Viking Cruises Do Not Allow Pets on Board
Viking Ocean Cruises and Viking River Cruises both have a no-pets policy. Dogs, cats, and other animals are not permitted in cabins, on decks, in dining areas, or anywhere else on the ship. This applies to all passengers, including service animals and emotional support animals. The only exception is for certified service dogs that perform specific tasks for passengers with disabilities — and even then, the dog must be documented and approved before boarding.
If you are planning a Viking cruise and have a dog at home, you will need to arrange care for your pet before your trip. This means finding a pet sitter, boarding facility, or trusted friend or family member to watch your dog while you are away.
Key Takeaways
- Viking Cruises prohibits all pets except certified service dogs that perform tasks for passengers with disabilities.
- Emotional support animals and companion animals are not permitted, even with documentation.
- You must arrange alternative care for your dog before your cruise departure date.
- If you have a certified service dog, contact Viking directly at least 30 days before your sailing to register the animal and provide required medical records.
- Other cruise lines have different policies, so if traveling with a dog is important to you, research pet-friendly cruise operators before booking.
What Counts as a Service Dog on Viking Cruises
Viking makes a distinction between a service dog and an emotional support animal. A service dog is trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability — tasks like guiding someone who is blind, alerting someone to a seizure, or retrieving items for someone in a wheelchair. The dog must have formal training documentation and be able to demonstrate its task.
An emotional support animal, by contrast, provides comfort through its presence alone but is not trained to perform a specific task. Emotional support animals are not permitted on Viking cruises, even if they have a letter from a mental health professional. This is a common source of confusion, because some airlines and hotels do recognize emotional support animals, but cruise lines generally do not.
If you have a certified service dog, you will need to notify Viking at least 30 days before your sailing date. Be prepared to provide the dog's vaccination records, health certificate, and documentation of the dog's training and the specific tasks it performs.
How to Arrange Pet Care Before Your Cruise
Once you have booked your Viking cruise, start planning for your dog's care as soon as possible. The most common options are professional pet sitters, boarding facilities, and trusted friends or family members. Each has different costs and considerations.
A pet sitter comes to your home once or twice a day to feed, water, and exercise your dog. This option is often less stressful for dogs because they stay in their familiar environment. Pet sitters typically charge between $25 and $75 per visit, depending on your location and the sitter's experience. You can find pet sitters through Rover, Care.com, or local veterinary offices.
A boarding facility houses your dog for the duration of your trip. Facilities range from basic kennels to luxury "dog hotels" with play areas, training, and webcam access. Boarding costs vary widely — from $30 to $100 per night or more — depending on the facility's amenities and your dog's size. Many facilities require proof of vaccinations and may ask for a trial visit before your trip.
If you have a friend or family member willing to care for your dog, make sure they understand your dog's routine, dietary needs, medications, and emergency contact information. Leave written instructions and your veterinarian's phone number.
Planning Ahead for Your Cruise Dates
The timing of your cruise affects how far in advance you should book pet care. If you are cruising during peak season — summer months or holidays — pet sitters and boarding facilities book up quickly. Start looking for care at least two months before your departure date.
For off-season cruises in fall or early spring, you may have more flexibility, but it is still wise to arrange care at least four to six weeks ahead. This gives you time to interview sitters or visit facilities, and it gives your dog time to adjust if you choose a boarding facility.
If you are traveling with a certified service dog, remember that Viking requires 30 days' notice. Coordinate your service dog registration with Viking at the same time you are booking pet care for any other animals you may have.
Other Cruise Lines With Different Pet Policies
If traveling with your dog is a priority, you may want to explore cruise lines with more flexible pet policies. Cunard Line allows dogs and cats on some transatlantic crossings, though not on all sailings. Cruise and Maritime Voyages permits pets on certain European river cruises. These lines typically charge a pet fee (usually $100 to $200 per crossing) and require advance notice and vaccination records.
Some smaller cruise operators and river cruise companies also allow pets on select itineraries. Before booking any cruise, check the cruise line's pet policy directly on their website or by calling their reservations line. Policies change, and some sailings may have different rules than others.
If you find a cruise line that does allow dogs, expect to pay an additional fee, provide health and vaccination documentation, and possibly keep your dog in your cabin during certain hours. Your dog will still not be permitted in dining areas or public spaces on most ships.
What to Do if Your Dog Has Separation Anxiety
Some dogs struggle when their owners are away, especially for the week or more that a cruise typically lasts. If your dog has separation anxiety, boarding in a facility with staff supervision may be safer than leaving the dog with a sitter who visits only once or twice a day.
Talk to your veterinarian before your trip. They may recommend calming supplements, medication, or behavioral strategies to help your dog stay calm while you are away. Some boarding facilities specialize in anxious dogs and offer extra attention and exercise. Starting with a trial stay at a boarding facility before your cruise can help your dog adjust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my emotional support dog on a Viking cruise?
No. Viking does not recognize emotional support animals, even with documentation from a mental health professional. Only certified service dogs trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities are permitted. If you have a service dog, contact Viking at least 30 days before your sailing to register the animal.
What happens if I try to sneak my dog onto a Viking cruise?
Attempting to bring a pet onto a cruise ship without permission can result in being denied boarding, having your reservation cancelled without a refund, or being removed from the ship at the next port. It is not worth the risk or cost. Plan ahead and arrange proper care for your dog before you travel.
Are there any Viking cruises where dogs are allowed?
No. Viking's no-pets policy applies to all Viking Ocean Cruises and Viking River Cruises sailings worldwide. The only exception is certified service dogs registered in advance. If you need to travel with a pet, research other cruise lines that have pet-friendly policies.
How much does it cost to board a dog while I am on a cruise?
Pet boarding costs vary by location and facility type. Basic kennels may charge $30 to $50 per night, while premium facilities charge $75 to $150 per night or more. Pet sitters typically charge $25 to $75 per visit. Get quotes from multiple providers in your area at least two months before your cruise.
Can I leave my dog alone at home while I go on a cruise?
No. Dogs should not be left alone for more than 24 to 48 hours. They need food, water, exercise, and bathroom breaks. Leaving a dog unattended for a week or longer is unsafe and can constitute animal neglect. Always arrange professional care or ask a trusted person to check on your dog daily.