Input wanted

[Hoyaheel]

As for independent travelers, we found that (with Tauck) you could go and do as you like.

 

You can do that with any river cruise line. My problem with that is you've already paid for all those tours you're skipping so that you can do your own thing, so I'd prefer to just do my own thing for real at a much lower price :D

 

(It was something I was concerned about before our trip and did ask about it here - so thank you for bringing it up again for those who might be new to river cruising. As long as you notify those who need to know, and are aware of the transportation issues, you can do what you want and there is no need to take the included tours, or to stay on the tour the entire time. But you do need to check - is there a bus you need to catch to/from the center of town, is the boat moving while the group is on shore, make sure the guide knows you're leaving so their numbers are good, etc)

[H2Otstr]

Quote by Cyber Cat:

"I don't know why some seem to think that people who choose Viking haven't done their homework. I get that different people like different things and have their favorites. What I don't get is the argument. I look at someone else's choice as their preference, neither inferior nor superior to mine. Just different. I feel no need whatsoever to knock someone who makes a different choice in what cruise line they like"

 

Very well said !!! I like that I have many choices and I take advantage of that by booking with different companies depending on where I go and what I want to see.

[TravelerThom]

No one has mentioned Tauck river cruises?...

You make a number of good points. The only bad thing I've heard about Tauck is price (I imagine if I searched hard enough I could find some other complaint, but the line gets very good reviews including during water level issues [and a number of lines seem to get less than stellar reviews there]).

 

River Cruising is never inexpensive, but it seems that pricing on land extensions is almost always grossly inflated. On my upcoming Douro River cruise a two night cruise line post-stay is priced at $1000 per couple; I can get a comparable hotel for $200 ($100 per night; Porto is a fairly inexpensive city), the included half day tour for $160 per couple and the airport transfer for $20, resulting in a cost of less than $400, a savings of 60% compared to the company offer. There is some convenience in having one company handle all the details, but I prefer choosing my own land stay hotel, and saving money is merely the icing on the cake. I can not see myself taking a river cruise company land extension.

 

I think that every river cruise company will allow independent excursions, including overnights off the boat. Most however would only assist with details of where and how to return to the boat, and probably not reschedule provided transportation for your benefit.

 

It appears that Tauck is a good fit for you.

 

enjoy

Thom

[Host Jazzbeau]

I don't know why some seem to think that people who choose Viking haven't done their homework. I get that different people like different things and have their favorites. What I don't get is the argument. I look at someone else's choice as their preference, neither inferior nor superior to mine. Just different. I feel no need whatsoever to knock someone who makes a different choice in what cruise line they like.

 

Because almost every time somebody with post count=1 comes on here and says they have already booked a cruise, they are booked on Viking and the only research they did was watching Downton Abbey! Nobody knocks those who choose Viking after doing their research like you did. But it is a phenomenon that those who have booked without doing any research almost always are on Viking.

[4774Papa]

Because almost every time somebody with post count=1 comes on here and says they have already booked a cruise, they are booked on Viking and the only research they did was watching Downton Abbey! Nobody knocks those who choose Viking after doing their research like you did. But it is a phenomenon that those who have booked without doing any research almost always are on Viking.

 

Agree,

I think comparing the different river cruise offers from different cruise lines is harder than ocean cruise lines.

 

I was introduced to river cruising by receiving a Viking brochure in the mail.

HOWEVER, I did my research and have yet to book with Viking, because it never is the best value.

[Hydrokitty]

LOL - love the Hudson and Pete Seeger did a wonderful job, and the Palisades are scenic. There's ship that does overnight sails up the Hudson. I'd have to look it up - I have their brochure somewhere. Its on my list!

 

Well - they're sort of castles - houses that look like castles :) We have toured many of them. And there is Oheka Castle, but that's not on a river and it's more of a French Chateau.

 

Still looking forward to my Rhine river experience! Actually to more than just the river part. We're flying business/first for the first time (they have made the seats sooo tiny - not doing that for 7 hours!). We're delighted to be returning to Amsterdam. We loved it the first time. We're staying at The Toren - which looks marvelous and gets great reviews. And finally, I'm also looking forward to Lake Lucerne and the Alps!

 

I'm going to google over-night Hudson River cruises.....that sounds interesting. We spent a long week-end in Tarrytown and visited all the castles and Hyde Park....it was wonderful. Oheka's ours and you can't have it!! :D

 

You're going to be so sorry your flying business class.....it's worse than cocaine....one flight and you're addicted for life and there's no going back!!! We've flown Lufthansa business several times and LOVE it!! From the no wait security "line" to the lounge with the free food, drink and private bathrooms to the flight itself....and if you're on KLM coming home wait till you see the gift they give you. :D

[TravelerThom]

...I did my research and have yet to book with Viking, because it never is the best value.

I have cruised many lines, and with Viking twice. On those two trips (Elbe 2010, Dnieper 2011) they were the best value of any line marketing those trips in the US (actually they were the only line marketing those trips in the US at that time:rolleyes:). Distinctly older ships in a sparse market, but I knew that going in. They provided a good trip and I'll still consider them (but they lose points for their early payment policy and some problems with handling water issues).

 

Thom

[Hydrokitty]

No one has mentioned Tauck river cruises? We took a Rhine cruise with Tauck last year and found their product to be exceptional. Some people think Tauck is expensive, but in planning for a Danube cruise in 2017 I discovered that the Tauck price (12 days Prague to Budapest) all inclusive cost the same as Viking. Viking only offers the river portion of the trip. If you want two nights in Prague and two nights in Budapest you pay extra (a lot extra) and these additions do NOT include tours, special dinners, or city walks. By the time you add these extra days to Viking you have reached the Tauck price and still need to add tips, tranfers, all inclusive drinks, and all tours (a variety to pick from at each stop).

 

The other issue that we found interesting had to do with passenger count. Viking ships carry 180 passengers while the Tauck ships max out at 130 for the same size vessel. We also noticed on shore excursions that Viking land tour groups had 40 or more passengers with one guide while our Tauck excursions were never more than 20 passengers per tour group.

 

Bottom line is, as many others have said, do your homework and make absolutely sure you are comparing every aspect of the product. It's really nice, for example, to be sitting on the sun deck at 2:00 PM and order a cold beer or mixed drink without wondering what the cost will be. Not having to wonder and plan for tips on and off the ship is not only a time saver, but it totally takes this concern off the table (I loved it). It is also nice to know that if high or low water becomes an issue what the history of the company you select has done in the past (often overlooked, but on river cruises a real life concern).

 

As for independent travelers, we found that (with Tauck) you could go and do as you like. In Salzburg France, Tauck planned a morning tour of the city and an afternoon tour in Baden-Baden Germany. Three couples decided they wanted to stay in Salzburg for the afternoon instead of returning to the ship. Tauck arranged for a separate bus to pick us up in the afternoon and return us to the ship which had moved twenty five miles up the river. In Heidelberg one couple wanted to stay in town and catch up with the ship sixty miles down river at our overnight stop. The tour guide provided them with train information so that they could meet us without issue. These are the kinds of things that some companies will allow and assist with.

 

Happy cruising!

 

My Mom traveled with Tauck and they really are the gold standard in customer care. I know she wouldn't go anywhere without them and I never worried when she was out gallivanting with her friend and they were in Tauck's care....but I found many of the things you mentioned with Vantage and they were considerably less expensive. So much of choosing a river cruise company depends on your first experience. Our first trip with Vantage was wonderful and now we're up to our 9th. OTOH, our first big ship was with HAL and it was dreadful so I'll never use them again.

[SCHappilyRetired]

I did research, research, research and still chose Viking for a number of reasons. I considered AMA, Avalon & Uniworld. I don't have the proverbial "dog in this fight." I like the Viking Longships and we wanted to have the stop at Kinderdijk. None of the other lines do that on a regular basis.

 

I knew the 2 for 1 was a marketing gimmick - every company has them in one form or another. YoPlait is trying to convince people that Greek Yogurt doesn't have to be thick and creamy. Um - yes, it does - that's the whole point of straining it, and what makes it Greek yogurt. And people buy their Greek Yogurt mousse - like it's some different product from their regular whipped yogurt or mousse yogurt. Marketing.

 

I wasn't wild about the whole pay up front thing, but you've got to pay it all anyway, and the money is making a whole heck of a lot sitting in the bank. Now it's out of the way and done with. We have travel insurance - and I researched that as well.

 

I don't know why some seem to think that people who choose Viking haven't done their homework. I get that different people like different things and have their favorites. What I don't get is the argument. I look at someone else's choice as their preference, neither inferior nor superior to mine. Just different. I feel no need whatsoever to knock someone who makes a different choice in what cruise line they like.

 

Not an argument or knocking you. Just stating we do not look at Viking due to their marketing and pay up front fact. Just not for us. Others it suits and that's fine. As far as research goes, Hostjazz is correct. Because Viking advertises so much people new to river cruising may not do enough research to see what is out there with other companies. My apologies if you felt I was knocking you with your decision. Enjoy your cruise!

[sharkster77]

BINGO Jazz!!

 

Those who scour these threads for every tidbit of info are sometimes frustrated by the newbies who have booked a river cruise, then complain that there aren't 8 dining venues, no Vegas-style shows, not gym and spa, no climbing wall, not pool, etc., etc. I guess some are microplanners (yours truly included), and others are not.

 

On the other issue, some on these boards advise newbies to look at the schedules, look at the ports, look at what's included/not included, and make your choice, but PLEASE CHOOSE ANYONE BUT VIKING!!! For those whom Viking is a good fit, good for them. For those whom not to use Viking, well that's OK too.

 

 

Because almost every time somebody with post count=1 comes on here and says they have already booked a cruise, they are booked on Viking and the only research they did was watching Downton Abbey! Nobody knocks those who choose Viking after doing their research like you did. But it is a phenomenon that those who have booked without doing any research almost always are on Viking.

[CPT Trips]

 

"Those who scour these threads for every tidbit of info are sometimes frustrated by the newbies who have booked a river cruise, then complain that there aren't 8 dining venues, no Vegas-style shows, not gym and spa, no climbing wall, not pool, etc., etc. I guess some are microplanners (yours truly included), and others are not."

 

I don't recall seeing those implants from folks that actually took a River cruise. I do see complaints about small cabins, set meals, limited menu choices, regimentation, being required to share tables at meals and uncertain arrival and departure times at ports.

Edited February 29, 2016 by CPT Trips

[sharkster77]

CPT---

 

There have been threads to the effect "I'm signed up for a river cruise but have my concerns....." then they list all the things common to an ocean cruise I listed. May have been talked into the cruise by a spouse/partner, who knows, but those threads do exist.

 

 

"Those who scour these threads for every tidbit of info are sometimes frustrated by the newbies who have booked a river cruise, then complain that there aren't 8 dining venues, no Vegas-style shows, not gym and spa, no climbing wall, not pool, etc., etc. I guess some are microplanners (yours truly included), and others are not."

 

I don't recall seeing those implants from folks that actually took a River cruise. I do see complaints about small cabins, set meals, limited menu choices, regimentation, being required to share tables at meals and uncertain arrival and departure times at ports.

[Roz]

On my recent Uniworld cruise, there was an Australian couple who were not happy campers. They claimed to be well-traveled, but were clueless as to what was included/not included with a river cruise. They were looking for night life, entertainment, casinos, etc. I felt bad that they had traveled all that distance and weren't enjoying themselves.

 

Based only on my own personal experience, most people are totally unaware that there are river cruise lines besides Viking. Another thing that Viking portrays, and I hadn't even thought about it until another single woman brought it to my attention, is that river cruising is for couples. I was telling her about my experience, and she said that that thing that was holding her back from booking a river cruise were the Viking ads with couples sharing a romantic moment over wine on their balcony. I'm sure singles/solos cruise on Viking just like they do on other lines.

 

Roz

[pkay414]

Thank you for all the input. It's a lot to look at. There are so many lines, I was a little overwhelmed at where to start :D

 

I will be doing some serious reading over the next few months.

[Hoyaheel]

I'm sure singles/solos cruise on Viking just like they do on other lines.

 

I agree - and just as with ocean cruises, some lines are cheaper than others for solo passengers, and some offer occasional deals with low or no single supplement. AND there are now some single cabins on a line or two.

 

But you wouldn't necessarily know any of that unless you search out the info. I know it from a couple of emails from cruise lines, but mostly from reading Cruise Critic:D

 

I think that the open seating for dinner but (basically) single dining time would work in favor of solo passengers - easy to find a table to share. Tours are totally open - I know many couples who split up and did different things during the day due to different interests....

[TravelerThom]

...most people are totally unaware that there are river cruise lines besides Viking...

...I'm sure singles/solos cruise on Viking just like they do on other lines.

If they see all the Viking ads and book directly, I agree many of those people don't know about other lines. If people use a knowledgeable travel agent they SHOULD hear about a number of lines, but most TAs (even ones who sell lots of ocean cruises) are clueless about river cruises. And two major less expensive lines (Vantage and Grand Circle) do not cooperate with TAs, so highly unlikely to hear about those lines from TAs.

 

I'm unaware that Viking has specials for singles (but I may be wrong on that). I have read here on CC that some lines on some dates have specials (perhaps up to "no single supplement") - there is more info out there but I don't have it. Vantage has a few single cabins; more expensive than half a double, but much less than 200%. Grand Circle advertises heavily to singles, sometimes has no single supplement and offers roommate matching (they give you the standard half double price even if they do not provide a match). I have NOT traveled as a single, but I have seen quite a number of singles on both Vantage and GCCL.

 

Thom

[Got2Cruise]

I think folks actually think they'll hear classical music and all the staff speaks using the Queen's English. They get very disappointed

[Host Jazzbeau]

Thank you for all the input. It's a lot to look at. There are so many lines, I was a little overwhelmed at where to start :D

 

I will be doing some serious reading over the next few months.

 

I find that it quickly gets confusing when I'm trying to compare multiple websites. There is a great book with tons of information about every aspect of river cruising: Berlitz guide to River Cruising in Europe by Douglas Ward, which you may find at your public library.

[Roz]

I found the book Host Jazzbeau recommended to be very helpful in comparing lines and itineraries before I booked. Does a lot of the legwork for you.

 

Roz

[Cyber Kat]

Because it is a public message board and people love to criticize and

argue about "stuff":eek::rolleyes:

 

lol - you would think I'd learn that by now :D

 

You are taking the adult attitude:).....I hope you have a great cruise:)

 

I am going on my first River Cruise next month. I did my research

too and am choosing AMA.....very happy with my decision too.

 

Thanks :) - hope yours is great too! Who knows maybe for my next river cruise I'll choose AMA or Avalon or Tauck. I'd love to hear about your cruse since it's coming up soon!

[Cyber Kat]

Because almost every time somebody with post count=1 comes on here and says they have already booked a cruise, they are booked on Viking and the only research they did was watching Downton Abbey! Nobody knocks those who choose Viking after doing their research like you did. But it is a phenomenon that those who have booked without doing any research almost always are on Viking.

 

I suppose there are some who see the ad on Downton and run out and book (they must have unlimited funds!) I followed the Viking Rhine Getaway 2015 group from it's inception, though I didn't yet decide on what we were doing. I'm now in the 2016 Rhine Getaway thread, and from what I'm reading the Post 1 folks are in the minority. Seems like the roll call people, at least, have done their homework. Perhaps the Post 1 folks haven't figured out how to join a roll call, yet either :D

[Cyber Kat]

I'm going to google over-night Hudson River cruises.....that sounds interesting. We spent a long week-end in Tarrytown and visited all the castles and Hyde Park....it was wonderful. Oheka's ours and you can't have it!! :D

 

Love Hyde park and Lyndhurst! Sounds like a great way to spend a weekend.

 

Ha! When I win the lottery, I'm buying Oheka and moving it to the Hudson!

 

You're going to be so sorry your flying business class.....it's worse than cocaine....one flight and you're addicted for life and there's no going back!!! We've flown Lufthansa business several times and LOVE it!! From the no wait security "line" to the lounge with the free food, drink and private bathrooms to the flight itself....and if you're on KLM coming home wait till you see the gift they give you. :D

 

 

I was afraid of that! Most of our flights are short hops from Newark to Bermuda. Most of our long flights came in the day when the seats would fit people who weren't super models, and you got a nice meal on all flights!

 

On our last flight to Bermuda, we did the United Economy Plus and that's great for the 90 minutes, but I was not doing an overnight flight even in that section!

 

We're on Delta, but I've heard about the KLM gift! I nearly changed my flights again!

[Cyber Kat]

Agree,

I think comparing the different river cruise offers from different cruise lines is harder than ocean cruise lines.

 

I'm OCD - I visited all their web sites and made a spread sheet! Then compared against my list of things I wanted :D

[Cyber Kat]

Those who scour these threads for every tidbit of info are sometimes frustrated by the newbies who have booked a river cruise, then complain that there aren't 8 dining venues, no Vegas-style shows, not gym and spa, no climbing wall, not pool, etc., etc. I guess some are microplanners (yours truly included), and others are not.

 

Diehard microplanner, here! Is there a group for that :D I guess some just figure a cruise is a cruise. Wait 'til they find out about rafting!

 

On the other issue, some on these boards advise newbies to look at the schedules, look at the ports, look at what's included/not included, and make your choice, but PLEASE CHOOSE ANYONE BUT VIKING!!! For those whom Viking is a good fit, good for them. For those whom not to use Viking, well that's OK too.

 

I absolutely understand that Viking is not for everyone! And I would certainly not tell anyone to choose or not to choose Viking over other lines - even if my cruise turns out to be perfect (which I doubt, I'm a realist).

 

I do intend to come back and report on the good, the bad and hopefully not the ugly! I'm neither a glass half full nor a glass half empty person. I'm mostly a there's room for more wine kind of person!

 

I think for this cruise, it's going to work for us. And don't worry - I won't be back on here in 6 months blaming Viking for all sorts of things. :cool: I made the decision - my fault not theirs :) But I'm going in with high hopes and low expectations!

[caviargal]

 

You're going to be so sorry your flying business class.....it's worse than cocaine....one flight and you're addicted for life and there's no going back!!! We've flown Lufthansa business several times and LOVE it!! From the no wait security "line" to the lounge with the free food, drink and private bathrooms to the flight itself....and if you're on KLM coming home wait till you see the gift they give you. :D

 

You are so right! We are just back from Italy and booked Premium with Air France. We did upgrades at check in to business in both directions. It has been a few years since we flew business but wow, it sure makes a huge difference!

 

I just booked Lufthansa in Business for our AMA cruise in November. Snagged an incredible price using my Amex Platinum 2 for 1 airline partner program. It does not work often but wow, I saved thousands and we are flying business on Lufthansa R/T for 500 more per person than Premium - and that was premium on the long haul only with Lufthansa! They are horrible in economy (worst seats ever) and I am happy to read that you love them in business.

 

I do love Air France in business for the wine and cheese alone but they were 2400 each more than Lufthansa for this trip.

 

In April we are flying Iberia to Bordeaux in business. Another good deal but not as awesome as my Lufthansa price!:D