The Viking Tour company handles everything for the travelers. They provide air service and pay for coach class. When you land, there is a representative to pick you up and take you to a hotel or the boat. They look after your luggage and the check-in process. They will explain all activities and schedules. You are free to take advantage of this or go off on your own, as long as you get back to the boat on time (they won't wait). Land tours use very comfortable buses with good legroom, large windows and storage for luggage and bags. There is plenty of cold bottled water and even an airplane style bathroom.

A local tour guide will lead you through all the interesting sights of the off-boat excursions. Everyone is given an audio receiver to hear live narrative from the guide. They know a tremendous amount of detail and history about the places you visit. They give very entertaining descriptions of local history and culture. The head tour director for the Alsvin, Marianne, our Viking spokesperson for the entire trip, was exceptional. She presented all activities, answered questions, entertained the travelers and was a nurturing parent to all. We miss her already.

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