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Average Age on Viking River Cruises and Tips for Young and Elderly Travelers (2 Tips each)
Introduction
Thinking about exploring the majestic Danube River or the enchanting European Christmas markets with Viking River Cruises? If you’re wondering about the average age on Viking River cruises and whether these cruises are a good fit for your age group, you’ve come to the right place.
River cruises have become extremely popular in recent years. Viking river cruises offer a delightful blend of luxurious accommodations, breathtaking landscapes, and immersive cultural excursions.
In this blog post, we aim to shed light on the average age of guests on Viking River cruise and discuss suitability of your age group for European exploration though Viking River cruises.
Average age on Viking River Cruises
The old phrase “averages lie” applies to river cruise demographics as well. So, while we can provide an average age, keep in mind that there is a large deal of diversity. This means that the average age varies depending on the cruise, itinerary, and departure date.
The typical age range of passengers on Viking River Cruises is around 55 to 75 years old. These cruises generally attract seasoned travelers who appreciate cultural immersion and luxurious amenities. For more specific age information, it’s best to contact Viking River Cruises directly.
Longer the cruise duration, Higher the average age
For a normal two-week journey, the median age of travelers is in the low 60s. For longer cruises, the average age increases because it’s more challenging for working individuals to take four weeks or more off.
There has been increasing number of younger travelers and you will see more passengers in their 30s, 40s, and 50s onboard Viking River cruises.
Tip #1 for Elderly Travelers: Be Informed about Fitness Requirements
According to Viking River cruise guidelines, all passengers must be physically, mentally, and otherwise fit to take the Viking River cruise trip. Additionally, you must know about the following terms and conditions before booking your Viking River cruises.
Reporting Disabilities
If you have any disability that require particular attention throughout your Viking itinerary, you must inform Viking at the time of reservation.
Assistance and Companions
- Passengers who require assistance with walking, dining, and traveling must be accompanied by an appropriate and physically capable companion who is fully responsible for their well-being.
- Guests must be able to walk up and down the steps and ramps without using a walker or wheelchair, as ramps are often not broad enough to allow these devices.
Accessibility Restrictions
- International cruises cannot accommodate motorized scooters.
- The Carrier reserves the right to refuse travelers who are in advanced stages of pregnancy at any time throughout the trip.
Accommodation for Special Needs
- All Viking River cruise vessels and motorcoaches for European itineraries meet European standards.
- The majority of transportation services, including vessels and motorcoaches, do not include elevators or wheelchair-compatible ramps.
Tip #2 for Elderly Travelers: Opt for Leisurely Walking Tours
If you are near to the average age on Viking River cruises, then you can join Easy Walking Group specifically designed for guests who prefer a slower pace, these are also known as “leisurely walking tours”.
These tours are subject to demand and are not conducted for just one or two people. These include shorter walking distances by skipping certain sights or more time spent on the bus. There are certain benefits of joining leisurely walking tours on Viking River cruise excursions.
Benefit #1: Photography Opportunities
Guests who enjoy photography often prefer the leisurely walking tours because they provide more time to linger at each stop without feeling rushed. This makes it easier for them to capture the perfect shot without being left behind.
Benefit #2: Smaller Groups and Personable Guides
- Some guests, regardless of mobility issues, prefer the leisurely walking tours due to its smaller size and personable guides.
- Each evening, the cruise director provides a pre-dinner briefing detailing any changes for the leisurely walking tours.
- Guests can choose to join the leisurely group or the regular group and can switch between them on different days by informing the front desk.
Benefit #3: Navigating Difficult Areas
The leisurely walking tours may skip certain places that are more difficult to navigate. This doesn’t necessarily make the tours longer, as they move at a slower pace.
Benefit #4: Offer Unique Experiences
The leisurely walking tour guides tend to be more engaging, walking and talking simultaneously, allowing guests to ask questions about sights along the way. While these tours may have less free time at the end, they are preferred by those less interested in shopping.
Tip #1 for Young Travelers: Know the difference Viking River Vs Ocean Cruises
For an age group very less compared to average age on Viking River cruises, ocean cruise is a better option as there are key differences Viking River cruises and the Ocean Cruises. Let’s discuss some of them.
Difference #1: Size and Space
- Viking River cruises are naturally small, offering limited space and fewer “places” to explore onboard.
- Ocean cruises offer much larger ships with numerous nooks and crannies to sit, read, and relax, which is very appealing to young travelers.
Difference #2: Onboard Atmosphere
- Viking river cruises, in particular, are not known for their entertainment options. They typically feature a pianist, creating a quiet and relaxed environment which might not be ideal for those seeking a lively onboard experience.
- Larger ocean cruises generally have more entertainment options, including casinos, clubs, cheesy shows, and nonstop buffets, catering to a wide range of interests of young population.
Difference #3: Crowd and Demographics
- In Viking River cruises, the demographic tends to be older, with many passengers interested in sightseeing and learning about new places. On ocean cruises, the demographic is more varied compared to river cruises.
- Younger travelers, particularly those in their 40s, might find Viking River cruise less engaging and somewhat boring.
- Ocean cruises offer more opportunities for onboard partying, dancing, and shows, which might appeal to younger travelers or those looking for a more lively experience.
Difference #4: Suitability for Different Preferences
- If your primary interest is sightseeing and exploring new destinations, river cruises can be quite enjoyable. They offer ample time to explore almost every port independently.
- For those who prefer onboard entertainment, partying, and shows, ocean cruises are a better fit. River cruises lack these features, making them less suitable for young travelers seeking this type of experience.
Tip #2 for Young Travelers: Explore the Alternatives
If you are very young compared to average age on Viking River cruises go with independent travel in Europe. This provides a richer and more customized experience, allowing you to completely immerse yourself in the culture and atmosphere of each destination, providing a richer travel experience. Let’s discuss some of the benefits of traveling independently in Europe.
Benefit #1: Cost Effective
River cruising can very expensive for young generation who prefer budget travelling with backpacking and staying in Airbnb. Traveling independently in Europe can be a more enriching and cost-effective option than taking a river cruise.
Benefit #2: In-Depth Exploration
- River cruising often provide only a superficial glimpse of each destination, missing out on the local food and nightlife.
- As a young and enthusiast traveler, independent travel in Europe allows you to spend more time exploring places of interest at your own pace.
Benefit #3: Ease of Travel
- Europe is easy to navigate, with well-connected transport systems.
- Booking flights, hotels, or Airbnb accommodations online is straightforward, and English is commonly spoken in tourist-centric areas.
Benefit #4: Flexible Itinerary
- Plan a route through cities that are reasonably close together.
- Spend a few days in each city, explore local sights, and take day trips to nearby towns.
- Use buses or trains to travel between cities, creating either a loop or an open-jaw itinerary.
FAQS about Viking River Cruises
There are lots of FAQs discussed among the Viking River cruise travelers specifically related to age and mobility issues. Let’s discuss some of these FAQs here.
FAQ #1: Are foldable mobility scooters allowed on Viking River Cruises?
- Mobility scooters are generally not allowed on board Viking River Cruises. If you plan on bringing one without asking Viking, you run the risk that you will be denied boarding which can be an expensive mistake.
- Check with Viking River cruise that foldable mobility scooter would work on your itinerary because the access for the scooter is not same at every stop.
- If you are bringing your foldable mobility scooter, ensure to have enough room in your suite to store it.
- Getting on and off the ship can be challenging with mobility scooter or wheelchair depending on water levels. The ramps used can be very steep, making it difficult for mobility scooter or wheelchair.
FAQ #2: Can we bring our own wheelchair on Viking River cruise?
- Guests with disabilities, physical or otherwise, must travel with an able-bodied companion who can assist them, as staff are not permitted to push wheelchairs.
- Guests need to come with their own wheelchairs and only during emergency Viking River cruise can provide wheelchairs.
- Wheelchairs must not exceed 22″ in width. To bring a wheelchair on board, visitors must fill out the Accessibility Form and return it to Viking no later than 30 days prior departure.
- One thing you need to know that getting around the European cobblestone-lined streets in the excursion ports might be difficult for wheelchair users.
FAQ #3: Do the Viking River cruise ships have elevators?
There are also elevators on the Viking River cruise ships for those who have difficulty climbing stairs; however, make sure you are on a floor with elevator access.
FAQ #4: Can children travel with Viking?
Children under the age of 18 are not allowed aboard Viking River Cruises from August 1, 2018.
FAQ #5: Would an early 20s enjoy a Viking cruise?
For an age very less compared to average age on Viking River cruises, river cruising cannot match with the lively atmosphere of ocean cruise ships like Royal Caribbean with their casinos, clubs, and nonstop buffets.
In Summary
- River cruises appeal to people of all ages who want to have an unforgettable experience, immerse themselves in culture, and explore stunning destinations from the comfort of their floating luxury hotel.
- If you are near to average age on Viking River Cruises you will get lots of new friends of your age group. You may opt for a “leisurely walking tour” to avoid falling on cobblestones or having more time to take pictures.
- It is advisable to inform the reception desk as soon as possible to register for leisurely walking tour, because it may not be offered if there is insufficient interest.
- If you are young enough to manage your travel across Europe then travel independently as it has its own benefits.