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Viking River Cruises
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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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7:03 pm EST
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Viking River Cruises Misquoted and would not honor pricing

Was quoted a price to add someone to a booking, agent supposed wrote in the booking that pricing quoted was approx. rate of $4672.75. Called back after speaking with client to go over possible air schedule and reconfirmed pricing that was quoted again quoted $4672.75.
When called and gave info on person that was being added, was advised of higher pricing. Explained that was quoted a lower price by two separate agents. Agent advised that was misquoted and could not honor pricing quoted even though she could see in notes what was quoted.
Asked to speak with supervisor who again said she could read notes but that could not honor pricing, I asked for calls to be pulled as I was never told that pricing could be higher. Wanted additional $824 more than what was quoted.
Seems like no one at this company can take accountability for their mistakes.
Booking # 5384309

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Update by Lada1919
Feb 10, 2020 5:42 pm EST

Spoke with Viking Customer Relation representative who was able to assist me and get my issues with the pricing matching resolved. Client is very happy with the outcome.

Resolved

A Customer Relations representative sent me an email Monday morning that someone would be contacting me regarding my complaint. I received a phone call not long after and an email from that representative who I then called back and spoke with. Explained what had happened, he was very nice and listened to my story, placed me on hold and came back on went over details. Then he advised that they would offer the $300 in onboard credits plus refund the $524.25 to that made up the difference that had been charged. He sent me confirmation within 15 minutes showing the refund and the onboard credits.
He made a very difficult situation much better. My client was pleased with the outcome.
Thank you

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Viking Alum
Abingdon, US
Mar 01, 2020 1:04 pm EST
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In my experience Viking has a pattern of changing quotes, "forgetting" to add promotions to quotes, and otherwise sneaking in extra charges that many people probably never notice. I have spent hours going round and round with agents through chats and phone calls to get corrections. They don't do anything until you file an online complaint. This is likely because the typical customer won't bother, and they know this. They then make most of those who file complaints happy with shipboard credit.
Someone should do a study on how much of the offered shipboard credit is actually spent. If one takes only the included excursions and isn't a heavy drinker, one can take a Viking cruise without spending any additional money. If you plan to spend extra on excursions or alcohol, shipboard credit is fine. If you did not plan to spend that money in the first place, then Viking has taken advantage of you. They must be winning at this game, or they wouldn't make a pattern of the practice.
I have completed one river and two ocean Viking cruises. I have no complaints with the cruise itself, but the company employs such sleazy, questionable, and downright dishonest techniques in booking and cancellation, I will not be cruising with them again.
Beware that one of their practices is to do their best to communicate with you by phone. My advice is to use chat and keep the transcript, or e-mail them back when they call you so you will have a written record. I had to copy and paste the transcript of my last chat because the option to e-mail it to myself was no longer offered. If anything goes awry, a written record will be helpful.

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Viking River Cruises False claims on this site of resolving a previous complaint

I previously filed a complaint on this site in reference to booking number 5013849. My wife suffered a serious major medical emergency requiring surgery and we unfortunately could not embark on our previously paid in full trip chateau rivers and wine to Bordeaux, France. This site is saying my complaint had been resolved because customer service failed to repeatedly contact me. This is a total false assertion. The matter is not resolved. I did send multiple emails and madeultiple calls to all Viking management officials. No one at Viking management ever had the decency to call me back. I respectfully request reimbursement for the total amount paid by my wife and I for this trip. My wife's illness was very serious and her surgeon has sent nevessary documentation to Viking customer service. The suggestion that my complaint has been resolved and that they failed to contact me is a total misrepresentation. I was told refunds and vouchers for the amounts I previously paid would be mailed to me.by customer service. These have never arrived at my home. This matter is not resolved and my complaint beginning on October 4 has never been addressed by Viking.

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Scezney
, US
Jan 28, 2020 3:58 pm EST

This complaint has never been resolved. It is a total false assertion that it is resolved be cause Viking failed in their efforts to contact me. I have sent emails and telephoned all management officials at Viking. No one in management ever had the decency to call me back. I reapectfullt request a total reimbursement for allonies I paid previously for this trip that My wife and I were not able to complete. I talked to Megan are Customer service in October she said I would receive reimbursement and vouchers to travel on this trip at another time via the mail. I have never received these. The surgeon operating on my wife even contacted Viking. What kind of people are in management at Viking. Evidently they prefer to operate without a conscience. They have a total disregard for valid life events like emergency surgeries necessitating not being able to complete the travel as planned and previously paid for in total. I see that there are multiple complaints about terrible service and terrible customer relations on this sight. What in God's name is the matter with such people who present themselves as totally noncaring and in business just to make a buck at the customers expense. I am left with a very bad feeling about Viking.

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Viking River Cruises Rinda ship, dec 10-17 from paris

We were first time cruisers on Viking. The cruise director announced that there would be a party for repeat cruisers one evening and also said that first time cruisers were not invited and could go play board games in the library while the party was going on.
Hardly the way to make first time cruisers feel welcome and apparently did not care about the possibility of repeat cruising. These cruises are expensive and we expected to be treated well. We were not.

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Viking River Cruises American airlines flight

Our boarding passes from Santiago to Miami, Fl are attached.

We, my wife Judith Norton and myself Robert E. Norton took the Viking Jupitor cruise from Buenos Aires to Santiago on January 7-24th. Our booking number was 5764649.

We were on an economy flight AA 931 to Buenos Aires on January 6th and found it very uncomfortable for persons our age. So during the cruise, I asked one of the Guest Services agents to see if the could book our return flight from Santiago to Miami in the Economy Premium section and after checking with AA they said they could at for an additional charge of $110 per person. I asked them to do so and we were charged for the extra costs on our Viking Cruise Ship bill.
However, when we got on board at Santiago for Miami, we found our seats were still in the Economy section (see attached boarding passes). The flight attendants said they could do nothing at that point but that I should contact Viking. Hence, I am asking for a refund of the extra costs for which we did not benefit. Thank you for your help.

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Update by bob norton
Jan 27, 2020 8:35 pm EST

No further complaint. Just trying to be sure the first message went through okay.

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Viking River Cruises Booking number 5756145- imperial jewels of china cruise

We called to cancel 145 days before the departure of this cruise due to the pandemic virus in China. We spoke to several associates about this.

Viking has chosen to not make a decision on this cruise until March 20, 2020. Their decision could be to cancel this cruise or change the itinerary. One major portion of this cruise is embarkation of the cruise in Wuhan China. This location is indefinitely closed because of the seriousness of this pandemic. The date that Viking will make a decision on this cruise is beyond our cancelation date.

Viking has stated they will refund all costs except the $100 each booking fee and the $50 air plus charges. We believe Viking should refund that cost also because at this point they can not guarantee they can provide agreed upon services.

We spoke to several customer service people and supervisors and received the same canned speech of this is Vikings unwavering policy. We are repeat customers to Viking and also have recommended Viking Cruises to several of our friends.

If this is their policy no matter what we do not feel they deserve accolades of great customer service.

The only desirable solution to this complaint would be to receive a complete refund including the booking fee

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Viking River Cruises Kiev black sea and bucharest

Have decided to book this river cruise with a pre- extension in Instanbul. On Viking website it states free companion flight and complimentary silver drinks package on certain dates (plural). Our date selected 28 May, 2020 was not included. I find this false advertising and a hook to get people's attention. Viking cannot advertise this for certain dates and just have it available on one. It also smacks of agents cherry picking which clients dates to give this offer. We are considering not going ahead. Would appreciate advice.
Rina Bonner

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Update by Scottiegal
Dec 10, 2019 11:17 pm EST

So the “seasoned representative “ called me at 6.35am while I was still asleep. He agreed to call back at 11am. I waited in until 11.30 then had to go out. He hasn’t called today either. If a Viking representative cares to look me up in the system there is my mobile number and where I live. It’s not hard!

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Viking River Cruises Food health

I and my Wife took the Grand European Viking Cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam started from Nov 14 to Nov 28. One night I ate some seafood in the dinner but feel sick after the eating. I tried to complete the tour but can't make it because very uncomfortable due to sick. I didn't bother the cruise members but decide to leave the Vali ship on 11/23/2019 and return home for help. I wish you can return my cruise fee and gratuity as I paid my own ticket to back home, even lost the flight connection and delay another 12 hours to back home. (Total 28 hours to get home). This is an unpleasantness cruise experience to me. My name is [removed]. [protected]@gmail.com

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Viking River Cruises Alaskan cruise

Booking #5060647, originally booked May 22 2018
We booked a Viking Alaskan Cruise 2 years in advance, to sail June 5th, 2020. We are loyal customers and have taken 6 cruises, ocean and river. We recently received notice that the itinerary had changed for our Alaskan cruise and would no longer go to Skagway but would go to Wrangell instead. We researched Wrangell and determined that it was a big loss to us, so we called to see if we could go on the next cruise with the same itinerary (including Skagway), same month, and same category that we originally booked, at no extra charge. We had already checked to see that there were still rooms available and we were told by Matt Doyle, a Viking representative, that we could make the exchange for no extra fee. Then when we received the e-mail invoice, it said we owed $2400. I repeatedly called the rep and left messages, as well as emailed him, but he never returned my phone calls. So, after making many other phone calls, sharing our story, Viking told us that even though the rep told us it was possible, it wasn't, and furthermore, Viking doesn't honor verbal contracts! So, I asked them, "Why do you have a recorded line? What difference does it make if you aren't going to go by your word?" If this is not worked out, then we will no longer cruise with Viking and will tell all of our friends to do the same because apparently Viking no longer cares about customer service! So Viking will refund our money and in the meantime, loose yearly cruisers for $2400! What kind of math is that? Thank you for researching!

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Viking River Cruises Stolen purse

RE: Booking Number: 5520474, Lillian Mary Horn & Victoria Lynn Anderson
Ship: Viking Vidar
Cruise Name: Rhine Getaway
Cruise ID: VDR191010
Cruise Dates: October 10 - 17, 2019 w/2 day extension in Amsterdam
(We booked this cruise in April, 2019 and had it paid off in May, 2019)
To Whom it May Concern:
This complaint is in regards to my purse being stolen and the condescending way the administration of the Viking Vidar Ship handled it. I will set out the timeline of events, as well as conversations between myself and administration and my traveling partner's conversations with administration.
1. On October 13, 2019 (Sunday), we went to Heidelberg for our excursion. It was a beautiful day and the tour was amazing. We did some shopping and then the bus took us back to the ship. I had trouble finding my re-board pass in my purse and was digging through and finally found it and gave it to the front desk for re-boarding.

We had lunch, and then went to our cabin to rest up a bit. We then went into the lounge. There was no one in the lounge at the time except for a service person named Monika. Victoria and I sat and talked and looked at the pictures we had taken that morning. One other elderly lady came in and sat 2 rows behind us on a couch and propped up her legs and had papers on her lap and was writing. From the beginning of our cruise, Monika was the only person on board who was not friendly. She had a look of contempt towards passengers and rarely spoke or smiled. She definitely didn't appear to like her job or what her role was on board the ship.

After a while, I popped up and said let's go up to the roof-top deck as we had not been up top as yet on the cruise. So, what I didn't realize is that I left my purse and my vest on the couch as Victoria and I went up to the roof-top deck. We were only up there 10 to 15 minutes when I realized I left my purse downstairs! So, we rushed back down and it was gone. Vest was gone, purse was gone. As I said, there were only 2 people in the lounge. When we got back down, just the lady on the couch was still there in the same position.

Of course panic ensued. We looked all around the couch and found nothing. After looking around with panic, we asked at the bar in the lounge. There were 2 people behind the bar at this time. A man and Monika. Victoria asked them if they had found a purse on the sofa and Monika rudely replied no and that we needed to go to the customer service desk. We had our suspicions that she knew more than she said but didn't voice them to each other until later. We then went to the front desk to see if anyone had turned it in. The administrative desk said no and that they had not had any kind of incident on board for over 9 years and someone would probably turn it in. Luckily our passports were in our room safe. However, I had my driver's license, credit card, American cash and my Euros were in my purse which basically left me with nothing! We spoke with the Vidar General Manager Americus (not sure of the spelling) and his Assistant Manager. Victoria asked whether we should cancel my credit card and they said no and to wait until morning to see if someone turns in the purse. Several times they indicated that there were mainly elderly people on board and no children or teens and most likely someone would turn it in.

It was an intensely emotional night for me. I couldn't keep the tears out of my eyes. I didn't want to eat in the dining room that night so we ate in the small dining room, the Aquavit Terrace Room. I am sure our waiter that night noticed as I had to keep dabbing my eyes with a tissue throughout dinner. Not sure what I was going to do, Victoria told me not to worry that she would share her Euros with me and we would put things on her credit card until we got back to Denver. (Victoria lives in Austin, TX and came to Denver to travel back and forth to Europe with me.)

Neither of us slept that night. I was praying like crazy and so was Victoria. It made us both nauseous to think that someone would do something like that on a ship of 195 or so passengers. We had met some nice friends on board and they were very supportive. We had told the 2 couples that we dined with about the incident. Soon after, word spread and strangers were coming up to us with their support and wondering if one of the staff had done it. Jody, a friend on the ship asked about Monika also since she and a few others
onboard had noticed her rudeness towards the passengers. I conveyed our suspicions but of course we had no proof.

2. On October 14, 2019 (Monday), Scenic Cruising down the Rhine towards Koblenz. It was a beautiful day cruising on the river. That morning we stopped by the desk and said we needed to cancel my credit card. The Assistant Manager said I can't believe you didn't do this right away yesterday! Victoria told him that we didn't do it yesterday because he told us not to and to wait overnight in case someone turns it in! What a manager. One of the other desk workers led us over to a ship phone so we could call my credit card company and cancel my credit card.

Beautiful castles and villages lined all the way on both sides of the river. Most everyone was on the roof-top deck taking photos so we took pictures from within the lounge. I was on one side taking pictures and Victoria was on the other side. We did go up top when we were getting closer to Koblenz so we could get some good shots of Marksburg castle. It was pure craziness up on the roof top deck. People and chairs were everywhere. It was sunny and quite windy and chilly. We got some good photos and then went down below. (Note: realize this: the roof-top deck was crazy with people and chairs everywhere.) Our friends, Jody and Jeff Stege told us they went up top after we reached Koblenz and the winds had played havoc with the deck. Chairs were lying all over the place from the strong winds. Nothing was in order.

We had gone to the customer service desk several times to see if anyone had turned in my purse and vest. Absolutely nothing was turned in. I was sure someone just emptied my purse of its contents and threw my purse in the river. I was so upset and I went downstairs after lunch to rest. Victoria said she was going up to talk to them again. This is her account:

Victoria: After Lillian went to rest, I went upstairs to talk to them again. I asked them if they had looked into speaking with staff and those who were in the lounge the day the purse went missing? Namely - Monika. I spoke truthfully with them and they said maybe she left her purse somewhere else? I told them firmly that I had been with her the whole time and she had to dig into her purse to find her re-board card to get back on the ship at Heidelberg! I said firmly: "The purse is on the ship." Americus said the ship had tons of cameras. I said Great! Can I see them? He said they showed nothing. I said how can that be? At that point Lil came back from resting and they proceeded to show us the cameras. What a crock. The Assistant Manager asked me to step back so he could put in his password. I said sure. I said that I had worked for the United State Court of Appeals for 23 years (now retired) and I knew a thing or two about passwords. At that point Americus got a weird look on his face. He was able to pull up the cameras. Then they showed us the camera that was in the lounge. This was ridiculous. The only camera angle they said they had was over the piano! That's what they showed us! A camera angle on the piano! I said you have one of the busiest rooms on the ship, where most everyone gathers, and you have ONE camera angle and it's centered on the piano? They came up with some stupid story about where a woman sued Viking because the camera angle showed her husband making out with another woman in the lounge so they switched the camera angle to just cover the piano! That was the stupidest story I had ever heard. So many lies were told to cover their you know whats. I couldn't believe professionals would behave in such a manner.

Arrival in Koblenz: The ship's free excursion was Marksburg Castle which had a D for Demanding. We had not planned to go on this excursion since it exceeded our physical capabilities. We have gone on every other free excursion offered and steps varied from 6, 800 to over 10, 000 according to my fitbit. We handled those fine, but didn't feel we could handle all the narrow steps up to Marksburg Castle. We had signed up for the Moselle Wine Tasting which we paid for. We were both so down in the dumps that we bypassed the Wine Tasting and basically just wasted the money we had paid for the excursion.

The winds had died down by late afternoon. The temperatures were mild. It was a nice day outside so Victoria said let's take a walk outside the ship and go check out the Kaiser Wilhelm statue and the Romanesque Basilica of St. Castor. I mentioned it felt so strange without my purse and Victoria said, ‘well let's get you a purse'. We walked off the ship and took a walk around the monument and then came upon some little tent shops. We stopped and I picked up a small purse that I could put my phone in and some tissue etc. Victoria bought it for me. We then walked by the Basilica and took some pictures of the area. Neither one of us could achieve any joy. We just were going through the motions and wondering how we were even going to enjoy the duration of our cruise!

After returning to the ship, Victoria said let's go up to the roof-top deck to get a few pictures of Ehrenbreitstein, the Fortress of Koblenz. We didn't realize another Viking ship had docked right next to ours so the view was somewhat blocked. Anyway, we walked up the stairs and all the tables and chairs were put back together and the umbrellas were up. We had just made it to the top and Victoria said - "Lil is that your
vest on the chair over there?" I said yes and we rushed over to it and underneath the vest was my purse! Oh my gosh! We were both thanking the Lord and I checked out the contents in the purse and everything was still there. How did it get there? Someone had a conviction of heart or was told by management that whoever had it to put it somewhere where it could be found. I immediately went down to the customer service desk and indicated that my purse was lying on a chair on the roof-top deck! The only response received was they were happy that I found it. Nothing else.

That was the end of the ordeal. It took me a while to recover from it all and I had lost the use of my credit card, but the rest of the trip for Victoria and myself was fun and uneventful. It definitely was an ordeal for the first time river cruising on Viking - the supposed "Number One" cruise line.

This is my report of the incident. I do believe that whoever took my purse was told by management at a staff meeting to put it back somewhere where we could find it. It is pure luck that we found it on the roof-top deck since we didn't go up there but twice during the entire cruise -- once while there were tons of people and no chairs to sit in during the scenic cruising and once when we actually found it neatly lying on a chair tucked into a table with an open umbrella (all orderly). I do believe management could have handled the whole situation better.

Sincerely,

Lillian Mary Horn
2131 Bonvue Drive
Golden, CO 80401

Cc: Victoria Lynn Anderson
Better Business Bureau

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Viking River Cruises Quoted one price with your standard discounts, advertised price was not given

I booked a trip, booking number 5797316, and was quoted $3299.00 per person. When I received the quote, it had the discount he had mentioned, Past Guest Level discount, and a travel voucher I had received for a really miserable trip I had taken with you before. I asked why the advertised price on the internet of $2, 799 per person was not used and was told, "once you pick up the phone it costs you more". I want to say my sales representative was very nice and pleasant to work with. This advertisement was still available today October 30, 2019. On my last trip we continued to get a runaround about river levels and buses we had to take with no warning. I hate to start this trip again with a bad taste in my mouth and wanted to see if you would honor the advertised price with the discounts afforded me.
Thanks
Charles Jones

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Viking River Cruises Air france

booking # 4646601. our flights were arranged by Viking. Our trip to Amsterdam was fine, but our return trip from Paris to San Francisco was the most miserable 13 hours of my life. We enjoyed the Explorer Suite on our river cruise and expected that arrangements were made for a comfort flight home. Maybe in the future Viking can provide a service (escort?) to get English only speaking customers thru the complex maze at the Paris airport. We had the WORST seats on crappy Air France for our miserable flight home. (seat 33g FYI). I will NEVER fly Air France again and would caution anyone against allowing Viking to arrange their flights. My sincere regrets for allowing Viking to arrange this flight for myself and my grandson. It spoiled an otherwise wonderful trip.

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Viking River Cruises Damaged luggage

Passau to Budapest
Pre trip to Munich, Salzburg
Post extension in Budapest
August 9th - August 23
Ingvi
Budapest extension at Corinthia Hotel.
My Luggage was damaged sometime between transfer from the Viking River Longboat Ingi and Corinthia Hotel. Roller wheel was ripped off. I reported the damage to the Viking representative at the hotel and she (Dana) said she would make a note of it and that I should contact you. Please advise as to the next step necessary to replace the damaged suitcase.

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Viking River Cruises Karl ittig

I cruised in July upon Gefjon. Enjoyed glass blowing demonstration. Bought several pieces and had them shipped home. (USA). I was told it would take 4 weeks. After several emails with Karl and Steve( his shipper) my package finally arrived early October! One of the four thermometers I received is defective. I sent Karl email and included photo clearly showing defect. He has ignored my emails about this issue. I'm very disappointed and frustrated with his lack of customer service especially since these were gifts. I will definitely write a review of buyer beware!

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Viking River Cruises $200 cost to book a future ocean cruise while on a cruise.

When you put a salesman behind a desk on a cruise for the purpose of getting deposits for a future cruise it should not cost $200 for the poor sap like me who did book another cruise in just 30 days. The new cruise will leave in 5 months.
Viking figured out a way to keep $200 of my $1, 000 deposit and give me nothing except a $200 education.

It cost me $200 to sit down with Shane Erickson on the Viking Sea.

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Viking Alum
Abingdon, US
Mar 01, 2020 1:44 pm EST
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In my experience booking with Viking is much like buying a car. There is a lot of bait and switch and representatives who flat out give misinformation. They put you on hold while consulting their supervisor...very reminiscent of the car buying experience..., but ultimately are not authorized to correct the issue. One is never allowed to speak to an actual supervisor so there is this go between until you cave in, or in my case they just cut you off.
My advice is to get everything in writing. If it is a phone call, be sure you get the e-mail address of the rep, and e-mail them back a summary of your understanding of what they offered with a question at the end...is this correct? It is best to use chat or let a representative leave a phone message and then e-mail them back. Be sure to copy and paste the chat transcript somewhere as there no longer seems to be an option to have it e-mailed to you.

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tobster
, US
Nov 07, 2019 10:58 am EST
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The same thing happened to us while we were on an existing Viking cruise. I had already booked a river cruise to Portugal prior to leaving, and while I was on the cruise, the cruise consultant advised she could get us a better price so naturally we took it. Unfortunately we had to cancel the existing booking & rebook a new one. I still can not understand why the additional cost saving could not have been added to my existing booking.

This cost us $200.00 for the cancellation for the original booking even though there was no changes to the existing one. Also, that cruise is sold out so it's not Viking is losing out in the end. I think this is very poor customer service. In my opinion, this is a money grab on Viking part & poor customer service to loyal customers.

I will think twice before I book with Viking again.

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Viking River Cruises Chateaux, rivers and wine cruise medical emergency

Re: Booking Number 5013849. My Wife, Catherine Hayden paid for all parts of this booked trip well in advance in the amount of $10, 000.00. we were very excited about the truffle hunting and Cognac Blending experience. We were scheduled to depart on this trip from the Albuquerque Sunport airport at 3pm on October 4, 2019. Our neighbor arrived at our home, 800 Ridgecrest Drive SE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87108 at 1:30 pm to take us to the airport. As we were preparing to get our luggage in the car, My wife, Catherine, suffered a major brain seizure. We had to call 911 and the fire Dept emergency and EMTs responded and had to transport her to Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque. She suffered an additional seizure in the ambulance on way to the etgency department at the hospital. She remained in emergency for 24 hours then was transferred to the regular hospital 7rh floor in a comatose state. They were finally able to stabilize her late at night.on October 6th. I dutifully.called the contact numbers in the your Journey brochure outlining our travel Journey from the emergency room. The woman I spoke to said she would.camcel our reservations.and all parts.of our trip. I called the number again later and was told by another woman that she would send me an email with a cancellation notice And fill refund I never received that email from Viking. We paid for all extra excursions, beverage packages and gratuties up front. I called Viking again on October 7th and was told Viking cancelled all parts of our trip and sold or booked cabin and excursions to another travelling party. Due to the emergency and.my wife's inability to transfer. I respectfully request a total refund for the total amount of all monies my wife and I paid to Viking. We were very much excited and looking forward to our Viking Adventure Journey. Perhaps our total package could be rescheduled. For another time as we have already paid for the entire package of travel and Viking trip services. Sincerely,
Lenny John Scezney . My phone number is [protected]. Our house in Albuquerque phone number is [protected].
My email is [protected]@aol.com. I am a retired teacher.now serving as a substitute teacher on a lited basis teaching high profile at risk high.school students. AS I am on very.lited fixed income I can not afford to loose the almost $10, 000 my wife and I paid.out for.what we.hoped would be a wonderful trip on Viking.

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Update by Lenny John Scezney
Oct 12, 2019 10:39 pm EDT

Had medical emergency request a full refund

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Viking River Cruises Food poisoning on cruise

My wife and I traveled on the 8-day Viking Rhine River cruise from Basel to Amsterdam on September 10-17, with Viking's 2-day extension in Amsterdam. It was a very special and long-awaited trip for our 40th wedding anniversary, especially because we had not been away by ourselves in over 10 years; and we were so excited about experiencing this beautiful region for the first time. Unfortunately, our expected dream anniversary trip was largely ruined due to the documented food poisoning we contracted on the ship on the third day of the voyage. We became very ill, including severe vomiting and black diarrhea, chills, sweats, extreme body aches and headaches. My wife became so dehydrated from the continued intestinal issues that she could not urinate, and it was painful when she did for several days. It was very difficult for her to eat much after that or enjoy the remainder of the trip. As a result of her weakness, she also contracted a bad lower respiratory infection near the end of the trip.

We know that many of the passengers contracted this food poisoning, as it was a relatively small group and all of the passengers were discussing the problem throughout the trip. One passenger, who is a nurse and could not get any staff assistance for her seriously ill husband, took him to a local hospital where the food poisoning was confirmed. There is no question that the food poisoning originated on the ship, since so many people on board came down with it throughout the trip regardless of where we docked; at least one person contracted it on the second day before the passengers had an opportunity to visit restaurants in the major cities; and when dining off the ship in the major cities the passengers ate at a multitude of places of their own choosing.

Equally disturbing and ruinous of the trip was the staff's completely unsympathetic and unaccommodating response to the terrible situation, from the Hotel Manager on down. And instead of acknowledging the truth of this potentially dangerous situation when presented with the medical reports, the ship staff continued to mislead the passengers on the cause throughout the trip; as of the end of the cruise, the ship staff when questioned were still taking the position that the cause of the severe ship-wide illness was "unresolved."

So this very special and expensive trip went from an anniversary dream into a virtual nightmare for us because of Viking. My wife was shocked when we returned and she had LOST 8 pounds of her very small frame. Obviously, the significant amount we had paid for the cruise food was largely wasted due to this food poisoning. We have tried to resolve this problem fairly with Viking, but they have been unreasonable given our ruined trip, severe sickness and losses.

We had never taken this type of trip, and we booked on Viking because of the reputation for customer service it constantly boasts. For 30 years, I have worked as an executive in a large public corporation providing excellent customer service. I have learned that the test of a company's quality and dedication to customer service is not only how that service is initially provided, but as importantly how the company deals with these types of disappointing customer service breakdowns after-the-fact. On this ultimate test, Viking gets a straight and deserved F.

Michael and Debra McGrail

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Viking River Cruises Optional tour prague folklore dinner

We recently returned from our river cruise with an extension at the end in Prague. The Prague Folklore Dinner on September 14, 2019 was not up to par with all the other tours we booked. The food was just okay but the sales pitch for photos and other momentos seemed tacky. I was told the next day by another guest that we should have talked to him before we booked. The description online sounded like fun, similar to the Heurigen Dinner we booked for September 8, 2019, how were we to know? I recommended this cruise to a n;umber of friends, they have booked for next year. I will not recommend this option.
Resolution, occasionally attend the tours you recommend. Refund.

Kathleen and Kevin Koch
19 Foxwood Row
Depew, New York 14043
[protected]@yahoo.com
Booking # 5075216
Explorer Society Members [protected] [protected]
Viking Var

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Viking River Cruises 3 nights in tuscany, florence & sienna

Booking #5134934 September 11-13.

We were very disappointed in our stay at Resort Villa La Veronica. We do not feel that this was up to par with our expectations from Viking. We've stayed in villas in Spain, Mexico, and Portugal that made La Veronica look like an old farm house. First of all, it was so far our it required a small 24 passenger bus to get us there on a dirt road. 6+hours on a bus that small was very uncomfortable. We were in room #3 and experienced a hot water shortage the first day. There was only enough water for one person to shower. I reported the problem and they assured me it was fine, but it wasn't. The next morning there was enough hot water again for only one person so we ended up showering one of us in the morning and one of us in the evening to solve the problem. The room was dark and dingy. We needed adapters to charge our electronic devices and were given one. We gladly would have brought our own if we knew that the villa couldn't provide 2. The stairs leading up to our room had ropes not actual rails to hold on to. Considering the average age of people traveling with Viking this could be very dangerous. We also wondered what would happen if there was a medical emergency because there is not easy access to this villa. The night we arrived our main entree at dinner was a salad with chicken on top. Way below our expectations being in Italy. We were also told that we were each allowed only one glass of wine with dinner. Really? Some people didn't even drink wine but this was pretty insulting considering what we paid for this excursion. The tours were fantastic the next 2 days again with the exception of being told that each person was only allowed one bottle of water. This again is a ridiculous policy. I guess the hardest part of this is our traveling companions did the same extension, rode in a nice large comfortable bus, and loved their sleeping accommodations. I'm pretty sure we paid the same amount of money for this excursion but we do not feel like the experience we had was worth the money we spend. We've already booked our next Viking cruise but I will definitely investigate the pre and post excursions before I decide to spend the money. Thanks for your time and consideration. Barb Burris.

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Viking River Cruises Booking 5527192, switzerland to paris river cruise

We recently returned from our third Viking journey (Booking 5527192, Paris to the Swiss Alps). This river cruise began in Zurich and ended in Paris.

As background, I can walk short distances but have to use a wheel chair for extended distances. The wheelchair I use is light weight (25 pounds), collapsible, and has a light weight motor(10 pounds) that I attach. Meaning that distance on any excursion is never a problem.

The entire reason we took this cruise to take two excursions: The Alps and Versailles. I did my research plus called Viking on numerous times to make sure I could take these trips.

Our first excursion was "Highlights of the Alps". I followed instructions from the guide and entered the train that ascended the mountains. I went where I was told, sat where I was told, and locked the wheels on my wheel chair firmly as instructed. Unfortunately for me, my wheelchair flipped backwards and caused me to hit the floor with my head and skidded backwards. I was treated with a medic at the top. You have a full Incident Report on file as we completed one and handed it to our Host. The Guide felt badly of course, but she had not been trained to handle wheelchairs.

The other excursion that was important for us was Versailles. I did my research and know it is handicap accessible - they even provide wheelchairs if needed. It is fine with me if I can't see everything because of the terrain. I've been on harder trips than that, and I discussed all of this with Viking many times before we left.
But when it came time to depart, I was surprised that our Host refused to let me go. I tried to explain that I could handle it and didn't have to see everything if it was too hard, but to no avail. In my opinion, he wouldn't listen to me at all. A bitter disappointment to end our journey.

In other words, the two stops that were the reason we went on this cruise in the first place were disasters.

Upon return, I talked to Margaret Vigil (margaret.vigil@vikingcruises.com) about this. She said she could give us an $800 ship board credit on our next cruise, which sounded at least a bit reasonable until I discovered that everything didn't check out.

For example, we paid a discounted amount for "Highlights of the Alps" and used a voucher discount of $250 each for a total of $500. So Magaret's offer of $800 shipboard credit for our next cruse really amounts to only $300. And what good does a little shipboard credit to me if I don't sail with Viking again.

Add to that - we have not yet received a refund on our Highlights of the Alps trip which we were supposed to do.

Combine this with the fact that Maragaret at Viking has not answered several of my emails on this and it leaves me frustrated and somewhat angry.

If Viking doesn't want people with wheelchairs on their cruises they should say so. I'm willing to talk further about this, but since I haven't heard anything I'm considering taking further steps next week which do not involve Viking.

Please let me hear from you.

Ernest Seger
1465 Wolf Bend Road
Germantown, TN 38138
[protected]

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Viking River Cruises Air france flight home

Viking booked my flights to and from europe from minneapolis. We flew delta to amsterdam and air france home. Our experience on delta was good but our comfort on air france left us with a last impression of the trip that was less than favorable. We were seated in economy. The seats were small. Within moments of reaching cruising altitude the passenger in front of me reclined her seat and kept it reclined for the entire flight. This brought her seat-back and my video monitor within about 9 inches of my face. I am 73 inches tall and weigh 208 lbs. My knees were touching the back of her seat. I prefer to keep my seat in the upright position so for the duration of the flight, I was very uncomfortable and angry. I also was concerned for my safety should an emergency occur. I had difficulty getting out of my seat and I consider myself very healthy. What would happen in an emergency situation if the elderly, overweight and infirm couldn't get out of their seats in a timely manner. So, for comfort and safety reasons, I refuse to fly air france ever again. Maybe you should consider removing them as a partner in the viking experience. Because, my last impression of the whole trip was very unfavorable!

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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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