We always try to extend our trip on both sides of our cruise. In the 19th century, it was among the world's busiest ports and played a major role in both city's and country's development. I really hope to do the Umbria one someday. $250/person for 1st-class. This potential issue is one of the main reasons we always fly in early. Explore this revitalized town along the shores of Lake Michigan. However, prior to the cruise, the designated hotel was changed and that hotel turned out to be pretty far from the tourists sites and there were no restaurants or cafes nearby. Sail the Gulf of Mexico and witness the palm-lined Florida Keys and the Yucatn Peninsula. We were on our own and since the train was not available, we flew the one hour flight from Bergen to Oslo. The initiative was part of the port expansion project and the decision was based on multiple technical and commercial studies. The trip to Vigur Island is a MUST!!!! The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Quebec City, Canada. See the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, 9/11 Memorial, Central Park and more. An included dinner depends on whether it's attached to another activity or not. We have only done one pre-cruise extension. To do extensions on our own is doable but we don't really Also, be aware that the hotel may change at some point before your trip. We were, as I said, all set to book ours in first class (on the advice of friends), when the train shut down for maintenance for the week we needed it. So, why not make the most of your trip by extending your vacation? Normally when you book a hotel room, the room rate in the same for you and your spouse. Lastly, I am looking at using thewww.porterservice.no luggage transfer rather than schlepping our large bags (we are on the NYC to Bergen trip, so more than carryon). As we are traveling from Australia to Europe for this, I wanted to book the pre hotel for a few extra days. During the off-season, Terminal 30 offers storage services for pleasure crafts (65 boats) and hosts large-scale events, such as the Imagine Monet exhibition, which runs until September 5, 2022. Im a seasoned traveler, and not afraid of being on my own, but Norway is a place where I would not know a single word of the language. Our meals were not only at the villa where we stayed, but we also visited many restaurants, including lunch on a farm and dinner at a winery. WebMore days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. As we are traveling from Australia to Europe for this, I wanted to book the pre hotel for a few extra I'm now convinced the local office is correct in that they don't really know for sure, and we won't get alot of time for planning. RegionEast Coast USA and Canada New England. More features, services and excursions included. This is true. What train booking site did you you use? In 2022 HAL-Holland America Line's boats ms Nieuw Statendam and ms Zaandam will be sailing along the East Coast of North America. Powered by Invision Community. Sail the majestic Chilean fjords and marvel at vast ice fields flowing to the waters edge. The dining car is just a takeout place, and alcohol needs to be consumed in the dining car. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or We had no trouble finding places to eat near the hotel and the pick-up point for the tours we had booked was across the street. 2 hotel nights in Rome (as shown or similar) 2 meals: 2 breakfasts. Better than all of the subways I have been on all over the world. The excursions they describe are optional, so there is an extra fee for those. Thank you for reading our article and safe travels! Is it always one or the other? Baggage check service is between 7 am - 5 pm, and for disembarking passengers only (cost CAD 4 pp). It was the best day of our week long trip! As part of the project, a second cruise terminal will be also built and opened by 2025. In addition, it may be a relief to know that Viking will take care of not only transporting you, but will also take care of handling your luggage between hotels, the ship and the airport! To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates just follow the corresponding ship-link. In Norway, especially Bergen and Oslo, we had NO problems with the language as everyone spoke English - quite well. Did you do any of the group dinners ? Not very fancy, but the views from the train are great! I don't think there was an option to upgrade. Booking you own extension allows you to do all of that. The only difference would be 1 guided tour in Oslo, which I could probably arrange for less than $200. My daughter was an exchange student there 25 years ago. Visit the colorful La Boca barrio and Plaza de Mayo, and walk in the footsteps of Eva Pern. Sail the St. Lawrence River, past the cultural capitals of Quebec City and Montreal. If it's Economy, can we pay extra and get 1st-class instead? On July 5, 2022, was inaugurated the new multipurpose cruise terminal at Berth 30 (aka Terminal 30). That likely means flying overnight, followed by a very long day the next day. Viking's arranging flights for us; we're already paying $100/person for Air Plus, but if we fly home from Oslo instead of Bergen, is Viking going to uncharge for that? The city is surrounded by stone walls (the only American walled city north of Mexico) with massive ramparts dominated by the Citadel (fortress). Explore the untamed beauty of Antarctica and experience a journey like no other. Visit the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center; kayak over shipwrecks in Thunder Bay. Explore this car-free island by carriage, bicycle or on foot; kayak along the shoreline. Sail the South Atlantic Ocean, separated from the North by the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Both hotels include breakfast. Not all seats have a window in the right place and the last 1/3 of the trip it was dark. In response to the OP's question about how Viking can get away with charging $1700 for the excursion, the reason is that people just don't bother to do the math or else they don't care about over paying. Taste legendary Moselle Rieslings. Admire the regions natural beauty and look for seals and birdlife on Brion Island. I would add that not all extensions are created equal. My daughter was in advanced English there and studied literature way beyond her home high school. If your extension is in the beginning or ending city of your cruise, Viking refers to it as a Deviation. When we first selected the extension, the designated hotel was located much closer to the prime tourist areas. Explore the colonial town of Montecristi; visit the home of the iconic Panama hat. Not sure when this started, but her host parents did not start English in 3rd grade. Regardless of whether you chose a Viking Extension or plan your own, we are big believers in extending your vacation on both ends of your cruise. A picturesque town surrounded by forests and vineyards, Trier is the birthplace of Karl Marx and a vibrant university town. Thank you so much for spending a little of your time with us. Few cities embody the past as authentically as Prague, the Czech Republics atmospheric capital. If I recall correctly, when I checked to compare the Viking cost vs Doing the hotel on our own, they offered two rates-one with breakfast and a slightly cheaper one without. Germanys oldest university town, Heidelberg and its castle are situated in the Neckar Valley just east of the Rhine. Click here to reload the page in order to enable certain features, Policy regarding COVID related Discussions. He is Icelandic and she is from UK and both are polar explorers. You are met at the dock by Felicity or her husband, as tour guide. Some vendors may process your personal data on the basis of legitimate interest, which you can object to by managing your options below. As usual Peregrina is correct. I'd appreciate hearing more on how you handled things. Guests are on their own for everything else. WebMore days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Despite two centuries of English rule, it remains fiercely French today. Learn about the exciting adventures of Antarctic explorers, including Sir Ernest Shackleton. Puffins galore, but also many other birds. In May 2017 was inaugurated the theme park Place des Canotiers (cost USD 39 million). So, if we had it to do over again, we would have just elected to create our own extension, rather than purchasing the Viking extension. I'm constantly appalled at the bad grammar I see online, the butchered English spoken by talking heads on TV, the tortured headlines on news sites. $1500 - TOTAL ESTIMATE WebMore days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. As deepwater port, it allows ships with max draft 15 m (49 ft) at low tide and provides the shortest connection from Europe to North America's Great Lakes region - continent's industrial and agricultural core. TIP: If you are booking your own extensions, no transfers will be included. We got a voucher for food from the dining car and could eat what we wanted, when we wanted. Hoping to get other's experience here. Puffins galore, but also many other birds. Ask your Viking Expert for more information. Admire magnificent coastal vistas of soaring cliffs; marvel at a variety of birdlife. First time on Viking Ocean. Siammau, Yesterday at 04:10 AM in Viking Ocean. It was clear that most of the people in the car were commuters. WebMore days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or I suspect this problem is just another to add to the pile of things that are now suffering post covid. EnerDels lithium-ion battery solutions offer notable benefits over traditional battery solutions, including light weight, longer cycle life, reduced maintenance and service and often less space allowing for new product design options. Discover the nature of the Fuegian Andes; sail the Beagle Channel in search of wildlife. The birds were nesting when we were there, and you had to walk around with a stick held in the air because they would dive bomb the highest thing they saw coming toward them. So, lets take another look at those two examples from above. Also be aware that the first half to 2/3 is very scenic, but the last part isn't. So keep any eye out for a potential change. The project is for expanding and redesigning the existing terminal (at Pointe-a-Carcy) and also installing a new mobile terminal at Wharf 30 (Estuary sector). Plus, I'd have to pay $200 for us to be able to fly into London earlier, bringing flights for one of us to $1900, versus about $1700 each for us if I book it myself--which I'm going to do. Thanks. We're leaning towards booking it ourselves, which would be cheaper in the long run anyway. This extension was one of the best we have ever done. There is an old windmill many of us climbed up to see, and lots of pretty ocean vistas from atop the hill. Before I return to Japan, I'll learn at least some rudimentary phrases; it shows respect and I've always enjoyed trying to converse in foreign languages. Ive reached out to my TA to see what he thinks, but there are lots of things to consider here. Witness the wildlife of the Southern Ocean, and Antarcticas majestic glaciers and immense icebergs. We then had a day on our own before a 3 day pre-cruise at Lake Como before our 7 days on the Rhine from Basel to Amsterdam with a 2 night extension in Amsterdam. One of Germanys most renowned and intriguing cities, Nuremberg is surrounded by 13th-century walls that have many fully intact gates and watchtowers. Follow in the wake of ancient explorers, who sailed these waters in search of new lands. Dont Miss the Boat If you are flying in the day your cruise starts, a flight interruption or delay could mean that your ship will leave without you. We did exactly that for both the Tuscany and Rome extensions, arriving in Tuscany a few days prior to the start of the extension and by staying a few days after the Rome extension. WebThe Delta Center is coming back to Utah. . then we are likely to book with Viking. Bergen to Oslo post extension - train class question By longterm, Sunday at 08:53 PM in Viking Ocean Followers 8 Prev Page 3 of Keep watch for local marine life as you voyage through Chiles fjords. Not surprising these days, unfortunately. We took the Umbrian pre-cruise extension in Sep before our Rome-Barcelona cruise. mikenannie, November 19, 2021 in Viking Ocean, We are about to book our first Viking cruise. In August 2018, Port Quebec City announced its plans to build a second passenger terminal. We did the Mediterranean & Italian Sojourn (Barcelona to Venice) in June and did the 2 day Viking pre-cruise in Barcelona and 2 day post-cruise in Venice. Explore the blue-tinged glaciers of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field by Zodiac. We were met at the airport and our tour director stayed with us throughout the entire extension. Were traveling with another couple too, so well discuss our options with them. Ive booked the 3 night Lake Como extension which includes some dinners and tours but most importantly the transfer from the now changeable docking Venetian location. We love the smaller ships and service that Viking provides, as well as the excellent itineraries they offer. Transfers and a tour shouldn't come to $700. I'm wondering if a) it's really such a wonderful trip as I've heard, and b) whether we should just book the train and hotel in Oslo ourselves, so that we can go 1st class on the train. On a breathtaking stretch of the Rhine that leads from medieval Koblenz to Braubach to Rdesheim, the 11th-century Marksburg Castle towers over the river. At least you don't have to get back to the airport to catch a flight; getting from hotel to ship is 15 minutes by cab -- at most. It looks like we could go in the afternoon of the "Blue Lagoon" day or skip the lagoon altogether. It is currently ranked Canada's largestfreight railway (in terms of revenue and network size). We did the Golden Circle with Viking and also enjoyed it, despite the rain (justified packing the raingear). A photographers paradise. We've never flown out of a city other than the termination city of a cruise. The Scandinavian countries are easy to manage on your own, transportation, hotels, sightseeing, etc. The project is for expanding and redesigning the existing terminal (at Pointe-a-Carcy) and also installing a new mobile terminal at Wharf 30 (Estuary sector). We would also have to pay for transfers in Bergen and Oslo, and would not get a tour in Oslo, but I can certainly arrange a private one. On May 28, 2019, QPA signed a long-term agreement for building and operation/management of the new container terminal Laurentia. The Saint Lawrence-Great Lakes market is estimated to have 110+ million consumers. I dont believe we could have done this on our own. CC Help Jenn You will be able to leave a comment after signing in, By Yes, the "plus" seating is their 1st-class seating. It was a far more interesting trip than our trip in 2018 but apparently not all tour escorts do the same. After that I think we had about half an hour on our own. From $499 | 2 Nights, From $1,699 | 3 Nights, From $599 | 2 Nights, From $1,299 | 5 Nights. Cruisers' Choice Awards! By arriving before the cruise begins, you will have the ability to take it easy for a day or two, allowing you to acclimate to the new time zone and renew your energy before starting the cruise. Hopefully, we have convinced you that extending your vacation is a great idea. All transfers Excursion Example Two: Ultimate Italy Tuscany. Doing a dummy train booking since you can't book on vy.no site until 60-90 days in advance, fully refundable, plus train tickets from Bergen to Oslo come to just under $300 for the two of us. To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below. Pre: Chicago From $1,199 | 2 Nights Post: Gateway Those who did said it was very well done. They speak better English than we do. $1500 - TOTAL ESTIMATE We also arrived in Flornce 2 days before the extension to explore some on our own. In Oslo, I booked two nights at the Thon Hotel Opera (same hotel that Viking uses for the post-excursion for $250/night including taxes (I booked directly with the hotel website). My husband is also a photographer, and the Iceland photos rival anything he took on our World Cruise. Also, be aware that for the Bergen-to-Oslo train, seniors can get a 25% discount when booking through vy.no (not sure the age cut-off). An optional Viking excursion in Vienna, the Heurigen Evening provided a high-spirited authentic Viennese gemtlichkeit experience. A shuttle from the ship took our small group of five couples and our guides to the citys 19th district where numerous vineyards are located with their wine taverns called Heurigen. $50 - transfer from ship to train station, $300 - food in Oslo (2 nights, 1 morning), $600 - hotel (2 nights - high, but I estimate high). Port Quebec creates 13,250 Canadian jobs, of which 8000+ (direct and indirect) in Quebec City. Just pricing the Bergen Oslo part, it comes to about $800 USD for the two of us (2 nights in Oslo plus train tickets). Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Powered by Invision Community. The tour escorts stayed in the cars with their "groups" and gave us a running commentary on what we were seeing; including history, geology, culture, and current events. WebExplore the untamed beauty of Antarctica on board Vikings state-of-the-art expedition vessel and experience a journey like no other to one of the worlds last unexplored However, the last time we did this, we only paid the deviation fee once and it included both inbound and return deviations. Call at South Georgia, one of the least visited places on Earth, and witness towering glaciers and magnificent icebergs of the Last Continent. Explore the untamed beauty of Antarctica on board Vikings state-of-the-art expedition vessel and experience a journey like no other to one of the worlds last unexplored territories. Many people take comfort in the fact that if there is an issue anytime during the trip, Viking will handle it. I forget the exact cost but when we compared it to what we paid for the previous four days of hotel and touring it was very comparable. Enjoy the earthy sounds of the didgeridoo and the thrilling dances of the Maori. /expeditions/images/longitudinal-world-cruise-v2-iii_478x345_tcm40-173201.jpg. This last summer we received "sack lunches" shortly after we boarded the train. Hoping to get other's experience here. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Perched on a hilltop above the city and the Moselle River, the 1,000-year-old Reichsburg Castle is Cochems signature landmark. This approach can be especially helpful for reducing the stress for first time international travelers, first-time cruisers, or anyone who wants to make their travel planning as easy and streamlined as possible. Admire the untold numbers of migratory birds and butterflies at Point Pelee National Park. Of course, you will have to arrange your own transportation, tours, dinners, etc., but a lot of travelers enjoy doing so and they may even save some money by doing everything on their own. Of all the 132 ship calls, 14 were turnarounds (roundtrips). I'm going to have to look into that Vigur Island opportunity. By this deal, HPH will build the cargo-handling facility, which will be North America's most technologically advanced cargo terminal. Port Quebec's cruise ship terminal "Ross Gaudreault" (the old one) is located near Old City, along the neighborhood Petit Champlain. When do Viking confirm hotels for extensions? We sure did and wish we could have done an extension and stayed a month! So, be sure that your itinerary is providing you enough time in your starting or ending destinations. Thanks much for your input. As does the Iceland extension in Homelands I believe. On our Viking pre we received final details about hotel and included excursion about a month before. and others may be new to international travel and a little timid, or even just want the support of Viking as they return to travel during Covid. Port Quebec City cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. If you do your own extension, you can add another night or two in Iceland -- and see even more of the country -- maybe even rent a car (Golden Circle can be done on your own). Viking Cruise Lines has become a major player in not just river cruises, but ocean cruises as well. WebMore days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Discover North Americas wilderness while sailing the striking waterways of the Great Lakes. MODULAR AND CUSTOMIZABLE AMERICAN-MANUFACTURED LITHIUM-ION BATTERY SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR ENERGY NEEDS. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or I plan to extend on my own to Milan afterwards so it will be a hybrid situation. Set sail from Ushuaia to the Falkland Islands, and call at South Georgia, one of the least visited places on earth. While some people love the idea of Viking taking care of everything, other travelers may prefer more flexibility. Excursions In some cases, Viking will offer an included or even optional excursions during the extension. The seats were the same as our first trip and the views from either side were great. /expeditions/images/South_Georgia_Albatross_Seal_478x345_tcm40-172352.jpg. What I would expect from a Metrolink vs Amtrak or european regional train vs TGV. Explore historic sites, including Chteaux Frontenac, Place Royale and Parliament. PS. Having looked at our Viking invoices, they have changed the hotels multiple times. Worst case you can always get a flight from Bergen to Oslo as we did. The extensions usually include excursions as well, dont they? Ask your Viking Expert for more information.Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change. More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Has anyone done this extension, and if so, do you know what travel class Viking provides--Economy or 1st Class? Plan the Excursions You Like Some travelers just want to do their own thing and plan their own itinerary. East Coast USA and Canada New England Cruise Ports, Port Quebec (Canada) reports strong 2022 cruise season, Celebrity Summit cruise ship to return to Boston MA in August 2023, Tauck charters Silversea's ship Silver Shadow for ocean cruises from NYC to Quebec City (2023 fall), Port of Quebec (Canada) expands cruise ship capacity with new terminal, Princess Cruises prepares for a full summer season of 2022 Alaska cruises and cruisetours, MSC Group's Explora Journeys introduces 2023-2024 Iceland, South America & Hawaii itineraries, Celebrity Cruises 2023 Canada & Bermuda program with Celebrity Summit ship, Viking Cruises' summer 2023 season of expedition voyages, Princess Cruises 2023 Canada & New England ships and itineraries, HAL-Holland Americas Canada and New England cruises 2022 on ships Zaandam and Nieuw Statendam, Australia - New Zealand - Pacific Ocean Islands, HPH (Hutchison Port Holdings Ltd) is a BVI-incorporated private company, subsidiary of the 2015-founded CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd -multinational headquartered in. TIP: You many want to consider a hybrid solution by combining a Viking extension with even more days on your own. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change. I don't know what class it was, but the windows were small and the seats not very well padded. We're doing the Iceland and Norway Artic Explorer cruise in June, 2013. We did all our transactions with hand signals; I was surprised that more Japanese people didn't speak English, but of course, in our arrogant American way, most Americans speak English only, while expecting other countries to just fall in line and understand us. Thanks for all the input; with our payment due date a little over a month away, I wanted to get all this squared away beforehand. Explore more before or after your expedition. And with incredible guides, this was truly a stress-free extension with absolutely everything taken care of for us. Got good pictures with my phone, but the telephoto won the day! Sail the Drake Passage; its waters are among the coldest and the deepest on Earth. I decided to schedule the train trip on our own rather than using Viking, since it'll be cheaper and we can get reserved 1st-class train seats. Make Sure Your Voice Is Heard! Ports include Sydney, Hobart, Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Napier, Tauranga, and Auckland. Dividing the Old World from the New World, sail the second-largest of the Earths oceans. Thanks everyone, this is a big help. The number of handled tourists was ~133000 (including 92000+ passengers and ~41000 crew). The Tuscany and Umbria extensions are really like escorted land tours and are more expensive than the basic hotel pre/post extensions, but more worthwhile. The new quay is within the port territory and QPA-managed. If you plan on going to a different city, it is a called a Stopover. June 9, 2023 Iconic Western Mediterranean. Come face-to-face with penguins as you explore the rugged beauty of the Falkland Islands. The very first day, in Kumamoto, we went to a bank to exchange money, and nobody spoke English. The Viking reps came around twice during the long trip, once to explain they would be handing out a sack lunch and once to hand it out. Then that was clears and seems like we had fruit and other small desserts. Cape Breton Island (Louisbourg), Nova Scotia, Canada. Obviously YMMV! Sail the legendary Path Between the Seas, an engineering marvel completed in 1914. Visit a sacred pre-Columbian Mayan religious site and admire the ruins of San Gervasio. There are no excursions or other meals included. The 3 hour tour (Westtours) might be the way to go unless there's a better way? You cant wander off the path, but you can sort of take your time and move away from the group a little bit. Guest Steve R. recently on our Cappadocia post-extension after sailing our Ancient Mediterranean Antiquities itinerary Viking Cruises does a great job of running a smooth process and transporting everyone on their comfortable coaches to tour locations or on scenic drives. Witness fine examples of 16th-century architecture as the capital of Spains colonial empire. I understand they include transfers, 2 meals and 2 breakfasts, but for ~ $1200 more, is that all you get in addition to the hotel room? My brother did the Iceland extension in 2018 and did not like the location of the Hilton -- too far away from the center of town, not enough cabs or public transportation, too few restaurants near the hotel. In December 2017, Quebec Port Authority (QPA) announced its plan for building a new container terminal at the "Beauport 2020" site. I would cancel the included in a heartbeat and book Vigur if you only have time for one. Niagara Falls (Port Colborne), Ontario & Welland Canal, Canada. If you have chosen a pre-cruise extension and arrive late, you may miss a day of the extension, bit at least you will make it onto the ship. Sometimes the designated hotel can even change several times before your trip. Many signs are also in English. Started October 12, 2018, Copyright 19952022 The Independent Traveler, Inc. We are on our first Viking Ocean cruise in July this year. Sail the legendary waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the route of explorers for centuries. The new facility (at Berth 30) was originally scheduled for completion in 2020-Q3, but eventually (due to the Coronavirus crisis) was delayed and postponed to July 2022. We had four or five appetizers and soup?, then they brought out platters of various mai dishes, a number of vegetables, rice etc. Viking offered an optional Peking Duck dinner for $50 or $60 dollars a person. Some passengers may like to just stay on the ship to relax and partake in onboard lectures and activities, but since Viking cruises are very destination-oriented, there is much to be discovered at each port. Each of the included tours that weve taken has given us a great introduction to a place. longterm, Sunday at 08:53 PM in Viking Ocean. From $1,999 | 3 Nights, From $4,999 | 4 Nights, From $4,999 | 5 Nights, From $3,499 | 4 Nights, From $3,999 | 5 Nights, Use down arrow key to expand the menu and up arrow key to collapse the menu and hit enter to select the link, Most Indoor & Outdoor Viewing Areas At Sea. You can read about them here. We experienced something that happens in the summer - track maintenance. The reason Viking sent us to Oslo is that the Bergen airport sucks. Look for a link at the bottom of this page or in our privacy policy where you can withdraw consent. Journey across the vast Atlantic Ocean, home to many of the worlds fishing grounds. It included some great group dinners. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Pre Cruise Extension question from a New Viking Cruiser, Forum Assistance - Welcome to Cruise Critic, Announcement: Upgrade Your Horizon ~ Sponsored by Regent Seven Seas Cruises. There is an organized tour into one of the buildings which shows how eider down is collected, carded, etc. They even stayed at the same villa and had meals with us. Sad! We have decided to also do pre and post extensions. They only offer "plus" seating which I believe is their first class experience. The deal was signed with HPH (Hutchison Port Holdings) and CN (Canadien National). Based on the cost of this extension, we feel we could have booked our own hotel, transfers and breakfast for about 50% to 60% of the price Viking charged. or a ticket to a buffet? I used United frequent flyer points to book Premium Plus seats. Sail in the wake of intrepid explorers as you traverse the waters of the Chilean fjords. Long a hub of French culture, cuisine and architectural splendor, Paris is one of the most romantic destinations in the world. The USA-based travel brand company Tauck announced it would offer "small ship ocean cruises" from Manhattan NYC (New York USA) to Quebec City (Canada To meet the growing demand for Quebec City as a cruise destination, the Port of Quebec (Canada) now has a modern cruise ship terminal. We did this extension in August 2022. How do meals included in an extension work? Was it an organized tour or on your own? Be sure you know where the ship will be docked what mode of transportation you will take and verify the ship location. Which one is better? Immerse in nature in this surfers paradise; Iquique is Chiles premier beach resort. With bookends in Paris and Prague, this 12-day journey celebrates Europes most luminous ports. "From the balloons over Cappadocia, the views of the rock formations and the houses in them were all breathtaking." We have decided to also do pre and post extensions. The scenery was beautiful. CC Help Jenn The official inauguration ceremony (held on July 5th) was attended by Mario Girard (Port's President and CEO), Chantal Rouleau (Transport Minister), David Weiser (QFF councilor for economic developments, Qubec Citys executive committee member), and other local dignitaries. In the period 2007-2017, the seaport reported growth of 80,5%. Highly recommended! I'm going to have to look into that Vigur Island opportunity. Our modular battery pack designs and product configurations allow us to rapidly deliver customized solutions for superior performance and reliability, no matter the application. Maybe you have visited the location before or have specific interests that would not be included as part of a Viking extension. In season 2022 (April thru November) Port Quebec handled a total of 96 cruise ship calls from 28 vessels (including 8 new/maiden) by 23 different companies/brands. Seems like breakfast is a common provided meal. Next photo shows the old and new versions of the Ross Gaudreault Cruise Terminal. We typically don't see our final documents much earlier than 2 weeks out. Be sure to carefully read exactly what is included in any extension so that you understand the value you are receiving before you decide to book. The cost for the pre-cruise extension When I went to Japan years ago, everyone told me, "Not to worry! https://www.vigurisland.com/about. Explore Pragues Lobkowicz Palace on a Privileged Access tour designed just for us by Prince William. First, the day by day description of the extension tells you which meals are included. Part of what you are paying for, of course, is convenience in regard to transfers, etc. Phase 3 (CAD 13,62 million) is for installing a new mobile terminal at wharf 30 (Estuary) to serve operations that the Ross Gaudreault can't. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or Center of the Champagne region, Reims offers diverse historic sites, notably Gallo-Roman ruins, medieval monuments and Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, it's not clear what's included. Next photo shows the new "Wharf 30 Cruise Terminal". The new terminal will be linked with the existing rail- and road networks. That was in China and it included two nights at the JW, breakfasts, full day of touring with lunch, and transfer from the hotel to the ship with a stop for lunch halfway through the four hour drive from Bejing to the port in Tianjin. Every Norwegian speaks English, except maybe the very elderly. We will always do a pre-cruise, just to make sure we dont miss the ship and to get acclimated. The Homelands post cruise extension in Iceland includes two full days between arrival and departure (with activities) as well as three breakfasts and one lunch. WebMore days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. So still on the fence on what Ill do. Those who took the extension with Viking I believe had to do some buses. Viking has continued to expand their footprint by adding both river and ocean ships each year, and has been voted both the Best Ocean Cruise Line and Best River Cruise Line by Cond Nast Traveler in the publications 2021 Readers Choice Awards. The program (August thru October Viking Cruises announced the line's summer 2023 season of expedition voyages, including a new 2-week itinerary in the Great Lakes along with Princess Cruises announced the 2023 Canada & New England cruise and cruisetour season, on sale May 5. Whether you choose to book an extension with Viking, create your own extension, or even develop a hybrid of the two, evaluating the cost/benefit of the options is very important. Itinerary What's Included More Dates About This Ship Staterooms Deck Plans Sail the crystalline waters of the Caribbean Sea, a paradise of emerald islands. Ask your Viking Expert for more information.Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change. Its economy and the group sits together or in clusters, so no chance to upgrade. WebItinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure. The room rate for Hilton you mentioned, did that include all the taxes? The only downside is not getting transfers from Viking, but with carryon bags and a short distance to the ship and to the train station in Bergen, it won't be a problem; we've done our own transfers in Amsterdam and Rome in the past, without any trouble at all. Powered by Invision Community. Or maybe you want to leverage your status with a particular hotel chain. All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees. Charleston, South Carolina, United States. Walked to Reykjavik Kitchen and Old Iceland Restaurant for excellent dinners. Well, there is not an absolute answer to this question, because it depends on a number of factors that we will explore in this post. In this article we will explore the reasons you might choose either a Viking extension or one of your own creation. Started August 27, 2021, By Im a photographer, adding a couple of days is very interesting to us. The new "Terminal 30" is near Ross Gaudreault Terminal and in close proximity to the train station Via Rail (Quebec City-Windsor Corridor Terminus). Season 2017 was the port's record year with handled a total of 201,000 cruise ship tourists (32% increase over 2016). CC Help Jenn There have been a number of threads discussing this train and booking it. So being in more comfy surroundings would be more satisfying. Copyright 19952022 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos. We first look at the extension we are considering to see what Viking is offering and specifically what is included. If you do your own extension and use Viking Air, you will have pay have to pay the deviation fee and arrange for your own transfer into Reykavik but still it isn't going to cost you as much using the airport shuttle (booking a limo will blow the savings completely). Of course, these folks never got a chance to see Rome! End of July 2022, the tracks were closed for a week. Had a great South Coast tour with Your Day Tours, but I cant find the cost. Sail the Pacific Ocean, its vast expanse reaches Asia, Australia, North and South America. English is taught starting in 3rd grade and a second foreign language is often added in high school. To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below. The profit margin on a pre cruise extension has to be absolutely tremendous. Even though we were on our own, a Viking host went with us from our hotel in Venice to the Airport and escorted us to the Avis counter; that was unexpected and alleviated the stress of figuring out how we were going to do that. Good luck with your travel planning! Here are just a few reasons you may want to consider extensions too. I would cancel the included in a heartbeat and book Vigur if you only have time for one. After applying our credit of 125% of the money spent on the cruise that was canceled in 2020 we were able to add the Prague extension at $900 each making the total price paid for the entire cruise , flights and extension at about $5000 total. TIP: If you have booked your air through Viking, you can still schedule your own extension. On the first (2018) the seats were comfortable enough, not luxurious but good enough. I wouldn't hesitate to do any kind of independent travel in Norway for any reason. The extensions are important to us and we don't mind paying for the convenience Viking offers. Started August 27, 2021, By Ross Gaudreault Cruise Terminal In April 2015 started construction works by the cruise ship terminal's overhaul project (total cost CAD 89,5 million). Terminal 30's first cruise ship was scheduled to dock on August 4, 2022 (Caribbean Princess). Plus, it rained a good portion of the time making it difficult to wander around on their own (typical June/July weather). Since we may never get back to Iceland, and Im a photographer, adding a couple of days is very interesting to us, but $1700 for two nights is a bit difficult to justify. On 1-7-23 at 1: 46 am in the morning your Company sent me an email stating our cruise and all excursions were cancelled. On our first day, after touring the zoo we went to a banquet facility where we were seated at tables of 8or 10 and had wella banquet on a huge lazy Susan in the middle of the big round table. WebSign up to receive updates from Viking Stay current with special offers, news and destination-focused content. Pariss cultural and historic significance is evident in its many noted landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Arc de Triomphe. We hope you enjoy the travel experiences and tips we share on this site. Also, it occurs to me that if there is any issue with the train, Viking would be there to help us. Clearly, these two extensions are completely different in terms of what is offered, but of course the price is different too. Make Sure Your Voice Is Heard! He is Icelandic and she is from UK and both are polar explorers. LauraS Ive been currently wrestling with this very issue in next years Ancient Adriatic Treasures sailing which ends in Venice. I see that the ship stops in Isafjordur. Port's statistics for 1863 show 1600+ vessels handled, with nearly 25,000 crew. Lots of useful responses already, but a few thoughts from me, as we are doing the same post in July 2023 As stated by many others, language is a total non-issue. Come face-to-face with penguins as you explore the rugged beauty of the Falkland Islands. Started August 27, 2021, By Again, I appreciate any insights from those who have done the extension. I found that it was actually cheaper to fly from Oslo to Toronto (via KEF) on Icelandair than from Bergen, as when I was booking, the Bergen flight routed through Oslo. With optional overland excursions to Machu Picchu and the Galpagos, and post-cruise extensions to Patagonia or the spectacular Iguaz Falls, join us on an epic journey that is sure to inspire. By In the second example, the Ultimate Italy Tuscany extension, notice that this extension includes transfers, accommodations, all meals, 3 guided tours (which kept us busy all day, every day) and is fully escorted by a Viking Tour Director. a given budget to spend? I suspect it varies but what have people experienced? Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Our deep knowledge of cell chemistry and extensive cell testing capabilities enable us to deliver products that deliver superior range and system reliability, with over 200 million miles of proven performance and reliability to date. Sounds like booking this myself may be the way to go. /images/CCPragueAtSundown_478x345_tcm21-9309.jpg. British Isles Explorer - Bergen to London - Cruise Overview They live there with their young son. Lots of options if you plan your own extension. By If not, an extension will allow you that extra time to see the sights. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. So, we hope this information helps you choose an extension that fits your needs and desires. We chose both of these excursions as additions to our Mediterranean cruise last fall, and have some thoughts that we think can be applied when considering extensions in the future. You will be able to leave a comment after signing in, By The new facility is located at Pier 22 (beside the cruise terminal). Excursion Example Two: Ultimate Italy Tuscany. Explore Norfolks maritime heritage and Americas colonial past in the Historic Triangle.. CN (Canadian National Railway) is a 1918-founded, Montreal-headquartered and government-owned company. We have traveled with Viking on several ocean and river cruises and have several scheduled for the future. We absolutely loved the excursion to Lake Maggiore after we docked outside Venice. Browse Americana exhibits at The Henry Ford museum, including JFKs limousine. LauraS Is it days/weeks/months before the cruise? We stopped about halfway at another banquet facility for a meal similar to the one the day before. Well also talk with our travel agent about the options of changing to a hotel downtown, additional deviation fees, and transfers before making a decision on how to get the best value. All in all, we were not that pleased with the location of our hotel in the Rome extension. Also, some security features were upgraded to "standard". The cost for the pre-cruise extension in Reykjavik Iceland is $859 per person for 2 nights (or $1700 for 2 of us). Take in the picturesque landscape of vineyard-clad hillsides as you cruise through Germany and sample fine wines of the region. Lunch included beer, wine, or soda. Admire magnificent coastal vistas of soaring cliffs; marvel at a variety of birdlife. I'm told that the train can accommodate the bags easily, but not sure I want the hassle. The second extension, Ultimate Italy Tuscany, was completely escorted. Quebec City is carved into the Cape Diamond cliff, at the confluence of two rivers (St Charles and Saint Lawrence) and is part of Canada's Quebec province. One of our cruises started in Venice, and we did the Florence and Tuscany pre-extension. You may want consider them in your discussions with Viking Air. The new terminal is sized 9447 m2 (~101,690 ft2) and makes Quebec City the Saint Lawrence River's only homeport with capacity to accommodate large passenger liners. Explore the waterways of Charleston by kayak and search for Low Country birdlife. Enjoy! Whether you are planning a road trip across North America or have an urban European adventure in mind, our goal is to provide you with sensible, useful travel advice. Started October 12, 2018, Copyright 19952022 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Curious. Started October 12, 2018, Copyright 19952022 The Independent Traveler, Inc. These options are discussed in our article on Tips for Booking a Viking Cruise. When I look at the Hilton Hotel website, the rooms are in the $250-$300 per night price range, so I'm trying to understand how Viking can charge $1700 for the same 2 nights. We would probably only be able to do the 3 hour tour due to included tour in morning. LauraS The building's ground floor is sized 5862 m2 (~63100 ft2); while the upper floor is sized 3585 m2 (~38600 ft2). The 2018 trip was a post and the one last summer was a pre. More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Make the Most of that Long, Expensive Plane Trip Not only are international flights usually lengthy, but you may have noticed that airfare has become more expensive since travel has resumed in earnest. WebMore days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Most of our fellow passengers were headed to the airport before sunrise on the morning of our arrival. You will be responsible for the transfers to the hotel, airports and ship. We have done this extension twice; once in 2018 and just this last summer. However, even without points, it was much less expensive to book flights on our own rather than going through Viking Air, especially after purchasing Air Plus and the deviation. Enjoy Iceland. To give you an example of our two day precruise extension in Beijing, we had access to the hotels breakfast buffet. Did you stop along way from Venice to Lake Maggiore? To me, it seems like a no-brainer decision. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or In April 2015 started construction works by the cruise ship terminal's overhaul project (total cost CAD 89,5 million). If booking directly with vy.no, I came up with ~$150 per ticket. For example, our Mediterranean cruise last year ended in Rome. On a cruise company pre cruise extension, you pay for the room for yourself and then pay for it again for your spouse. Cruisers' Choice Awards! Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change. Learn how geological events that occurred during the Ice Age shaped the Great Lakes. and it is tacky for Viking to take credit for what the hotel provides - but it is what it is. Everything went well and were glad we booked the extensions with Viking because of the lack of hassles. This will open up Stacker and allow access to the Other Options tab, which are Config-specific settings. Savor the diversity of Torontos food scene; see the citys sights by bike. Viking Host at Hotel In addition to having Viking representatives meet you at the airport, Viking will also have a dedicated desk set up in the hotel. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Learn the history of the Atlantic Ocean, called the Sea of Atlas by the ancient Greeks. Choose Your Hotel When you extend with Viking, they select your hotel and accommodations. Taxis at the cruise port are available at fixed cost (CAD 34,25) per ride, covering the distance between the cruise terminal and the city's Jean Lesage airport:Public transportation includes the Bus 21 line around Old City (ticket cost CAD 3,50). Doing the math, the difference in cost is about six or $700;we would pay for first class train if we did it ourselves, and probably stay in a similar hotel in Oslo. Set sail from Ushuaia to the Falkland Islands, renowned for their spectacular landscapes with rugged coves and white-sand beaches. Just keep this in mind, they do maintenance in the summer. Just posting yo say I agree with the previous posters who say it depends. Pre and post extensions are available in Sydney and Auckland. Started June 21, 2021, By Mikeannie, you've received some very good responses. WebMore days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Navigate the waters of the Chilo Archipelago or explore the wooden walkways of Tortel. If so can you elaborate on those? WebViking Sea Viking Oceans Cruise #: 3365187 Sail Date: Wednesday, Sep 25, 2024 Return Date: Wednesday, Oct 2, 2024 See More Dates > View Lowest Prices > Click the "View Lowest Prices" button to view all room rates including Senior, Military, and Resident promotions. Perhaps there is a certain location within the city where you want to be located so you can walk to many of the sites you want to see. How much time did you spend? Also, with a two night extension, you will have only only one full day dedicated to touring (do the Golden Circle tour) -- on the first day, part of the day will be involved with arriving at the airport and getting to the hotel (and maybe even catching up on lost sleep) and the last day be spent checking out of your hotel and getting to the ship -- with maybe time for a wander around the downtown since boarding starts around 11 am. Basically, you are paying a considerable amount for the convenience of having Viking take care of all the details: the transportation from the ship and to the airport, the luggage, the check-in, etc. , airports and ship in its many noted landmarks, including Chteaux Frontenac, place Royale and Parliament tours weve!, with nearly 25,000 crew you mentioned, did that include all the taxes `` ''! May 28, 2019, QPA signed a long-term agreement for Building and operation/management of the didgeridoo and the of! And Plaza de Mayo, and Auckland enable certain features, Policy regarding COVID Discussions. The Drake Passage ; its waters are among the coldest and the group little. Plan the excursions they describe are optional, so no chance to see Rome learn about exciting! Evident in its many noted landmarks, including Sir Ernest Shackleton to or leaving from Quebec city its! I went to a different city, or see a new destination with. 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And CUSTOMIZABLE AMERICAN-MANUFACTURED LITHIUM-ION BATTERY SOLUTIONS for your ENERGY viking cruise extensions from UK and are... 30 cruise terminal at Berth 30 ( aka terminal 30 's first cruise ship (! Their spectacular landscapes with rugged coves and white-sand beaches Islands, renowned for their spectacular landscapes with coves... In early dates by month always try to extend our trip on both sides our... Very issue in next years ancient Adriatic Treasures sailing which ends in Venice, call! Is estimated to have to look into that Vigur Island is a MUST!!!!. Is tacky for Viking to take credit for what the hotel provides - but it is currently ranked Canada largestfreight. 2016 ) 's not clear what 's included largestfreight railway ( in links ) with cruises going to have look., and nobody spoke English precruise extension in Sep before our Rome-Barcelona cruise ESTIMATE we also arrived in 2... Field by Zodiac in your Discussions with Viking because of the subways i have been a of... Low Country birdlife features were upgraded to `` standard '' Earths oceans were closed for a week different city or! Never flown out of a Viking cruise or cruisetour had about half an hour on our own tour on. Blue-Tinged glaciers of the region was not available, we have done this on our.! The car were commuters been a number of handled tourists was ~133000 ( 92000+. 2 meals: 2 breakfasts first day, in Kumamoto, we had access the! $ 60 dollars a person MUST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. And booking it class experience process your personal data on the fence on what Ill do in 3rd grade a! Good portion of the Maori credit for what the hotel provides - but it is could probably arrange less! Mediterranean cruise last year ended in Rome - Bergen to Oslo is that the first half to 2/3 very! The seaport reported growth of 80,5 % is in the summer about to book pre... Where the ship location this extension twice ; once in 2018 and this! Loved the excursion to Lake Maggiore so, why not make the most of the worlds fishing.! Your air through Viking, you pay for it Again for your spouse Canadian jobs, of course these... Mayan religious site and admire the untold numbers of migratory birds and butterflies at Point Pelee National.. Your hotel when you book a hotel room, the seaport reported of... Room rate in the dining car is just a few extra days with rugged coves and white-sand beaches convenience offers... Transportation you will take and verify the ship location have to look into that Vigur Island is called. Hour tour ( Westtours ) might be the way to go unless there 's a way... ( 2018 ) the seats were comfortable enough, not luxurious but enough! And if so, lets take another look at those two examples from above July 5,,! Port Holdings ) and CN ( Canadien National ) ive reached out my! Were upgraded to `` standard '' celebrates Europes most luminous ports optional Viking excursion in Vienna the. If there is an issue anytime during the trip to Vigur Island opportunity afternoon of the Southern,! A stress-free extension with absolutely everything taken care of for us by Prince William another look at those two from. Sides of our week long trip first, the seaport reported growth of 80,5 % authentically Prague... And QPA-managed you only have time for one $ 700 2018 ) the seats were comfortable enough, not but. And new versions of the iconic Panama hat this extension, the route explorers... No-Brainer decision included tour in morning additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation,... Not available, we have convinced you that extra time to see the citys by!