Paris, France
Paris, France
Prague to Paris or v.v.
Book a Viking River Cruise and you can enjoy either
- FREE FLIGHTS up to AU$5000 per couple, or
- Business Class Air Credit up to AU$5000 per couple, or
- SAVE AU$5000 per couple off your cruise.
Available on 2026, 2027 or 2028 Sailings. T&C apply.
Sail Europe’s most iconic rivers on this captivating 11-night journey, cruising the village-lined Main, the castle-studded Rhine and the vineyard-clad Moselle. Enjoy exclusive access to Prague’s Lobkowicz Palace, explore Nuremberg’s historic landmarks, and savour celebrated Moselle Rieslings and regional cuisine. With hotel stays in Paris and Prague, this voyage showcases Europe’s most enchanting landscapes and cultural treasures.
Viking Cruises are destination-focused with longer port calls and create experiences for curious travelers. Voyage on the most elegant vessels that offer serene Scandinavian spaces and have all the amenities of a boutique hotel.
Arrive and check in to your hotel. Prague is known as the “City of a Hundred Spires” and it is easy to see why. The towering twin steeples of Týn Church and the beautiful baroque Church of St. Nicholas are among some of the city’s most notable. Best explored on foot, Prague’s Old Town is a maze of ancient cobblestone lanes with the Old Town Square at its core. Here, the medieval Astronomical Clock still chimes today and provides for its viewers a little theater with the “Walk of the Apostles” on the hour, every hour.
Few cities embody the past as authentically as Prague, the Czech Republic’s atmospheric capital on the Vltava River that clings to its history with unwavering passion. Prague’s medieval architecture is its most prominent, but the city is also a rich repository of Romanesque, baroque and art nouveau buildings that stir the imagination. The city’s graceful, pedestrian-only Charles Bridge served as the coronation route of the kings of Bohemia across the river to Hradčany Castle and its rich complex of royal buildings.
Nuremberg, Germany
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and begin your journey to your embarkation city. The second-largest city in Bavaria, Nuremberg is filled with traditional half-timbered houses and Gothic churches with intricate spires. Although nearly destroyed during World War II, the remaining medieval city walls stretch some three miles and feature original gateways and 80 original watchtowers. Nuremberg is well known historically for its metal and toy craftsmanship. But it is infamous for its role in World War II, first as the site of Zeppelin Field’s Nazi rallies and later as the site of the war crimes trials at the Palace of Justice that captured the attention of a generation.
Bamberg, Germany
Founded in 902, Bamberg remains a medieval-looking city known for its symphony orchestra and rauchbier, specialty smoked beer. The city’s winding streets are filled with baroque patrician houses and are home to the stunning 11th-century Cathedral of Holy Roman Emperor Heinrich II, housing his tomb and that of Pope Clement II. Bamberg is especially noted for its Altes Rathaus, or Old Town Hall, situated on a twin-arched bridge over the Regnitz River, and for the old bishop’s houses: the 16th-century Alte Hofhaltung (Old Court) and 17th-century Neue Residenz (New Residence). Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom.
Bamberg, Germany
Bamberg is famed for its beer, particularly its distinctive rauchbier. To create the rauchbier’s unique flavor profile, the earliest breweries dried malted barley over fires fed by German beechwood. With the advent of kiln-drying, smoky brews became less common and all but disappeared for a short period. Two breweries, however, clung to the rauchbier tradition: Schlenkerla and Spezial. For almost two centuries, they have been producing several varieties of the brew by drying malt over beechwood fires, honoring a method that was almost lost. Today, rauchbier fills steins throughout the city.
Scenic Sailing: Main River, Spessart
Journey along one of Germany’s most important waterways today, passing landscapes that embody the country’s scenic beauty and storybook charm. You will sail by quaint riverside villages, undulating farm country and the sylvan forests of the Spessart woodlands. Along the way, you just may lose yourself in the dreamy canvases of half-timbered houses, historic castles and splendid palaces. This is the Germany once ruled by dukes and brought to magical life by the imagination of the Brothers Grimm, who grew up in the town of Hanau and wove fantastic tales from these banks.
Surrounded by Franconian vineyards, Würzburg was heavily damaged during World War II, but has since been completely restored. This prestigious university city is a jewel of baroque architecture. Its most pristine example of pomp and glory is the great Bishops’ Residenz palace, built in 1744 for the prince-bishop; his unwavering support of artists is evidenced by the sweeping staircase and magnificent ceiling frescoes by Tiepolo. Other landmarks include the medieval, statue-lined Old Main Bridge and Marienberg Fortress, originally a Celtic hill fort and later residence of the bishops. The city remains a major wine-making center, hosting Germany’s oldest and largest vineyard.
Germany’s oldest university town, Heidelberg is situated in the Neckar Valley just east of the Rhine. Known as the cradle of the German Romantic movement, it also boasts beautiful baroque architecture. Heidelberg is most famous as the site of the imposing Heidelberg Castle. A magnificent red sandstone ruin perched 330 feet above the river, it was home to the Palatinate princes until it was partially destroyed by fire in the 17th century. It has been said that Heidelberg’s cityscape is so beautiful and so admired that American forces deliberately chose to avoid bombing it during World War II.
Mainz is part of the Rheinhessen wine region, Germany’s largest wine region that is renowned for producing high-quality white wines, such as Riesling. Wine has long played a key role in the city’s economy and culture, with numerous wine festivals and events throughout the year, including the Mainzer Weinmarkt and the Mainzer Weinwoche. The city is also home to the renowned Geisenheim University, which offers programs in viticulture and oenology. Mainz's wine culture and history continue to thrive today, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation in winemaking.
Rüdesheim, Germany
Located in the heart of Germany’s Rheingau region, Rüdesheim is the area’s center of winemaking. The famed Drosselgasse, a cobblestone street lined with taverns that pour local vintages and spill music into alleyways, attracts locals and visitors alike. Half-timbered houses, narrow warrens and old inns lend the town a medieval flavor. Castles once provided security for the region, including the 9th-century Brömserburg Castle, the oldest on the Rhine. The Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet museum also houses an impressive collection of self-playing instruments.
Scenic Sailing: Middle Rhine
The Rhine River flows through one of Germany’s most scenic regions. As you sail its most picturesque stretch, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Middle Rhine, you will pass vineyard-blanketed hills whose steep slopes require vintners to pick grapes by hand, keeping a centuries-old tradition alive. Splendid castles line the banks, all of which have stories to share, and the Lorelei Rock presides at a dramatic curve in the river. This infamous river maiden mesmerized sailors with her song and lured them to their demise at her feet.
Cochem, Germany
Perched on a hilltop above the city and the Moselle, a 1,000-year-old imperial castle is the signature landmark of Cochem. Its mighty rectangular keep and many small towers strike a dramatic pose against a curtain of green hills. In Cochem’s lively Old Quarter, the market square boasts old timber-framed houses that overlook Martin’s Fountain and the bay-windowed baroque Town Hall. In this historic center, the 15th-century St. Martin’s Church and the Capuchin monastery, which now serves as an artistic and cultural center, are all beautifully preserved. Wine taverns along the river offer a “green wine,” a very young wine.
Bernkastel, Germany
Nestled between soft rolling hills and the gently flowing Moselle River, Bernkastel, the “Pearl of the Moselle,” boasts medieval squares laden with charming half-timbered houses and inviting lanes and alleys. For much of their history, Bernkastel and its sister town of Kues across the river stood worlds apart. A bridge united them in 1874, paving the way for actual unification in 1905. Today, Bernkastel plays the charming host with history to share, while Kues pours the wine, more attentive to the sweet grapes of its fertile valley. Indeed, the twin towns produce some of Germany’s finest vintages.
Trier, Germany
One of Germany’s most treasured cities for its rich history, Trier was once the regional capital of the Holy Roman Empire. After Emperor Constantine the Great had a vision of Christ, he and his mother Helena built great churches and cathedrals here. A few still stand, the magnificent Romanesque Cathedral of Trier among them. The 20,000-seat amphitheater, the Roman Bridge and the massive Porta Nigra, the ancient city gate, are further relics of that time. Today, Trier is a picturesque town surrounded by forests and vineyards, known also as the birthplace of Karl Marx and as a vibrant university town.
Reims, France
After breakfast, disembark your ship and transfer to your destination. Reims lies in the heart of France’s renowned Champagne region. A testament to its rich history, which can be traced back to Gallo-Roman times, is its diverse collection of landmarks. Among its most iconic are the Abbey of Saint-Rémi, the final resting place of the archbishop who baptized Frankish king Clovis and initiated Reims’s long line of coronations; the Palace of Tau, an archiepiscopal residence constructed in the Middle Ages; and Reims Cathedral, where 25 kings of France were coronated. These three monuments were collectively inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. Transfer to your hotel and settle into your room.
Paris, France
Arrive and check in to your hotel. Long a hub of French culture and cuisine, Paris is one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Over the centuries, Parisian culture has been built on the wings of inspiration. Music, film, architecture, literature, dance and the visual arts all have their brilliant place in the museums, theaters, bookstores and remarkably preserved buildings of this magnificent city. At the center of it all is the Champs-Élysées. With its inviting riverside promenade, graceful bridges and splendid views of all things Parisian, from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum.
One of the most pleasurable activities in Paris is whiling away the time in one of the city’s outdoor cafés. Whether you are sipping a café au lait or a kir royal, there is no better way to feel like a Parisian. The hub of social and culinary life, cafés have been part of the city’s fabric since the 1600s. During the 20th century, literary and artistic figures—such as Ernest Hemingway, Colette and Pablo Picasso—famously met over drinks to share their works and ideas. Today, thousands of cafés line the pavements and squares to connect with France’s culture and history.
Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.
from Auckland
Standard staterooms feature a half-height picture window. They include two hotel-style beds that can convert to a queen-size bed, and a large private bathroom shower. All staterooms include a 40-inch flat-panel television with entertainment package, telephone, refrigerator, personal safe, hair dryer, bottled water replenished daily, bathrobes and slippers, individual climate control, and roomy wardrobe
Prague
from $A6995 per person share twin
French Balcony staterooms feature a River-view stateroom with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling s
Prague
from $A8195 per person share twin
Stateroom size: 205 sq ft (includes private veranda), River-view stateroom with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to full-size veranda, Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows, Private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer, and Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping.
Prague
from $A8595 per person share twin
Please note: Stateroom images and features are samples only. Actual furniture, fixtures, colors, configurations and window/porthole views may vary.
All cruise packages are based on Twin share, inside cabin and costs are per person. Availability is current as at 18 Feb 26 and deals are available until date shown or until sold out. Space is strictly limited and is subject to availability at time of booking. On board credit where shown is per cabin & must be spent on board and is not refundable in cash. All passengers are bound by the individual cruise lines terms & conditions, please ask your consultant for a full copy. Current Deals must be paid in full at time of booking or deposit dates as shown. All passengers must have a valid passport with more than 6 months validity at the end of their holiday. Travel insurance should be taken out at time of booking to cover in the event of any unforeseen cancellation. Included airfares are based on special non refundable economy fares, ground transfers are not included unless specified, any hotels included are on a room only basis unless specified. Hotels in certain destinations in Europe, USA and Asia may require local tourist taxes or resort fees payable at check in, We aim to give an indication of these where possible, but unfortunately you cannot pre pay this aspect of the hotel rate and must settle at check in. ESTA Visas are required for Itineraries visiting USA ,Canada, India, China, Vietnam, Schengen states & Sri Lanka. Visa costs are not included. Passports must be valid at least 6 months after the end of your holiday, If travelling on a non NZ passport other visas + NZ re-entry permits may also be required, please check with applicable embassy. Passport validity, Visas, Vaccinations and health requirements are the responsibility of the passengers. Individual cruise line T&C will apply based on the cruise line booked.
RIVER OFFERS TERMS & CONDITIONS
TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLICABLE FOR BOOKINGS MADE BETWEEN 02 DECEMBER 2025 – 31 MARCH 2026 AT 6pm (AEDT) ON ALL RIVER SAILINGS (2025-2028)
Prices are per person, in Australian dollars and for Australian and New Zealand residents only. They are based on double occupancy and correct at time of printing. Prices include all advertised discounts, and all offers are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time. All offers are only valid for new bookings and only on selected departures made between 02 December 2025 – 31 March 2026 at 6pm (AEDT) unless sold out prior.
A partially refundable deposit of AU$1,000 per person (in the form of a future cruise voucher less an AU$100 cancellation fee) is required to secure a confirmed reservation within 3 days of booking otherwise reservation may automatically cancel.
Once deposit payment has been made, standard cancellation penalties apply. When booking airfares through Viking (including when taking advantage of a special offer that includes air travel), standard airline cancellation fees also apply.
Displayed prices indicate the lowest available pricing across all available sailings from 2025 to 2028 and may have different offers applicable from those advertised for the promoted sailing years. Pricing for each itinerary can vary at short notice as availability changes and sailings close for the current season.
Complete terms and conditions may be found in the Passenger Ticket Contract.
Flexible Deposit Policy (01 April 2024 – 31 March 2026 at 6PM AEDT) Terms & Conditions.
Our flexible deposit policy applies to new reservations only made between 01 April 2024 – 31 March at 6pm AEDT and is combinable with all other Viking offers available.
Under our flexible deposit policy, qualified guests can cancel their booking before final payment due date and receive deposit back in the form of a future cruise voucher less a AU$100 per person cancellation fee.
Guests will have 24 months to select their new date and use their Future Cruise Voucher to make a new reservation on any river, ocean, or expedition cruise.
When booking airfares through Viking (including when taking advantage of a special offer that includes air travel), standard airline cancellation fees will also apply. In some cases, airfares will be non-refundable. In the event of cancellation, these fees will be deducted from the deposit paid, and therefore the future cruise voucher issued.
The future cruise voucher can be used on any new Viking cruise and will be applied at booking and must be redeemed by the expiration date prior to final payment.
The future cruise voucher has no cash value and will be applied as a ’Booking Discount’.
Once the voucher is redeemed, it cannot be re‐issued or used towards another cruise, and any unused balance of the voucher is lost and has no cash value.
Valid future cruise voucher is non-transferable.
APPLICABLE FOR BOOKINGS MADE BETWEEN 02 DECEMBER 2025 – 31 MARCH 2026 AT 6pm (AEDT) ON 2026, 2027 & 2028 SAILINGS ONLY.
Fly Free Economy Flights up to the value of AU$2,500pp when booking flights with Viking.
Fly Free is economy flight(s) for both guests up to the value of AU$2,500 per person (pp) to/from Australia/New Zealand.
If the flight cost exceeds AU$2,500pp the difference must be covered by the guest, to be paid at the time of flight booking.
If flights are cheaper than AU$2,500pp the unused portion of the air funds will be waived and cannot be transferred towards any other portion of the booking or any other person.
A guest can request the AU$2,500pp to be used towards a flight upgrade from economy to a higher cabin class (booked through Viking) with AU$2,500pp off the higher cabin airfare. The difference in flight cost must be covered by the guest and be paid at the time of flight booking.
Applicable if flights are booked through Viking and must be booked in conjunction with a selected 2026/2027/2028 Viking River cruise.
Flights are Viking’s choice of airline for selected major gateways in AU/NZ: ADL/AKL/BNE/CBR/CHC/CNS/DRW/HBA/LST/MEL/OOL/PER/SYD/WLG.
Guest must return their air form to Viking within 14 business days of receiving request for flights, otherwise Viking reserve the right to remove the free air promo and apply the respective in lieu of flights discount.
Guest may not request to change to flights included promotion post campaign end date of 31 March 2026.
Viking will reach out to you or your travel advisor once flights are in the date range, at this point you may nominate your preferred departure/arrival dates.
Both guests must be on the same airline booking (PNR) and fly together in both directions, in the same cabin class.
Guests within the same booking must select the same offer.
Solo guests for River cruises can use up to AU$5,000 per booking towards their flights. Any unused portion of the air funds will be waived and cannot be transferred towards any other portion of the booking or any other person or booking.
Valid on bookings made between 02 December 2025 – 31 March 2026 at 6pm (AEDT).
Please use code FFE25 to activate the Fly Free offer when booking online or via the Contact Centre.
Guests can only redeem one offer per booking either Fly Free OR Business Class Air Credit OR Save and book Cruise Only.
If no code is selected when booking via online, the Fly Free offer will be applied.
Business Class Air Credit up to the value of AU$2,500pp when booking flights with Viking.
Guests receive a AU$2,500pp Business Class Air Credit towards their business class airfare with the difference to be covered by the guest and to be paid at the time of flight booking.
Any unused portion of the Business Class Air Credit will be waived and cannot be transferred towards any other portion of the booking or any other person.
Applicable if flights are booked through Viking and must be booked in conjunction with a selected 2026/2027/2028 Viking River cruise.
Flights are Viking’s choice of airline for selected major gateways in AU/NZ: ADL/AKL/BNE/CBR/CHC/CNS/DRW/HBA/LST/MEL/OOL/PER/SYD/WLG.
Guest must return their air form to Viking within 14 business days of receiving request for flights, otherwise Viking reserve the right to remove the free air promo and apply the respective in lieu of flights discount.
Guest may not request to change to Business Class Air Credit promotion post campaign end date of 31 March 2026.
Viking will reach out to you or your travel advisor once flights are in the date range, at this point you may nominate your preferred departure/arrival dates.
Both guests must be on the same airline booking (PNR) and fly together in both directions, in the same cabin class.
Guests within the same booking must select the same offer.
Solo guests for River cruises can use up to AU$5,000 per booking towards their Business Class flights. Any unused portion of the air funds will be waived and cannot be transferred towards any other portion of the booking or any other person or booking.
Valid on bookings made between 02 December 2025 – 31 March 2026 at 6pm (AEDT).
Please use code FFB25 to activate the Business Class Air Credit offer when booking online or via the Contact Centre.
Guests can only redeem one offer per booking either Fly Free OR Business Class Air Credit OR Save and book Cruise Only
If no code is selected when booking via online, the Fly Free offer will be applied.
Save AU$2,500pp and book flights independently.
Guests are eligible to get a discount of AU$2,500 per person (pp) off the cruise fare at the time of booking in lieu of the Free Economy Class flights.
Solo guests for River cruises are eligible to get a discount of AU$5,000 per booking off the cruise fare in lieu of the free flights.
Guests within the same booking must select the same offer.
Guests book their own flights independently of Viking.
Valid on bookings made between 02 December 2025 – 31 March 2026 at 6pm (AEDT).
Guest may not request to change to flights included promotion post campaign end date of 31 March 2026.
Please use code CRU25 to activate the In Lieu of Flights offer when booking online or via the Contact Centre.
Guests can only redeem one offer per booking either Fly Free OR Business Class Air Credit OR Save and book Cruise Only.
If no code is selected when booking via online, the Fly Free offer will be applied
APPLICABLE FOR NEW BOOKINGS MADE BETWEEN 02 – 31 DECEMBER 2025 ON 2025 RIVER SAILINGS.
CRUISE ONLY OFFER – Save up to 30% on selected 2025 Viking River voyages.
Applies to any new booking made between 02 - 31 December 2025 on a 2025 Viking River voyage.
Let us help you find the perfect holiday or deal. Here’s how to get in touch...
How do I choose which type of cruise is right for me
There are three main types of cruising
Ocean Cruises
There is a wide range of itineraries, cruise lines and cruise ships to choose from for those seeking an ocean experience, or an exciting adventure across many countries. Ocean cruising is an amazing holiday where everything you could possibly need is within easy reach.
River Cruises
A leisurely cruise along the world’s waterways is a relaxing, and luxurious, way to travel. Whether you’re navigating across Europe or cruising Southeast Asia’s Mekong River, each new day on a river cruise brings a new experience.
Luxury Cruises
Luxury beyond belief. Soak up Michelin-star fine dining restaurants, butler service, and luxurious suites. Luxury cruising appeals to those travellers demanding an unparalleled, all-inclusive travel experience away from the hustle and bustle of the large crowds
What types of cruises are there?
There are cruises tailored to every type of traveller ie; adults only, couples, families, retirees, singles, large groups etc. Depending on the cruise line will depend on the type of cruise available and what is best suited to the experience you want.
Most offer a full range of activities and facilities to participate in as a family. Kids clubs are also offered in some ships and are focused on keeping children entertained. Be prepared, some are more “kid-friendly” than others -always check with your HOT travel consultant
Many cruise lines have adults only areas, and some are even fully adults only cruise ships. The larger the ship, the more space you will have. If you are looking for something a little smaller and more intimate, your cruising specialist will help you find that.
Can I go on a cruise if I’m travelling alone?
Yes - taking a cruise is a great way to relax and see the world at your own pace. A cruise is a fun and safe environment to meet other people, or just soak up the experience solo. Ask your cruise consultant about what’s best for solo travel and find out about the special add on rates for single occupancy of double staterooms.
Should I check in before I go
YES - we highly recommend checking in online ahead of time. While the process differs between cruise lines, you will usually need to create an account and enter your personal and booking details. It’s a must to do this in advance as you will be provided with a lot of important information to ensure you are fully prepared. This takes the stress out of the boarding process.
You may be offered a choice of a few different boarding times, although some cruise lines do pre-allocate this for you. Your check in process will also outline when your bags are likely to be available once you are on board. This is important as it may not be immediately so you might want to reconsider what you take as carry-on so you have some essentials on hand
What happens when I embark
Like all travel, ensure you arrive at your embarkation port on time (preferably a little earlier) for your allocated boarding time. Make sure you have your boarding passes printed, your luggage tags securely attached to your bags and your passport on hand ready to go.
Look out for your designated terminal, drop off your bags, then make your way through the security process. This is very similar to an airport, with metal detectors and x-rays for smaller carry-on bags.
Once through security, you will approach the check-in counter, where you will have your photo taken and receive your onboard card, which will serve as your cabin key, onboard payment method and onboard ID. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin during embarkation.
Is cruising expensive?
Like all travel, the cost is dependent on a lot of factors – things like the length of cruise, destination(s), the type of cruise line or room type. But because there is so much variety, there will be a cruise to suit everyone's budget. It can work out to be great value for money compared to a regular fly/stay holiday.
Will I get seasickness?
Most modern cruise ships have stabilizers in place to ensure passenger comfort. Plus, cruise ships will alter their routes in advance to avoid any adverse weather patterns and storms etc.
But if you are prone to motion sickness, you could find yourself getting seasick on your cruise holiday. You could try natural remedies or over-the-counter prescribed medicines to counter motion sickness.
Do I need a passport or visa to cruise
You will require a passport to cruise internationally. Some close to home domestic sailings will only require a valid driver’s license. It is always recommended to have a valid passport whilst cruising and is your responsibility to ensure you have the applicable photo identification. Some countries do require you to obtain a visa in advance if you wish to disembark the ship in port. You will need to check the visa requirements for the countries visited on your cruise itinerary. Countries such as China, Russia, India, Canada and the USA require all New Zealand passport holders to obtain a visa. Always check with your HOT travel consultant and they will direct you to the right information.
Will I save money if I book at the last minute or early?
We recommend that if you are looking for a great deal book your cruise early. Some cruise lines offer great incentives for the early booking travellers. Thery could be things like complimentary room category upgrades, bonuses and discounted prices. Some even do airline flight credits! But these deals are normally for a limited time and will not last. Join our HOT cruise newsletter / email database, and we will let you know when there are offers or special deals available.
Cruise pricing, like most things, reflects supply and demand. The more demand there is for a particular cruise the higher the price will be. Demand could be determined by factors such as the destination, seasons & duration of the cruise holiday.
Like anything, waiting till the last minute does involve risk. If you wait, your cruise may have sold out. Then there is also the possibility of getting the cruise but in a room category that you don’t want. Our expert advice is - book early!
Is there a dress code on board
It will depend on what cruise line you are sailing with. As a rule, casual dress is accepted during the day, with smart casual or formal attire being required at night. Most cruise lines do not accept caps, jandals, bare feet, swimwear or sleepwear in formal dining venues.
Some cruise lines enforce a stricter dress code, with men required to wear jackets and women cocktail attire at dinner. If you do not comply with your cruise line’s dress code, you may be asked to leave a particular venue. Make sure you check with your HOT travel consultant - you don’t want to get caught out
Do cruise ships cater for passengers with accessibility requirement?
Yes, most cruise lines have accessibility assistance in place for passengers with disabilities. Cruise ships typically offer a range of wheelchair-accessible cabins, however, the number of these may be limited. You must advise at time of booking – make sure you speak to your HOT travel consultant and outline any requirements for you or your travelling companions
Some ocean ships can be large, which at times can be difficult for passengers with mobility problems to navigate. To make things easier, on some cruise ships you can rent a scooter or wheelchair for the duration of your cruise. Always check in advance with your HOT travel consultant
Can I smoke onboard a cruise ship?
All cabins and public areas onboard cruise ships are strictly non-smoking / vaping. You can, smoke/ vape in the ship’s designated smoking zones only
If in doubt, ask the staff onboard your ship.
Are my valuables safe on board?
If you bring valuables with you, they are best to be kept in your in-room safe. We also recommend you keep your passport, and any important documents locked in the your safe also.
Are gratuities or tips included?
This depends on the cruise. Your cruise consultant will outline this as part of the booking process. Some holidays include gratuities in the total price, whilst others might require you to pay once you are onboard.
How much luggage can I bring on the cruise?
Cruise lines are not generally concerned about how much luggage you bring onboard, so there are largely no luggage restrictions on cruise ships. But be aware, some staterooms have limited closet space! But remember, if you are travelling by air etc to your departure port, all airlines have weight and ‘number of bag’ restrictions.
Don’t get caught out – make sure you check the details carefully and be aware of any restrictions. Airlines do charge for oversize or excess baggage. Be prepared, check the restrictions with your travel consultant or the airline carrier directly before you book your flights.
Should I book shore excursions or do my own sightseeing?
Talk to your HOT travel consultant, it depends on what you want to do. You have options – you can do the shore activities arranged directly by the ship, as the quality and service offered is guaranteed. A bonus, if the tour is delayed the ship will wait for you before it sets sail again.
You can, however, book shore excursions, whilst on board, or in advance if you want a more structured adventure. Doing your own local sightseeing can be exciting, however you’ll have to pay close attention to time as the ship will not wait for you if you are running late.
What currency is used onboard?
This varies depending on cruise line and destination. You can almost guarantee that the currency on most cruise lines will not be in NZD. Ships based in Australia will usually have AUD onboard. Ships that cruise in a variety of destinations will have a currency to reflect their company's ownership, which could be currencies such as USD or Euro. Make sure you ask your HOT travel consultant in advance, so you are prepared.
What if I require a special diet?
If you have special dietary requirements, you should advise your HOT travel consultant at time of booking. If you do have special requirements, make sure you arrange your meals in advance. However, if you do forget, you can arrange it onboard.
What room type should I book?
A lot of first-time cruisers choose an inside room (internal without a window) mainly due to the cost. However, it is normally only a small difference per day to upgrade to an oceanview room (with a view).
Or investigate an upgrade to a balcony/veranda room which offers floor to ceiling windows that open to allow the fresh ocean air in. Check with your HOT travel consultant
Can I take visitors on board?
Think of a cruise ship like an airplane. No you can’t. Due to immigration and security reasons only registered guests are permitted onboard at all times.
Is there babysitting on board?
Babysitting is available at extra cost on some ships. Many cruise lines will offer popular kids club facilities onboard, and some cater better than others. But if you are on a cruise that is targeted at families will be spoilt for choice for ways to entertain the whole family
Is there WiFI and mobile reception?
Yes you can. Most ships offer Wi-Fi throughout the ship, whilst some only offer in designated areas. Most cruise ships have internet cafes on board. Charges do apply for the use of broadband & because it is based on satellite
Phone Reception is generally only available in ports. Some cruise lines have agreements with land-based phone service companies. If you chose to use this service, you will be paying international roaming rates for these calls. Find out before you go – your HOT travel consultant can help
How do I pay for on board expenses?
Just like many hotels, an onboard account will be set up for you prior to departure. This means all your onboard purchases can be charged to this account. Payment will be made at the end of the cruise.
Are there laundry services on board?
Laundry and cleaning services are always available. It’s either self-service laundry facilities or a professional laundry service. You will find washing machines, dryers, ironing boards, irons and detergent on board. Self-service washing machines & dryers generally tend to be coin operated.
Can I bring alcohol onboard the ship?
You are not allowed to bring alcohol onboard the ships. Duty free and personal alcohol purchased onshore will be collected upon your check in and can be collected on the last day of your cruise. Any Duty- and Tax-Free alcohol purchased on the ship will be held for safekeeping and can be collected on the last day of the cruise.
Not to worry - cruise lines largely offer drink packages so you can purchase drinks onboard. If not, your drinks can be charged to your cruise card.
Can I place a deposit for a cruise booking?
At time of booking you can choose to pay for the cruise in full or pay the minimum per person deposit amount.
When do I need to pay for my cruise in full?
If you have chosen to pay a deposit only, your full payment deadline will be determined by the cruise you book, so please check your Invoice for the final payment due date.
What is included in the price of a cruise?
Cruise holidays are one of the most value for money holidays you could go on. Your transportation, accommodation and main meals are included whilst onboard. Selected activities and entertainment are also included in the price.
There are some additional activities that you may have to pay separately for, like special restaurants & shows. Ask your HOT travel consultant for a full list of inclusions and added extras you can pay for separately
Do I need travel insurance?
YES – we absolutely recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance at the time you book your cruise. Your HOT travel consultant can organise a quick and simple quote for you.
Can I book my complete holiday including a cruise?
Your local HOT travel consultant will be able to curate you the perfect holiday making sure that it all works like clockwork. We can organise your flights, transfers, an amazing cruise, then accommodation and add in extras like a tour, car hire or sightseeing etc. This is where using a HOT travel consultant is critical – it’s complex and our consultants are expert and making it the best holiday ever.
How can I cancel or make changes my cruise booking?
We know ‘life’ happens. To cancel your booking, get in contact with your HOT travel consultant as soon as you can. Please note that cancellation fees will apply. Similarly, if you need to make any changes or amendments, we can help, but again, be prepared, change / amendment fees will apply. Some of your booking may be non-refundable.
When is my final payment due?
Your final payment will be due approximately four to five months before departure. You can find all payment amounts and due dates on your Booking Advice.
When will I receive my travel documents?
Approximately one to two weeks before your departure date. These documents will be sent directly to your email. If in doubt, ask your HOT travel consultant. You would have already received your online passenger information to complete well in advance.
Can I hold a cruise booking?
Pricing for cruises is dynamic and is subject to change. Talk to one of our HOT travel consultants and they can talk you through how it can / does work.
How do I book a cruise for more than 4 people, or book multiple staterooms?
Contact a HOT consultant if you are travelling with more than 4 people, you may need two or more rooms – there are also limitations around the age of children being in rooms by themselves etc –ie; children may not be booked in a room on their own. Children must be accompanied by an adult (over the age of 21) in a room.
What if I am cruising with children?
There are various restrictions imposed by cruise liners around ages of children travelling. If you are travelling with a child under the age of 12 months, make sure you let your HOT travel consultant know. There are also some restrictions around travelling if you are pregnant and will depend on what stage you are at, again, contact your travel consultant to find out more as these can vary by cruise liner
Sign up below and be the first to hear about our hottest holiday deals, flight steals, cruise deals and essential travel hints and tips from our team of travel specialists.
By signing up, you have read or have an opportunity to read the Privacy Policy, and you agree to the provisions of the Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up, we’ll be in touch soon!
Hold on a sec, adventurer! We didn't quite catch your email. Sign up again to unlock your travel dreams!
