Question 1

I have been told that I need to complete a Guest Information Form. What is that, and how do I take care of it?

Accepted Answer

The Guest Information Form (GIF) enables us to create your reservation, produce travel documents and make any airline reservations. You must complete a GIF for each person traveling in your party as soon as possible. If you haven’t already done so, you can fill out the form  here .

Question 2

How can I learn more about the ship layout?

Accepted Answer

Although  Viking Mississippi  is still under construction, you can find artist renderings in our  My Ship  section, including a detailed deck plan and stateroom layouts.

Question 3

When can I book shore excursions?

Accepted Answer

Your  My Viking Journey  account gives you all the tools necessary to tailor and personalize your complete cruise experience. This includes full access to your shore excursions, which we aim to have ready 365 days before the sailing date to give you plenty of time to consider your options and make a booking.

Question 4

When can I book my dining reservations?

Accepted Answer

No dining venues on board  Viking Mississippi  require reservations.

Question 5

When is embarkation?

Accepted Answer

Embarkation begins at 11:00 AM for all categories. See below for stateroom availability times:
   11:00 AM: Explorer Suite, Terrace Suite, Penthouse Junior Suite  1:00 PM: Penthouse Veranda  2:00 PM: French Balcony, Deluxe Veranda  3:00 PM: Veranda  
Should you arrive before your stateroom is available and wish to explore your port of call, please drop off your luggage shoreside where we will gladly look after it. Please keep in mind that, if you do go exploring, you will need to be back on board the ship at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Question 6

When is disembarkation?

Accepted Answer

All staterooms must be vacated by 9:00 AM. Guests can disembark as soon as the ship has docked. Transfer times will vary depending on flights. Guests can wait on their ship or explore the port until their transportation to the airport is ready; their luggage will be looked after on board.

Question 7

When will we receive our final documents?

Accepted Answer

Travel documents with itinerary details will be issued approximately three weeks prior to departure. Until then, you can always see an overview of your cruise and booking on your  My Viking Journey  account.

Question 8

Can children travel with Viking?

Accepted Answer

We do not maintain facilities or services on our ships for individuals under the age of 18. All guests must be 18 years old on or before the day they are scheduled to embark on their cruise.

Question 9

What is your single supplement?

Accepted Answer

On occasion, Viking may make special solo traveler fares available. Please check back for pricing updates. In the meantime, explore special offers currently available on our ocean, river and expedition cruises. With Viking Inclusive Value, we offer you great value every day, in a category that will fit all your travel needs.

Question 10

Is there Internet access on board the ship? Are there computers, or should I bring my laptop?

Accepted Answer

Viking Mississippi  offers complimentary Wi-Fi. You may use your personal device or one of the ship’s computers. Our connection relies on a cellular or satellite terminal—the best possible solution for river cruising. Due to the nature of data bandwidth and latency, as well as potential interruptions in satellite signals based on terrain and weather, you may experience slower online connections than you are accustomed to at home. In order to ensure fair usage for all, we reserve the right to limit heavy-bandwidth applications, downloads or software upgrades so that all our guests have access to Wi-Fi. We suggest that guests limit large uploads/downloads and live streaming. Please download your content prior to your cruise, as bandwidth will affect your service and cannot be guaranteed. We would be pleased to help you with your device settings once you are on board.

Question 11

Is there a deck plan?

Accepted Answer

There is a deck plan available of  Viking Mississippi  on the  My Ship  page of our website.

Question 12

What common spaces are there on the ship?

Accepted Answer

There are a range of common spaces you are familiar with from our Viking ocean and Viking river voyages, plus additional  Viking Mississippi -specific spaces that will enhance your experience on shore and on board, including: the Explorers\u0027 Lounge, The Restaurant, The Living Room, River Café, Sun Terrace with Infinity Plunge Pool, Aquavit Terrace, and The Bow. See the  My Ship  section for deck plans and details.

Question 13

Which design features and public spaces from Viking ocean and Viking river ships are on Viking Mississippi?

Accepted Answer

This new, state-of-the-art vessel was inspired by our award-winning Viking Longships ®  and will feature the clean, Scandinavian design for which Viking is known, as well as public spaces that are familiar to our river and ocean cruise guests but have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. The following public spaces are similar to other Viking ships: The Restaurant, Aquavit Terrace, the Explorers’ Lounge and Bar, The Living Room and more. Please refer to the deck plans in the  My Ship  section for specific locations.

Question 14

Is there a pool?

Accepted Answer

Yes,  Viking Mississippi  features a glass-backed Infinity Plunge Pool offering 270° Mississippi River views throughout your journey. The first of its kind on the Mississippi River, the Infinity Plunge Pool gives you a sense of swimming in the heart of your destination. The pool deck, known as our Sun Terrace, also offers relaxation spots as you sail the river and flows into the Aquavit Terrace in the evening for al fresco dining.

Question 15

How can I learn more about the ship layout?

Accepted Answer

Although  Viking Mississippi  is still under construction, you can find artist renderings in our  My Ship  section, including a detailed deck plan and stateroom layouts.

Question 16

Are these real pictures of the ship?

Accepted Answer

They are artist renderings. Construction has not yet been completed and we look forward to releasing official photos of  Viking Mississippi  once construction nears completion.

Question 17

Are there refrigerators in individual staterooms?

Accepted Answer

Each stateroom is equipped with a mini-bar. Depending on your stateroom category, your mini-bar may be replenished daily with drinks and snacks. Purified water is provided in all staterooms and refilled daily.

Question 18

What is the electrical voltage in the staterooms?

Accepted Answer

You will find standard US 110V-120V electrical outlets in your stateroom. You will also find ample USB ports to charge cell phones, tablets and other electronic accessories; just bring the appropriate cable(s) with you.

Question 19

Is my stateroom furnished with amenities that I do not need to pack?

Accepted Answer

All stateroom bathrooms are equipped with premium bath toiletries. A hair dryer is also provided, and laundry and pressing services are available. Depending on your stateroom category, laundry and pressing may be complimentary. If your stateroom category does not include these services, they may be purchased for a modest fee.

Question 20

Are pets allowed on board?

Accepted Answer

No pets or other animals are allowed on board the ship, other than service animals and certified therapy dogs as Viking may choose to permit at its sole discretion. Guests who require the aid of a service animal or certified therapy dog must advise Viking at the time of booking. Viking will be in touch with any additional information needed in the coming months.

Question 21

Is the ship too big to dock or get into the areas that I want to see?

Accepted Answer

Viking Mississippi  is optimally designed for Mississippi river cruising—small enough to maneuver nimbly yet large enough to offer extremely comfortable sailing. At every docking location, guests will have the opportunity to venture on shore to explore local destinations that offer a glimpse into the history, culture, music and taste of each destination or relax comfortably on your own.

Question 22

We plan to arrive a few days early and then make our way to the ship. Can you please provide the docking location?

Accepted Answer

Approximately three weeks prior to departure, your travel documents will be shipped to you with this information. In addition, Viking is pleased to offer a selection of local cruise extensions before and after your departure.

Question 23

What is My Viking Journey?

Accepted Answer

My Viking Journey  is a website designed exclusively for guests who have booked a cruise with Viking. If you have a Viking booking number, you can create an account anytime to customize and manage your upcoming journey. Browse and book shore excursions; access and print visa applications and travel itineraries; complete your Guest Information Form; view air services and flight details; and manage your daily schedule in your personalized calendar. You can enhance your trip with our Silver Spirits beverage package, gain peace of mind with the Viking Travel Protection Plan and make easy online payments.

Question 24

I have been told that I need to complete a Guest Information Form. What is that, and how do I take care of it?

Accepted Answer

The Guest Information Form (GIF) enables us to create your reservation, produce travel documents and make any airline reservations. You must complete a GIF for each person traveling in your party as soon as possible. If you haven’t already done so, you can fill out the form  here .

Question 25

When will we receive our final documents?

Accepted Answer

Travel documents with itinerary details will be issued approximately three weeks prior to departure. Until then, you can always see an overview of your cruise and booking on your  My Viking Journey  account.

Question 26

Do I need travel protection?

Accepted Answer

While travel protection is not required, we do recommend it. Emergencies sometimes arise, and you want to protect your travel investment. When you purchase the Viking Travel Protection Plan within 14 days of your initial deposit/payment for your cruise, you also receive the Viking Enhanced Cancellation Waiver Benefit that allows you to cancel your Viking travel arrangements before your scheduled departure for any reason and receive a Viking Cruises Voucher for the cancellation penalty amount. You can see the plans we offer  here .

Question 27

When is embarkation?

Accepted Answer

Embarkation begins at 11:00 AM for all categories. See below for stateroom availability times:
   11:00 AM: Explorer Suite, Terrace Suite, Penthouse Junior Suite  1:00 PM: Penthouse Veranda  2:00 PM: French Balcony, Deluxe Veranda  3:00 PM: Veranda  
Should you arrive before your stateroom is available and wish to explore your port of call, please drop off your luggage shoreside where we will gladly look after it. Please keep in mind that, if you do go exploring, you will need to be back on board the ship at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Question 28

When is disembarkation?

Accepted Answer

All staterooms must be vacated by 9:00 AM. Guests can disembark as soon as the ship has docked. Transfer times will vary depending on flights. Guests can wait on their ship or explore the port until their transportation to the airport is ready; their luggage will be looked after on board.

Question 29

What is the cancellation policy for my booked shore excursions?

Accepted Answer

In order to ensure quality guides and sufficient transportation, the tour operator must be provided with guest counts in advance. Tours operate rain or shine.
   Shore excursions can be added or canceled on  My Viking Journey  up to seven days prior to departure. Cancellations at that time can still receive a full refund.  Guests can call the Contact Center where Viking Experts can assist in removing shore excursions up to three days prior to itinerary start date and issue a full refund. Once within three days of the itinerary start date, no refunds will be issued.  Items canceled through My Viking Journey or via phone will be refunded back to the payment method used for the purchase; this can take up to 14 business days to process.  No refunds will be given once within three days of the advertised start date of the itinerary (cruise or cruisetour).

Question 30

Can children travel with Viking?

Accepted Answer

We do not maintain facilities or services on our ships for individuals under the age of 18. All guests must be 18 years old on or before the day they are scheduled to embark on their cruise.

Question 31

What is your single supplement?

Accepted Answer

On occasion, Viking may make special solo traveler fares available. Please check back for pricing updates. In the meantime, explore special offers currently available on our ocean, river and expedition cruises. With Viking Inclusive Value, we offer you great value every day, in a category that will fit all your travel needs.

Question 32

Can I make payment against my booking balance in My Viking Journey? How do I get a discount on my payment?

Accepted Answer

You can make secure payments on the  Payments \u0026amp; Cart  page. We accept all major credit cards and also offer a 3.3% discount on payments made with e-check, an electronic debit to your checking account.

Question 33

Are transfers included?

Accepted Answer

Transfers are included with Viking Air purchase and all of our extension packages.

Question 34

Are there luggage restrictions during the trip?

Accepted Answer

Luggage must be stored in the guest’s stateroom. Additional information will be made available with ample time for you to plan for your voyage.

Question 35

What form of identification should I bring?

Accepted Answer

For US citizens or permanent residents, we require a valid government-issued photo identification (e.g., driver\u0027s license) to board the ship. For all other guests, we require a valid passport to board the ship. Guests without proper identification will be denied boarding. If you are traveling internationally to the US, you are responsible for ensuring that you satisfy all identification, passport, visa, travel insurance and health certificate requirements to enter the US. Viking does not accept responsibility for any refusal to travel or entry to any destinations or for any liabilities, losses, delays or expenses incurred through any irregularity in such documentation.

Question 36

Do I need any vaccinations?

Accepted Answer

Requirements may vary and can change at any time. No vaccinations are currently required if you travel directly from the United States. Please contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), your own country’s travel immunization authority or your personal physician to ensure that no vaccinations are required.

Question 37

We have traveled with Viking before and are thinking of inviting friends to travel with us. Are there benefits for referring friends?

Accepted Answer

See our  Viking Explorer Society  and  Viking Referral Rewards  pages.

Question 38

How can I send a Bon Voyage gift to a Viking guest?

Accepted Answer

Send your friends or loved ones off in style with a Bon Voyage gift delivered directly to their stateroom. You can order a gift for delivery on board to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or special occasion. Our Bon Voyage gift packages include delightful surprises, such as champagne, wine, chocolate-dipped strawberries and more.
  
Please note: Gift Order Form is not yet available. Please check My Viking Journey closer to departure.

Question 39

When can I book shore excursions?

Accepted Answer

Your  My Viking Journey  account gives you all the tools necessary to tailor and personalize your complete cruise experience. This includes full access to your shore excursions, which we aim to have ready 365 days before the sailing date to give you plenty of time to consider your options and make a booking.

Question 40

When can I book my dining reservations?

Accepted Answer

No dining venues on board  Viking Mississippi  require reservations.

Question 41

What is the dress code?

Accepted Answer

During the day, dress is casual—slacks or jeans and comfortable shoes that are appropriate for excursions or enjoying the ship. Swimsuits, brief shorts, cover-ups and exercise attire should be reserved for the pool and terrace areas. There are no “formal nights” in the evening; evening dress is “elegant casual” for all dining venues, performances and special events. For ladies, this may include a dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse; for gentlemen, trousers and a collared shirt. A tie and jacket are optional.

Question 42

What should I pack?

Accepted Answer

We suggest you pack comfortable walking shoes, dressier shoes, a collapsible umbrella/lightweight rain gear; items you can layer like lightweight jackets/sweaters; sunglasses, a sun hat/visor; sunscreen; and toiletries including a travel-size hand sanitizer and mosquito repellent. Depending on the season, you may also want to add a warm coat, gloves and water-resistant footwear.

Question 43

Can you accommodate my dietary requirements?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, we can. Every meal has vegetarian options and our chefs will make reasonable efforts to accommodate special requests. Guests requiring special meals (low salt, diabetic, gluten-free or low cholesterol) should alert us 90 days prior to departure and inform the Maître d’ when on board.
  
While we take steps to minimize the risk of cross-contamination, we cannot guarantee an allergen-free kitchen.

Question 44

Can I upgrade the complimentary beverages?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer complimentary house wines, beers and soft drinks with onboard lunches and dinners, plus specialty coffees and assorted hot teas that are available 24 hours a day at our coffee stations. For those who would like to upgrade and enjoy unlimited beverages, Viking offers a Silver Spirits beverage package for a flat fee per guest, which includes a selection of premium wines by the glass, cocktails, beers, specialty coffee drinks, soft drinks and juices throughout the day; plus an open bar (during operating hours). You may purchase the package prior to sailing or once you are on board.
  
Please note: The Silver Spirits beverage package order form is not yet available. Please check My Viking Journey closer to departure.
  
Please note you must be 21 years of age or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. Both guests in a stateroom must purchase the package for the full length of the cruise in order for it to be valid.

Question 45

Can I bring alcohol and other beverages on board?

Accepted Answer

Guests may bring alcohol and beverages with them or purchase alcohol on shore at destinations that sell alcohol. Alcohol can be consumed in the guest’s stateroom or in public spaces, including the dining venues. There is no corkage fee.

Question 46

Do you have laundry facilities?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your stateroom category, laundry services, including pressing, may be complimentary. If your stateroom category does not include these services, they may be purchased for a modest fee and arranged through your stateroom steward. Self-service launderettes including irons and ironing boards are available free of charge, with detergent available for your use at no additional cost.

Question 47

Is the ship nonsmoking?

Accepted Answer

Viking vessels are generally nonsmoking. In order to accommodate guests who choose to smoke, there is a designated outdoor smoking area. All other areas of the ship, including your stateroom and veranda, are designated nonsmoking areas. Smoking restrictions also apply to e-cigarettes.

Question 48

How will payments on board be handled?

Accepted Answer

Although most services are included in your cruise fare, discretionary purchases will be charged to your shipboard account. These accounts, along with all prices and currency on board the ship, are in US dollars and may be settled in cash or with a major credit card before disembarking the ship; traveler’s and personal checks are not accepted.

Question 49

What is the tipping policy?

Accepted Answer

Our onboard staff is dedicated to providing you with the best cruise experience possible, and it is customary to give gratuities in recognition of their service. How much you choose to tip is a personal matter and completely at your discretion. We offer two ways to manage your gratuities: you can relax and enjoy your journey by pre-purchasing gratuities on  My Viking Journey  at our standard recommended rate of $18 USD per guest per day; or, we will automatically add a discretionary service charge of $18 USD per guest per day to your shipboard account, which appears on your final invoice at the end of your cruise. This charge will be shared among the onboard staff who helped support and provide for your cruise experience, including the Program Director, waitstaff, stateroom stewards, galley staff, nautical staff and others. Should you wish to make changes to the gratuity amounts, stop by Guest Services once you are on board. Please note: Pre-paid gratuities are not available at this time. Please check My Viking Journey closer to departure.
  
Any additional tipping is at your discretion. Should you choose to tip your local Viking Host, Viking Representative, local guides and/or drivers, we recommend doing so in cash. We suggest $5 per person per day for local guides and $2 USD per person per day for drivers.
  
Please be aware that if you are taking part in an escorted pre- or post-cruise extension, the Tour Director escorting you is not included in the onboard gratuity. We suggest $5 per person per day.

Question 50

What is the Viking Service Guarantee?

Accepted Answer

We hope you love your cruise from the very beginning; however, should you be dissatisfied with our service upon first check-in (hotel or on board your ship), including food, personnel or shore excursions—just notify us within 24 hours of the start of your cruise (if your first check-in is on board your ship, notify your Program Director; at a hotel, contact your Viking Host or Viking Representative). We then have 24 hours to correct the situation, and in the unlikely event a solution is not possible, you can then depart as soon as possible and we will refund 100% of your cruise price. We can assist with any departure reservations, but your return trip/alternate travel plan costs are your sole responsibility. This Service Guarantee cannot be activated or applied for acts of God, strikes or other circumstances beyond our control as indicated in the  Terms and Conditions .

Question 51

Will there be talks or presentations on board the ship?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All of our itineraries feature daily briefings, enriching lectures, and entertaining presentations that highlight the history, culture, music and uniqueness of each of the local regions you will be visiting along the Mississippi River.

Question 52

Is there Internet access on board the ship? Are there computers, or should I bring my laptop?

Accepted Answer

Viking Mississippi  offers complimentary Wi-Fi. You may use your personal device or one of the ship’s computers. Our connection relies on a cellular or satellite terminal—the best possible solution for river cruising. Due to the nature of data bandwidth and latency, as well as potential interruptions in satellite signals based on terrain and weather, you may experience slower online connections than you are accustomed to at home. In order to ensure fair usage for all, we reserve the right to limit heavy-bandwidth applications, downloads or software upgrades so that all our guests have access to Wi-Fi. We suggest that guests limit large uploads/downloads and live streaming. Please download your content prior to your cruise, as bandwidth will affect your service and cannot be guaranteed. We would be pleased to help you with your device settings once you are on board.

Question 53

Can I use my credit card throughout my journey?

Accepted Answer

Mastercard, Visa and American Express are accepted in major shops, restaurants and hotels, as well as on board to settle your shipboard account. Smaller shops and those in rural areas may not accept credit card payments.

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Help / FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions | Mississippi Cruises

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Company Information

Viking River Cruises

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