Viking cruises are HOT right now. And why not? They are an optimal way to explore overseas destinations or see a new side of a familiar city. And a river cruise offers unrivaled convenience – unpack once in your deluxe stateroom, relax and enjoy everything the journey has to offer. All-inclusive pricing, comfortable deluxe accommodations, intimate ships, delicious cuisine, daily guided shore excursions, exemplary service all add up to an unforgettable vacation.
I prefer Viking because they are one of the world’s leading river and ocean cruise companies that boasts 175 years of expertise and luxurious ships. Viking has one of the world’s largest fleets of cruise ships that voyage to Europe, Russia, Asia and Egypt.
Here are my top five reasons to book a Viking Cruise:
1. Boutique Hotel-Like Experience
If you enjoy staying at boutique hotels, you’ll love the new longships. They accommodate 190 passengers and feature two-level glass atrium, variety of accommodations and several dining options. With patented designs for both stateroom configuration and the ship’s bow, these vessels are at the cutting edge of design. Renowned Norwegian maritime architects Yran & Storbraaten have created an interior that whispers elegance at every turn.
2. All-inclusive Packages
You can enjoy your trip without worrying about the more typical cruise add-on costs because just about everything is included.
- Port charges
- Internet access
- Wine and beer with lunch and dinner
- Lectures, performances and activities
- Shore excursions with headsets and tour guides born and raised in the country
- First-class hotel accommodations on planned itineraries.
3. Service Guarantee
It’s not very likely you’ll have any complaints with the excellent service and personal attention of the most award-winning river cruise line – but their service guarantee insures you won’t. Give them 24 hours to correct any issue and if not satisfied they will provide a 100% refund. It’s one reason why Viking Cruises ranks as the World’s Best River Cruise Line in the Travel + Leisure 2012 World’s Best Awards readers’ survey.
4. Exploration Via Enriching Experiences
Sail from Paris to Prague, St. Petersburg to Moscow or Beijing to Shanghai and enjoy a wide variety of cultural events that provide an enriching, entertaining and memorable experience. It’s an optimal way to fully explore a new destination. In Viking’s own words from its website:
We have a history of providing our guests with a way to get below the surface, not just “checking off” each port. That’s why our ocean cruises are centered around where you go, not just how you get there—with hand-picked itineraries so you can immerse yourself in history, music, art, cuisine—everything about your destination. In addition, we include excursions led by knowledgeable local guides in every port of call. You learn about the lands through which you travel via enriching lectures that bring history to life; through cultural adventures; in-depth pre-trip materials; and on-demand programming—all designed to help you experience the most from your travels.
I couldn’t have expressed this better myself!
5. Invaluable Insider’s Insight
If you’ve ever considered a Viking Cruise – or any longship cruise – now you can get insider’s insight into this travel experience! I’m holding a very special event along with the experts from Viking Cruises for future travelers to ask questions, view videos, chat with other cruise-goers and talk directly with me about the vacation of a lifetime we can create together. This truly is a unique opportunity to learn in depth about Viking and its cruise itineraries.