Viking Emerald Review

4.0 / 5.0
295 reviews

A wonderful introduction to China

Review for Asia Cruise on Viking Emerald
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overthehill97
10+ Cruises • Age 80s

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Sail Date: May 2013

Although the cruise portion of itinerary was only 5 nights, Viking's 12 day itinerary allowed us to see many more historic sights before and after the cruise. My wife and I, along with another couple, arrived in Shanghai four days in advance of the start of the tour not only to adjust to the time difference with Seattle, but to see more of Shanghai than that offered on tour. It was a good decision. We stayed at Les Suite Orient before joining the tour at the Pudong ShangriLa, one of four hotels Viking uses in Shanghai (the others are Westin Bund Center, Portman Ritz Carlton & Fairmont Peace Hotel). The Viking Emerald carries 256 passengers so guests are confirmed at various hotels and put in smaller groups with their own guide (and bus when not on the ship). Les Suites was the best hotel we stayed in during our visit to China, Hong Kong included.

Shortly after our arrival at Pudong ShangriLa, we were greeted by 'Jamie', our delightful Chinese tour guide who spent the next 12 days with us making sure we stayed on schedule and got everywhere we were supposed to be on time and with the group. The hotel accommodations during the tour were five star, all new or renovated and comfortable.

We found the accommodations on the ship equal to those on other Viking river boats in Europe except that the Viking Emerald has four decks of cabins served by two elevators in addition to stairs. In addition to various entrees offered at dinner, guests had the option of ordering from a set menu. Yes, Chinese food was served often which, for the most part, we enjoyed. The only meal we found very poor in quality and location was at a restaurant in Shanghai on our first or second night on tour. The restaurant was on an upper floor of a building near the river and had only two small elevators to get our large tour group up to the restaurant (not good). The food was mediocre at best. Wouldn't return as Shanghai has dozens of great restaurants to choose.

Cabin Review

Our cabin was similar to other Viking river boats as to the amenities and comfort. No complaints.

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