Viking Cruises

78 | Viking Explorer Society News Whether you are embarking on a river journey through Europe or an ocean voyage to far-flung destinations, here's a comprehensive guide on how to prepare to ensure you get the most out of your Viking experience. How to prepare FOR YOUR VOYAGE LOG INTO MY VIKING JOURNEY An online portal designed exclusively for you to prepare for your upcoming voyage, at My Viking Journey you can customize your travel experience, manage your booking and flights, explore life on board, book your excursions and access your important documentation. RESEARCH YOUR ITINERARY The first step in preparing for your Viking voyage is to fully understand your itinerary. Viking offers itineraries that vary in length and destination, whether it's a scenic river journey through the Danube or a coastal adventure in Scandinavia. Each location offers different activities and experiences, so research the ports of call to know what excursions or independent explorations you would like to prioritize. Check the shore excursion offerings and pre-book any must-do experiences, as some popular tours fill up quickly. PACK STRATEGICALLY Packing for a Viking voyage requires careful thought, particularly because your trip may take you through multiple climates and involve a variety of activities. For river voyages in Europe, you will want to pack comfortable walking shoes for the cobblestone streets, as many shore excursions involve walking tours. Layered clothing is essential, as weather can vary significantly from one region to another. Bring rain gear, such as a foldable poncho or compact umbrella, and do not forget to pack swimwear if your ship has spa facilities or a pool on board. If you are on an ocean voyage, you might be visiting destinations with a stronger focus on outdoor activities or beach days, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are a must. It is also worth noting that Viking ships typically have a relaxed, country-club-casual dress code, even for dinners, so leave the formal wear at home. CONSIDER TRAVEL DOCUMENTS Viking voyages can take you to a variety of countries, so it is crucial to ensure all your travel documents are in order. Ensure your passport is up to date and has at least six months' validity from your return date. GET TO KNOW THE SHIP Before you embark, familiarize yourself with the amenities and layout of your Viking ship. Whether you are on a Longship for a river voyage or one of their ocean vessels, Viking ships are designed to feel spacious and comfortable. Each ship offers complimentary meals, including wine and beer with lunch and dinner. Look into dining hours and options if you have specific dietary needs or preferences. Viking also offers cultural enrichment programs on board, such as cooking classes, lectures, and performances, so mark any that interests you. PREPARE FOR ONBOARD TECHNOLOGY Viking offers free Wi-Fi, which is a great perk, but it is good to manage your expectations. If you need reliable internet for work or communication, consider downloading offline entertainment, apps, or maps before you set sail. It is also wise to bring extra power adapters and a portable charger for your devices. Viking ships offer both 110 and 220 outlets, and USB ports so bring the necessary plug converters. Deluxe Veranda

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