CCWineLover

Linda - we ate them too! Maybe just part of the overall small portions approach they are doing. I do recall someone complaining that the portions in the restaurants were quite a bit smaller. I said, why don't you just ask for more, they won't refuse you! If you want it, you can have it! And in this way, there is less wasted food. Don't think she comprehended 🙂

What airline and from what starting city? One way? Bus Class?

Interesting note, Clay. I thought exactly the same thing on our June Saturn cruise. (Whereas last Dec/Jan the scones were fine). So maybe it really is the baker.

We booked our flight to Rome (out of SF) last March. Been watching and the prices have gone up steadily during the summer. I guess you have to figure how much you want to "gamble" that they will come down again. With so many Americans traveling, that might not happen as demand is at all time highs and doesn't seem to be slowing down. Normally I would say book 9-11 months out or 4-5 months out. Do you feel lucky? 🙂

Well stated! I think a lot of cruisers have not thought this through or factored this into their expectations. I like your point that we have to understand this new reality and we each make our own decision as to whether we wish to participate in it.

Clay - again thank you for your wonderful posts on this cruise! Your points are all well taken. We have taken several Viking Ocean cruises the past year, and yes, I think 2 things contribute to the buses being full nowadays (although everyone could always sit with their partner) - the cost of tour operators these days post COVID, resulting in much higher costs for specific optional excursions and the increased interest in included tours as the median age increases and the optional tour costs increase. We look forward to seeing you and Mike, finally, on the March 2025 Southern Atlantic crossing Viking Jupiter.

Or even follow the cruise critic roll call for the Aug 7-21 cruise for Neptune. It is the same itinerary as our Saturn cruise June 7-21. People on board will likely share their experiences as well.

Good luck! Tarragona is a wonderful city to walk around and explore. We weren't notified that we were going to Tarragona until about 2 weeks ahead of our Jupiter cruise, that began in Barcelona. I hope you find out sooner!

Thank you so much! This is THE BEST explanation I have seen. Very informative and understandable. so much appreciated!!

No official word - have heard some itineraries are changed and some are not. Must depend right now at least on how many and which other ships are in Barcelona at the same time. We actually had a Viking cruise where we boarded in Barcelona in the afternoon and then instead of staying overnight, left before midnight and went on down to Tarragona. Just doing a very quick Google search, there is a lot of info on how to do this "transfer". Rome2Rio has info. Here's a sample. https://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.com/en/airport/transfers/transfer-barcelona-airport-tarragona.html

I've wondered how you've been able to upload so many many pictures showing your wonderful trip! On our trip, we could barely even text, much less send a single picture. I was thinking too many on our Saturn voyage were face-timing (we could see them in the lounges and restaurants doing so).

Sounds like many have made it to Greenland before this year's infamous iceberg season due to the melting glaciers and warmer temps. Has anyone made it on Viking Ocean in 2023? Viking Expedition is rated higher and no doubt can make it weather permitting. Perhaps Viking will modify the schedules in the future.

Wow - good advice. For those interested, here's the dates. Fortunately we will be after the America's Cup. https://www.americascup.com/37th-americascup-barcelona

Totally agree! It should fit the ports being visited (like say, a Barcelona, a Rome, a Florence, Athens, etc..)

Not so much that they decide not to go, but they aren't respectful enough to cancel their reservation. Also, speaking to several on board who did cancel, the major reasons were that they booked the reservations before coming onboard and now it conflicted with another activity or a late excursion or they were tired. I do think that many people who aren't familiar with CT might likely be ones who cancel after one visit if they find it isn't their style. Do I take it from your tone that you yourself do not like the specialty restaurants? or that you don't even like Viking cruises period?

We were just on NYC-Iceland 14 day cruise. Didn't book any reservations (DV) ahead of the cruise. But on the cruise, we had way more choices for specialty restaurants than we needed. Had no problem getting 6 or 6:30 slots at CT or Manfredis on just about any night. In fact, the 2nd half became pretty wide open, as they told us so many people cancel out. Even then, she said if there is a problem, just show up and you likely will get in (especially at 6 PM) since they have a real problem with people who never bother to even cancel a reservation they have but don't want to use. (No-Shows are increasing apparently). Keep that in mind.

Same here, Joe! But you are right - that Post Promos thread is really quite valuable!!

Clay - whatever you wish to talk about. Personally I love architecture, and especially the older architecture (pre-WWII) that you find in Europe. I'm not so interested in the modern architecture, although some of the European cities have some beautiful newer buildings - witness the one you just were near - the Opera House in Oslo, Norway. I like your idea of giving insight into the person behind the buildings. That is what gives it interest. Speaking of interest, I'm sure you've seen the really good and the not so good lecturers - and know that it is all in the delivery (some can make any subject exciting and some are always dry and boring). Perfect example of entertaining and informative is Russell Lee, INHO the top lecturer on Viking Ocean cruises right now. ! Best of luck! We'll be down in the front row of the Star Theatre waiting with baited breath!

Ah yes - I remember the long line mess at Oslo just about a year ago for us! It seemed to take forever and was thankful we had allowed time.

Absolutely totally untrue statements, an example of the hyperbole going on these days. always get promos. Always see lowest prices. Always able to rebook if we desire. Have many many cruise on the books. check your words next time.

If your cruise as you say is Oct 24 and you already booked it, you are fine. That’s the guarantee but you have to have a booking number and paid the deposit. So if it is your cruise so to speak, you are protected. You signed the contract.

Google the daily Scotland weather. Self service simple.

For vegetarians, interesting to note that in a recent survey, they listed the best cruise ships for vegetarians and Viking was not listed at all. Perhaps vegetarians should look at other options. Not defending Viking, but I don't believe it is their strength. https://www.cruiseandtravel.co.uk/expert-advice-vegan-options-on-board/ https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles/best-cruises-for-vegetarians-and-vegans

Has anyone checked in August to see if ALL Viking Ocean pricing has increased - or perhaps just Australia and the Circumnavigation? Nevertheless, I do agree that ALL lines will have higher prices, even if they have not implemented them exactly today, it will be soon I believe.

Mikey - you didn't hear me. We obviously have different opinions. Let's just agree to disagree. There is no right answer on this one.