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3.2 615 Reviews

Viking River Cruises Complaints Summary

326 Resolved
288 Unresolved
Our verdict: While Viking River Cruises has an above-average resolution rate, there’s room for improvement. Investigate common issues reported by customers and understand how they were resolved. Be prepared to follow up on your queries if needed, and keep detailed records of all interactions.
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9:46 am EDT
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Viking River Cruises Lack of respect and follow up

we booked a river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest July 2017. Our cruise started with the ship Lif, very nice people and food Quiet ship no noise or vibration. Now after about 5 days the river is low and we must move via bus to the ship Aigers. Understandable BUT HERE is the kick in the groin we were bused for hours and when we arrived at the new ship the staff had the worst attitude and no respect. My room was extremely noisy from the engines and vibrated very bad. I brought this up with Klaus the hotel manager who came to my room and said he did not hear anything I told him of course not WE WERE DOCKED AND THE ENGINES WERE OFF, still very demeaning and intimidating behavior towards us. I told him I did not sleep the first 2 nights and was sleeping in the lounge any chance I get. The passenger across the hall also complained and they were moved to a quieter room also the folks a couple of doors down, NONE OF MY CONCERNS WERE ADDRESSED. I emailed Viking asked them to step in and help me out before the end of my cruise to this date 8 days later I have NOT heard a peep from them, I was the FIRST to bring this concern to the manager but he was so rude he should NOT be in the people business. Why does viking treat me like garbage I will do everything in my power to ensure no one else gets treated like we were. I will advocate a total anti viking. Oh and this is my third submission let us see how soon the will react.

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10:21 pm EDT
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Viking River Cruises Three card monty exercize in trying to book a danube waltz river cruise

We received a travel brochure from Viking River Cruises on july7th and after looking it over we decided on a late April Danube Waltz river cruise.
The brochure, on page 21, listed for April 2018 a two for one price of $2849 for a veranda B suite .
We decided today on July 27th that we would reserve the veranda B suite for April 20th cruise.
We called the reservation number and we were told that there were only veranda A suite left so we went for it since the change was only $100. We went through the information exchange and we decided to add a 3 day stay in Prague for $703/person then the fun started the price we were given was not the brochure price but a new price of $3549. After the agent had us send him a picture of the brochure page so he could discuss it with his manager. He called us back and he informed us that the $2849 price listed was only for the cruise on April 3rd and that the rest of the month was was all booked up contrary to the fact that he already had given us a suite # for the April 20th cruise. The top of the price listing page states that the prices are by month.
This is not the type of service that we expected from the winner of the Traveler Award 2017 and five other award.

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Update by Ermanno Petocchi
Jul 28, 2017 12:55 pm EDT

Are you telling me that the brochure was intended to bait an switch me ?

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1:04 pm EDT
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Viking River Cruises Travel docs

This is my second complaint for viking. After reaceiving our flight information close to 30 days late. I called to update our address the customer service rep assured me after 45 mins that it was update. They weren't. And our travel docs got delivered to our old address. I will have to say I am very unimpressed with Viking and how they have handled themselves. This may be the only Viking cruise we do!

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5:57 am EDT
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Viking River Cruises Did not have a flight when arriving at the airport.

My wife and I are currently on a bus shuttle from Paris airport - to another Paris (cdg). We were given our paper in our room with a flight which I do have with me still. We arrived at the airport to find out it was incorrect information. Now we are having to run around to make it home much later. We are a family of 10 traveling and 8 of us all got separated when we had payed extra to be all on same flight and sitting together. [protected]@yahoo.com [protected] is my contact information.

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8:51 am EDT
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Viking River Cruises Air services

All over Vikings website states that you will receive Your booked flights no later than 75 days out. The rest of my party that was true. We are now close to 50 days out and still have not received our flights. I have called weekly with still no resolution or explination. So I can only assume at this point that we will be plane hopping all the way to Europe if Viking can't get it together. Is this normal? I find it very disturbing that no one can even give me an explination as to why this has occurred. Booking # 4097569

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7:49 pm EDT
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Viking River Cruises Don't buy viking's travel insurance: trip mate

We paid for Viking's Amsterdam to Basel trip (Booking number 4227928), including travel insurance with their partner Trip Mate. We were to depart April 20th. In March our son was told he needed heart surgery, and that it is scheduled for April 20th. We had more than 30 days notice, so Viking quickly refunded 1/2 the fare. We filed a claim with Trip Mate online, and we received notice May 4th that they had received the surgeon's Attending Physician Statement. On June 23 rd we receive a letter from Trip Mate requiring another Attending Physician's Statement, this time from the doctor caring for our son on the date of the claim. And, a request that we tell them our relationship to the patient (I guess they couldn't find that on their own claim form). I can only assume that Viking condones Trip Mate's business practices, since they promote it use and collect payment for them. It was was enough we had to face our son having heart surgery, but now we have to deal with Trip Mate's seemingly endless requirements in order to be paid the amount we are due. And we have no recourse, but to continue to jump through their hoops and hope eventually we will be reimbursed what we are owed.

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1:30 pm EDT
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Viking River Cruises Upcoming trip 4419896

We just received notice that the excursion we had REALLY been looking forward to has been cancelled..."Day in the Beaujolais". There was no explanation of why this was cancelled.

Is there a plan to replace this excursion with something similar? For now, we are booked into the included excursion but we really wanted the all day excursion.

Please consider restoring this tour! I know there were others who had booked it because several of our friends had also booked it.

Thanks for considering,

Louise Perry & Tom Bruno

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10:28 am EDT
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Viking River Cruises Misinformation and poor customer service

We are booked on Passage to Eastern Europe in November and have been attempting to add the pre-tour extension to Transylvania. We have been told it is sold out, even though we were told first that it would not be bookable until last January, then never informed when it did open for booking. This morning at 9:40 we received a call from Viking that the booking was open and assured that there were two bookings as we are traveling with friends. We called our friends, then immediately called the agent back to reserve our booking. This within 10 minutes. Our call went to voice mail. We attempted five additional times over a period of the next 50 minutes to contact the agent, each time going to voice mail. Of course, when we were finally connected at 10:29 the booking was closed. Our friends were able to book their extension through their travel agent and not through Viking agents. This is the last of a series of missteps on Viking's part. The agent said she was "sorry, " but sorry does not get us on the trip.

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5:47 pm EDT
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Viking River Cruises Flight arrangements for group

Booked 6 cabins - Prague to Paris July 2017
This is our 3rd Viking river Cruise, and our 1st using their flight service. Ten of us received our flight arrangements and they came through with Lufthansa. I spoke to our travel agent and explained that I had been reviewing flights and that there was one that we really liked (and it was less expensive) using Air France/Delta.
We were still waiting for the last 2 people to be assigned their flights. When he checked, he had their flight assignment and it was on that Very one that I had told him about. So now we have 10 people on 1 flight and 2 people on a different flight.
He called the flight department at Viking and was told that if the 10 of us wanted to be on that flight that we would all have to pay a fee, which would amount to $50 per person / $500 for the 10 of us.
With a group of us booking like this, I have a hard time understanding this. Viking always says they don't want to nickel & time people, that is why they price their cruises the way they do. Is there anyone out there that can help us please?

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Update by MaryNR
Apr 21, 2017 7:20 pm EDT

Update: Viking called me today and is working on a resolution. I have to commend the customer service for a job well done.

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Viking River Cruises Ignoring written request to delete from all mailings

Six months ago I requested to be removed from any and all mailings due to disability and reduction of refuse materials I have to deal with. I sent copies of shipping pages and all pertinent information. Since that time the deluge started and now the quantity doubled.

Stop mailings to:

Dorothy walkovits
2865 andrea drive
Allentown, pa 18103

Supposed customer#[protected] (never a customer)
(source code 23ctzr, 18azw3

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Update by Doro Walkovits
Apr 08, 2017 12:13 pm EDT

Not sent by person listed

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3:12 pm EDT
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Viking River Cruises Changing cruise due to medical reason

My parents purchased a Viking river cruise to leave in April 2017 booking # 4408979. My mother had to have EMERGENCY surgery yesterday which lasted 7 1/2 hours. Her doctors informed her that she absolutely cannot travel, especially out of the country, and they would be happy to provide letters stating that fact for her. She is not going to be able to go on this trip in April. This is the very first time she has not purchased any type of insurance with her cruise. When I called Viking to ask them if there was anyway I could change, not cancel, but change their booking to another time I was told absolutely not. they are totally out of luck and will not receive any type of refund for the 4000+ dollars they spent nor can they pay a fee and change their booking. I do you understand that insurance was not purchased, but I am totally and completely baffled by the inability from Viking to take into consideration literally a life-threatening situation and not letting someone change their booking. I clearly I'm not happy about the situation and was not happy speaking with the agent on the phone. When I asked who I needed to go ahead and speak to above her I was just told a manager. She came back on the phone saying that she had spoke with the manager and there was nothing they could do because of the bike and cancellation policy. I totally lost my temper and just hung up because I am getting, and understand but I may still get nowhere. You can rest assured that my parents will not be traveling with Viking ever again if I cannot get a resolution, nor will anyone that I know or even talk to. As a dental hygienist you can be be sure I will share this story with everyone I come into contact with and the lack of customer service and compassion shown by this company. I am sure I will get a whole explaination about the cancellation policy and insurance, but warn you to not even respond if that is what you are coming back with. I would have truly appreciated talking with a manager, but was not given that opportunity. I am cautioning people like my parents who worked hard and saved so they could take these types of trips in their retirement to find another cruise line or option.

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Update by PdrKar
Mar 28, 2017 9:48 am EDT

I have been contacted by Kory at Viking Cruises Corporate offices. Kory has gone above and beyond (excellant customer service) in my opinion and we are working towards a resolution, so I am going to mark this complaint as resolved for now.

Update by PdrKar
Mar 27, 2017 3:48 pm EDT

Thank you so much for the message. I am currently awaiting a call back (unfortunately playing phone tag) from your representative. If I do not hear from her (although I am quite sure we will connect soon) I will be sure to send an e-mail as suggested. I appreciate your concern and look forward to speaking with somone.

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Kory Robinson from Viking Cruises corporate office has been in contact with me by phone (1-877-668-4546), and we are working towards a resolution in regards to my parents cruise. I understand that they are under no obligation to do anything for my parents, but due to extenuating circumstances she is willing to discuss options once my parents are able to make some decisions in that regards. After my initial horrid experience with VRC customer service I was truly concerned, but Kory's excellant customer service & concern for my parents situation has renewed my hopes that we will come to some type of agreement.

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amhelmer
, US
Mar 24, 2017 4:27 pm EDT

My husband and I love cruising and a European river cruise is next on our list. After reading this review we will be looking into alternatives to Viking River Cruises. You would think they could at least let this poor couple reschedule their trip for a fee. Medical emergencies are stressful enough with out additional worries. After I read this review I looked online and saw that when AARP got involved other people without insurance had been allowed a refund for medical emergencies. I would say that sets a precedence.
I don't understand why this lady was treated so poorly. If I do business with a company I expect to be able to speak with a manager if that is my request. That's just good business
Viking River Cruises needs to spend less times making pretty commercials for PBS and more time on customer service.

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Viking River Cruises Not disclosing age policy anywhere

My mother and mother in law have gone on two wonderful Viking River Cruises in Europe over the last several years. Last summer they took my 14 year old daughter on a river cruise in France. They are both in their 80s and planned to take my younger daughter (who will be 13) on a cruise next year. It took a lot of coordinating to figure out a cruise and date that will work. You can imagine their incredible disappointment when they were told they could not book the ocean cruise they wanted because Viking has a strict policy of 18 and over on ocean cruises. This information is not listed anywhere in their catalogues or website. In fact on the website it says minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. This is discriminatory and an example of non-disclosure. Agents in the complaint department were not helpful - they could't even say why this is Viking's policy.

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Anita Bawnghit
, US
Mar 16, 2017 1:42 pm EDT

http://www.vikingcruises.com/terms-conditions/index.html

Look under the children and minors policy. Clear as day

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Viking River Cruises viking insurance

I am the owner of a travel agency for over 30 years. We book with Viking Cruises often. These clients are loyal customers of Viking. They were booked on the Viking Star #4223057 sailing 11/7/16. They paid us a total of 7446.00 including cost of insurance by check (to save the 3%). We paid Viking the net amount of $6281.11 keeping our commission. The clients were forced to cancel for medical reasons on October 27, 2016 well within penalty. They filed a claim with Viking's insurance for the full amount they paid less the cost of insurance. They were refunded the amount they paid us minus the cost of the insurance minus our commission. When I spoke to "customer service" I was told that because it's " Viking's insurance" they will only refund the amount that was paid to Viking and not what the customer paid. I thought it was the customer's insurance, not Viking's. When the customer questioned the amount of the refund, I had to refund my commission directly to the customer because they paid for full coverage. I just spoke to inside sales Mia who confirmed that insurance will only refund what was paid to Viking and NOT what was paid to the travel agency for the cost of the trip. I was also told that if we would have paid the booking gross, then we would have received a check for the commission at a later date? Why would a travel agency EVER book Viking's insurance? The customer made the claim based on the cost of the trip which is how every ever insurance claim works. If our commission is protected, it should be protected and have nothing to do with whether or not the booking was paid net. Basically, I lost my commission because I chose to pay a booking net. I am very disappointed with the customer service that I received from reservations to sales rep Dianne Pearson (who never returned my call) to inside sales Mia. Very disappointing...If you are a travel agency BEWARE of Viking's warped policy!

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Update by fredtvl
Feb 24, 2017 1:13 pm EST

UPDATE! Viking cruises has agreed to return my commission after I sent them proof that I refunded the client. Thank You Kory and Mia!

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Viking has agreed to refund my commission after providing proof that I refunded the customer. Thanks Kory and Mia!

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Viking River Cruises disappearing loyalty program

I just booked my 8th river cruise with Viking and was very disappointed to find out they have discontinued their "Past Guest Travel Credit". What incentives do their loyal repeat customers now have to continue booking with them other than the cocktail reception for Explorer Society members? We are planning to book additional cruises, including ocean cruises in the future with our travel companions but what incentives does Viking offer to continue to earn my loyalty and that of the other 10 travelers that I have referred? Please consider reinstating discounts for your repeat customers.
Thank you-
Kerry Sullivan
Viking member #[protected]

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Update by Kejee
Jan 16, 2017 4:01 am EST

I was contacted by a Viking representative who explained how the January specials worked. She was very helpful and she addressed all my issues. I have always found Viking to be responsive and I will continue to be a loyal customer.

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Viking River Cruises airline ticketing and more

I have been a fan of Viking River Cruises until now. Three friends (Nancy Stegon, Sue Sheppard, and Helen Glenn) and I are traveling to Portugal this April and our airline reservations are ridiculous! We are on three flights coming and going which means a loss of time in Portugal. We have plans on April 2, but we're not getting there until 4:00 p.m.! We've called you prior to this email and you keep referring us back to our travel agent. She has done what she can, but it's still a Viking problem since you are the ones who booked our flights. We don't want to incur fees, we just want better flights. Sue Sheppard and I are traveling together from Orlando; Nancy Stegon and Helen Glenn are traveling together from Dulles. No one contacted us to see if those flights were ok with us. They are absolutely not! We all have global entry so staying at one airport for 5 hours is not an option. Please provide us with better flights so that we can enjoy our time in Portugal.

The last time we took a Viking cruise, two of us received travel documents for four of us. We are requesting you send individual docs to each of us. Otherwise, we end up mailing the docs to our friends which makes no sense.

Claire Hirata
[protected]@aol.com

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Viking River Cruises don't get sick on viking!

My husband and I were recently aboard the Viking Skirnir for the Grand European Tour beginning September 26 and ending October 10. This was our “Swan Song, ” because due to our age, we knew we couldn’t take another trip like this.

When we arrived in Vienna, my husband became suddenly and extremely ill with what we later learned was pneumonia. The doctor that Verona, the concierge, called came to our stateroom, observed my husband on the floor and said, “I’m a doctor. I don’t pick people up.” Then he charged me 100 Euros, leaving me with three Euros. I asked him to call an ambulance, which he did, because my husband was feverish and unable to rise from the floor. He is nearing 90, so of course, I was extremely worried about him, and I was sick, too. Verona did nothing to help us in any way. She told me I would have to find my own way back to the US. I asked her how I should do that, and she said to call my travel agent. Viking was my travel agent! She also said I would have to find a way to get to Budapest to pack up our things and get them back to Vienna. She told me that a taxi would be too expensive, and I should take a train, but didn’t tell me where I could find a train station. She made no suggestion where I might find a hotel in Vienna, or anyone I could call to get some advice as to how I might manage alone in Vienna. Nor did she call my emergency number to notify my daughter what had happened to us. Why do we give emergency contacts to Viking? Our children were terrified. Meanwhile, on the third day, Verona called me to say I could pick up my belongings when the ship made its return trip to Vienna. She knew all along that the ship was coming back, but she let me worry over how I was going to get to Budapest to get our things. My blood pressure was 228/110 and I had to make two trips to the emergency room for IVs to try to lower it. I’ve never been so alone and so worried in my life.

My husband was in the hospital for 10 days, when we were finally discharged to return home, but unfortunately I have only the memory of being an old woman completely helpless in Vienna without even a hint of concern or assistance and unable to speak the language. Would Verona have wanted her mother to have been put in this situation? My letter to Viking about this was sent a month ago, but it has has gone unanswered. No one takes a cruise thinking there would be an emergency, but Verona surely could have recommended a hotel in Vienna or had someone accompany us to translate.

We will never be able to take another cruise, and I will be insulted if I'm offered a coupon for dollars off another trip that we can't take.

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Update by Whittletree
Dec 17, 2016 9:07 am EST

It was those first three critical days when I heard from no one and had no one to turn to that created my problems in a foreign country with nowhere to go, no money, no knowledge of where I could find an ATM, and absolutely no one I could call to help me in any way. Those first days will remain a trauma for me forever.

Update by Whittletree
Dec 15, 2016 5:42 pm EST

Verona, your representative did nothing for three days. It was after that when she called me to tell me the ship would be coming back to Vienna. Wasn't she aware of that when she directed me to find my way to Budapest to pick up my belongings? For three days, I was left thinking that was something I was to take care of. It was only after I returned to the ship to get my things that she gave me a number to call for a return flight. I had made notes on my phone as each thing took place when and after I left the ship. Those first three days were critical, when I had nowhere to sleep, nowhere to eat and no one to ask how to make my way in Vienna, where I didn't speak the language. Someone should have advised me about what to do, or better yet, accompany me until I was settled. I've learned this is what other ships do, and the person rejoins his ship later. There's just no way to explain away those first three days of helplessness and fear.

Update by Whittletree
Dec 12, 2016 8:30 am EST

First, one doesn't take a cruise thinking of sickness, especially since neither of us has ever been seriously ill before, and everything we had read and been told, said a member of the staff would accompany us off the ship to see we were settled, and they could get back to the ship at the next stop.
Secondly, at no time would I have had the effrontery to expect the cruise to pause for me. I certainly would have been annoyed if It had stopped for any one person.
Thirdly, I didn't ask anyone to pick up my husband, not even the doctor. All I wanted was to get him to the hospital. The doctor didn't even touch him or talk to him. I was the one who asked the doctor to call the ambulance. In my mind that was pretty arrogant.
Yes, I agree that no one on the ship should have tried to pick him up, and I didn't suggest that.
Our last cruise was about ten years ago. At that time, a gentleman had a heart attack. The crew was incredibly kind and thoughtful of him. In other words they treated him with the courtesy one would expect from another human being.
As for having a "plan of attack, " even if I had one, I sure wouldn't have had the name of a hotel near the hospital in Vienna in my arsenal. :-). As I left the ship in the ambulance, Verona said I'd have to find my way home; I'd have to find a way to get to Budapest to pick up my things ( when she knew that wasn't necessary), and I was to pay for the incidentals we had incurred on the trip. In other words, she couldn't wait one more day to call me and tell me those things. It had to be right then, when I was in a panic. She had my phone number and my credit card number, and the insurance did organize our flight home accompanied by a rescue nurse, so were any of her comments necessary?
Thanks for your comments, though.

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Viking River Cruises Romantic danube disappointment!

We took this Viking Var Romantic Danube River Cruise for my husband's birthday and our 25th wedding anniversary, from Nuremberg (well actually Erlangen) to Budapest. Having seen the beautiful Viking commercials on television for years, we were enticed. It was our first ever cruise and we wanted an 8 day river cruise due to the fact that we are both easily sea sick. However, the ads do NOT show the whole picture and the experience was also spoiled by no air conditioning for 3 days on our side of the boat, because they could not get the right part. No A/c in August meant 2 sleepless nights, as they could not provide us with a fan. One night we left the balcony door open for cool air but ended up with a cabin ceiling covered in black gnats! We went to the front desk as we did not know what to do with them and they brought a vacuum to suck them up expertly-obviously they had done this before!
Our Romantic Danube cruise actually starts out on the Main Am Danube canal which is not very attractive (although interesting when you go through the 27 locks) -certainly not the vine-covered hills we were expecting to be looking at as we sat on our balcony. The first day we were tied up at an industrial dock opposite a recycling plant-see pics at Erlangen-half an hour from the pretty city of Nuremberg. We had paid extra for the balcony room, but did not use it that day as we did not want to sit looking at a corrugated iron fence for a whole day. It soon became apparent that the balcony was a waste of money as we could not use it 4/7days due to being tied up next to another boat which were exactly aligned so you could see into each other boat's cabins and no doubt touch hands on the balcony-hardly private and certainly not Romantic!
The cabin was cosy but well appointed, with plenty of storage so that we could get our things put away. The bathroom was very compact, but again had good storage and sufficed for us, though we are not sure how large or tall men got into the shower! Although it was described in the brochures that wifi was available-it really was only available when docked and pretty sketchy at other times, although we did find one corner of the lounge (beneath the captain's bridge!) with better reception. Other indoor areas of the ship were attractive, which was fortunate as we were unable to sit on the sun deck for most of the trip due to the high water and the inability to get under bridges, unless they laid everything flat, which took the crew 3-4 hours to do apparently. Again something not really described in the brochure.
Meals on board were indeed fine dining, but as big time foodies, we could not really classify the dinners as gourmet. For example, they never asked you how you liked your meat and at the first dinner they overcooked everyone's steak and fish. Moments of excellence however were the pastry chef's creations for tea and dinner and the breakfast and lunch buffets, with interesting salads, fresh fruit, and freshly prepared egg dishes or sandwiches and soups. The first day buffet lunch was a particularly nice welcome. Service was generally good and we quickly learned who were the best servers and most friendly. There were a few who were obviously in training (reaching across your plate when you were still eating etc) Meeting new people at dinner was one of the best aspects of the trip. We had thought at first, it would rather be like middle-school, trying to find someone to sit with in the dining room, but we found nearly every passenger to be open and friendly and we could easily find a topic to discuss.
The tours were generally well run and interesting and we only had one guide (on a rainy day in Vienna) that was tiresome and confusing with his spiel about the Hapsburg dynasty (even for a history major like myself). Everyone else seemed to balance out the history and interesting facts about the area and country. The expensive optional tours, we chose: Cruising the Danube Narrows, Schoenbrunn Palace in Vienna and the Apricot Dumpling making at the Gottweig Abbey, were excellent. However, we felt the organization of the first days' tours were poor: we would have liked to have taken the optional tour of the Nuremberg WWII history but it was at the same time ( Saturday morning) as the included City tour, because we had to sail in the afternoon to get to the next dock. However, if, as we reported, we had spent the first day tied up in Nuremberg and started the whole cruise there, instead of Erlangen opposite the recycling plant, we could have Saturday afternoon to do the optional tour. We could have then sailed in the evening and night. We know this fact as we met a couple from California on the Sunday who had missed the first 2 days due to their plane from LA being cancelled and they had to try and get to the boat at Nuremburg, but the boat was not there and they had to be bussed on again to Regensburg-and they might have been able to join the boat on Saturday evening in Nuremberg. It should also be noted most of the tours left at 8-830 which did not invite a leisurely morning. In addition, since the boat was not docked in center of city (except for Budapest), it meant a bus ride of at least 30 minutes to get to the attraction. Due to the high water one day we were bussed 1 1/2 hours to the city of Regensburg- and then another 1/1/2 hours to rejoin the boat which finally was able to make its way down to the correct dock after sailing all day. My husband was so frustrated to have yet another long bus ride-he actually picked the option of staying on the boat, but of course missed his already- paid for tour. In fact, the commercial’s voice over "Spend more time being there and less time getting there..." kept going around in our heads through out the cruise!
Entertainment on the boat in the evening was low key, but enjoyable with talks about the EU, the Canal, and coffee houses of Vienna, music and trivia quizzes and delightful musical entertainment from an opera group and Bavarian band, as well as the resident Sonya, singer and piano player. Tatiana, our program director kept the up beat spirit going through out the trip.
Our last night in Budapest was probably the epitome of the commercial, when the captain took us for a "romantic" cruise around the illuminated sights of the city, narrated by Tatiana. The views were spectacular and we were glad that we ended with Budapest, rather than taking the cruise in the opposite direction, otherwise we would have felt we had gone from the "sublime to the ridiculous."
We have travelled to Europe for over 25 years, due to having family still there, so have experienced many aspects of traveling abroad and while this cruise was enjoyable, it was certainly not the once-in-a lifetime trip that was advertised in their commercial and that we had long awaited. We feel that Viking should elaborate more on the exact details of the trip and the inconveniences of being tied up, alongside other boats, in industrial areas requiring a bus trip to the attraction. When we contacted Viking customer service on our return, they only would give us a future credit of a $1000 off another trip for the lack of air-conditioning for 3 days-so really not compensation for the most expensive and disappointing trip we have ever taken. We are not sure we will repeat it for my decade birthday next year…..

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Viking River Cruises Travel documents mailed to wrong address for october 1, 2016 river cruise

My recent customer experience with Viking challenges the notion that they provide the “award winning” customer service they claim. My story begins with the purchase nearly 18 months ago of a two week Viking River Cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam. After the $16, 000+ purchase, we received frequent emails about the countries we were going to visit. So far so good as the emails were informative and helpful. The emails also instructed us to complete a Guest Information Form online as soon as possible which we did. When we moved a few months ago, I promptly updated the Guest Information Form to reflect our new address. I assumed they would use this information to verify our address before sending our travel documents. Wrong! When some friends received their travel documents last week but we had not, I contacted our travel agent. The travel agent contacted Viking. Viking indicated their systems do not work together and essentially it was too bad but we were out of luck. Yes, we had filed a forwarding address with the Post Office but the mail was delivered to the old address anyway – but that is another story. I contacted Viking myself through email and they sent me what appeared to be a form letter, not addressing my concerns. They said they could send the documents to the new address if there was sufficient time and for a fee (they didn’t say how much) but I would need to contact my travel agent. To be fair, they assured me that the documents were not needed to board the ship but that is beside the point. According to my friends, the travel document package does provide some important information about what to pack, our specific stateroom and some items like luggage tags. In my opinion their failure to verify the address before sending it is really a process problem on their part. It was not my error. Further, their unwillingness to simply remedy the problem by sending it to the proper address is more akin to substandard rather than their self-proclaimed “award winning” service. There is more than six weeks before we embark on our trip and I am asking that they correct their error and send the documents to the correct address.

Denise Harrison
Customer number 2592764

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Update by Denise Harrison
Aug 18, 2016 3:08 pm EDT

Update from Denise Harrison - I was contacted this evening by Viking Cruises and Costco and our travel documents will be resent to our new address. The Viking representative I spoke with, Corey, was helpful, concerned, and courteous. I look forward to receiving the documents in the near future and also look forward to our first cruise with Viking.

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JustMe3333333
, US
Aug 18, 2016 1:10 pm EDT

SUGGESTION for both travelers and Viking... SIGNATURE NEEDED, return receipt mail. Viking- you are sending documents that need to be received by a human being, choose your delivery method accordingly. The post office, in general mail, is NOT a responsible entity (they are government, not delivery professional). By leaving at a door step, or not in a person's hand... you are lending a hand to burglary... docs which clearly state? when a person is out of the country and not at home. Travelers: Never assume any company will guide your travel correctly, they exist for $$$$$ and are not your BFF, parent or spouse. Better luck to everyone in future voyages.

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Happy Travelers
, US
Aug 18, 2016 8:31 am EDT

If that throws you off, your trip and pretty much any international travel is doomed. Get over it and don't let that insignificant incident ruin what should otherwise be a wonderful trip.

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Viking River Cruises Fraud

We paid approximately $13, 000 for a veranda suite room with a balcony aboard the Viking Jarl on July 24 for 7 days (booking number 4171516) and have now been docked next to a boat or wall 3 out of 4 days and have been told that will be the case for 5 out of 7 days. This is not "occasional" dual docking as the Viking hotelier employees say is disclosed in the company policy -- it is the majority of the time the boat is docked in port. By the way there are at least 3 other Viking ships (Modi, Vili, Freya) in each port that have no other ships parked besides them. Also, the crew (Captain, second in command)informed us this morning that this problem happens to the Viking Jarl each and every trip it takes when it travels this route as nobody ever explained this to us when we booked the trip. This is fraud plain and simple as nobody ever explained this practice would happen a majority of the time. We tried to resolve the dispute directly with the hotel manager (Ms. Jdranka Brajkovic) aboard the boat by asking to switch to a more expensive room (which was empty) for the last 3 days and her answer was that they (she) could charge us more for that if we wanted to do that. Unfortunately, we now plan to contact Visa and process a chargeback dispute, which any consumer can do with Visa for valid reasons for up to 6 months. We will also be contacting the Better Business Bureau and District Attorney in Connecticut and California. Fortunately, my wife is an attorney so we know how to pursue our legal rights. Obviously, we will never, ever travel with Viking again as they are dishonest people and never informed us of the practice that our boat would be docked in such a way that our balcony that we paid for would not be usable for a majority of the time. This is such a shame as we saved for and anticipated this trip of a lifetime for over a year and are now obviously very disappointed.

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I contacted the corporate office via 800 number and the customer service rep, Stephanie Maldonado, was very, very professional and service oriented and was able to get us upgraded to another room. She emailed the boat and took care of the matter relatively quickly (within the hour). Stephanie and Viking Corporate are thankfully of high integrity and recognized and solved the problem.

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Viking River Cruises Air travel department

In August 2015 my wife and I along with three other couples from Savannah booked a 7 night Viking River Cruise from Amsterdam to Basel for $15, 491.00 per couple. At the same time our local travel agent found $4200.00 per business class flights from Savannah to Amsterdam with one stop in NYC for a 14 hour total flight time. Viking Cruise Agent Igor S. told my wife that Viking could get us from Savannah to Amsterdam in business class for $3800 per ticket with flight details to be arranged later. In order to save $600 my wife agreed to let Viking Cruise arrange our airfare. We have a September 2015 email from Viking/Igor confirming that fact. In March Viking Cruise flight team called my wife and told her that leaving from Savannah we had several choices of flights. We could go through Chicago, Detroit Washington DC or NYC. She told them to go through NYC. In May our tickets came but did not include any flights from Savannah to New York. We had business class tickets with Iberia from NYC to Amsterdam via Madrid for 12 ½ hours of flying. When I called Viking Cruise to ask about the error in ticketing they steadfastly refused to help arrange for our travel from Savannah to NYC. They claim that my wife instructed Viking to leave from NYC and not through NYC. Viking claims that the telephone call recorded my wife saying that she wanted to leave from NYC and not Savannah. Despite multiple attempts to hear the recording we were left hanging. We had already paid Viking Cruise a non refundable $23, 091.00, so my wife and I bought tickets from Savannah to NYC and had to add $850 on top of the cash we had already paid. It took 24 hours of flying in order to get from Savannah to Amsterdam. The Jet Lag was awful. Viking wrecked our cruise even before it started.
From our experience Viking Cruise does not have a customer service department. They have a customer harassment department. They made a dumb mistake and failed to correct it. By not allowing us to hear the recording that Viking Alleges has my wife asking to begin our trip in New York, they are quilty of a simple coverup. In response to an email I sent Viking, their customer service offered us a $100 on board credit at their gift shop. Stated another way, Viking caused us to pay an extra $850 for the discomfort of 10 hours of additional time spent in transit so they could sell us overpriced merchandise from their on board Viking apparel. NO THANK YOU!
NEVER AGAIN VIKING.

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Viking River Cruises In-depth Review

Header 1: Overview of Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises is a renowned cruise line that offers unforgettable journeys along some of the world's most iconic rivers. With a focus on cultural immersion and personalized experiences, Viking River Cruises is a top choice for travelers seeking a unique and enriching vacation.

Header 2: Destinations and Itineraries

Viking River Cruises offers a wide range of destinations and itineraries, allowing travelers to explore Europe, Asia, Egypt, and Russia. From the romantic Rhine River to the majestic Mekong River, each itinerary is carefully crafted to showcase the best of the region, with expertly guided shore excursions and immersive cultural experiences.

Header 3: Onboard Experience

The onboard experience with Viking River Cruises is nothing short of exceptional. The ships are elegantly designed, with spacious and comfortable cabins that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The atmosphere is relaxed and intimate, creating a sense of community among fellow travelers.

Header 4: Accommodations and Amenities

Viking River Cruises provides luxurious accommodations that are thoughtfully designed to ensure comfort and relaxation. From cozy staterooms to spacious suites, each cabin is equipped with modern amenities and offers a serene retreat after a day of exploration. The ships also feature a range of amenities, including lounges, libraries, and sun decks, providing ample space for relaxation and socializing.

Header 5: Dining Options

The dining options on Viking River Cruises are a highlight of the journey. Guests can indulge in delicious cuisine inspired by the destinations visited, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From gourmet multi-course meals to casual al fresco dining, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Header 6: Entertainment and Activities

Viking River Cruises offers a variety of entertainment and activities to enhance the onboard experience. From informative lectures and cultural performances to cooking demonstrations and wine tastings, there is always something engaging and enriching to participate in.

Header 7: Service and Staff

The service and staff on Viking River Cruises are consistently praised for their professionalism, attentiveness, and friendliness. From the moment guests step onboard, they are greeted with warm smiles and a genuine desire to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Header 8: Pricing and Value for Money

Viking River Cruises offers excellent value for money, with transparent pricing and inclusions that make budgeting for a cruise vacation hassle-free. The all-inclusive nature of the cruises, including meals, shore excursions, and Wi-Fi, ensures that guests can relax and enjoy their journey without worrying about additional costs.

Header 9: Customer Reviews and Satisfaction

Customer reviews of Viking River Cruises are overwhelmingly positive, with many guests praising the exceptional service, immersive itineraries, and luxurious accommodations. The high level of customer satisfaction is a testament to the cruise line's commitment to providing unforgettable experiences.

Header 10: Safety and Security Measures

Viking River Cruises prioritizes the safety and security of its guests. The ships are equipped with state-of-the-art navigation systems and safety features, and the crew undergoes rigorous training to ensure the well-being of passengers. Additionally, the cruise line closely monitors travel advisories and takes necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Header 11: Environmental Responsibility

Viking River Cruises is dedicated to environmental responsibility and sustainability. The cruise line has implemented various initiatives to minimize its environmental impact, including energy-efficient technologies, waste reduction programs, and partnerships with local communities to support conservation efforts.

Header 12: Booking Process and Customer Support

The booking process with Viking River Cruises is seamless and user-friendly. The cruise line's website provides detailed information about itineraries, accommodations, and pricing, making it easy for travelers to find the perfect cruise. Additionally, the customer support team is readily available to assist with any inquiries or concerns.

Header 13: Additional Services and Packages

Viking River Cruises offers a range of additional services and packages to enhance the cruise experience. From pre and post-cruise extensions to special celebrations and themed cruises, guests can customize their journey to suit their preferences and interests.

Header 14: Accessibility and Special Needs

Viking River Cruises strives to accommodate guests with special needs and disabilities. The ships are designed to be accessible, with wheelchair-friendly cabins and public areas. The crew is trained to provide assistance and support to guests with mobility challenges, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all.

Header 15: Pros and Cons of Viking River Cruises

Pros: Immersive itineraries, luxurious accommodations, exceptional service, all-inclusive pricing, cultural enrichment activities.

Cons: Limited onboard entertainment options, potential for crowded shore excursions.

Header 16: Comparison with Competitors

Viking River Cruises stands out from its competitors with its focus on cultural immersion, personalized experiences, and exceptional service. While other cruise lines may offer similar itineraries, Viking River Cruises sets itself apart with its attention to detail and commitment to creating unforgettable journeys.

Header 17: Recommendations and Conclusion

Viking River Cruises is highly recommended for travelers seeking a unique and enriching cruise experience. With its immersive itineraries, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service, Viking River Cruises offers a truly unforgettable journey along some of the world's most iconic rivers. Whether exploring Europe, Asia, Egypt, or Russia, guests are guaranteed to create lifelong memories and return home with a deeper appreciation for the destinations visited.

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