We booked this cruise to experience Viking Ocean for the first time. We took 7 very nice Viking River cruises since 2007 and heard many good things of their ocean fleet. We booked early (08/16). Having been to Brazil in 2003, I knew to ask about a visa. Brazil visas are a pain to apply for and expensive. Viking informed us that they were obtaining a "blanket visa." Not to worry. I began to worry when I contacted Brazilian consulate. They assured me that they DON'T issue "blanket visas." By that time, we had already paid for balance of cruise. I started checking on some other requirements. French Guyana requires a current Yellow Fever vaccination. CDC. WHO, and our doctor assured us that our 2003 vaccination was good for life. Not good enough for FG. Have to be vaccinated within 10 years of visit. In Sep. 2017 Viking sent me email assuring us that we were not stopping at any port requiring a YFV. Oct. 2017 we got a Viking email saying that we did need one to get off ship in FG. Surprise! Ok. 2 hour walking tour not worth spending $600 for booster. We planned to stay on board.
Embarking Viking Sea in San Juan was very smooth process. We were on board, in our cabin, and received luggage in no time. Crew introduced themselves and did everything to make our embarkation comfortable.
Ship was amazing! Three things struck us: 1. It was clean. 2. It was clean. 3. It was clean.
Response from VikingS, Community Team
Enough room for 2 people. Lots of pillows. Cabin steward was outstanding. Bathroom & shower modern, but water temp was a challenge. Shower temp control very touchy. Took some practice.