We like Viking, but there are lots of fantastic options! Other cruise lines offer different experiences. You will want to select the right cruise line and ship. It’s essential to choose one that matches your preferences. Some cruise lines cater to families with young children, while others focus on luxury and relaxation. Some, like Viking, include 1 excursion with each destination, while also offering options for other excursions at an additional fee. Other lines charge for every excursion.
It’s important to know how close you will be to the destination port in choosing your excursions vs exploring on your own. If you purchase an excursion through the ship, make sure transfers are included for you. With Viking and most other cruise lines, they are.
Once you have selected your cruise line, you will want to choose the ship that suits your needs and budget. Having a trusted travel advisor can be an enormous help as you make these decisions. It doesn’t cost you any more than booking online and you have an advocate and trusted advisor who will help you sort out all the details. Just knowing that you don’t have to spend time on hold with the cruise line to make your plans can be a big help, and sometimes it’s just nice to be able to talk about your travel dreams with someone who knows Europe!
WHEN SHOULD YOU BEGIN PLANNING YOUR EUROPEAN CRUISE?
The answer to this question is: as soon as you narrow down all the above and make your decision! We recommend making your reservation as early in the process as possible. This will give you the best opportunity to book the stateroom that you want. If you see a cruise line offering a special price on a cruise you know you want to be on, that is also a great time to book!
We have clients who book just a few months before travel and others who make their reservation more than 2 years in advance. Whenever you decide you want to make your reservation is the right time. Just know that if you wait, the stateroom you really want may no longer be available. The most popular itineraries tend to book up quite early.
