Should we try Viking as young professionals?

[jextdo]

My spouse and I are considering a VO cruise, but I'm a bit concerned whether it's the right choice for us, and I was hoping you all might be able to offer some insight. We're in our early 30s, young professionals in higher education, and have each lived overseas, and we're drawn to VO because we're desperately in need of a real vacation - an escape where everything is taken care of and logistics are only as much of a concern as we want them to be. We've both taken cruises before on mass market lines (with our families, when we were children) and all of the typical Viking selling points attract us (fabulous food, gorgeous, well-designed ships, and no up-selling, nickel-and-diming, photographers, children, casino, etc.) The cost would usually put it out of our reach, but we're fortunate to be able to consider it right now and want to do something special to truly escape from normal concerns, to make a space where we can rest and focus on each other. 

 

My concern, though, is whether we'll fit in enough to enjoy the experience. I know that we're considerably younger than the typical Viking cruiser, but that doesn't worry me - we work and socialize with folks of all ages and are interested in talking to anyone who is interested in seeing us as fellow humans. But we aren't terribly normal-seeming; we're queer, my spouse is trans, and we're simultaneously serious professionals and visibly tattooed roller derby enthusiasts. I've read all the dress code threads where people are offended by others entering the MDR in jeans, and I don't want to plan a dreamy getaway together and then be ostracized because of gender presentation. (Or other sorts of presentation or fashion sense. Or anything, really.)

 

What do you think? Is Viking an experience we can enjoy? Or would we be wise to consider other cruise lines and vacation alternatives?

[Parsley Cruises]

Never mind all this 'will we fit in lark' that's really a load of nonsense.  We don't give a hoot if we fit in with other people or not - we're going on a cruise which we have paid for, for our benefit and enjoyment.  

 

Now then, being slightly older highly professional people with a load of cruising behind us, we don't look for a grand night out in a bar or disco; after dinner we prefer to retire to our accommodation and quietly enjoy being at sea and 'mellowing down into the sunset' together.

 

Entertainment which we've chosen - be it on the tv in our suite or maybe a show or a good book (not to mention fiddling with all the photos on our tablets), that's our idea of chill time or time out.

 

We've had a boat-load of dressing-up, and we're going with VO because we believe we can relax in the evening.  Ok, so we won't be wearing jeans, but it's not a fashion parade.  If someone makes a negative comment or complaint about our slacks and tops - we really won't care.  We have read the dress codes etc., and we'll go with what is printed there.  If people want to be stuffy - then obviously they are on the same cruise.

 

So, book it, enjoy it, and have a great time.  Concentrate on that.  Good luck.

 

[SquatsandChampagne]

2 hours ago, jextdo said:

My spouse and I are considering a VO cruise, but I'm a bit concerned whether it's the right choice for us, and I was hoping you all might be able to offer some insight. We're in our early 30s, young professionals in higher education, and have each lived overseas, and we're drawn to VO because we're desperately in need of a real vacation - an escape where everything is taken care of and logistics are only as much of a concern as we want them to be. We've both taken cruises before on mass market lines (with our families, when we were children) and all of the typical Viking selling points attract us (fabulous food, gorgeous, well-designed ships, and no up-selling, nickel-and-diming, photographers, children, casino, etc.) The cost would usually put it out of our reach, but we're fortunate to be able to consider it right now and want to do something special to truly escape from normal concerns, to make a space where we can rest and focus on each other. 

 

My concern, though, is whether we'll fit in enough to enjoy the experience. I know that we're considerably younger than the typical Viking cruiser, but that doesn't worry me - we work and socialize with folks of all ages and are interested in talking to anyone who is interested in seeing us as fellow humans. But we aren't terribly normal-seeming; we're queer, my spouse is trans, and we're simultaneously serious professionals and visibly tattooed roller derby enthusiasts. I've read all the dress code threads where people are offended by others entering the MDR in jeans, and I don't want to plan a dreamy getaway together and then be ostracized because of gender presentation. (Or other sorts of presentation or fashion sense. Or anything, really.)

 

What do you think? Is Viking an experience we can enjoy? Or would we be wise to consider other cruise lines and vacation alternatives?

My wife and I did a Viking Ocean cruise last year, I was only 27 at the time and she is 29, 
Besides people commenting on young we were and asking if we picked the wrong line, most people were really nice and we had a great time at the Explorers bar every night. I think we lucked out on that cruise with some great guests and staff. With the $$ we spend on Viking cruise of course I know that the clientele tends to be older, but I love the service they give and the itineraries are great. 

We are booked for another one this December and am looking forward to it.

[Capt_BJ]

on our July trip on Sky there were several couples who were obviously of the LGBT community and I saw no outward 'reactions' - nor did I see any of these folks going 'overboard' to display their personal preferences if you catch my drift    "get a room!"

 

however I DID see the rather minimal evening dress code requirements enforced.  No jeans in the dining rooms at night - but OK in the buffet.  I saw one gentleman who I suspect brought nothing but sweats for the entire cruise - I never noticed him wearing anything else - he was invited to enjoy the buffet but not the dining rooms at dinner . . .

Edited October 23, 2018 by Capt_BJ

[Jim Avery]

4 hours ago, jextdo said:

My spouse and I are considering a VO cruise, but I'm a bit concerned whether it's the right choice for us, and I was hoping you all might be able to offer some insight. We're in our early 30s, young professionals in higher education, and have each lived overseas, and we're drawn to VO because we're desperately in need of a real vacation - an escape where everything is taken care of and logistics are only as much of a concern as we want them to be. We've both taken cruises before on mass market lines (with our families, when we were children) and all of the typical Viking selling points attract us (fabulous food, gorgeous, well-designed ships, and no up-selling, nickel-and-diming, photographers, children, casino, etc.) The cost would usually put it out of our reach, but we're fortunate to be able to consider it right now and want to do something special to truly escape from normal concerns, to make a space where we can rest and focus on each other. 

 

My concern, though, is whether we'll fit in enough to enjoy the experience. I know that we're considerably younger than the typical Viking cruiser, but that doesn't worry me - we work and socialize with folks of all ages and are interested in talking to anyone who is interested in seeing us as fellow humans. But we aren't terribly normal-seeming; we're queer, my spouse is trans, and we're simultaneously serious professionals and visibly tattooed roller derby enthusiasts. I've read all the dress code threads where people are offended by others entering the MDR in jeans, and I don't want to plan a dreamy getaway together and then be ostracized because of gender presentation. (Or other sorts of presentation or fashion sense. Or anything, really.)

 

What do you think? Is Viking an experience we can enjoy? Or would we be wise to consider other cruise lines and vacation alternatives?

Well, Y'all sound like quite a few of our fellow World Cruise passengers.....Other than that whole "early 30s" thing.  Seriously, you described what is great about Viking.  As long as you don't enforce your views and opinions on others, they will do the same for you.

[deec]

I am not a big fan of lots of tatoos........but maybe you don't like grey hair and my husband talks a lot....I'd be eager to have drinks, dinner and chat...My biggest reservation for you would be the ship's  tours...SLOW people some with mobility issues...my patience was tested many times and I am very near that aged as well!!!  You might want to mostly DIY!  You don't mention which cruise you are considering that also might make a difference.

[Heidi13]

The experience you are looking for, matches almost exactly the reasons we booked a World Cruise on Viking, for our first cruise with them.

 

With respect to age, having worked on cruise ships and also cruised extensively as a passenger, I have seen and experienced most age demographics, both as a teenage cadet talking to 80+ pax and laterally as 50_60 yr old meeting and chatting with all age groups.

 

Regarding life choices, I spent 40 years at sea and believe I have seen most things. Jim, as a fellow mariner provided the best advice. On our last World Cruise we had a couple of guys, who we met on many tours and throughout the ship. No issues with anyone, they didn't push their choice and others responded likewise.

 

Sign up and enjoy your first Viking cruise

[MarkTapley]

I don’t think you should be concerned about how others will view you.  But I do share deec’s concerns about the ship’s tours, particularly the included ones.  During our recent 8 week trip on Orion, we booked tours on our own for all the major sites.  Worked out great, because we went at a much faster pace with a small group.  And it’s really easy to book with other CC folks once you pick a cruise and join the Roll Call thread for that cruise.  We did go on several ship tours, and we had to go the pace of the slowest.

[Homosassa]

There is always a chance of narrow minded bigoted people wherever you go. Hopefully, there will be none on board. 

 

Just ignore them if there are.

 

I don't know where you are planning to cruise. Definitely check out the ports for any potential on shore pitfalls.

 

In any case, we are cruising next summer and we are bring our daughter and son-in-law. Both are in their thirties and  are educators.

[molymoo]

 

Although I am well into my "golden" years I travel with my daughter who is in her 30's.  We have done many Viking cruises and although she is definitely in the minority there have almost always been other cruisers in her age range.  Most passengers are seasoned travelers and we have found that generally pretty progressive and I would guess you would have no problems.  I've seen a lot of tattoos onboard and roller derby would make for fascinating dinner conversation!

 

Honestly, go and have a wonderful time ... we love Viking for the very reasons your are drawn to it ... easy travel and time to relax while you see the world.  The excursions in the ports are varied and while we generally avoid the "bus only" tours there are a lot offered that are walking tours with an option to stay in town on your own after the tour ... we did that in Dublin this summer and it was one of the most fun afternoons we had on the trip ... it's true that the craic is mighty in Dublin!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[PlanoTim]

My wife and I (both under 60) cruised on Viking Sea this year with 3 of my siblings and their spouses (all older).  As a party of 8 we made our own fun wherever we were – Torshaven, Explorers Lounge, etc.  But my wife and I speculated a couple of times that had we been traveling alone (just the two of us) and if the band that played in Torshaven had been lousy, then evenings might have been kind of boring.  The band was SUPER and our party of 8 had a great time. 

 

The entertainment options are more limited on a Viking Ocean ship than on the larger cruise ships with many thousands of passengers.  That can be a blessing or a curse depending on you and what you want out of the cruise.

 

Hope that helps some.

[FlaGirl13]

On 10/23/2018 at 12:52 PM, jextdo said:

My spouse and I are considering a VO cruise, but I'm a bit concerned whether it's the right choice for us, and I was hoping you all might be able to offer some insight. We're in our early 30s, young professionals in higher education, and have each lived overseas, and we're drawn to VO because we're desperately in need of a real vacation - an escape where everything is taken care of and logistics are only as much of a concern as we want them to be. We've both taken cruises before on mass market lines (with our families, when we were children) and all of the typical Viking selling points attract us (fabulous food, gorgeous, well-designed ships, and no up-selling, nickel-and-diming, photographers, children, casino, etc.) The cost would usually put it out of our reach, but we're fortunate to be able to consider it right now and want to do something special to truly escape from normal concerns, to make a space where we can rest and focus on each other. 

 

My concern, though, is whether we'll fit in enough to enjoy the experience. I know that we're considerably younger than the typical Viking cruiser, but that doesn't worry me - we work and socialize with folks of all ages and are interested in talking to anyone who is interested in seeing us as fellow humans. But we aren't terribly normal-seeming; we're queer, my spouse is trans, and we're simultaneously serious professionals and visibly tattooed roller derby enthusiasts. I've read all the dress code threads where people are offended by others entering the MDR in jeans, and I don't want to plan a dreamy getaway together and then be ostracized because of gender presentation. (Or other sorts of presentation or fashion sense. Or anything, really.)

 

What do you think? Is Viking an experience we can enjoy? Or would we be wise to consider other cruise lines and vacation alternatives?

A cruise is what YOU make it.  If this is a serious (?) post , you shouldn’t be concerned what other people think.  

[trav25]

A cruise line like this you don’t generally find the hungover party people. Most of us are well traveled and enjoy meeting other people and care more about the ports and traveling  than late night partying. It’s wonderful fun and better than the ships who nickel and dime you. They don’t have a formal night. We can do that at home and don’t want to waste luggage space. I learn a lot from other travelers. 

[Morganw42]

I'd say go for it!  We're a young at heart early 40s couple and were on the very young end of a transatlantic crossing on the QM2, on which we had an absolutely wonderful time.  Don't worry too much about age differences.  We're taking our first Viking Ocean cruise in June 2019,  when is yours?  We're LGBT allies and totally ok with tattoos, piercings, and roller derby.

[Marykatesmom]

On 10/24/2018 at 12:07 PM, MarkTapley said:

I don’t think you should be concerned about how others will view you.  But I do share deec’s concerns about the ship’s tours, particularly the included ones.  During our recent 8 week trip on Orion, we booked tours on our own for all the major sites.  Worked out great, because we went at a much faster pace with a small group.  And it’s really easy to book with other CC folks once you pick a cruise and join the Roll Call thread for that cruise.  We did go on several ship tours, and we had to go the pace of the slowest.

That was what I was thinking.  I'm sorry but if you can barely walk and need a cane you should not sign up for a excursion labeled "demanding".  It isn't fair to the other passengers.  We had to crawl along at a snail's pace which, not only prevented us from seeing some things but made it rather boring.

 

I've only been on one VO and I would worry not worry one bit about the other passengers.  Several of our travel party was gay and they thought it was "awash in the gay" their words.  Apparently the idea of a ship without children is very appealing to that demographic.  

 

Unlike other cruises there are plenty of two top tables in the dining room so my daughter and I never once had to dine with anyone else.  If you have been on other cruises the ship will seem very empty.  Except for the bars, there really isn't an opportunity for much socialization amongst passengers.     

 

Except for Torshaven, there is very little night life. All the other bar area's are actually quite quiet.

 

Go and enjoy!

[ZipGirl]

Jextdo....I think you have heard some good information from the kind folks here, but I'll address this from the perspective of a lesbian couple who shared your same concerns when we took our first cruise in our 30's. I think your post also reflects the particularly trying times for the trans-community in particular.

 

In the 90's we took our first cruise and had concerns about how we would be treated by staff and fellow cruisers alike on a mainstream cruise. We were delightfully surprised to find crew and staff were nothing but gracious and kind. Our fellow cruisers either didn't take notice or did not bring it up (to our face). In fact, we discovered many fellow gays on board either "accidentally" or via "Friends of Dorothy" gatherings for LGBTQ cruisers on board. We had such a good time, we have returned to cruising numerous times since.

 

But not every cruise was as pleasant as the first on Celebrity. I have found Holland America tends to have more socially/politically conservative passengers. Being obligated to sit with strangers created unpleasant situations....because we are very out and do not tolerate derogatory comments from table mates. As a result, we prefer to eat at a table for two or travel with friends. But aside from some dining snafus, 95% of all our experiences have been great! Age is just a number, and the variety and perspectives of your fellow cruisers is not age related. We've had great conversations across all ages....and we are, ourselves, approaching senior status.

 

And I will also point out that even LGBTQ cruises have their share of unpleasant people. The one time we took an Olivia cruise we had to change our dining assignment three times until we found the right mix. But even on an all womyn's cruise, the staff was just great.

 

My wife and I are sailing Viking for the first time next summer (Norway...here we come!). Everything I have read about the line just seems like it's going to be a delightful, relaxing cruise. We especially appreciate no casino and ample tables for two!

 

If you have not checked out the special interest boards, check them out for the Gay & Lesbian board (hmmmm Cruise critic needs to modernize that board title). I have found the members of Cruise Critic to be very generous and honest in their comments. You have started your exploration at a good place!

[philw1776]

jextdo,

Yes, you'll find mostly us geezers on Viking.  This has never been a problem to adventurous younger folk aboard, as those couples in their 20s or 30s I've met on most every Viking ocean and river cruise have always seemed to really enjoy themselves.

 

Most Viking tours are fairly loose (you have a quiet vox headset and can wander away)  Plus there's almost always time on your own so the more physically fit have ample opportunities to walk further & explore more on your own before returning to the ship.  We do that a lot. Viking offers shuttles to/from ship to downtown so you can also explore COMPLETELY on your own for more adventure.  Onboard Viking folks will supply you with maps & advice. Consider trying to find more adventurous tours OR better yet, book a couple private tours that might have more activity.  

[Homosassa]

On 11/1/2018 at 3:02 PM, ZipGirl said:

 

But not every cruise was as pleasant as the first on Celebrity. I have found Holland America tends to have more socially/politically conservative passengers. Being obligated to sit with strangers created unpleasant situations....because we are very out and do not tolerate derogatory comments from table mates. 

 

 

LOL - as a frequent HAL cruiser, I do not resemble that remark.

 

However, I do have a personal theory that because Princess and HAL were marketed toward the same socioeconomic groups that Carnival Corp is slowly positioning HAL to be the bridge line between the lower entry level cruise lines and the cruise lines that are geared for more experienced cruisers.

 

You can see the different in the threads on the HAL forum. While not as many as on the Carnival board, there is definitely  an increase in drinking oriented threads, sports questions, Fox channel availability (there is your mind set tip off), etc.; then there use to be.

 

I do have to say that on my last Zuiderdam cruise in January 2018, there was a fellow passenger that wore a certain red baseball cap the first few days of the cruise. Its appearance caused enough discussion among the passengers (he must be on the wrong ship...)  and confrontations that ship staff asked him to not wear the cap.

 

 

[broker1217]

I think Viking is very well-suited for you!

We did our first cruise ever on Viking for the same reasons you stated--no kids, no casino, no nickel and diming, serene ships with plenty of private space. It was so quiet and peaceful with plenty of places to relax.

 

Which itinerary are you choosing?

 

We did a transatlantic which typically skews older, but there were multi-generational families and some younger couples. So age-wise I think you will feel comfortable. Maybe the music is a little 'old'---I am 60 and felt the music acts were more suited to people in their 70's or 80's. So we skipped the shows and enjoyed the live music in the atrium.

 

The excursions---well, they were hit or miss. They were fine for an overview of the ports but you may want to either book a private excursion or walk around on your own.

 

As far as orientation and appearance---no big deal. Our cruise had many gay couples and I saw tattoos on plenty of people. I think the demographic of Viking is pretty much educated, well-travelled, and well-mannered. 

Keep in mind that you will be traveling with Woodstock era folks---we are fairly non-judgmental 🙂

I have adult children your age, so tattoos are pretty unremarkable to me since so many people have them.

[auscgguysgirl]

We've been wondering the same thing.  My husband and I are both 49, both working professionals, tatted and pierced and really enjoy cruising.  We want to see other areas of the world and just not into the party crowd.  Don't get me wrong, we can throw down w/ the best when we want to, but we are more & more increasingly turned off by the rowdy, barfing in the hallways, rude and obnoxious people we see on some of the cruises we've been on.

 

On 10/29/2018 at 4:05 PM, Morganw42 said:

I'd say go for it!  We're a young at heart early 40s couple and were on the very young end of a transatlantic crossing on the QM2, on which we had an absolutely wonderful time.  Don't worry too much about age differences.  We're taking our first Viking Ocean cruise in June 2019,  when is yours?  We're LGBT allies and totally ok with tattoos, piercings, and roller derby.

 

You sound like our kinda group ... lol. 

 

On 11/3/2018 at 9:09 AM, Homosassa said:

LOL - as a frequent HAL cruiser, I do not resemble that remark.

 

However, I do have a personal theory that because Princess and HAL were marketed toward the same socioeconomic groups that Carnival Corp is slowly positioning HAL to be the bridge line between the lower entry level cruise lines and the cruise lines that are geared for more experienced cruisers.

 

You can see the different in the threads on the HAL forum. While not as many as on the Carnival board, there is definitely  an increase in drinking oriented threads, sports questions, Fox channel availability (there is your mind set tip off), etc.; then there use to be.

 

 

Thus far, we've only cruised Carnival.  Mainly b/c I was working toward Platinum before I switched to get the perks.  It has not gotten better in the last few years to say the least.  I will be Platinum this year but seriously looking to switch lines.  We enjoy cruising, but the best cruise we've taken (ship wise) was our 1st on the Valor.  If we had taken any of our other cruises 1st, we probably wouldn't have cruised again.  Although late 40's we still feel like 20's and are adventurous and athletic.  We want something classier ... that doesn't feel like a Walmart cruise, if that makes sense.  Fox channel availability???  Seriously???  We don't resemble that remark.  LOL

[Peregrina651]

Should we try Viking as young professionals?

 

Yes, if for no other reason than to meet old professionals.