquo;s letter. Should you have any medical, physical or other special needs, check the  fleet information  on our website to gain an understanding of the layout of any particular ship and contact a Viking Expert at 1-855-884-5464 (1-855-8-VIKING) directly with additional questions and to obtain a copy of our policy statement.

Question 41

Can you accommodate my dietary requirements?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, we can. Every meal has vegetarian options and our chefs will make reasonable efforts to accommodate special requests. Guests requiring special meals (low salt, diabetic, gluten-free or low cholesterol) should alert us 90 days prior to departure over the phone at 1-855-884-5464 (1-855-8-VIKING) or online on the  Dietary Restrictions  page in your My Viking Journey account. Guests should also inform the Ma\u0026icirc;tre d\u0026rsquo; when on board. 
 
While we take steps to minimize the risk of cross contamination, we cannot guarantee an allergen-free kitchen.

Question 42

Do you have laundry and dry cleaning facilities?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your stateroom category, dry cleaning and laundry services, including pressing, may be complimentary. A full listing of amenities by stateroom category can be found on each  ship page . If your stateroom category does not include these services, they may be purchased for a modest fee and arranged through your stateroom steward. Self-service launderettes including irons and ironing boards are located on Decks 3\u0026ndash;6 and are free of charge, with detergent available for your use at no additional fee.

Question 43

How will payments on board be handled?

Accepted Answer

Although most services are included in your cruise fare, discretionary purchases will be charged to your shipboard account. These accounts, along with all prices and currency on board the ship, are in US dollars and may be settled in cash or with a major credit card before disembarking the ship; traveler\u0026rsquo;s checks are not accepted.

Question 44

Is the ship nonsmoking?

Accepted Answer

Viking vessels are generally nonsmoking. In order to accommodate guests who choose to smoke, there is a designated outdoor smoking area on the starboard side of Deck 8. All other areas of the ship, including your stateroom and veranda, are designated nonsmoking areas. Smoking restrictions also apply to e-cigarettes.

Question 45

Is there a fee associated with the alternative restaurants?

Accepted Answer

With  Viking Inclusive Value , there is no additional charge should you wish to dine in one of our alternative restaurants where available, including Manfredi\u0026rsquo;s Italian Restaurant and The Chef\u0026rsquo;s Table.

Question 46

Is there Internet access on board the ship? Are there computers, or should I bring my laptop?

Accepted Answer

All our ships offer free Wi-Fi. You may use your personal device or one of the ship\u0026rsquo;s computers in our Business Center on Deck 1. Our connection relies on a VSAT satellite terminal\u0026mdash;the best possible solution for ocean cruising. Due to the nature of data bandwidth and latency, as well as potential interruptions in satellite signals based on terrain and weather, you may experience slower online connections than you are accustomed to at home. In order to ensure fair usage for all, we reserve the right to limit heavy-bandwidth applications, downloads or software upgrades so that all our guests have access to Wi-Fi. We suggest that guests limit large uploads/downloads and live streaming. Please download your content prior to your cruise, as bandwidth will affect your service and cannot be guaranteed. We would be pleased to help you with your device settings once you are on board. We hope you will understand that we will do our very best to provide you with an enjoyable online experience, and remember you will likely be able to access standard Wi-Fi and data roaming services on shore in most towns and cities you visit.

Question 47

What are your wheelchair accommodations? Do your ships have elevators?

Accepted Answer

Guests who have a disability, physical or otherwise, must travel with an able-bodied companion who can assist them as the staff is not permitted to lift guests or push wheelchairs. Guests need to provide their own wheelchairs, except in an emergency. Wheelchairs must not exceed 22\u0026quot; in width. For details regarding bringing a wheelchair on board, guests must complete the Accessibility Form and return to Viking no later than 30 days prior to departure. Motorized scooters are not typically suitable for international cruises and cannot be accommodated. While our ocean vessels have elevators, there may still be thresholds that could make movement difficult.Contact a Viking Expert at 1-855-884-5464 (1-855-8-VIKING) directly with additional questions and to obtain a copy of our Accessibility Form and policy statement.

Question 48

What is the cancellation policy for my booked shore excursions?

Accepted Answer

In order to ensure quality guides and sufficient transportation, we must provide the tour operator with guest counts at least two days in advance. Therefore, no refunds will be given within two days of any shore excursion. 
	 Tours require minimum participation levels to operate so please sign up as early as possible. 
	 Tours operate rain or shine. 
	 Online booking and cancellations will close seven days before your cruise sets sail. 
	 During this seven-day pre-sail period, you can cancel items by calling us. 
	 Once you arrive on board, you will have the ability to manage your shore excursions again, with one exception\u0026mdash;all shore excursions that occur during the first two days of sailing will be non-refundable. 
	 Please note, whether an optional tour is booked through My Viking Journey or on board, refunds are only processed on board and will be applied as a credit toward your shipboard account balance. Should you have a negative balance at the end of your voyage, the refund toward your credit card will be processed on board. Please allow 14 business days for this to reflect on your statement.

Question 49

What is the dress code?

Accepted Answer

During the day, dress is casual including shorts (if the season is warm), slacks or jeans and comfortable shoes for walking tours. Swimsuits, brief shorts, cover-ups and exercise attire should be reserved for the Fitness Center, pool areas and Sports Deck. There are no \u0026ldquo;formal nights\u0026rdquo; in the evening; evening dress is \u0026ldquo;elegant casual\u0026rdquo; for all dining venues, performances and special events. On these occasions, required attire for ladies includes a dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse; for gentlemen, trousers and a collared shirt. A tie and jacket are optional; jeans are not permitted. The evening dress excludes World Caf\u0026eacute; where the dress remains casual after 6:00 PM.\u0026nbsp; 
 
Some shore excursions visit religious sites that require modesty of dress. To avoid being denied entry, we recommend men wear long pants and refrain from sleeveless shirts; and for women, clothing that covers the knees and tops that are not sleeveless or too revealing.

Question 50

What is the tipping policy?

Accepted Answer

Our onboard staff is dedicated to providing you with the best cruise experience possible, and it is customary to give gratuities in recognition of their service. How much you choose to tip is a personal matter and completely at your discretion. To save you worry over whom to tip and how much, we automatically add a discretionary hotel and dining charge of $15.00 USD per guest per day to your shipboard account, which appears on your final invoice at the end of your cruise. This charge will be shared among the onboard staff who helped support and provide your cruise experience, including the waitstaff, stateroom stewards, buffet stewards, galley staff, laundry staff and others. Please note this charge excludes bar gratuity; a 15% gratuity is automatically added to bar, beverage, wine and deck service tabs. Should you wish to make changes to the gratuity amounts or pay in cash, stop by Guest Services at any time. You may also wish to tip your local excursion guides and/or drivers; we suggest doing so in cash at the end of each tour. For your convenience, you can  pre-purchase gratuities  at our standard recommended rate in My Viking Journey. This charge will be shared among the onboard staff who helped support and provide for your cruise experience, including your Program Director, waitstaff, stateroom stewards, galley staff, nautical staff and others.

Question 51

What is the Viking Service Guarantee?

Accepted Answer

We hope you love your cruise from the very beginning; however, should you be dissatisfied with our service upon first check-in (hotel or on board your ship), including food, personnel or shore excursions\u0026mdash;just notify us within 24 hours of the start of your cruise (if your first check-in is on board your ship, notify the Guest Services staff; at a hotel, contact your Viking Host). We then have 24 hours to correct the situation, and in the unlikely event a solution is not possible, you can then depart as soon as possible and we will refund 100% of your cruise price. We can assist with any departure reservations, but your return trip/alternate travel plan costs are your sole responsibility. This Service Guarantee cannot be activated or applied for acts of God, strikes or other circumstances beyond our control as indicated in the  Passenger Ticket Contract .

Question 52

What should I pack in my luggage and carry-on?

Accepted Answer

We suggest you pack comfortable walking shoes, dressier shoes, a collapsible umbrella/lightweight rain gear; items you can layer like lightweight jackets/sweaters; sunglasses, a sun hat/visor, sunscreen; and toiletries including a travel-size hand sanitizer. Depending on the season and destination, you may also want to add mosquito repellent or a warm coat, gloves and water-resistant footwear. To visit religious sites, ensure you have modest clothing that covers your knees and shoulders, or you may be denied entry. 
 
For expeditions in the polar regions, a\u0026nbsp;detailed packing list will be provided. 
 
We advise you carry on: valuables; medications in original, labeled containers; glasses/contacts, etc.; important papers (passport, insurance, medical records), Cruise Documents, emergency contact information; and cameras, memory cards and batteries.

Question 53

When can I book my dining reservations and spa appointments?

Accepted Answer

Your  My Viking Journey  account gives you all the tools necessary to tailor and personalize your complete cruise experience. You have full access to browse all dining options and spa treatments from the moment you open your account. Booking opens for each guest based on stateroom category\u0026mdash;as subsequently listed. We will alert you when it is your time to book.
 
	 Owner\u0026rsquo;s Suite\u0026mdash;100 days from sail date 
	 Explorer Suites\u0026mdash;90 days from sail date 
	 Penthouse Junior Suites\u0026mdash;80 days from sail date 
	 Penthouse Veranda Staterooms\u0026mdash;70 days from sail date 
	 Deluxe Veranda Staterooms\u0026mdash;60 days from sail date 
	 Veranda Staterooms\u0026mdash;No priority reservations 
 
Visit the My Viking Journey\u0026nbsp; Dining \u0026amp; Beverage  page or\u0026nbsp; Spa  page in the Onboard Experience section for additional details.

Question 54

When can I book shore excursions?

Accepted Answer

Your  My Viking Journey  account gives you all the tools necessary to tailor and personalize your complete cruise experience. You have full access to browse all shore excursions from the moment you open your account. Booking opens for each guest based on stateroom category\u0026mdash;as subsequently listed. We will alert you when it is your time to book.
 
	 Owner\u0026rsquo;s Suite\u0026mdash;107 days from sail date 
	 Explorer Suites\u0026mdash;97 days from sail date 
	 Penthouse Junior Suites\u0026mdash;87 days from sail date 
	 Penthouse Veranda Staterooms\u0026mdash;77 days from sail date 
	 Deluxe Veranda Staterooms\u0026mdash;67 days from sail date 
	 Veranda Staterooms\u0026mdash;60 days from sail date 
 
Visit the My Viking Journey  Shore Excursions  page.

Question 55

Will there be talks or presentations on board the ship?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All of our itineraries feature daily briefings, enriching lectures, and entertaining presentations that highlight the history, culture, music and uniqueness of each of the local regions you will be visiting. Learn more at the  Onboard Cultural Enrichment  page.

Question 56

Are ATMs (automated teller machines) available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ATMs are a good source of cash domestically and overseas; however, they may or may not be conveniently located in the larger cities and may be rare in smaller towns. And your itinerary may not always allow you sufficient time to locate one. Your Guest Services staff or tour guide may be able to assist you. 
 
When available, ATMs dispense local currency for internationally accepted ATM cards and/or credit cards, and have a service fee. If you are planning to use ATMs, you should confirm with your bank prior to departure that your ATM/credit card and Personal Identification Number (PIN) will work abroad.

Question 57

Can I use my credit card throughout my journey?

Accepted Answer

Mastercard, Visa and American Express are accepted in major shops, restaurants and hotels, as well as on board to settle your shipboard account. Smaller shops and those in rural areas may not accept credit card payments. Notify your credit card companies that you will be traveling abroad to avoid holds on your account. Credit cards with magnetic strips may not work in automated overseas ticketing machines, such as transit vending systems, as these require chip-and-PIN type cards; contact your credit card company for details.

Question 58

Can you exchange foreign currency on board?

Accepted Answer

We do not have a foreign currency service available on board. For incidentals and small vendors, we recommend getting local currency, which can be purchased in the ship\u0026rsquo;s terminal or from ATMs, widely available in most large European cities. Should you wish to use ATMs, confirm with your bank prior to departure that your ATM/credit card and PIN will work abroad and inquire about possible foreign transaction fees. Also notify your credit card company that you will be traveling abroad to avoid unnecessary holds on your account.

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