Captain Ron’s travel journal
Practical ideas to bring to your next planning conversation.
Viking news • Updated October 1, 2026
September 29, 2026
Viking announced delivery of Viking Sekhmet, an 82-guest ship built for the Nile. Its planned journeys include Pharaohs & Pyramids and Total Eclipse on the Nile.
Curious about Egypt? Let’s compare the journey, pace, and timing with your travel priorities.
Source: Viking news release, September 29, 2026. Image illustrates Viking’s Egypt fleet.
August 6, 2026
Viking announced bookings for its 2028–2029 ocean voyages, including Mediterranean, Northern European, Alaskan, and Asian routes.
Planning ahead gives us time to discuss the destination, travel season, and whole-trip budget. Availability must be confirmed for each departure.
Source: Viking news release, August 6, 2026. Earlier promotional terms are not current offers.Choose your experience
Begin with your days, not the ship. Do you picture historic cities and local exploration, destination visits with more time to unwind, or nature and adventurous discovery?
Then consider pace, time ashore, and the amenities you expect on board. The Journey Fit Guide helps you put those priorities into words.
Explore the Journey Fit GuideThe complete vacation
A vacation budget works best when it includes flights, excursions, pre- and post-trip extensions, travel protection, and incidentals.
I help you compare those choices with your priorities. Sometimes an extra night before sailing adds more value than a stateroom upgrade; sometimes your priorities point the other way.
Discuss your whole-trip budgetPlanning ahead
Starting early can give you more options for sailing dates, staterooms, and coordinated travel. Ask about the deposit, payment schedule, and change and cancellation terms for the specific booking.
Do not assume the terms or promotions from one sailing apply to another. I will review the relevant details with you before you commit.
Traveling together
Agree on your anticipated itinerary, sailing date, and deposit target. Then give every interested traveler the same accurate information and a clear contact for booking questions.
When the group grows, ask new travelers to contact Ron before reserving so their arrangements can be considered alongside the group.
Use the Group Organizer KitBefore you depart
Review names on reservations, passport validity, entry requirements, and the deadlines for excursions and other arrangements. Keep your travel documents and important contacts accessible.
For river or expedition itineraries, understand that water levels, weather, and operating conditions can affect plans. We can discuss the relevant supplier updates for your journey.
Review travel preparation topicsYour journey. My personal attention.
Usually-free planning. A familiar person to call.