What is Not Included in Viking Cruises? Understanding Key Viking Cruises Exclusions

Setting sail with Viking Cruises often brings to mind serene journeys through breathtaking landscapes, enriching cultural stops, and a warm, sophisticated onboard atmosphere. But if you’re wondering what won’t be part of your Viking cruise experience, you’re not alone. Viking has carefully shaped a travel style that stands apart from the usual cruise scene. Let’s explore what Viking Cruises excludes—and why these choices actually make their cruises feel so special.

No Kids Allowed: The Unique Viking Cruises Kids Policy

One of the standout features of Viking Cruises is its adults-only policy. Unlike many family-friendly cruise lines filled with the sounds of young travelers, Viking requires guests to be 18 years or older. That means no toddlers chasing after balloons or teenagers running around the decks.

This kids-free policy isn’t just about quiet; it’s about creating a calm, relaxed environment where grown-ups can soak in the rich cultural experiences both onboard and ashore. Picture yourself lounging on deck with a glass of wine, engrossed in conversation or a good book—without the buzz and bustle of a kids’ club or playground nearby.

For families planning trips with children, this might seem limiting. But for many adults who want a peaceful, refined voyage, this approach hits just the right note.

No Casinos: Embracing Tranquility Over Gambling

Here’s another major difference: no casinos aboard Viking Cruises. While many cruise lines offer slot machines and card tables, Viking deliberately leaves these out of their ships.

Skipping the casino floors means avoiding the noise, flashing lights, and busy energy that often come with gambling areas. Instead, the atmosphere feels more like a floating museum or an elegant boutique hotel focused on culture and relaxation.

Imagine stepping off the ship after a fascinating talk on ancient Viking history, then enjoying a glass of carefully selected wine while watching the sun set over a fjord. Rather than heading to a noisy casino, you unwind in quiet sophistication. This choice may surprise some, but it’s exactly what gives Viking Cruises their calm and peaceful vibe.

What’s Included That You Might Expect to Be Extra

While exploring what’s not included, it’s important to highlight a few things that Viking does include, often as complimentary features.

Many travelers expect to pay extra for internet access or drinks. But Viking Cruises typically provides Wi-Fi access without added fees, as well as beer and wine during meals included in the price. These small perks add to the effortless feel of the cruise, letting guests stay connected or relax over drinks without worrying about extra costs.

These thoughtful inclusions help Viking stand out in a crowded market, making the journey smoother and more enjoyable.

What Is Not Included? Extra Drinks and Onboard Photography Are a No-Go

On the flip side, some common cruise extras are consciously left out of Viking voyages.

You won’t find the colorful, sugary umbrella drinks often seen at tropical resorts. Viking’s beverage selection focuses on quality and simplicity—carefully curated wines and beers rather than flashy cocktails or gimmicky beverages.

Also, Viking Cruises doesn’t put pressure on guests with on-site photography sales. Unlike some cruises where photographers snap posed shots and constantly ask if you’d like to buy the photos, Viking keeps things low-key. This creates a relaxed environment where you can enjoy moments naturally, without interruptions or sales pitches.

The Viking Sea and Its Embodiment of These Exclusions

Take the Viking Sea, one of Viking’s sleek modern longships, as a perfect example. Its design and atmosphere reflect these exclusions clearly—no rowdy distractions, no kids racing through corridors, no casino lights flashing in the evenings.

Instead, the Viking Sea offers elegant spaces, comfy lounges, and thoughtful programming designed to deepen your experience of the history, art, and cultures of the ports you visit.

This quieter, more refined vibe may feel different if you’re used to louder, more entertainment-heavy cruises, but it’s exactly why so many travelers choose Viking. They want more than just fun—they want connection, peace, and meaningful experiences.

Why These Viking Cruises Exclusions Matter for Your Experience

Excluding casinos, children under 18, flashy cocktails, and pushy photography sales isn’t about limiting fun—it’s about shaping a unique kind of journey.

For travelers who crave deep cultural learning without distractions, these choices make all the difference. Instead of a floating amusement park, the ship becomes an extension of your explorations—a peaceful place to rest, reflect, and absorb new experiences.

If your dream cruise involves vibrant casinos, kids’ splash zones, or a bar full of colorful cocktails, Viking might not be your perfect fit. But for many, knowing exactly what Viking Cruises excludes helps set clear expectations—and opens the door to a truly enriching, adult-focused voyage.

More Than a Cruise: A Cultural Journey at Sea

At its heart, Viking Cruises is about sophistication and cultural immersion. From expert lectures onboard to carefully planned shore excursions, the experience is designed so you spend more time soaking in amazing landscapes and stories—and less time distracted by typical cruise hustle.

Not having aggressive on-site photo sales means you can capture your memories on your own terms—authentically and without pressure.

Discover a Quiet Kind of Luxury—With a Touch of Viking Spirit

If this style of cruising sounds like your kind of journey, why not bring a small symbol of your adventure home? A subtle nod to your time at sea and the Viking spirit is the Viking Longship Enamel Pin – Sail & Shield Design. It’s a meaningful keepsake from a trip focused on calm, culture, and thoughtful travel.

This elegant enamel pin symbolizes the heritage and spirit of Viking exploration and serves as a perfect reminder of your serene and cultured voyage with Viking Cruises.

Traveling with Viking Cruises means embracing what’s intentionally left out just as much as what’s included. Whether it’s the peaceful absence of children onboard or the quiet charm of no casino floors, these exclusions create space for grown-up discovery and true enrichment.

Planning your next voyage with Viking? Understanding these Viking Cruises exclusions helps you set sail with the right mindset—and the promise of a truly refined journey.