Dreaming of sailing in Viking’s luxurious Veranda stateroom or sprawling Explorer Suite? While Viking Cruises is known for its all-inclusive, upscale experience, room upgrades can make your journey even more special. Here’s everything you need to know about securing a better cabin – whether you’re hoping for a complimentary bump or willing to pay for premium accommodations.

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Understanding Viking Cruise Room Categories
Viking Cruise offers a refreshingly straightforward set of room categories, especially compared to other cruise lines that often have dozens of subtypes. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you understand the Viking Cruise room categories across their ocean and river ships:
Category | Size (sq ft) | Balcony | Ship Type |
---|---|---|---|
Explorer Suite (ES) | 757-1,163 | Yes (Large) | Ocean Ships Only |
Penthouse Junior Suite (PS) | 405 | Yes | Ocean Ships Only |
Penthouse Veranda (PV) | 338 | Yes | Ocean & Expedition |
Deluxe Veranda (DV) | 270 | Yes | Ocean & Expedition |
Veranda (V) | 270 | Yes | Ocean & Expedition |
French Balcony (RF) | 205 | Juliet | River Ships Only |
Standard (AA) | 205 | No | All Ships |
What Is the Best Room You Can Get on a Viking Cruise Ship?
Viking’s ocean ships offer only balcony staterooms and suites—no inside cabins. The most luxurious option is the Owner’s Suite, which spans nearly 1,500 square feet and includes a private veranda, boardroom, wine cellar, and personal sauna. Other top-tier rooms include:

Room Type | Size (approx.) |
---|---|
Owner’s Suite | 1,448 sq ft |
Explorer Suite | 757–1,163 sq ft |
Penthouse Junior Suite | 405 sq ft |
Penthouse Veranda | 338 sq ft |
Deluxe Veranda | 270 sq ft |
Veranda Stateroom | 270 sq ft |
How to Get a Free Room Upgrade on Viking Cruise?
While free upgrades aren’t guaranteed, here are proven strategies:
- Book During a Promotion: Look for deals like “Veranda for the price of Deluxe Veranda.”
- Join Viking’s Explorer Society: Loyalty members may receive upgrade offers or priority booking perks.
- Travel During Off-Peak Seasons: Cruises with lower occupancy are more likely to offer complimentary upgrades.
- Special Occasions: Celebrating a honeymoon or milestone birthday? Mention it when booking—some guests have received surprise upgrades.
- Be Flexible: Booking a GTY room or being open to location changes increases your chances.
How Do I Get a Free Balcony Upgrade on Viking Cruise?
Since all ocean staterooms on Viking ships include balconies, the real upgrade is to a larger balcony or suite. Here’s how to improve your odds:
- Monitor Price Drops: If a higher-category room drops in price after booking, contact Viking or your travel agent to request a switch.
- Use a Travel Agent: Agents often have access to exclusive upgrade offers or group rates.
- Ask Onboard: After embarkation, inquire at Guest Services about available upgrades. If rooms are vacant, you may be offered one at no cost or a reduced rate.
Note: Prices fluctuate and may be offered as part of a promotion or onboard bidding system3.
Viking Cruise Room Upgrade Costs
If you want a better cabin, you’ll typically need to pay the current price difference:
Upgrade Path | Approximate Cost | When Available |
---|---|---|
Standard → Deluxe Veranda | $500-$1,500 | At booking or if available later |
Veranda → Penthouse Veranda | $1,000-$3,000 | Typically only at booking |
Veranda → Penthouse Jr Suite | $3,000-$6,000 | Very limited availability |
Veranda → Explorer Suite | $5,000-$15,000+ | Rare, book years ahead |
How to Book an Upgraded Room on Viking Cruise?
Booking an upgraded stateroom on Viking Cruise is a smooth process, whether you’re selecting a premium room from the start or upgrading later. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do it online:

- Go to vikingcruises.com and choose either Ocean or River cruises depending on your preference.
- Browse available voyages and click on the one you’re interested in. You’ll be taken to a page with itinerary details and stateroom options.
- Viking offers a range of upgraded rooms:
- Deluxe Veranda
- Penthouse Veranda
- Penthouse Junior Suite
- Explorer Suite
- Owner’s Suite
- Each category includes a description, amenities, and pricing. Select the upgraded room you want.
- After selecting your stateroom, click the “Book Now” button. You’ll be prompted to enter guest details and payment information.
- After booking, you’ll receive access to the My Viking Journey portal. Here, you can:
- View your booking
- Request upgrades (if available)
- Receive promotional upgrade offers
- Manage excursions and dining reservations
- Viking may send fixed-price upgrade offers via email or through My Viking Journey before departure. These are typically time-sensitive and based on availability.
Can You Change Your Cruise Room After Booking Viking Cruise?
Yes, you can change your room after booking—subject to availability and fare differences. Viking allows changes through:
- My Viking Journey Portal: Manage your booking, request upgrades, or switch rooms before final payment.
- Customer Service: Call Viking directly to inquire about room changes or upgrades.
- Onboard Requests: If you’re already on the ship and unhappy with your room, ask Guest Services if alternatives are available.
Important Note: These are estimates – actual costs vary by itinerary, season, and demand. Viking’s ocean ships only have 6 Explorer Suites, making true upgrades nearly impossible once sailing nears.
Check Here: All Viking Cruise Port
Final Thoughts
Getting a room upgrade on Viking Cruise is absolutely possible—with a little strategy and flexibility. Whether you’re aiming for a free balcony upgrade, a paid suite upgrade, or simply want to know how to change your cruise room after booking, Viking offers multiple paths to enhance your onboard experience.
FAQs on Room Upgrade on Viking Cruise
How to get a room upgrade on Viking Cruise?
You can receive a room upgrade through promotional offers, paid upgrade invitations via email, or by booking a Guaranteed (GTY) stateroom that may be assigned a higher category based on availability.
Is there a way to upgrade room on a Viking Cruise after booking?
Yes, you can request an upgrade through your My Viking Journey portal or by contacting Viking directly before final payment. Upgrades may also be offered closer to departure based on availability.
How to get a free room upgrade on Viking Cruise?
Free upgrades are rare but possible. Booking during a promotion, traveling during off-peak times, or noting special occasions like anniversaries may boost your chances.
Can you change your cruise room after booking Viking Cruise?
Absolutely! You can switch rooms if upgrades are available and you’re willing to pay the difference. Changes can be made via Viking’s portal or customer service.
What is the cost of Viking Cruise room upgrades?
Upgrade prices vary depending on room category and itinerary. Typical costs range from $99 to over $1,000 per person, depending on how far up you go in room class.
Does Viking Cruise use a bidding system for room upgrades?
No, Viking Cruise does not currently use a bidding system. They offer fixed-price upgrades or promotions, rather than auctions for stateroom upgrades.
How do I get a free balcony upgrade on Viking Cruise?
Since all ocean ship staterooms include a balcony, a “balcony upgrade” typically means moving to a larger suite with enhanced views or amenities. Watch for promos or ask onboard if space allows.
What is the best room you can get on a Viking Cruise ship?
The top-tier stateroom is the Owner’s Suite, which includes a private sauna, wine cellar, and nearly 1,500 square feet of luxury space with premium perks.
Are upgrade offers sent by Viking Cruise before sailing?
Yes, Viking occasionally sends upgrade invitations via email or through the My Viking Journey portal. These are typically fixed-price offers.
Can travel agents help with Viking Cruise room upgrades?
Definitely. Travel advisors often have access to exclusive promotions or group rates that can result in complimentary or discounted upgrades.