AmaWaterways has announced that 18 river cruise ships in its European fleet* have all earned the prestigious Green Award certification. The fleet-wide certification follows AmaKristina becoming the river cruise industry’s first ship to receive this designation. The 18 river ships now recognized for industry-leading safety, quality and environmental performance, include AmaBella, AmaCello, AmaCerto, AmaDante, AmaDolce, AmaKristina, AmaLea, AmaLyra, AmaMagna, AmaMora, AmaPrima, AmaReina, AmaSerena, AmaSonata, AmaStella, AmaVenita, AmaVerde and AmaViola.
“We are proud to lead the charge in having our river cruise ships certified through the Green Award program,” said Rudi Schreiner, president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “Responsibility toward the environment is the foundation on which AmaWaterways’ ships are built, and our river cruise and tour programs are operated. Respecting the principles of sustainable travel while ensuring the safety and security of guests and crew has always been our top priority.”
The Green Award program is an independent accreditation process for ocean vessels, inland barges and river cruise ships. The Green Award certificate is a mark for ships that demonstrate high safety and environmental standards. To earn the award, river cruise ships are evaluated based on the environmental impact of its engines, fuel consumption, waste and maintenance, pollution prevention and more. Many ports, such as the Port of Amsterdam, offer substantial benefits to certified ships to promote safer, cleaner inland navigation and to advocate for an integrated approach for European inland waterways.
Demonstrating its commitment to protecting and preserving the world’s rivers, AmaWaterways’ contemporary vessels — carrying 156 guests on average — are thoughtfully designed with eco-friendly elements, such as LED lights; specially insulated windows that reduce energy needs for heating and cooling; power locks to plug into a port’s power supply instead of running generators; solar heating systems; water treatment plants that use membrane technology to provide microfiltration and recycling of all water used onboard. At twice the width of traditional river cruise ships, the revolutionary AmaMagna launched in 2019 and debuted an innovative 10-engine configuration designed to reduce overall fuel consumption by up to 20 percent depending on river conditions.
Additionally, AmaWaterways continues to evaluate and implement new measures across its fleet to minimize its impact on the environment. In efforts to reduce overall plastic consumption on board its ships, the river cruise line has replaced individual single-use toiletries with soap/shampoo dispensers, replaced plastic straws with paper ones, added glass water bottles in all staterooms and continues to test the use of tetra-pak water containers to replace plastic water bottles during excursions.
“While current events may have delayed the start of this year’s sailing season, nothing has diminished our commitment to protecting the rivers that we sail upon. Receiving these awards for all our ships in Europe* reaffirms our dedication to sustainability,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “River cruising is a wonderfully intimate way to explore the world, and we will continue to honor the environment and support the development of communities we visit by introducing innovative ways to minimize our carbon footprint.”
To book an AmaWaterways river cruise, contact your preferred Travel Advisor, call 1.800.626.0126 or visit AmaWaterways.com. Follow AmaWaterways on Facebook at Facebook.com/AmaWaterways, Instagram @AmaWaterways and Twitter @AmaWaterways.
About AmaWaterways
A family-owned company celebrating 18 years on the river, AmaWaterways offers unforgettable river cruises with 25 ships sailing Europe’s Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Saône (2021), Seine, Garonne, Dordogne, Dutch and Belgian Waterways and Douro Rivers, Southeast Asia’s Mekong, Africa’s Chobe River and Egypt’s Nile River (2021). You also visit real money pokies. Led by experienced river cruise co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, the company is renowned for its innovative stateroom design featuring unique “twin balconies;” its wellness activities including a wide choice of included shore excursions featuring biking and hiking options for the active traveler; and its award-winning dining—including The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant as well as complimentary fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.
Modern, spacious, and tastefully decorated, each ship features onboard amenities such as hair and massage salons and a fitness room, and many have heated outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars. Looking for a way to pass the time until your next cruise, visit crazy vegas online casino. AmaWaterways leads the river cruise industry in innovation highlighted with the launch of AmaMagna, which at twice the width of traditional river ships, offers a new dimension in luxury river cruising. The company also offers a variety of themed sailings and brand relationships, with sailings geared towards active travelers and families as well as group and charter options.
Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, unveiled its new ‘Remember the Future’ print and digital brand campaign.
Premiering in consumer- and trade-facing print publications as well as digitally and across social mediums, the new branding is emotive, evocative, and tinged with romance. Developed in conjunction with the London-based creative Latitude Agency, the campaign reminds travelers why they love travel and aims to inspire them to look to the future.
“We wanted to create something fresh and uplifting while remaining sensitive to the current moods of our guests and the traveling public,” stated Bob Binder, President & CEO of Oceania Cruises. “Our loyal guests are eagerly booking for 2021 and 2022, and the ‘It’s All Ahead of You’ messaging poignantly underscores the hopefulness and anticipation of future travel and the bright days ahead of us all.”
The campaign also reinforces Oceania Cruises’ core pillars of Exquisitely Crafted Cuisine, Curated Travel Experiences, and Small Ship Luxury. “These core tenants not only guided the creation of the campaign, they embody and encapsulate the Oceania Cruises Experience and the foundation of our brand,” added James Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing. ‘Remember The Future’ will debut in the Departures July/August issue and in Travel + Leisure’s August edition.
Socially, travelers and travel advisors should use the hashtag #RememberTheFuture to showcase their upcoming travels and travel dreams. The ‘Remember The Future’ social campaigns will include guest experiences and insightful destination recommendations, memory-making service stories from our guests and crew, and rich, engaging content from Executive Culinary Director Jacques Pépin, Sirena Godmother Claudine Pépin, Director of Culinary Enrichment & Executive Chef Chef Kathryn Kelly, our acclaimed Artists-in-Residence and more.
Seabourn, the world’s finest ultra-luxury travel experience, has enhanced its “Book with Confidence” policy, which provides travelers with even more flexibility, assurance and options to cancel their booking up to 30 days prior to departure on any new bookings and receive a future cruise credit. The enhanced policy, which now applies to 2021 departures, also includes a new “Best Fare Guarantee” benefit, ensuring guests can have peace of mind that they can always request the lowest publicly available fare offered for their voyage in the event fares are lowered following booking.
For existing and new bookings made by July 31, 2020 on sailings departing by December 31, 2021, guests may cancel up to 30 days prior to departure and receive a 100% future cruise credit of any payment already made to Seabourn and currently within cancellation fees. The Future Cruise Credit granted using Book With Confidence will be valid for 12 months from the date of issue and may then be used to book sailings departing through December 31, 2022.
For additional information, terms and conditions on the enhanced Book with Confidence policy, please visit Seabourn’s website.
“We understand many travelers are ready to start planning their next adventure and rediscover extraordinary worlds but may still have some hesitation to book,” said Chris Austin, Seabourn’s senior vice president of Global Marketing & Sales. “We’ve enhanced our ‘Book with Confidence’ policy to give travelers assurance for a longer period of time that they can cancel closer to departure and have the opportunity of receiving the best pricing available. These updates should give them the confidence they need to finalize their travel plans now but know they have the flexibility to change if necessary.”
In addition, the new Best Fare Guarantee benefit will provide guests who booked a Seabourn voyage by July 31, 2020, with the opportunity to request an adjustment in the event fares are lower for their specific voyage and suite category. Guests and travel advisors should contact Seabourn directly if they see a better rate listed on Seabourn’s website, but they must do so at least 30 days prior to departure. Guests looking for an online diversion can visit the paripop casino.
Seabourn represents the pinnacle of ultra-luxury travel with intimate ships offering key elements that set the line apart: spacious, thoughtfully appointed suites, many with verandas and all oceanfront; superb dining in a choice of venues; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available onboard at all times; award-winning service and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel at home on board. The ships travel the globe to many of the world’s most desirable destinations including marquee cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and lesser-known ports and hideaways. You can always pass the time waiting for your next cruise by playing online slots.
For reservations or more information about Seabourn and these promotions, please contact Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com.
In response to the Canadian Transport Minister’s restriction of any ships carrying 100 or more passengers from entering Canadian waters until October 31, 2020, the Australian Government’s approach to managing the resumption of cruising in the Australian region, along with the ongoing uncertainty of ports reopening for cruise ships in Taiwan, Japan and South Korea, Princess has extended our global pause in operations and cancelled the following voyages.
All cruises sailing in and out of Australia departing August 29 –September 21, 2020 on Sea, Majestic, Sun and Sapphire Princess
All cruises in and out of Vancouver and Seattle in September and October on Coral, Emerald, Grand, Royal, Ruby and Star Princess
7-day cruises roundtrip from San Francisco departing in September and October 2020 : Pacific & California Coast on Star Princess
The FCC can be used for any cruises through 1 May 2022.
Guests who have not paid in full, have the option to accept a special ‘Double your Deposit’ Future Cruise Credit offer:
Transfer the money deposited for your vacation as a refundable Future Cruise Credit (FCC) and Princess will provide a matching bonus FCC for the same amount up to the base cruise fare amount of the current cruise(minimum US$100 per person).
P&O Cruises has announced an extension to the pause in its operations until October 15, 2020 as it focuses on working in close coordination with all relevant public health bodies to approve further enhancement of the company’s already stringent health and safety protocols.
In the latest of a series of videos P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said:
“As a business our operational focus is not “when can we resume sailing?” but is instead “how can we develop a comprehensive restart protocol that will keep everyone on board, our crew and guests, safe and well and still give our guests an amazing holiday?”
“We are working with government and industry bodies at the highest possible level, such as Public Health England (PHE) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to review every aspect of a holiday with us and establish a framework of policies and procedures. Our aspiration is to be adopting best practices in managing COVID-19 within the travel industry.
“Unfortunately, as the world continues to adapt to this global crisis, we have made the decision, difficult as it is, to extend our pause in operations for all sailings up to and including October 15, 2020. We are so sorry for the disappointment this will cause to so many of our guests.”
“We have now amended our systems so that those guests with the enhanced 125% Future Cruise Credit may now redeem them online without the need to call us, which will make things much easier for our guests. Further details of this will be on the website.”
Following feedback from guests P&O Cruises has also confirmed that the Future Cruise Credit, which may be held until the end of 2021, may be put against any holiday on sale at that time, giving guests maximum flexibility and choice.
FCCs may also be used to upgrade or for a second cabin for any existing booking and also may be gifted or transferred to someone else. This option will also be available until the end of December 2021.
“P&O Cruises is also introducing a 5% deposit for new bookings made between 27 May and 29 June 2020. The offer is available on applicable Early Saver and Select Price holidays of 19 nights or fewer from January 2021. See the website for details.
“We want to apologize once again to those guests who wait for refunds, particularly at a time of financial constraints, however the new technology we have in place is rapidly improving things though and we continue to make further progress on a daily basis.”
Expanding on the likely protocols Ludlow said:
“We have for years had in place many of the protocols now considered advisable for other social gathering venues, such as hand-sanitizing stations and rigorous cleaning and disinfecting procedures. We also have for years gone beyond those protocols by having guests complete a health declaration form and having a comprehensive medical facility onboard each ship providing 24/7 medical care and treatment. During the recent crisis, we added robust health screening upon embarkation, starting with thermal scanning of guests and crew.
“Along with the rest of the world, we will adapt. We will work closely with medical experts and global authorities to help us determine the best way to move forward while honoring our highest responsibility – the health, safety, and wellbeing of our guests, crew, and communities we visit, along with compliance and environmental protection.
“We have always taken such pride in our standards of cleanliness and hygiene before Covid-19, but when we return there will be enhanced protocols approved by the hospitality and national public health authorities. This will ensure we continue to have in place high levels of cleanliness across every single aspect of public areas, crew living areas and every item of furniture in cabins and everywhere on board as well as approved safety standards for the service of food and drink; entertainment and experiences onboard and onshore.
“When the time is right, we will be ready to resume our tradition of providing amazing holiday experiences for our guests.”
Carnival Cruise Line Announces Plan To Phase In North American Service
Carnival Cruise Line has unveiled plans to phase in a resumption of North American service this summer, beginning on August 1 with a total of eight ships from Miami, Port Canaveral, and Galveston. In connection with this plan, their pause in operations will be extended in all other North American and Australian markets through August 31.
The key elements of this plan include:
All North American cruises from June 27 to July 31 will be canceled.
Other than the above-referenced service from Galveston, Miami, and Port Canaveral, all other North American and Australian homeport cruises will be canceled through August 31.
Impacted guests and their travel advisors are being notified by email, including options for a combined future cruise credit (FCC) and onboard credit (OBC) package, or a full refund. Booked guests can make their selection online, alleviating the need to contact Carnival’s customer service center, which is still operating in a work-from-home status due to locally-imposed office closures in South Florida.
Carnival stated they are committed to supporting all public health efforts to manage the COVID-19 situation. They are taking a measured approach, focusing our return to service on a select number of homeports where we have more significant operations that are easily accessible by car for the majority of our guests.
The cruise line also noted that any resumption of cruise operations – whenever that maybe – is fully dependent on our continued efforts in cooperation with federal, state, local, and international government officials. In our continued support of public health efforts, and return to service will also include whatever enhanced operational protocols and social gathering guidelines that are in place at the time of the resumption of cruise operations.
Carnival is planning to use this additional time to continue to engage experts, government officials, and stakeholders on additional protocols and procedures to protect the health and safety of our guests, crew, and the communities we serve. We appreciate the understanding and support of our guests and travel agent partners and look forward to welcoming them on board as the environment for travel and tourism improves.
Cruise Addicts around the World are waiting to embark on their next cruise. The uncertainty during this time is very tough for everyone involved. Our message to you is, We Will Be Back and #WeAreCruise. We are thinking of you and many associated businesses.
Thank you to all our friends who contributed to the making of this video:
Cruise Addicts reaches new and seasoned cruise traveler’s from all over the world. Our aim is to help bring them up close with the ever-changing choices. Watch more of our videos like this by clicking here.
Viking has opened reservations to the public for its new Mississippi River cruises, which will launch in 2022. The company’s first custom vessel, Viking Mississippi, will debut in August 2022 and will sail voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi River, between New Orleans and St. Paul. Viking’s arrival will bring modern river cruising to the Mississippi and will represent a major commitment to tourism and economic development in many communities along the river.
Mississippi River Cruises
Currently scheduled ports of call on Viking’s new Mississippi River cruises to comprise seven U.S. states: Louisiana (Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans, and St. Francisville); Mississippi (Natchez and Vicksburg); Tennessee (Memphis); Missouri (Hannibal, St. Louis); Iowa (Burlington, Dubuque, and Davenport); Wisconsin (La Crosse); and Minnesota (Red Wing, St. Paul).
“At a time where many of us are at home, looking for inspiration to travel in the future, I am pleased to introduce a new, modern way to explore this great river. We invented the concept of modern river cruising when we got our start 23 years ago—first on the rivers of Russia and then in Europe. Since then, many people have come to appreciate the unique exploration that comes with river cruising—but currently there are very few options to do so on American rivers,” said Hagen when the new Mississippi River cruises were announced on March 30, 2020. “Our guests are curious travelers, and they continue to tell us that the Mississippi is the river they most want to sail with us. The Mississippi River is closer to home for many of our guests, and no other waterway has played such an important role in America’s history, commerce and culture.”
The announcement of Viking’s arrival on the Mississippi is the most recent milestone as the company continues to expand its fleet and destination-focused travel offerings. In January 2020 the company unveiled Viking Expeditions, with the first 378-guest purpose-built expedition ship, Viking Octantis, launching in January 2022 on voyages to Antarctica and then North America’s Great Lakes. A second expedition vessel, Viking Polaris, will debut in August 2022, sailing to Antarctica and the Arctic.
Viking Mississippi
Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, the new state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships and will feature clean Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but that have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages.
Purpose-built for the Mississippi and currently under construction in Louisiana, the five-deck ship’s cutting-edge design, expansive windows, and comfortable amenities will make it the largest and most modern cruise ship in the region. Highlights of the new ship include:
Rendering of the Viking Mississippi – Aft Explorer’s Suite on Deck 3.
All Outside Staterooms
Guests can choose from an unparalleled seven spacious stateroom categories that range from 268 sq. ft to 1,024 sq. ft: Veranda, French Balcony, Deluxe Veranda, Penthouse Veranda, Penthouse Jr. Suite, Terrace Suite, and Explorer Suite. All staterooms feature a private veranda or French balcony, king-size bed with luxury linens, large flat-screen interactive TV, mini-bar, large glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor, and 24-hour room service.
A Penthouse Veranda Suite aboard Viking Mississippi
Viking Suites
Viking Mississippi will have some of the largest true suites on the river, with every suite featuring two rooms and a full-size veranda off the spacious sitting room. Guests in Penthouse Jr. Suites (400 sq. ft.) and Terrace Suites (425 sq. ft.) receive early stateroom access; expanded double-sink bathroom; mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water and snacks replenished daily; welcome champagne; and laundry, pressing and shoe shine services. Guests in the expansive Explorer Suites (657 sq. ft. to 1,024 sq. ft) also receive a wraparound veranda and complimentary Silver Spirits Beverage Package.
The Aquavit Terrace aboard Viking Mississippi will feature a Barbecue.
Aquavit Terrace
A public space beloved by many of Viking’s ocean and river guests, Viking Mississippi will also feature a revolutionary Aquavit Terrace on the top deck, providing a casual dining space ideal for an American barbecue experience. Combined with the River Café, the Aquavit Terrace will provide the most al fresco dining on the Mississippi.
Similar to Viking’s ocean ships, Viking Mississippi will have a glass-backed pool experience at the aft, allowing guests to take a dip while fully surrounded by their destination.
The Viking Mississippi will feature a Living room area
The Living Room
Clean Scandinavian design paired with American influences, the Living Room on Deck 1 is designed for socializing, relaxing and entertainment. Nearby, the quiet corner of The Library, is a perfect place to discover a new book.
The Restaurant will be located on Deck 1 and feature serve daily-changing menus.
The Restaurant
This main dining venue on Deck 1 will serve daily-changing menus featuring delicious regional cuisine and always available classics prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Full 360-Degree Promenade Deck
Guests can stroll the entire ship outside on Deck 1, stretching their legs while viewing scenic landscape and regional wildlife.
Enrichment On Board and On Shore
Connecting guests to their destinations through authentic experiences is central to Viking creating “the thinking person’s cruise.” A focus on cultural enrichment onboard Viking Mississippi means that guests will enjoy Destination Performances that represent the most iconic music of the region—as well as Guest Lecturers that shed light on the region’s art, architecture, history, culture, the natural world and more.
And only The Viking Way® of exploration provides guests with itineraries that feature Privileged Access®, Local Life and Working World experiences, opening doors to places otherwise difficult to visit.
On Viking’s Mississippi River itineraries, guests may choose to take a guided kayaking trip in the Louisiana bayou; visit a working farm in Quad Cities, or immerse themselves in Cajun culture during a Privileged Access excursion to the Rural Life Museum of Louisiana State University.
Sustainable Features
Solar panels, LED lighting, floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize natural light and an energy-efficient hybrid propulsion system will make Viking Mississippi the most environmentally friendly passenger ship on the Mississippi River.
Viking Inclusive Value
Every Mississippi River cruise fare includes everything guests need, with no surprises or hidden fees. Cruise fares include one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Guests also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including beer and wine with lunch and dinner service, lectures, alternative dining at no extra charge, self-service launderettes, 24-hour room service, and free Wi-Fi.
2022-2023 Viking Mississippi Inaugural Voyages
America’s Heartland (8 days; St. Louis to St. Paul)—From pristine farms nestled in rolling terrain to steep bluff rising from tributaries dotted with wooded islands, the Upper Mississippi offers a rich tapestry of beauty upon every turn of the river. This journey introduces you to the unforgettable experience of the locks and dams that control the flow of the heartland rivers. Hear stories of settlers migrating west; learn about Lewis & Clark, Mark Twain, John Deere and the Amish and Norwegian migrations; experience the regional music like polka and Norwegian folk; and taste regional cuisine showcasing local beer, produce and Wisconsin cheese.
Heart of the Delta (8 days; New Orleans to Memphis)—This journey on the Lower Mississippi is infused with American history, culture and heritage. Tour the area where the migrating French and Acadians settled; immerse yourself in the culture and lessons from the American Civil Rights Movement; discover the music of the South—jazz, blues and gospel; and experience the life and food culture of the south, from Cajun and Creole to the famed “dry” Memphis BBQ.
Southern Celebration (8 days; New Orleans–Vicksburg–New Orleans)—On this exploration of the Lower Mississippi, visit the historic homes of Louisiana and Mississippi; learn about Civil War history, touring sites like Vicksburg National Military Park; and discover the excitement and unique flavors of New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
America’s Great River(15 days; New Orleans to St. Paul)—Experience nearly the entire length of the Mississippi River on this incredible journey from the Gulf of Mexico to the northernmost reaches of the U.S. Relax and enjoy the variety of scenery, foliage and wildlife on this leisurely voyage. Enjoy Southern charm and beautifully preserved homes in Natchez; retrace the steps of Civil Rights leaders in Memphis; ascend the Gateway Arch in St. Louis; and visit “The Norwegian Valley” in La Crosse.
Today Viking made the highly anticipated announcement that it will further expand its destination-focused travel experiences with the launch of new Mississippi River cruises, honoring a commitment Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen made to loyal past guests to launch the Mississippi product by early April.
The company’s first custom vessel, Viking Mississippi, will debut in August 2022 and will sail voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi, between New Orleans and St. Paul. Viking’s arrival will bring modern river cruising to the Mississippi and will represent a major commitment to tourism and economic development in many communities along the river.
Currently scheduled ports of call on Viking’s new Mississippi River Cruises to comprise seven U.S. states: Louisiana (Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans, and St. Francisville); Mississippi (Natchez and Vicksburg); Tennessee (Memphis); Missouri (Hannibal, St. Louis); Iowa (Burlington, Dubuque, and Davenport); Wisconsin (La Crosse and Red Wing); and Minnesota (St. Paul). Starting today, inaugural sailings of Viking Mississippi’s 2022-2023 season are now available to Viking past guests only. Bookings will open to the general public on April 15, 2020.
“At a time where many of us are at home, looking for inspiration to travel in the future, I am pleased to introduce a new, modern way to explore this great river. We invented the concept of modern river cruising when we got our start 23 years ago—first on the rivers of Russia and then in Europe. Since then, many people have come to appreciate the unique exploration that comes with river cruising—but currently there are very few options to do so on American rivers,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Our guests are curious travelers, and they continue to tell us that the Mississippi is the river they most want to sail with us. The Mississippi River is closer to home for many of our guests, and no other waterway has played such an important role in America’s history, commerce and culture.”
Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships and will feature clean Scandinavian design.
Viking Mississippi
Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, the new state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships and will feature clean Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but that have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages.
Purpose-built for the Mississippi and currently under construction in Louisiana, the five-deck ship’s cutting-edge design, expansive windows, and comfortable amenities will make it the largest and most modern cruise ship in the region. Highlights of the new ship include:
Rendering of the Viking Mississippi – Aft Explorer’s Suite on Deck 3.
All Outside Staterooms
Guests can choose from an unparalleled seven spacious stateroom categories that range from 268 sq. ft to 1,024 sq. ft: Veranda, French Balcony, Deluxe Veranda, Penthouse Veranda, Penthouse Jr. Suite, Terrace Suite, and Explorer Suite. All staterooms feature a private veranda or French balcony, king-size bed with luxury linens, large flat-screen interactive TV, mini-bar, large glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor, and 24-hour room service.
A Penthouse Veranda Suite aboard Viking Mississippi
Viking Suites
Viking Mississippi will have some of the largest true suites on the river, with every suite featuring two rooms and a full-size veranda off the spacious sitting room. Guests in Penthouse Jr. Suites (400 sq. ft.) and Terrace Suites (425 sq. ft.) receive early stateroom access; expanded double-sink bathroom; mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water and snacks replenished daily; welcome champagne; and laundry, pressing and shoe shine services. Guests in the expansive Explorer Suites (657 sq. ft. to 1,024 sq. ft) also receive a wraparound veranda and complimentary Silver Spirits Beverage Package.
The Aquavit Terrace aboard Viking Mississippi will feature a Barbecue.
Aquavit Terrace
A public space beloved by many of Viking’s ocean and river guests, Viking Mississippi will also feature a revolutionary Aquavit Terrace on the top deck, providing a casual dining space ideal for an American barbecue experience. Combined with the River Café, the Aquavit Terrace will provide the most al fresco dining on the Mississippi.
Viking Mississippi will feature a glass-backed pool experience located at the aft of the ship.
Sun Terrace with Infinity Plunge Pool
Similar to Viking’s ocean ships, Viking Mississippi will have a glass-backed pool experience at the aft, allowing guests to take a dip while fully surrounded by their destination.
The Viking Mississippi will feature a Living room area
The Living Room
Clean Scandinavian design paired with American influences, the Living Room on Deck 1 is designed for socializing, relaxing and entertainment. Nearby, the quiet corner of The Library, is a perfect place to discover a new book.
The Restaurant will be located on Deck 1 and feature serve daily-changing menus.
The Restaurant
This main dining venue on Deck 1 will serve daily-changing menus featuring delicious regional cuisine and always available classics prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Full 360-Degree Promenade Deck
Guests can stroll the entire ship outside on Deck 1, stretching their legs while viewing scenic landscape and regional wildlife.
Enrichment On Board and On Shore
Connecting guests to their destinations through authentic experiences is central to Viking creating “the thinking person’s cruise.” A focus on cultural enrichment onboard Viking Mississippi means that guests will enjoy Destination Performances that represent the most iconic music of the region—as well as Guest Lecturers that shed light on the region’s art, architecture, history, culture, the natural world and more.
And only The Viking Way® of exploration provides guests with itineraries that feature Privileged Access®, Local Life and Working World experiences, opening doors to places otherwise difficult to visit. On Viking’s Mississippi River itineraries, guests may choose to take a guided kayaking trip in the Louisiana bayou; visit a working farm in Quad Cities, or immerse themselves in Cajun culture during a Privileged Access excursion to the Rural Life Museum of Louisiana State University.
Sustainable Features
Solar panels, LED lighting, floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize natural light and an energy-efficient hybrid propulsion system will make Viking Mississippi the most environmentally friendly passenger ship on the Mississippi River.
Viking Inclusive Value
Every Mississippi River cruise fare includes everything guests need, with no surprises or hidden fees. Cruise fares include one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Guests also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including beer and wine with lunch and dinner service, lectures, alternative dining at no extra charge, self-service launderettes, 24-hour room service, and free Wi-Fi.
Photo Gallery:
Viking Mississippi Deluxe Verenda
Viking Mississippi Explorers Lounge
Rendering of the Viking Mississippi – Aft Explorer’s Suite on Deck 3.
Viking Mississippi Rendering
Viking Mississippi Restaurant Interior
Rendering of the Viking Mississippi – Deluxe Veranda Stateroom
Viking Mississippi Pool Area
Viking Mississippi Entry Foyer
Rendering of the Viking Mississippi – Forward Explorer’s Suite Living Room on Deck 3.
Viking Mississippi
Rendering of the Viking Mississippi – Junior Suite
Rendering of the Viking Mississippi – Forward Explorer’s Suite Living Room on Deck 3
Viking Mississippi Fwd Suite Deck 5
Viking Mississippi Living Room
Viking Mississippi Rendering
Viking Mississippi Rendering
Viking Mississippi Restaurant Interior
Viking Mississippi Fwd Suite Balcony
Viking Mississippi Fwd Suite Deck 3 Bedroom
Rendering of the Viking Mississippi Explorers Lounge – Deck 2
Viking Mississippi Aquavit Terrace BBQ Area
Viking Mississippi Penthouse Veranda
Viking Mississippi Rendering
Viking Mississippi Restaurant Entry
Viking Mississippi Penthouse Terrace Suite
2022-2023 Viking Mississippi Inaugural Voyages
America’s Heartland (8 days; St. Louis to St. Paul)—From pristine farms nestled in rolling terrain to steep bluff rising from tributaries dotted with wooded islands, the Upper Mississippi offers a rich tapestry of beauty upon every turn of the river. This journey introduces you to the unforgettable experience of the locks and dams that control the flow of the heartland rivers. Hear stories of settlers migrating west; learn about Lewis & Clark, Mark Twain, John Deere, and the Amish and Norwegian migrations; experience the regional music like polka and Norwegian folk; and taste regional cuisine showcasing local beer, produce and Wisconsin cheese.
Heart of the Delta (8 days; New Orleans to Memphis)—This journey on the Lower Mississippi is infused with American history, culture, and heritage. Tour the area where the migrating French and Acadians settled; immerse yourself in the culture and lessons from the American Civil Rights Movement; discover the music of the South—jazz, blues and gospel; and experience the life and food culture of the south, from Cajun and Creole to the famed “dry” Memphis BBQ.
Southern Celebration (8 days; New Orleans–Vicksburg–New Orleans)—On this exploration of the Lower Mississippi, visit the historic homes of Louisiana and Mississippi; learn about Civil War history, touring sites like Vicksburg National Military Park; and discover the excitement and unique flavors of New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
America’s Great River (15 days; New Orleans to St. Paul)—Experience nearly the entire length of the Mississippi River on this incredible journey from the Gulf of Mexico to the northernmost reaches of the U.S. Relax and enjoy the variety of scenery, foliage, and wildlife on this leisurely voyage. Enjoy the southern charm and beautifully preserved homes in Natchez; retrace the steps of Civil Rights leaders in Memphis; ascend the Gateway Arch in St. Louis; and visit “The Norwegian Valley” in La Crosse.
The Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort offers a beautiful beach and pool. We loved the attentive and friendly service. We found ourselves thoroughly relaxed during our visit.
Be sure to read our full review and includes many more details – Click Here.
We booked our Day Passes at the Courtyard Isla Verde Beach Resort by contacting the resort directly. You can do this by clicking here and/or calling at 800-791-2553. You can make a reservation by sending them an email with your date of interest, amount of people and ages to sales@sjcourtyard.com. The hotel only sells a limited amount of passes, to help maintain a great experience for all guests.
What Does It Cost?
The resort’s Day pass costs $75.00+tax and includes two adults and up to three kids under twelve years of age. If your family or group ages differ, the resort will give you an updated price based on the ages you provide them.
On the day you arrive at the hotel, you will check-in at the hotel’s front desk. During check-in, they will give you wristbands, two free drinks coupons, and instructions on what it is included with your day pass. If you have customized your day pass with any add-ons, they will also go over your scheduled excursions (Jet Ski’s, Banana Boat Rides, etc).
What’s Included:
One self-parking
Two welcome drinks
Access to the pool and beach
Towels, beach chairs and umbrellas
Gym key with access to baths and lockers
Optional excursions (Jet Ski’s, Banana Boat rides, etc) available to book
What’s Not Included:
Accommodations
Motorized sports
Personal Items
Jet Ski Tours
Meals or Snacks
Read our full review and includes many more details – Click Here.
