cabster19

Thanks for the explanations. Will have to recheck with Viking to see what level we would be signing up for. 

We are considering booking Empires of the Mediterranean for September 2020 (gulp!). Our preference is a PV room, and we were offered a “guaranteed” room, whereby we could not choose a specific room, but we are guaranteed a PV room or an upgrade. Has anyone done this sort of booking, and what was your experience?  Thanks so much. 

Thanks for everyone’s speedy input. We went ahead and booked our own flights because we are only flying to and from San Juan, PR. You all pretty much confirmed my thinking - if the flight is lengthy, overseas, or involves connecting flights, using Viking Air seems to make sense. But this is an easy trip for us and I feel confident about taking a taxi to and from the port. When we flew to Rome by way of Paris, we used Viking Air and I was very happy to follow the Viking red shirts and not have to think at all. Thanks again!

My husband and I just booked a Viking Ocean cruise that leaves and returns to Puerto Rico. We live in the Washington DC area so the flights are not at all daunting. We prefer to fly nonstop with an upgrade to economy plus. Because of an unappealing return flight time, we would like to fly different airlines departing and returning, something we are unable to do that with Viking Air. Plus, if Viking Air books our flights, we are unable to upgrade our seats. My question is whether it is better to use Viking Air to book the flights given the limitations or book the flights ourselves and get ourselves to and from the airport and ship. Does anyone know how much of a hassle it might be to do that on our own? Thanks in advance!

We took the plunge and booked the Venice to Athens cruise and will see what happens with the post-extension. After doing some research, I see that it really should not be difficult to set up our own time in Athens. Thanks for everyone's input!

Sent from my iPad using Forums

I just tried to book a cruise for October 201 and learned that the pre- and post-extensions are full. The Viking rep said he could put us on a waitlist and Viking might (50/50 according to the rep) end up opening more slots. The extensions are important to us and we don't mind paying for the convenience Viking offers. To do extensions on our own is doable but we don't really want the stress. With Viking, things are stress-free, plus to "deviate" costs $100/person. I was wondering if anyone had experience with this situation and how it was resolved. Thanks!

Sent from my iPad using Forums

Oops, I mean within 14 days of booking?

Sent from my iPad using Forums

Peregrina651: Whar added benefits do you get when signing up for trip insurance 14 days prior?

Sent from my iPad using Forums

Thanks to KnitterA2 and Peregrina651 for your comments. KnitterA2: My husband and I went on our first ever cruise in February on the Viking Sea and loved it! I will admit I didn't embrace the ship movement and needed Dramamine, but the ship was incredible. Viking does an amazing job!

Sent from my iPad using Forums

Has anyone booked this tour yet? The ports of call really appeal, but I'm having trouble climbing off the fence and booking it. I think it's a new cruise for Viking Ocean. Thanks!

Sent from my iPad using Forums

The band didn't help me, so I was stuck with "less drowsy" Dramamine. Next time I plan to try the patch. Good luck!

Sent from my iPad using Forums