Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

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oldmotos
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Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by oldmotos »

We are looking at going on a Mediterranean Cruise with friends in September 2022. They have picked out a 12 night Viking Cruise on the Viking Sea in a Category DV4-Deluxe Veranda at a cost of $8600 per person including economy air fare from the Midwest U.S. This is double of what I have seen for similar cruises on other well known cruise lines. We are not opposed to paying more for a better experience but wanted to ask this group for any recommendations or opinions on these cruises.
stan1
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by stan1 »

What other cruise lines have you been on?

Viking Ocean (not River) is probably more comparable to lines like Oceania, Azamara, Regent, Seabourn and Silver Sea. Yes it is a nicer and more intimate experience on a smaller ship than most Celebrity, RCL, NCL, or Princess cruises.

Viking Ocean has "all inclusive" pricing so wi-fi, all dining, land tours, etc are included which may not be what you are accustomed to. If you use all those features it may be a wash; if you don't use them an all inclusive may not be a bargain.

That said, if you can afford it, want to join your friends, accept that post-COVID cruising might be a little different, and have reviewed the cancellation policies it should be a nice trip.
hi_there
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by hi_there »

I don't know how the pandemic affect pricing, but this had better be a really great cruise for $8600 a person. $17k would buy a really nice vacation for 2 under normal circumstances.
adestefan
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by adestefan »

Pre-COVID I thought cruises were gross, disgusting and a big ripoff, and I’ve been on some nice ones. Post-COVID I’m never going near a cruise ship again for the rest of my life.
zero sum guy
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by zero sum guy »

You might want to try the message board Cruisecritic.com. It is populated by cruisers and you can get valuable tips as to the Cruise line, cruise ships, and to cruisers who sailed on your particular itinerary as well as signing onto your cruise's roll calls.
Been using it for the past twenty years.
Fyi, read up on the particular histories on the cities and ports that you are sailing to, as history is very important in each country.
Four years ago, I sailed on the Norwegian Jade from a port outside Rome, to Naples, Athens, Istanbul, and Ephesus in Turkey.
Spent a couple of days in Rome before the trip--you need a full week in Rome to do the full tourist thing there. Make sure you know what excursion trips options you have at each port, as there is so much history in each area and you don't want to miss anything or you will regret it. You need online tickets to the Vatican and the Coliseum in Rome.
Make sure you have advanced bookings for breakfast and dinner on your ship as you will not be there for lunch. After you come back from your daily tours, you will be very exhausted and dinner will be the most important meal of your cruise.
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Random Musings
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by Random Musings »

adestefan wrote: Wed Apr 21, 2021 8:53 pm Pre-COVID I thought cruises were gross, disgusting and a big ripoff, and I’ve been on some nice ones. Post-COVID I’m never going near a cruise ship again for the rest of my life.
Some of our friends love cruises, others (like us) don't see the appeal.
Seems too captive and limited flexibility. Only time I am considering to take one is for a short excursion on the Alaskan coastline.

Now excuse me so I can get back to the Chugboat game.

RM
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curmudgeon
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by curmudgeon »

Viking has an excellent reputation in the cruising world. We haven't taken a cruise with them ourselves, but they are definitely on our radar. Whether they are worth the price is somewhat subjective; sort of like business/first class on the flight.
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oldmotos
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by oldmotos »

Thanks for the replies. We have only been on a few Celebrity and NCL cruises in the past. We are not big cruise fans but thought this would be a good option to visit a number of European cities without having to repeatedly haul luggage and change hotels.
ModifiedDuration
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by ModifiedDuration »

oldmotos wrote: Thu Apr 22, 2021 7:35 am Thanks for the replies. We have only been on a few Celebrity and NCL cruises in the past. We are not big cruise fans but thought this would be a good option to visit a number of European cities without having to repeatedly haul luggage and change hotels.
The advice to go to the cruisecritic.com forums was excellent.

A lot of people with cruise expertise on that site who would be very helpful.
talzara
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by talzara »

oldmotos wrote: Wed Apr 21, 2021 8:12 pm We are looking at going on a Mediterranean Cruise with friends in September 2022. They have picked out a 12 night Viking Cruise on the Viking Sea in a Category DV4-Deluxe Veranda at a cost of $8600 per person including economy air fare from the Midwest U.S.
If $8,600 is the base price, then someone is making a big profit on the plane ticket.

Viking's website is selling the DV4 stateroom on the September 16, 2022 departure for $6,799 per person plus $999 airfare: https://www.vikingcruises.com/oceans/cr ... icing.html

It doesn't cost $1,800 to fly to Europe and back in economy class, even from the Midwest. That's close to business class pricing.
Capsu78
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by Capsu78 »

We have been pretty strategic in our cruising, making a run of ports in places we have never been to see if we want or need to go back. Our Med cruises lead us back to longer land based vacations- Venice, Rome, Capri, Nice. Did a Baltic cruise and little desire to see most of those places again. Greece, maybe Santorini one day but definately not Athens.
Covid screwed up a particularly nice agenda- Arriving in Japan the weekend before the Olympics and circling Japan during the front half of them.

And I'll third Cruisecritic and even encourage you to join the group that typically forms up for your specific sailing. Ive met a number of fun people who want to share more private tours for 6-8 people. Typically gives you a better excursion price and more importantly experience when traveling in an 8 passenger Mercedes van than group bus that often can't drive to the center of places like Florence. Then you have to wait until everyone returns and hope your group doesn't include "that couple" that arrives back from shopping 10 minutes late.
zero sum guy
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by zero sum guy »

Before you go to Italy, and visit Rome, Florence, Naples, Milan and Sicily, you must watch the reruns of Stanley Tucci's visits to those cities on CNN. Each city has its own cuisines and favorite meals and Tucci lets the various chefs and cooks talk about their specialities. Also, he shows which restaurants to go to.
Even as an Italian American, I was truly educated and if there is one thing you can take away from Italy is its cuisines and the histories of those cuisines. Tucci is magnificent as he talks very little and lets the Italians explain most of it.
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ResearchMed
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by ResearchMed »

Capsu78 wrote: Thu Apr 22, 2021 3:58 pm We have been pretty strategic in our cruising, making a run of ports in places we have never been to see if we want or need to go back. Our Med cruises lead us back to longer land based vacations- Venice, Rome, Capri, Nice. Did a Baltic cruise and little desire to see most of those places again. Greece, maybe Santorini one day but definately not Athens.
Covid screwed up a particularly nice agenda- Arriving in Japan the weekend before the Olympics and circling Japan during the front half of them.

And I'll third Cruisecritic and even encourage you to join the group that typically forms up for your specific sailing. Ive met a number of fun people who want to share more private tours for 6-8 people. Typically gives you a better excursion price and more importantly experience when traveling in an 8 passenger Mercedes van than group bus that often can't drive to the center of places like Florence. Then you have to wait until everyone returns and hope your group doesn't include "that couple" that arrives back from shopping 10 minutes late.
On CruiseCritic, those groups would be found under the "Roll Calls" - there is a list under each cruise line, and a separate thread for each separate sailing (assuming someone has started one).
The private tours with smaller groups of 4, 6, 8 can be wonderful. They can be less expensive that the cruise-line sponsored excursions, and so much better.
We've twice organized one of those in the Caribbean, chartering a huge catamaran, with captain, guide/cook, etc., and they grilled lunch for us on board, took us to lovely swimming areas, and some general sightseeing from the boat. That was *much* better than the not-much-larger "party boats" that were crowded with lots of rowdy passengers. Or one can arrange - or find/join - one with a guide of a museum such that you get in private entrances without the long lines.

CruiseCritic also has a section for destinations, with separate threads for each city, etc. That is an excellent place to ask about special sights to see, or special guides, etc.

We've also used cruises to scout out places to return.
In Barbados, when asking a taxi driver to take us around the entire island, we also asked him to suggest - and stop by - two or three nicer resorts.
On St. Lucia, we asked our private guide to stop by two resorts we had already researched. They took it upon themselves (apparently based upon our pre-trip emails) to add a third, and had someone waiting to show us around in case we were interested. Bingo: A wonderful place, and much better for our preferences than the two we had found online.
And we found that guide service on... CruiseCritic :happy

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zero sum guy
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by zero sum guy »

With Cruisecritic.com, you can also search your cabin number on your specific ship. You don't want your cabin near the all night night club. As a senior citizen, I appreciate booking a cruise when the children are in school. I made that mistake, and had to constantly veer away when packs of 40 adolescent children were rushing down the narrow ship passage way. Sometimes parents let their children "do their own things" with their newly found pals. Aldo good suggestions are found on what restaurants and foods are best on your ship, especially desserts.
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by Gundy »

I wonder what's the cost-per-hour of this cruise after you subtract out sleeping, showering, going to the bathroom, getting dressed, standing in line, and on and on. I reckon the cost per hour is very high and not worth it. After all, you're stuck on a boat with limited freedom.
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by ResearchMed »

Gundy wrote: Thu Apr 22, 2021 6:09 pm I wonder what's the cost-per-hour of this cruise after you subtract out sleeping, showering, going to the bathroom, getting dressed, standing in line, and on and on. I reckon the cost per hour is very high and not worth it. After all, you're stuck on a boat with limited freedom.
Stuck on a boat?

To some of us it is among the most relaxing of times to be on a comfortable ship, perhaps sitting on a balcony with warm breezes as one reads as the ship gently rocks (or to sleep...).
... and to watch some spectacular scenery in some cases/some cruises, or just contemplate looking over the water.
And then there can be storms, which some of us find fun (we don't get seasick).
The spectacular scenery was around Norway, New Zealand/Australia, and also in Alaska. The gentle breezes/etc., were in the Caribbean.

Some people enjoy things like the nightclub-type activities or the casinos.
And for those who enjoy that and want an inexpensive vacation, the prices for smaller cabins on some of the ships, with all meals/snacks and housekeeping included can be phenomenally inexpensive per day if one is careful about 'extras'. Most activities are free, and most food is included (too much food for some people!).

We don't enjoy those activities, and go on ships where those do not constitute a lot of the "activities", which has the added attraction of having many like-minded passengers.
And we prefer the larger suites with private balconies.
But my very first cruise, back in the '70s, was in an inside cabin with metal bunk beds (times have changed!). and I fell in love with cruising immediately.

Holland America recently added a small theatre called Lincoln Center (associated with the Manhatten Lincoln Center), with classical musicians (e.g., quartets) that were exceptionally talented. People showed up far in advance (of the twice daily performances) to get good seats. Oceania has small chamber groups that perform in different places at different times.
The larger ships have lots of other types of musical productions, magic shows, etc.
And other cruises emphasize far more adventurous excursions.
"Something for everyone" (er, "everyone who is interested in a cruise).

For those who don't find any of this appealing,.. don't go on a cruise! :happy

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TravelforFun
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by TravelforFun »

adestefan wrote: Wed Apr 21, 2021 8:53 pm Pre-COVID I thought cruises were gross, disgusting and a big ripoff, and I’ve been on some nice ones. Post-COVID I’m never going near a cruise ship again for the rest of my life.
Different strokes. We love to cruise especially on higher-end ships, and we would do it again post-Covid.

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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by TravelforFun »

TravelforFun wrote: Thu Apr 22, 2021 7:07 pm
adestefan wrote: Wed Apr 21, 2021 8:53 pm Pre-COVID I thought cruises were gross, disgusting and a big ripoff, and I’ve been on some nice ones. Post-COVID I’m never going near a cruise ship again for the rest of my life.
Different strokes... We love to cruise especially on higher-end ships, and we would do it again post-Covid.

TravelforFun
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by friar1610 »

My wife and I have been on a few cruises, although we’re far from being cruise fanatics. Our first was an NCL cruise from Buenos Aires to Valparaiso, 2 weeks. We mostly enjoyed it but found the ship too large and thought that NCL had its hand out too many times (drinks, photos, bottles of water, internet access, etc.). We next went on a Viking Ocean cruise in Europe and pretty much liked everything about it. Have been on a couple of Viking Ocean cruises since then and have a reservation for a River cruise in Europe in Oct 2022. Viking is on the pricey side but our ages (mid-70s) mean that the time is not too far off that we won’t be traveling for too many more years. So we’re willing to pay the price for what we know will be a pleasant experience on smaller, exceptionally clean ships with good food and not a lot of nickel and diming. Plus, no kids, no casino, no rock climbing walls, no water slides. In short, none of the stuff we don’t want and lots of the stuff we do.
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by D Newton »

My wife and I have been on two Viking river cruises. First class...wonderful experience. Smaller ships...180 or so guests. Liked them so much we also will be taking their Mediterranean cruise next year from Barcelona to Venice. Only about 700 guests...far less than 4000+ on other ocean lines. I’m not a cruise guy but I did enjoy the Viking experience.
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by orlandoman »

Been on two Viking cruises, river & ocean. They are 1st class & after the Viking experience, don't want to go on any other cruise line. Took the British Isles Ocean Cruise from London to Bergen, Norway about 1 1/2 years ago. Viking has local experts on the cruises to give cultural & destination talks. Our cruise had 3 experts, one was the former 1st Secretary to Princess Diana, one was a former British Ambassador to Lithiuana and the third was a former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State ... excellent ptresentations & no casino's on Viking.

Planning a Viking Med cruise in July 20.22
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oldmotos
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by oldmotos »

talzara wrote: Thu Apr 22, 2021 2:02 pm
oldmotos wrote: Wed Apr 21, 2021 8:12 pm We are looking at going on a Mediterranean Cruise with friends in September 2022. They have picked out a 12 night Viking Cruise on the Viking Sea in a Category DV4-Deluxe Veranda at a cost of $8600 per person including economy air fare from the Midwest U.S.
If $8,600 is the base price, then someone is making a big profit on the plane ticket.

Viking's website is selling the DV4 stateroom on the September 16, 2022 departure for $6,799 per person plus $999 airfare: https://www.vikingcruises.com/oceans/cr ... icing.html

It doesn't cost $1,800 to fly to Europe and back in economy class, even from the Midwest. That's close to business class pricing.
My mistake - the $8600 included $719 of trip insurance. And I believe the air fare allows for an additional stop to extend the trip if desired.
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by Gnirk »

The thing about the Viking cruises, unlike Royal Caribbean, Holland America, etc is that you won’t hear pleas and constant reminders over the loudspeakers to attend the art auction, or the special jewelry sale, or..... Nor will you be stopped by the crew to have your photo taken when you disembark at each port. And most of your shore excursions are included, as is wine and beer with your meals onboard.

That being said, we had an enjoyable cruise of the Mediterranean aboard a Royal Caribbean ship, in spite of the annoying loudspeaker hawking. Also been on several Holland America cruises. But if I ever go on an ocean cruise again, it will be on Viking.

We now prefer Viking River cruises, and have truly enjoyed them far more than we’ve liked the Ocean cruises.
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by oldcomputerguy »

My wife and I have taken two Viking cruises (one ocean, one river) and found the experiences nothing but positive; we have two more of each booked over the next eighteen months. I think you'll enjoy the trip.
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by SueG5123 »

We have taken 2 Viking ocean cruises, including the Sea’s maiden voyage. We loved them. Daily excursions, wifi, dining options, entertainment (incl. enrichment lectures from academics), wine and beer with meals, and a terrific crew-passenger ratio — what’s not to like?

I will say that I think we may have gotten better pricing. At the time, we ascribed that to Viking wanting to make sure the maiden cruise was fully booked. (Our second cruise was a repositioning, which are famously value priced.)
GmanJeff
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by GmanJeff »

Viking is generally considered to be a higher-end line, comparable to Oceania and Azamara. Often said to be a notch above that tier are companies like Regent, Seabourn, Silversea, and Crystal. Mass market lines like Holland America, Princess, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean and others typically operate much larger vessels and provide a different ambience and experience at lower price points.

Cruisecritic.com is a good recommendation for more information about specific companies, ships, and ports. Here's the link to the Viking forum: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/forum/689-viking-ocean/

See also: https://cruisetruth.com/latest-ratings- ... ise-lines/
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by flyingcows »

We went on a 2 week Mediterranean cruise with Royal Caribbean 10 years ago in our early 30s. Very few people were our age, most were much older from what we could tell, if that matters to you, but we viewed that as a huge positive. We did take the cruise in October, so perhaps that was part of the reason. Anyway, we really enjoyed this one and would do it again

We also did another Mediterranean cruise 2 years ago, this time with Disney Cruise and brought our kids. This was one was mostly young families, and while we enjoyed it overall, the overall experience was much different and I don't think we would go on another Disney Cruise in the future, instead would opt for another line
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by wandering_aimlessly »

zero sum guy wrote: Thu Apr 22, 2021 5:58 pm With Cruisecritic.com, you can also search your cabin number on your specific ship. You don't want your cabin near the all night night club. As a senior citizen, I appreciate booking a cruise when the children are in school. I made that mistake, and had to constantly veer away when packs of 40 adolescent children were rushing down the narrow ship passage way. Sometimes parents let their children "do their own things" with their newly found pals. Aldo good suggestions are found on what restaurants and foods are best on your ship, especially desserts.
Kids won't be an issue with Viking - they have an 'over 18 policy only" on both their river and ocean cruises...Also realize they don't have casinos, photographers or other amenities often associated with the family friendly mega-lines - their ships are just under 1,000 guests. Also they have a lot of focus on culture - I would suggest OP get on Viking's mailing list to get a feel for the line (for example during the pandemic they have used viking.tv to keep future cruises interested in the areas and cultures they cruise too - just thumbing through the videos will give you a feel for the line...some will think it is snooty, others relaxing and informative). There is considerable differentiation in cruise lines and it amazes me how often someone's review will include something that should have been known ahead of time (like being surprised at no casino, or type/availability of onboard entertainment). Picking the right cruise isn't just about picking the right location - it is also about picking the right line for you...
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by Shallowpockets »

oldmotos wrote: Thu Apr 22, 2021 7:35 am Thanks for the replies. We have only been on a few Celebrity and NCL cruises in the past. We are not big cruise fans but thought this would be a good option to visit a number of European cities without having to repeatedly haul luggage and change hotels.
It will work great if you like to “visit” European cities for less than one day, or less. Then, of course, since you have all your meals covered on the ship, you need not sit for lunch or other when in the city.
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by midareff »

oldmotos wrote: Wed Apr 21, 2021 8:12 pm We are looking at going on a Mediterranean Cruise with friends in September 2022. They have picked out a 12 night Viking Cruise on the Viking Sea in a Category DV4-Deluxe Veranda at a cost of $8600 per person including economy air fare from the Midwest U.S. This is double of what I have seen for similar cruises on other well known cruise lines. We are not opposed to paying more for a better experience but wanted to ask this group for any recommendations or opinions on these cruises.
We have been on Oceania, Carnival, American Cruise Lines in the US, Princess, Fathom, Holland and a couple others not memorable enough to mention. We have also been on Viking about ten times. I have a cruise reserved for this December, three for 2022 and one for 2023... they are all on Viking. We have cruised Viking River Longboats and Viking Ocean and they are all simply worth every extra penny and more. We have seen wonders and had fabulous experiences on Viking. It's an adult crowd, generally > 50 and all in great spirits. .... no kids. With Viking you will have a ground excursion that is included at every port, you will have beer or wine with lunch and dinner as desired, all included. .... you have ships entertainment included, a couple of specialty meals included, water and coffee in cabin and snacks included and more. I highly recommend them having been around to compare the onboard experiences. If you need more PM me.
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by jayk238 »

oldmotos wrote: Wed Apr 21, 2021 8:12 pm We are looking at going on a Mediterranean Cruise with friends in September 2022. They have picked out a 12 night Viking Cruise on the Viking Sea in a Category DV4-Deluxe Veranda at a cost of $8600 per person including economy air fare from the Midwest U.S. This is double of what I have seen for similar cruises on other well known cruise lines. We are not opposed to paying more for a better experience but wanted to ask this group for any recommendations or opinions on these cruises.
why this price point? what are you looking for?

We went on the Norwegian for my wife and I and loved it. You should be aware that most of what you want to see is not at the ports (unlike a river cruise) as a result there is a huge gap in transportation time from cruise to location. For example in Italy they dont stop at rome. They stop at a small port and then you go to rome which cuts into your experience. Do you really want to pay 8+ for such an experience when you can have a great experience with lower cost through Norwegian? Please look into that.

You can also pay the extra money to norwegian or someone else for even longer period of time instead.
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by jayk238 »

midareff wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:12 am
oldmotos wrote: Wed Apr 21, 2021 8:12 pm We are looking at going on a Mediterranean Cruise with friends in September 2022. They have picked out a 12 night Viking Cruise on the Viking Sea in a Category DV4-Deluxe Veranda at a cost of $8600 per person including economy air fare from the Midwest U.S. This is double of what I have seen for similar cruises on other well known cruise lines. We are not opposed to paying more for a better experience but wanted to ask this group for any recommendations or opinions on these cruises.
We have been on Oceania, Carnival, American Cruise Lines in the US, Princess, Fathom, Holland and a couple others not memorable enough to mention. We have also been on Viking about ten times. I have a cruise reserved for this December, three for 2022 and one for 2023... they are all on Viking. We have cruised Viking River Longboats and Viking Ocean and they are all simply worth every extra penny and more. We have seen wonders and had fabulous experiences on Viking. It's an adult crowd, generally > 50 and all in great spirits. .... no kids. With Viking you will have a ground excursion that is included at every port, you will have beer or wine with lunch and dinner as desired, all included. .... you have ships entertainment included, a couple of specialty meals included, water and coffee in cabin and snacks included and more. I highly recommend them having been around to compare the onboard experiences. If you need more PM me.
what about viking and the extraordinary premium price point do you like more than another river cruise that can be had for less than half?
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midareff
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by midareff »

jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:30 am
midareff wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:12 am
oldmotos wrote: Wed Apr 21, 2021 8:12 pm We are looking at going on a Mediterranean Cruise with friends in September 2022. They have picked out a 12 night Viking Cruise on the Viking Sea in a Category DV4-Deluxe Veranda at a cost of $8600 per person including economy air fare from the Midwest U.S. This is double of what I have seen for similar cruises on other well known cruise lines. We are not opposed to paying more for a better experience but wanted to ask this group for any recommendations or opinions on these cruises.
We have been on Oceania, Carnival, American Cruise Lines in the US, Princess, Fathom, Holland and a couple others not memorable enough to mention. We have also been on Viking about ten times. I have a cruise reserved for this December, three for 2022 and one for 2023... they are all on Viking. We have cruised Viking River Longboats and Viking Ocean and they are all simply worth every extra penny and more. We have seen wonders and had fabulous experiences on Viking. It's an adult crowd, generally > 50 and all in great spirits. .... no kids. With Viking you will have a ground excursion that is included at every port, you will have beer or wine with lunch and dinner as desired, all included. .... you have ships entertainment included, a couple of specialty meals included, water and coffee in cabin and snacks included and more. I highly recommend them having been around to compare the onboard experiences. If you need more PM me.
what about viking and the extraordinary premium price point do you like more than another river cruise that can be had for less than half?
and you get on the bargain brand and you pay for water in your cabin, and coffee, and soda or other beverages with lunch and dinner, and you pay for all your ground excursions rather than have a meaningful ground excursion with a first class guide and private headset at every stop, enrichment and historical lectures available before each stop so you know the history and background of each place visited.... , and your adult beverages with dinner including sodas and such.... and you are on an older tired ship with worn furnishings in the common areas and your cabin... and the entertainment is less than stellar and of course there are no movies available in your cabin, umbrellas for your use.. and lets get to the food... the food quality, preparation, variety of dining experiences, ability to arrange special events and ground experience through the ships concierge and more. I've been on a cruise ship where entire decks smelled like a toilet, where a bottle of water was $1.99 in your cabin, where the towels were rough and stiff.... as was the toilet paper... LOL, you go your way amigo, it's not for us. You can arrange your own airport to ship travel, carry your own bags and do all those little things yourself if you need to try and save a few bucks. I'm making memories I don't mind remembering... www.martindareff.com

I could also get into cabin size, bathroom size and accoutrements such as heated floor, cabin storage facilities for your suitcases and clothes, outlets, I could go on and on. There is a very large difference between going cheap tourist on a ship and going cruising with a top quality provider.
jayk238
Posts: 911
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by jayk238 »

midareff wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 9:12 am
jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:30 am
midareff wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:12 am
oldmotos wrote: Wed Apr 21, 2021 8:12 pm We are looking at going on a Mediterranean Cruise with friends in September 2022. They have picked out a 12 night Viking Cruise on the Viking Sea in a Category DV4-Deluxe Veranda at a cost of $8600 per person including economy air fare from the Midwest U.S. This is double of what I have seen for similar cruises on other well known cruise lines. We are not opposed to paying more for a better experience but wanted to ask this group for any recommendations or opinions on these cruises.
We have been on Oceania, Carnival, American Cruise Lines in the US, Princess, Fathom, Holland and a couple others not memorable enough to mention. We have also been on Viking about ten times. I have a cruise reserved for this December, three for 2022 and one for 2023... they are all on Viking. We have cruised Viking River Longboats and Viking Ocean and they are all simply worth every extra penny and more. We have seen wonders and had fabulous experiences on Viking. It's an adult crowd, generally > 50 and all in great spirits. .... no kids. With Viking you will have a ground excursion that is included at every port, you will have beer or wine with lunch and dinner as desired, all included. .... you have ships entertainment included, a couple of specialty meals included, water and coffee in cabin and snacks included and more. I highly recommend them having been around to compare the onboard experiences. If you need more PM me.
what about viking and the extraordinary premium price point do you like more than another river cruise that can be had for less than half?
and you get on the bargain brand and you pay for water in your cabin, and coffee, and soda or other beverages with lunch and dinner, and you pay for all your ground excursions rather than have a meaningful ground excursion with a first class guide and private headset at every stop, enrichment and historical lectures available before each stop so you know the history and background of each place visited.... , and your adult beverages with dinner including sodas and such.... and you are on an older tired ship with worn furnishings in the common areas and your cabin... and the entertainment is less than stellar and of course there are no movies available in your cabin, umbrellas for your use.. and lets get to the food... the food quality, preparation, variety of dining experiences, ability to arrange special events and ground experience through the ships concierge and more. I've been on a cruise ship where entire decks smelled like a toilet, where a bottle of water was $1.99 in your cabin, where the towels were rough and stiff.... as was the toilet paper... LOL, you go your way amigo, it's not for us. You can arrange your own airport to ship travel, carry your own bags and do all those little things yourself if you need to try and save a few bucks. I'm making memories I don't mind remembering... www.martindareff.com

I could also get into cabin size, bathroom size and accoutrements such as heated floor, cabin storage facilities for your suitcases and clothes, outlets, I could go on and on. There is a very large difference between going cheap tourist on a ship and going cruising with a top quality provider.
Im confused because none of what you said happened.

😂 lol we did not have a urine stained worn ship. It was a new ship less than 5 years old. Granted the entertainment was just ok and the after hours food was just average but the boat was not disgusting in anyway!!


Granted we paid for our own excursions but we didnt need anyone to tell us what to see. We were able to get audio guides on each walk we went on. Todays modern technology means you can get effective guided tours with your iphone.

We did have meaningful excursions but we paid for our own. With the branded tours you are forced to go with whomever they choose. How do you know that they are first class outside their advertised brochure? We traveled to everywhere and had private tours.

We viewed historical information and video/audio information with stuff we downloaded in advance. This is stuff you can get from youtube and other sources. Books and chapters we found.

There are excellent guidebooks worth having too. Rick steves. Rough guide. Etc.

We even spent the extra money to go after hours to a few museums just for us!! But thats the extra money we paid to make ‘our memories’.

You mentioned drinks-i had all inclusive drinks. All the time anytime. Alcohol soda coffee. We had a buffet and access to fancier sit down fare included. We only ever paid for lavazza coffee.

And lunch is always on the ground. Which meant we had authentic food from the locals which is the best anyway. This wouldnt change regardless of the boat.

We did not pay for water. Im not sure why anyone would. Granted water bottles cost money but we were in europe. Tap water is just fine we bottled it and took it every time.

Everytime we left we were given umbrellas for free..

I watched movies in my cabin -granted for the newer stuff u had to pay but we spent more time on the deck and in our veranda looking out. Thats the same stuff you see no matter what boat you are in.


We never carried our own bags...or even arranged our own transport as we called ahead and had everything planned ahead.

Im not sure the experience you describe is the case any longer?

Regardless im all for luxury travel but i never found it with the cruises. We definitely pay a lot for hotels etc to be closer to the attractions and/or better views so we can ‘make memories’ so im all for spending but not sure that your explanations are a justification for paying 8 grand when my wife and I paid less than 1800 3 years ago!!

I saw your pictures. Theyre no different from mine. European pictures that are no different than mine. (Except i paid less im sure for the experience )
curmudgeon
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by curmudgeon »

jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:28 am
We went on the Norwegian for my wife and I and loved it. You should be aware that most of what you want to see is not at the ports (unlike a river cruise) as a result there is a huge gap in transportation time from cruise to location. For example in Italy they dont stop at rome. They stop at a small port and then you go to rome which cuts into your experience. Do you really want to pay 8+ for such an experience when you can have a great experience with lower cost through Norwegian? Please look into that.

You can also pay the extra money to norwegian or someone else for even longer period of time instead.
One nice thing about cruise lines is that there are real differences between the lines so that you can find ones that suit your budget and preferences.

My wife and I did a 10-day Med cruise on Norwegian several years ago. We weren't impressed. We found the food poor, the service chaotic, too many fellow passengers inclined to over-imbibe, the entertainment mediocre, and the ship awkwardly laid out. We enjoyed the ports, but we came back and put NCL at the bottom of the list for any future cruise choices. But we met fellow passengers on the ship who took that same cruise every year, so clearly it fit a market.

For us, we've found Azamara a good compromise, but I'm sure others might find the ship too quiet and the cabins too cramped.
jayk238
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by jayk238 »

curmudgeon wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 10:50 am
jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:28 am
We went on the Norwegian for my wife and I and loved it. You should be aware that most of what you want to see is not at the ports (unlike a river cruise) as a result there is a huge gap in transportation time from cruise to location. For example in Italy they dont stop at rome. They stop at a small port and then you go to rome which cuts into your experience. Do you really want to pay 8+ for such an experience when you can have a great experience with lower cost through Norwegian? Please look into that.

You can also pay the extra money to norwegian or someone else for even longer period of time instead.
One nice thing about cruise lines is that there are real differences between the lines so that you can find ones that suit your budget and preferences.

My wife and I did a 10-day Med cruise on Norwegian several years ago. We weren't impressed. We found the food poor, the service chaotic, too many fellow passengers inclined to over-imbibe, the entertainment mediocre, and the ship awkwardly laid out. We enjoyed the ports, but we came back and put NCL at the bottom of the list for any future cruise choices. But we met fellow passengers on the ship who took that same cruise every year, so clearly it fit a market.

For us, we've found Azamara a good compromise, but I'm sure others might find the ship too quiet and the cabins too cramped.
Azamara is pretty cool. Theyve found a cost effective way to provide a unique experience
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midareff
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by midareff »

jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 10:05 am
midareff wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 9:12 am
jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:30 am
midareff wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:12 am
oldmotos wrote: Wed Apr 21, 2021 8:12 pm We are looking at going on a Mediterranean Cruise with friends in September 2022. They have picked out a 12 night Viking Cruise on the Viking Sea in a Category DV4-Deluxe Veranda at a cost of $8600 per person including economy air fare from the Midwest U.S. This is double of what I have seen for similar cruises on other well known cruise lines. We are not opposed to paying more for a better experience but wanted to ask this group for any recommendations or opinions on these cruises.
We have been on Oceania, Carnival, American Cruise Lines in the US, Princess, Fathom, Holland and a couple others not memorable enough to mention. We have also been on Viking about ten times. I have a cruise reserved for this December, three for 2022 and one for 2023... they are all on Viking. We have cruised Viking River Longboats and Viking Ocean and they are all simply worth every extra penny and more. We have seen wonders and had fabulous experiences on Viking. It's an adult crowd, generally > 50 and all in great spirits. .... no kids. With Viking you will have a ground excursion that is included at every port, you will have beer or wine with lunch and dinner as desired, all included. .... you have ships entertainment included, a couple of specialty meals included, water and coffee in cabin and snacks included and more. I highly recommend them having been around to compare the onboard experiences. If you need more PM me.
what about viking and the extraordinary premium price point do you like more than another river cruise that can be had for less than half?
and you get on the bargain brand and you pay for water in your cabin, and coffee, and soda or other beverages with lunch and dinner, and you pay for all your ground excursions rather than have a meaningful ground excursion with a first class guide and private headset at every stop, enrichment and historical lectures available before each stop so you know the history and background of each place visited.... , and your adult beverages with dinner including sodas and such.... and you are on an older tired ship with worn furnishings in the common areas and your cabin... and the entertainment is less than stellar and of course there are no movies available in your cabin, umbrellas for your use.. and lets get to the food... the food quality, preparation, variety of dining experiences, ability to arrange special events and ground experience through the ships concierge and more. I've been on a cruise ship where entire decks smelled like a toilet, where a bottle of water was $1.99 in your cabin, where the towels were rough and stiff.... as was the toilet paper... LOL, you go your way amigo, it's not for us. You can arrange your own airport to ship travel, carry your own bags and do all those little things yourself if you need to try and save a few bucks. I'm making memories I don't mind remembering... www.martindareff.com

I could also get into cabin size, bathroom size and accoutrements such as heated floor, cabin storage facilities for your suitcases and clothes, outlets, I could go on and on. There is a very large difference between going cheap tourist on a ship and going cruising with a top quality provider.
Im confused because none of what you said happened.

😂 lol we did not have a urine stained worn ship. It was a new ship less than 5 years old. Granted the entertainment was just ok and the after hours food was just average but the boat was not disgusting in anyway!!


Granted we paid for our own excursions but we didnt need anyone to tell us what to see. We were able to get audio guides on each walk we went on. Todays modern technology means you can get effective guided tours with your iphone.

We did have meaningful excursions but we paid for our own. With the branded tours you are forced to go with whomever they choose. How do you know that they are first class outside their advertised brochure? We traveled to everywhere and had private tours.

We viewed historical information and video/audio information with stuff we downloaded in advance. This is stuff you can get from youtube and other sources. Books and chapters we found.

There are excellent guidebooks worth having too. Rick steves. Rough guide. Etc.

We even spent the extra money to go after hours to a few museums just for us!! But thats the extra money we paid to make ‘our memories’.

You mentioned drinks-i had all inclusive drinks. All the time anytime. Alcohol soda coffee. We had a buffet and access to fancier sit down fare included. We only ever paid for lavazza coffee.

And lunch is always on the ground. Which meant we had authentic food from the locals which is the best anyway. This wouldnt change regardless of the boat.

We did not pay for water. Im not sure why anyone would. Granted water bottles cost money but we were in europe. Tap water is just fine we bottled it and took it every time.

Everytime we left we were given umbrellas for free..

I watched movies in my cabin -granted for the newer stuff u had to pay but we spent more time on the deck and in our veranda looking out. Thats the same stuff you see no matter what boat you are in.


We never carried our own bags...or even arranged our own transport as we called ahead and had everything planned ahead.

Im not sure the experience you describe is the case any longer?

Regardless im all for luxury travel but i never found it with the cruises. We definitely pay a lot for hotels etc to be closer to the attractions and/or better views so we can ‘make memories’ so im all for spending but not sure that your explanations are a justification for paying 8 grand when my wife and I paid less than 1800 3 years ago!!

I saw your pictures. Theyre no different from mine. European pictures that are no different than mine. (Except i paid less im sure for the experience )
Good for you... glad you enjoyed your travels. I see no point in trying to explain a level of quality and service to one who doesn't want to understand it.
BogleFan510
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by BogleFan510 »

removed by author
Last edited by BogleFan510 on Fri Jul 09, 2021 6:10 pm, edited 1 time in total.
jayk238
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by jayk238 »

midareff wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 11:47 am
jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 10:05 am
midareff wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 9:12 am
jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:30 am
midareff wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:12 am

We have been on Oceania, Carnival, American Cruise Lines in the US, Princess, Fathom, Holland and a couple others not memorable enough to mention. We have also been on Viking about ten times. I have a cruise reserved for this December, three for 2022 and one for 2023... they are all on Viking. We have cruised Viking River Longboats and Viking Ocean and they are all simply worth every extra penny and more. We have seen wonders and had fabulous experiences on Viking. It's an adult crowd, generally > 50 and all in great spirits. .... no kids. With Viking you will have a ground excursion that is included at every port, you will have beer or wine with lunch and dinner as desired, all included. .... you have ships entertainment included, a couple of specialty meals included, water and coffee in cabin and snacks included and more. I highly recommend them having been around to compare the onboard experiences. If you need more PM me.
what about viking and the extraordinary premium price point do you like more than another river cruise that can be had for less than half?
and you get on the bargain brand and you pay for water in your cabin, and coffee, and soda or other beverages with lunch and dinner, and you pay for all your ground excursions rather than have a meaningful ground excursion with a first class guide and private headset at every stop, enrichment and historical lectures available before each stop so you know the history and background of each place visited.... , and your adult beverages with dinner including sodas and such.... and you are on an older tired ship with worn furnishings in the common areas and your cabin... and the entertainment is less than stellar and of course there are no movies available in your cabin, umbrellas for your use.. and lets get to the food... the food quality, preparation, variety of dining experiences, ability to arrange special events and ground experience through the ships concierge and more. I've been on a cruise ship where entire decks smelled like a toilet, where a bottle of water was $1.99 in your cabin, where the towels were rough and stiff.... as was the toilet paper... LOL, you go your way amigo, it's not for us. You can arrange your own airport to ship travel, carry your own bags and do all those little things yourself if you need to try and save a few bucks. I'm making memories I don't mind remembering... www.martindareff.com

I could also get into cabin size, bathroom size and accoutrements such as heated floor, cabin storage facilities for your suitcases and clothes, outlets, I could go on and on. There is a very large difference between going cheap tourist on a ship and going cruising with a top quality provider.
Im confused because none of what you said happened.

😂 lol we did not have a urine stained worn ship. It was a new ship less than 5 years old. Granted the entertainment was just ok and the after hours food was just average but the boat was not disgusting in anyway!!


Granted we paid for our own excursions but we didnt need anyone to tell us what to see. We were able to get audio guides on each walk we went on. Todays modern technology means you can get effective guided tours with your iphone.

We did have meaningful excursions but we paid for our own. With the branded tours you are forced to go with whomever they choose. How do you know that they are first class outside their advertised brochure? We traveled to everywhere and had private tours.

We viewed historical information and video/audio information with stuff we downloaded in advance. This is stuff you can get from youtube and other sources. Books and chapters we found.

There are excellent guidebooks worth having too. Rick steves. Rough guide. Etc.

We even spent the extra money to go after hours to a few museums just for us!! But thats the extra money we paid to make ‘our memories’.

You mentioned drinks-i had all inclusive drinks. All the time anytime. Alcohol soda coffee. We had a buffet and access to fancier sit down fare included. We only ever paid for lavazza coffee.

And lunch is always on the ground. Which meant we had authentic food from the locals which is the best anyway. This wouldnt change regardless of the boat.

We did not pay for water. Im not sure why anyone would. Granted water bottles cost money but we were in europe. Tap water is just fine we bottled it and took it every time.

Everytime we left we were given umbrellas for free..

I watched movies in my cabin -granted for the newer stuff u had to pay but we spent more time on the deck and in our veranda looking out. Thats the same stuff you see no matter what boat you are in.


We never carried our own bags...or even arranged our own transport as we called ahead and had everything planned ahead.

Im not sure the experience you describe is the case any longer?

Regardless im all for luxury travel but i never found it with the cruises. We definitely pay a lot for hotels etc to be closer to the attractions and/or better views so we can ‘make memories’ so im all for spending but not sure that your explanations are a justification for paying 8 grand when my wife and I paid less than 1800 3 years ago!!

I saw your pictures. Theyre no different from mine. European pictures that are no different than mine. (Except i paid less im sure for the experience )
Good for you... glad you enjoyed your travels. I see no point in trying to explain a level of quality and service to one who doesn't want to understand it.
No i will never understand paying for exclusivity or snobbery. I certainly love high quality service. I pay what I want -upwards of $$$$ for expensive hotels and restaurants because of my appreciation for service! Good day.
tibbitts
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by tibbitts »

jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 10:05 am Regardless im all for luxury travel but i never found it with the cruises. We definitely pay a lot for hotels etc to be closer to the attractions and/or better views so we can ‘make memories’ so im all for spending but not sure that your explanations are a justification for paying 8 grand when my wife and I paid less than 1800 3 years ago!!
Yes well I paid about half as much for a 2x4x8 just about a year ago ago as today so what's your point? This isn't three years ago, so if you want to propose an alternative, specify something that would be roughly comparable today, for the same departure timeframe. Also, before the pandemic better pricing was usually available much closer in to a cruise date, but that ship seems to have sailed so to speak, at least for now. I do think some people whose reservations have been pushed out due to cancellations may end up bailing, so the booking levels the industry is seeing may or may not be firm.
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ResearchMed
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by ResearchMed »

jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 12:26 pm No i will never understand paying for exclusivity or snobbery. I certainly love high quality service. I pay what I want -upwards of $$$$ for expensive hotels and restaurants because of my appreciation for service! Good day.
Bingo!

You've nailed it (but sort of "for the other side").

You wrote:
"I certainly love high quality service. I pay what I want -upwards of $$$$ for expensive hotels and restaurants because of my appreciation for service! "

THIS is exactly what some of us have been trying to explain when others "complain" about spending "too much" (which is in the eyes of the beholder, after all...).

And for some/many of us, we find that "high quality service" on the premium/luxury cruise lines.
Why would that differ from the spending at "expensive hotels and restaurants"?
Indeed, a cruise *IS* a hotel and restaurant[s]... a hotel that follows one around at night :wink:

RM
This signature is a placebo. You are in the control group.
alexander29
Posts: 65
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by alexander29 »

You generally get what you pay for in cruising. There's a world of difference between Carnival and Seabourn, both owned by the same corporation but aiming at completely different audiences - just as you can go from Motel 6 to Four Seasons on land. We splurge on Seabourn because the quality and atmosphere is important to us, but it may not be to others. (And no, there's no snobbery on board. It's just...pleasant.)

One exercise is to compare a big mass market ship where you pay for any extras to a smaller luxury line that is more all-inclusive. On the mass market ship you can get aboard far more cheaply, but if you want a comparably sized and outfitted cabin, the top restaurant meals, drinks, tips, entertainment, etc. that are already covered by the fancy all-inclusive lines, sometimes the price difference is not all that great. Look in detail at what your Viking cruise includes and doesn't, and compare carefully. And yes, cruise critic.com is a great resource.
jayk238
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by jayk238 »

ResearchMed wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 1:03 pm
jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 12:26 pm No i will never understand paying for exclusivity or snobbery. I certainly love high quality service. I pay what I want -upwards of $$$$ for expensive hotels and restaurants because of my appreciation for service! Good day.
Bingo!

You've nailed it (but sort of "for the other side").

You wrote:
"I certainly love high quality service. I pay what I want -upwards of $$$$ for expensive hotels and restaurants because of my appreciation for service! "

THIS is exactly what some of us have been trying to explain when others "complain" about spending "too much" (which is in the eyes of the beholder, after all...).

And for some/many of us, we find that "high quality service" on the premium/luxury cruise lines.
Why would that differ from the spending at "expensive hotels and restaurants"?
Indeed, a cruise *IS* a hotel and restaurant[s]... a hotel that follows one around at night :wink:

RM
Yeah a bit different. I paid premium in paris so i could wak to the louvre and take the tube for everything else. When the protests shut down the tubes and everything we walked to like the louvre was empty and we had the museum to ourselves. Well worth the premium.

The other year we went to switzerland and stayed at a cabin side w a view of the mountains at their foot.

The difference?
Whether or not im in an oceania or a nwl cruise in mediterranean they essentially go to the same places in the same way. Why bother for the extras? So i can have a plusher couch? No.

The food quality on these boats is nothing like paying premium local foods at the location i wish to be.
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midareff
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by midareff »

jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 2:13 pm
ResearchMed wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 1:03 pm
jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 12:26 pm No i will never understand paying for exclusivity or snobbery. I certainly love high quality service. I pay what I want -upwards of $$$$ for expensive hotels and restaurants because of my appreciation for service! Good day.
Bingo!

You've nailed it (but sort of "for the other side").

You wrote:
"I certainly love high quality service. I pay what I want -upwards of $$$$ for expensive hotels and restaurants because of my appreciation for service! "

THIS is exactly what some of us have been trying to explain when others "complain" about spending "too much" (which is in the eyes of the beholder, after all...).

And for some/many of us, we find that "high quality service" on the premium/luxury cruise lines.
Why would that differ from the spending at "expensive hotels and restaurants"?
Indeed, a cruise *IS* a hotel and restaurant[s]... a hotel that follows one around at night :wink:

RM
Yeah a bit different. I paid premium in paris so i could wak to the louvre and take the tube for everything else. When the protests shut down the tubes and everything we walked to like the louvre was empty and we had the museum to ourselves. Well worth the premium.

Depends on what boat you are on

The other year we went to switzerland and stayed at a cabin side w a view of the mountains at their foot.

The difference?
Whether or not im in an oceania or a nwl cruise in mediterranean they essentially go to the same places in the same way. Why bother for the extras? So i can have a plusher couch? No.

The food quality on these boats is nothing like paying premium local foods at the location i wish to be.

Depends on what boat you are on jayk238. Frankly, unless you have been on a Viking or Regent Cruise you just aren't in a position to opine on what you aren't missing. Enjoy your travels... there are other ways besides yours.
jayk238
Posts: 911
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by jayk238 »

midareff wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 2:17 pm
jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 2:13 pm
ResearchMed wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 1:03 pm
jayk238 wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 12:26 pm No i will never understand paying for exclusivity or snobbery. I certainly love high quality service. I pay what I want -upwards of $$$$ for expensive hotels and restaurants because of my appreciation for service! Good day.
Bingo!

You've nailed it (but sort of "for the other side").

You wrote:
"I certainly love high quality service. I pay what I want -upwards of $$$$ for expensive hotels and restaurants because of my appreciation for service! "

THIS is exactly what some of us have been trying to explain when others "complain" about spending "too much" (which is in the eyes of the beholder, after all...).

And for some/many of us, we find that "high quality service" on the premium/luxury cruise lines.
Why would that differ from the spending at "expensive hotels and restaurants"?
Indeed, a cruise *IS* a hotel and restaurant[s]... a hotel that follows one around at night :wink:

RM
Yeah a bit different. I paid premium in paris so i could wak to the louvre and take the tube for everything else. When the protests shut down the tubes and everything we walked to like the louvre was empty and we had the museum to ourselves. Well worth the premium.

Depends on what boat you are on

The other year we went to switzerland and stayed at a cabin side w a view of the mountains at their foot.

The difference?
Whether or not im in an oceania or a nwl cruise in mediterranean they essentially go to the same places in the same way. Why bother for the extras? So i can have a plusher couch? No.

The food quality on these boats is nothing like paying premium local foods at the location i wish to be.

Depends on what boat you are on jayk238. Frankly, unless you have been on a Viking or Regent Cruise you just aren't in a position to opine on what you aren't missing. Enjoy your travels... there are other ways besides yours.
That is definitely reasonable!
orlandoman
Posts: 675
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Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by orlandoman »

My experience using Viking Air with my British Isles, London to Bergen, Norway Viking cruise:
- flight was booked on United, Orlando to Newark to London
- after leaving Orlando, Newark airport was closed due to heavy thunderstorms, for a few hours
- flight was diverted to Columbus, Ohio where we spent a few hours on the tarmac
- after Newark opened we took off for Newark
- arrived in Newark in the evening after our connecting flight & all flights to London had departed
- United agent said we couldn't get to London for 2 days due to all the flights that had to be rebooked
- called Viking Air after hours number at 11pm
- Viking Air had me put the United agent on the phone with them & the United agent told them the same thing
- United agent handed the phone back to me, while talking with Viking Air they put me on the next available flight to London a British Air flight the next morning
- upon arrival in London Viking Air had arranged a limo to take my wife & I to the Viking cruise ship

Had I booked directly with United, I would not have arrived in London for 2 days. Thats, the kind of experience I've found you can expect from Viking.
"Borrow money from pessimists -- they don't expect it back"
Mapmaker
Posts: 87
Joined: Sat Aug 25, 2018 10:16 am

Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by Mapmaker »

To the OP, I have no experience with Viking, but your price is actually pretty good. I just priced a 12 night western Mediterranean in September on the Celebrity Edge in a nice veranda cabin with drinks, internet and gratuities included, but no airfare or insurance, and it came out to around $8k for two.
Coincidentally, today I booked a 10 day Italy, Croatia, and Montenegro cruise for next October. On the invoice, it notes that Covid vaccine and “certificate” ( I’m assuming negative Covid test) are required.
orlandoman
Posts: 675
Joined: Tue Oct 19, 2010 7:27 am

Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by orlandoman »

Mapmaker wrote: Fri Apr 23, 2021 6:18 pm To the OP, I have no experience with Viking, but your price is actually pretty good. I just priced a 12 night western Mediterranean in September on the Celebrity Edge in a nice veranda cabin with drinks, internet and gratuities included, but no airfare or insurance, and it came out to around $8k for two.
Coincidentally, today I booked a 10 day Italy, Croatia, and Montenegro cruise for next October. On the invoice, it notes that Covid vaccine and “certificate” ( I’m assuming negative Covid test) are required.
FYI, the OP said, "$8600 per person", that's $17,200 for two, not your $8k for two
"Borrow money from pessimists -- they don't expect it back"
Helios
Posts: 45
Joined: Mon Nov 25, 2019 7:43 pm

Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by Helios »

Psst, Celebrity Cruises, barcelona,monte carlo, rome, naples, sicily,ephysus, istanbul.
10k veranda cabin.
Helios
Posts: 45
Joined: Mon Nov 25, 2019 7:43 pm

Re: Mediterranean Cruise Opinions

Post by Helios »

Oops forgot capri and athens.
Price from 2018
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