Bermuda Escape Cruises - insights, information, and more just on Bermuda

[MRGACRUZR]

52 minutes ago, CCWineLover said:

Here's one for you - has anyone encountered this?

We were talking with our Travel Agent about possibly cancelling our June 29 Bermuda cruise due to the uncertainly.   We used Viking Air.

She said that Viking is now saying that anything cancelled even outside the 14 day risk free guarantee will result in a $350 per person airline cancellation penalty fee.  So the Risk Free is not Risk Free - you still have to pay the airlines the monstrous penalty.

I have a hard time believe this as we were led to believe that the Risk Free Guarantee applies to all the items purchased through Viking.

Anyone else heard of this?

Maybe it's a new thing with Viking now to hide these fees and keep people from cancelling.

That has to be wrong. I've read and reread the T&C for Risk Free reservations and there is no mention of a penalty if you used Viking Air, as long as it is more than 14 days before your scheduled flight. I'd sure make them point to where I can find this policy.

[MRGACRUZR]

10 minutes ago, MRGACRUZR said:

That has to be wrong. I've read and reread the T&C for Risk Free reservations and there is no mention of a penalty if you used Viking Air, as long as it is more than 14 days before your scheduled flight. I'd sure make them point to where I can find this policy.

OOOPS. They must be defaulting to the standard Booking T&C. Seems like a slimey way to operate. If you take a voucher will you still be penalized? Are you already "ticketed"?

 

From Viking Booking T&C:

"Services Provided by Airlines: VRC reserves the right to choose the air carrier, routing and city airport from each gateway city for passengers booking air through VRC. VRC may utilize contracted fares and contracted inventory as outlined by each specific air carrier, therefore all flights and routings may not be available. Any changes (including name changes) made to a booking or issued airline ticket will incur a minimum of US$350.00 per ticket change fee, plus any additional charges imposed by the subject air carrier. Any additional costs including penalties for cancellations/re-bookings will be made at the passenger’s expense unless otherwise required by law. All airline tickets issued by VRC are refundable only to VRC. VRC will determine the amount of any refund due. If the air ticket is lost, the passenger is responsible for the cost of its replacement. Neither VRC nor Carrier are responsible for altered travel plans caused by airline delays or for any act, omission or event occurring with the airline. In some cases VRC may not be able to confirm ancillary services including, but not limited to airline seat assignments, frequent flyer credit, special meals, and wheelchair requests. In some cases, these ancillary services may not be offered by the airline, or in other cases, may be arranged by a passenger’s travel agent or directly with the airline. Airline-imposed baggage fees and other fees may apply and be charged by the air carrier at the time of service."

[Ragnar Danneskjold]

New shore-ex on MVJ, at least for our 6/15 cruise.

[Triptkr]

For what it's worth, this is what I received from Viking and it (sort of) addresses the flight cancellation thing...doesn't give an penalty fee here.

 

[B_A_H]

RCI just canceled the entire Bermuda season for Vision of the Seas.  I think the real reason is Bermuda is both hard and expensive to get to and that put people off leading to low occupancies.  This should make the Bermudian government even more receptive to Viking. 

 

[Ragnar Danneskjold]

4 hours ago, Ragnar Danneskjold said:

New shore-ex on MVJ, at least for our 6/15 cruise.

CAUTION! - The Nonsuch island tour does not go ashore on the island, it is just a boat snorkel trip, despite the very mis-leading photo of the guide on the island.  Read the description carefully.

[Ragnar Danneskjold]

1 hour ago, B_A_H said:

RCI just canceled the entire Bermuda season for Vision of the Seas.  I think the real reason is Bermuda is both hard and expensive to get to and that put people off leading to low occupancies.  This should make the Bermudian government even more receptive to Viking. 

 

 

Other countries and cruises are opening up rapidly (maybe too rapidly...).  With all the hassle and limitations of the Bermuda cruise, we are looking at other things to replace this trip.  Like renting a car and driving around the more out of the way areas of Italy that we have not seen.  Mind you, getting to Italy for tourism is even harder than getting to Bermuda.  But I think maybe more rewarding.

[Triptkr]

17 minutes ago, Ragnar Danneskjold said:

 

Other countries and cruises are opening up rapidly (maybe too rapidly...).  With all the hassle and limitations of the Bermuda cruise, we are looking at other things to replace this trip.  Like renting a car and driving around the more out of the way areas of Italy that we have not seen.  Mind you, getting to Italy for tourism is even harder than getting to Bermuda.  But I think maybe more rewarding.

Ragnar Danneskjold,  do you think Viking will cancel this cruise or are you considering canceling?   Just curious what a seasoned traveler is predicting.  🙂   

[Ragnar Danneskjold]

Don’t count on me for any rational or reasonable thoughts :-0  Remember, I’m a pimply 18 year old living in my parents’ basement, pretending to be a cranky, grizzled, old, anti-communist/anti-socialist pirate.

 

Trust no one.

[Jim Avery]

21 minutes ago, Ragnar Danneskjold said:

Don’t count on me for any rational or reasonable thoughts :-0  Remember, I’m a pimply 18 year old living in my parents’ basement, pretending to be a cranky, grizzled, old, anti-communist/anti-socialist pirate.

 

Trust no one.

Raggy, slowly put down the tequila.😳

[Ragnar Danneskjold]

How did you know!  I was drinking tequila because DW has been on the phone for two hours, delaying our late lunch at our favorite Mexican restaurant!  Now I’m drinking wine.  She’s gonna have to drive...

[sleepybobo]

We live just 20 minutes away from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, NJ. If we want to cruise to Bermuda, we’d book Celebrity that departs from Bayonne. This will save me airfare from Newark to Bermuda. 
 

If we choose to fly there, we’d rather do a land-based trip. It’s easy enough to book a resort and do day trips. 
 

I can understand why RC cancelled the Bermuda itineraries. It’s be more attractive if the ship sails from an US port. This way people don’t need to worry about the Bermuda entry covid test too. 

Edited May 20, 2021 by sleepybobo

[DaveSJ711]

9 hours ago, CCWineLover said:

Here's one for you - has anyone encountered this?

We were talking with our Travel Agent about possibly cancelling our June 29 Bermuda cruise due to the uncertainly.   We used Viking Air.

She said that Viking is now saying that anything cancelled even outside the 14 day risk free guarantee will result in a $350 per person airline cancellation penalty fee.  So the Risk Free is not Risk Free - you still have to pay the airlines the monstrous penalty.

I have a hard time believe this as we were led to believe that the Risk Free Guarantee applies to all the items purchased through Viking.

Anyone else heard of this?

Maybe it's a new thing with Viking now to hide these fees and keep people from cancelling.

I put a 24-hour hold today on a Malta-Adriatic cruise in September. I asked the agent how "Risk Free" applies to a Viking Air flight that is cancelled more than 14 days before sailing. She said the entire flight payment would then become a redeemable cruise credit. She did not say anything about a $350 per person penalty.

 

I'll raise this issue again before we commit to a booking.

[molymoo]

Well now we have it!  MVJ is now showing specific requirements for Bermuda cruises ... in the “Before You Go” section under Embarkation Requirements it is spelled out.  
 

 IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR CRUISE
BERMUDA ESCAPE Effective from May 11, 2021
The information included in this document is based on current Bermuda regulations and Viking COVID-19 Protocols and Procedures. Both are reviewed continuously and may be updated as your cruise departure date approaches. Please be sure to check this information again in advance of your departure for any changes to requirements.
Digital Health Survey: Five to seven days before your departure, you will be sent a link to the Viking Digital Health Survey that will need to be completed and submitted on MyVikingJourney.com. Developed by scientific and medical advisors, the survey will only take a minute to submit and verify your wellness prior to travel. Depending on your dates of travel, Viking may require you to submit verification of your COVID-19 vaccination status as part of the Digital Health Survey.
Pre-Departure Requirements for US Guest Entry (Bermuda):
1. One to three days prior to departure, you must complete the Bermuda Travel Authorization process online at: https://www.gov.bm/coronavirus-travellers-visitors. Select “Apply for Travel Authorization” at the bottom of the Bermuda government’s web page.
2. The cost levied by the Government of Bermuda is US$75 per guest. The Government of Bermuda only accepts payments by MasterCard or VISA. Please note, this fee covers the cost of the required COVID-19 testing in Bermuda upon arrival.
3. You must take a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and provide a negative result no more than three days prior to arrival in Bermuda.
4. COVID-19 test results must be entered as part of Bermuda’s online travel authorization process.
5. Test results must be presented upon arrival in Bermuda, either as a printed copy or on a charged mobile device.
6. Guests without a pre-departure test will not be able to obtain Travel Authorization and enter Bermuda.
7. Upon arrival at the Bermuda airport, you must undergo a second COVID-19 PCR test administered by the Government of Bermuda.
Important: If you are a cruise-only guest and arranging your own airfare, please ensure that you are aware and follow all local requirements for your arrival port and airline carrier.
Viking Vaccination Requirement: Beginning on May 22, 2021, with the official restart of limited operations— and remaining in effect at least through September 30, 2021—all Viking sailings will be available exclusively for vaccinated guests.
In addition to government regulations within the destinations that we will visit, Viking has introduced its own Health and Safety protocol enhancements which have been implemented to protect our guests and crew as the global vaccine rollout moves forward. Viking medical advisors and operations teams will continue to monitor global vaccination rates and entry requirements and we will adjust our protocol and policies as needed to ensure the safety and well-being of our guests and crew.
    210511 Pre-Departure Requirements (Bermuda) Page 1 of 2 CST#2052644-40

Health/Travel Documents: Please remember to bring the appropriate travel and health documentation to ensure all requirements have been accommodated.
1. Printed copy of your Bermuda Travel Authorization form.
2. Printed and/or electronic copy of your pre-departure COVID-19 PCR test result.
3. Printed copy of your Proof of Vaccination certificate.
4. Valid U.S. Passport. Passport must be valid for 6 months beyond your planned trip dates.
Embarkation Procedure (Bermuda): Upon arrival, you will be required to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test (nasal swab) administered by the Bermudan Government.
This test will be in addition to the embarkation test required by Viking. Special Note: The ship is designated as a Bermuda quarantine area for Viking guests. You will be transferred to your ship as you await confirmation of a your negative COVID-19 PCR test result. You will then proceed to your stateroom where you will be required to provide a saliva sample. Please refrain from consuming any food or beverage item or smoking for at least one hour before submitting your saliva sample. While waiting for your test results, you, will be able to use the public spaces on board while observing current mask and social distancing requirements.
You will also need to undergo the following COVID-19 screening prior to your cruise:
• Temperature check (a temperature reading of less than 100.4°F/38°C).
• Questions in relation to your general health, COVID-19 symptoms, or possible exposure.
• Accept and agree to using contact-tracing technology during your cruise.
• Complete any required check-in procedures.
During Your Cruise: You will be tested periodically, on board the ship, as required by Viking and in coordination with the Government of Bermuda.
Disembarkation/Return Flight: Prior to leaving your Viking ship, you will be required to undertake a final COVID-19 test to satisfy the requirement for pre-flight testing before arrival into the U.S.
       Pre-Cruise Timeline Summary:
1. At least 14 days prior to departure, be fully vaccinated with a FDA/WHO approved COVID-19 vaccine.
2. No more than 3 days prior to your departure/arrival in Bermuda—you must receive a negative COVID-19 test result.
3. At least 1 to 3 days prior to travel—A Travel Authorization application must be submitted (with your COVID-19 PCR test results) to the government of Bermuda.
4. When you travel—be prepared to show proof of your vaccination, negative COVID-19 PCR test result and valid passport.
  Questions: If you have any questions regarding the Viking Health & Safety Protocols, please visit the Viking website at Health & Safety FAQ.
Travel Insurance: As always, we recommend you purchase travel insurance to protect your travel investment and ensure you have the appropriate medical coverage for any unforeseen incidents that may occur during your journey.
Updated May 11, 2021
The information included here should be considered current for all guests. Specific protocols and procedures may evolve over time to adapt to various conditions or travel regulations in the destinations in which we operate. Please continue to check this link for the most up-to-date Bermuda information, or visit https://www.gov.bm/coronavirus-travellers-visitors for additional details.
  210511 Pre-Departure Requirements (Bermuda) Page 2 of 2 CST#2052644-40
 

Apparently no special arrangements for Viking passengers.  In fact these instructions do not reflect the recent change to 4 days prior to arrival for COVID test!  They do suggest the info may “evolve”  but I wouldn’t bank on it at this point!  

[B_A_H]

57 minutes ago, molymoo said:

Apparently no special arrangements for Viking passengers.  In fact these instructions do not reflect the recent change to 4 days prior to arrival for COVID test!  They do suggest the info may “evolve”  but I wouldn’t bank on it at this point!  

Your first point nullifies your second concern.   Viking's saying you need a Bermudian entry authorization so as the requirements for one evolve it's up to us to adhere to them.  So if it's 4 days prior for a particular sailing that's the rule.  If it changes then that's the new rule.  

 

The ship being designated a quarantine area is an exception.  If I'm interpreting what Viking said correctly rather than wait at the airport for our test results to return we'll be transferred to the ship to await our results there.  

 

Boarding seems to be similar to what's being discussed on the UK sailings board and their first cruise is tomorrow.  

 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2774787-uk-only-viking-venus-cruise/page/10/?tab=comments#comment-61135925

 

We'll get some feedback from them about the embarkation process as well as the onboard experience before we sail.  They'll have completed three of their cruises before our first begins.

 

I'm glad I chose Viking rather than the others for my pandemic times cruise.  I feel better about their protocols and thoroughness and would rather be trying to make all this work with 450 fellow passengers rather than the potential 1,000 with RCI.   

Edited May 21, 2021 by B_A_H

[bafinegan]

1 hour ago, molymoo said:

Well now we have it!  MVJ is now showing specific requirements for Bermuda cruises ... in the “Before You Go” section under Embarkation Requirements it is spelled out.  
 

 IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR CRUISE
BERMUDA ESCAPE Effective from May 11, 2021
The information included in this document is based on current Bermuda regulations and Viking COVID-19 Protocols and Procedures. Both are reviewed continuously and may be updated as your cruise departure date approaches. Please be sure to check this information again in advance of your departure for any changes to requirements.
Digital Health Survey: Five to seven days before your departure, you will be sent a link to the Viking Digital Health Survey that will need to be completed and submitted on MyVikingJourney.com. Developed by scientific and medical advisors, the survey will only take a minute to submit and verify your wellness prior to travel. Depending on your dates of travel, Viking may require you to submit verification of your COVID-19 vaccination status as part of the Digital Health Survey.
Pre-Departure Requirements for US Guest Entry (Bermuda):
1. One to three days prior to departure, you must complete the Bermuda Travel Authorization process online at: https://www.gov.bm/coronavirus-travellers-visitors. Select “Apply for Travel Authorization” at the bottom of the Bermuda government’s web page.
2. The cost levied by the Government of Bermuda is US$75 per guest. The Government of Bermuda only accepts payments by MasterCard or VISA. Please note, this fee covers the cost of the required COVID-19 testing in Bermuda upon arrival.
3. You must take a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and provide a negative result no more than three days prior to arrival in Bermuda.
4. COVID-19 test results must be entered as part of Bermuda’s online travel authorization process.
5. Test results must be presented upon arrival in Bermuda, either as a printed copy or on a charged mobile device.
6. Guests without a pre-departure test will not be able to obtain Travel Authorization and enter Bermuda.
7. Upon arrival at the Bermuda airport, you must undergo a second COVID-19 PCR test administered by the Government of Bermuda.
Important: If you are a cruise-only guest and arranging your own airfare, please ensure that you are aware and follow all local requirements for your arrival port and airline carrier.
Viking Vaccination Requirement: Beginning on May 22, 2021, with the official restart of limited operations— and remaining in effect at least through September 30, 2021—all Viking sailings will be available exclusively for vaccinated guests.
In addition to government regulations within the destinations that we will visit, Viking has introduced its own Health and Safety protocol enhancements which have been implemented to protect our guests and crew as the global vaccine rollout moves forward. Viking medical advisors and operations teams will continue to monitor global vaccination rates and entry requirements and we will adjust our protocol and policies as needed to ensure the safety and well-being of our guests and crew.
    210511 Pre-Departure Requirements (Bermuda) Page 1 of 2 CST#2052644-40

Health/Travel Documents: Please remember to bring the appropriate travel and health documentation to ensure all requirements have been accommodated.
1. Printed copy of your Bermuda Travel Authorization form.
2. Printed and/or electronic copy of your pre-departure COVID-19 PCR test result.
3. Printed copy of your Proof of Vaccination certificate.
4. Valid U.S. Passport. Passport must be valid for 6 months beyond your planned trip dates.
Embarkation Procedure (Bermuda): Upon arrival, you will be required to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test (nasal swab) administered by the Bermudan Government.
This test will be in addition to the embarkation test required by Viking. Special Note: The ship is designated as a Bermuda quarantine area for Viking guests. You will be transferred to your ship as you await confirmation of a your negative COVID-19 PCR test result. You will then proceed to your stateroom where you will be required to provide a saliva sample. Please refrain from consuming any food or beverage item or smoking for at least one hour before submitting your saliva sample. While waiting for your test results, you, will be able to use the public spaces on board while observing current mask and social distancing requirements.
You will also need to undergo the following COVID-19 screening prior to your cruise:
• Temperature check (a temperature reading of less than 100.4°F/38°C).
• Questions in relation to your general health, COVID-19 symptoms, or possible exposure.
• Accept and agree to using contact-tracing technology during your cruise.
• Complete any required check-in procedures.
During Your Cruise: You will be tested periodically, on board the ship, as required by Viking and in coordination with the Government of Bermuda.
Disembarkation/Return Flight: Prior to leaving your Viking ship, you will be required to undertake a final COVID-19 test to satisfy the requirement for pre-flight testing before arrival into the U.S.
       Pre-Cruise Timeline Summary:
1. At least 14 days prior to departure, be fully vaccinated with a FDA/WHO approved COVID-19 vaccine.
2. No more than 3 days prior to your departure/arrival in Bermuda—you must receive a negative COVID-19 test result.
3. At least 1 to 3 days prior to travel—A Travel Authorization application must be submitted (with your COVID-19 PCR test results) to the government of Bermuda.
4. When you travel—be prepared to show proof of your vaccination, negative COVID-19 PCR test result and valid passport.
  Questions: If you have any questions regarding the Viking Health & Safety Protocols, please visit the Viking website at Health & Safety FAQ.
Travel Insurance: As always, we recommend you purchase travel insurance to protect your travel investment and ensure you have the appropriate medical coverage for any unforeseen incidents that may occur during your journey.
Updated May 11, 2021
The information included here should be considered current for all guests. Specific protocols and procedures may evolve over time to adapt to various conditions or travel regulations in the destinations in which we operate. Please continue to check this link for the most up-to-date Bermuda information, or visit https://www.gov.bm/coronavirus-travellers-visitors for additional details.
  210511 Pre-Departure Requirements (Bermuda) Page 2 of 2 CST#2052644-40
 

Apparently no special arrangements for Viking passengers.  In fact these instructions do not reflect the recent change to 4 days prior to arrival for COVID test!  They do suggest the info may “evolve”  but I wouldn’t bank on it at this point!  

I would be willing to bet it will change to 4 days.  The update "date" is May 11.  Bermuda changed the the time sequence to 4 days on May 18.  

[Ragnar Danneskjold]

Fyi, some more time slots have been added to some of the shore excursions, at least for the 6/15 cruise.  Reminder, the Nonsuch island thing is boat-only, no landing or hike on the island.

[gacruzr]

15 minutes ago, Ragnar Danneskjold said:

Fyi, some more time slots have been added to some of the shore excursions, at least for the 6/15 cruise.  Reminder, the Nonsuch island thing is boat-only, no landing or hike on the island.

Thanks, just got the other one we wanted😁

[bafinegan]

I FB messaged the Bermuda Tourism to thank them for the increase in pre arrival testing time.  Kinda cheesy, I know, but I wanted them to know it was noticed and greatly appreciated.  I actually got a response thanking me for the feedback.

[Sunflower & The Scientist]

Thank you Molymoo for sharing that with the rest of us who have not received that information yet.  This is why Cruise Critic is so helpful! 

[Azulann]

11 minutes ago, Sunflower & The Scientist said:

Thank you Molymoo for sharing that with the rest of us who have not received that information yet.  This is why Cruise Critic is so helpful! 

All this information is on  MVJ  too this morning. I am on July !3 saiing.  I think you are too. 

It is in a couple of different places, Guest information, and Before you go. 

I do expect the rules will  change by Bermuda  before I am ready to get my precovid test in July. 

I am  hopeful , regardless, I will be prepared and ready to get on the plane for my Viking vacation on July 12.

Edited May 21, 2021 by Azulann

[Ragnar Danneskjold]

You will all be heartened to hear that my DW got her wish, we got two cranberry scrub spa appointments at the same time 🤢  Not sure if these are together in the same room or not.  Earlier it would not let us book two scrubs at the same time, so not sure what any of this means...

 

Please, God, don’t let Viking provide cleansing kale and brussel-sprout smoothies 🙏

[Jim Avery]

1 minute ago, Ragnar Danneskjold said:

You will all be heartened to hear that my DW got her wish, we got two cranberry scrub spa appointments at the same time 🤢  Not sure if these are together in the same room or not.  Earlier it would not let us book two scrubs at the same time, so not sure what any of this means...

 

Please, God, don’t let Viking provide cleansing kale and brussel-sprout smoothies 🙏

The ladies have a very nicely appointed treatment area off of a private lounge/changing area.  The men are adjacent in the cozy anchor locker.  Hardly any rats.....😳

[Triptkr]

17 hours ago, Ragnar Danneskjold said:

Don’t count on me for any rational or reasonable thoughts :-0  Remember, I’m a pimply 18 year old living in my parents’ basement, pretending to be a cranky, grizzled, old, anti-communist/anti-socialist pirate.

 

Trust no one.

For being a pimply 18 year old living in your parents' basement your excursion updates have helped me book our excursions this morning that were before unattainable.  

 

From now on, I wholly trust you.

 

😁

[Ragnar Danneskjold]

Can you bring drinks into the spa, tall strong drinks?