viking river cruise embarkation time

The Complete Guide to a Viking River Cruise

Ever consider a Viking European river cruise? River cruises are very popular choices for people who like traveling to new places in the comfort of a floating hotel. That is, you sleep and eat on the ship and are transported to your destinations along a river. It’s certainly a relaxing way to travel. Plus, Viking offers several excursions each day that the ship is in port. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our Viking River cruise, which transported us comfortably to some amazing European destinations.

This article highlights the European river cruises aboard the Viking Longboats. The sizes of the ships are designed specifically for the rivers they ply (e.g., they need to navigate the sometimes narrow waterways and any locks along the way). Viking ships all sport calming Scandinavian decor and are designed efficiently.  The general experience on all Viking River cruise ships is the same, no matter what ship you’re on. However, the information in this article is from our Grand European Tour cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest aboard the Skirnir and Modi (more on the two ships later).  Once you’ve booked a Viking cruise, take the next steps , like creating an online account with Viking, to ensure a wonderful adventure .

NOTE: This article was completely updated in January 2023 from the original article, written in 2019 . Some procedures and protocols on cruise ships have changed to address public health concerns since the global COVID-19 pandemic. Check with your Viking agent or travel agent (or your MyVikingJourney online portal if you’re already booked on a cruise) to learn the latest protocols aboard the ship, and in the countries you’ll be visiting. Despite some tweaks, this article will prepare you for your Viking River cruise. Enjoy!

What to Expect on a Viking River Cruise

Viking is an industry leader for a variety of reasons, including their choices of fascinating destinations, varied excursion options, attention to detail in designing the private and shared spaces, and a welcoming and hard-working staff.

Viking River Cruise Destinations

You’ll find Viking River cruises throughout Europe, Egypt, and Southeast Asia . There are so many choices of destinations and lengths of the trip. Some people book two cruises back-to-back to extend their vacation. Also, Viking offers options to add a few days in the first or last destination before and after a cruise.

What You’ll Find on Viking

On all river cruises, guests are offered one complimentary shore excursion at every destination . In addition, quite a few “optional” excursions are available at an extra cost. The excursions provide guests with an array of experiences, including peeks into how locals live, how and where they work, and some “privileged access” options just for Viking guests.

Onboard you’ll have port talks to prepare you for each new day along with musical entertainment in the lounge. Plus, you can expect some special cooking and craft demonstrations, wine tastings, and presentations about a destination’s unique features .

Guests are served complimentary soft drinks, beer, or wine during lunch and dinner. There is an extra charge for the Silver Spirits package for guests who want to enjoy premium wines and beer, cocktails, and champagnes.

What You Won’t Find on Viking

There are several things you won’t find on a Viking River cruise, and they are often some of the prime reasons so many people choose Viking .

• No inside staterooms.
• No kids. All guests are 18 years old or more.
• No smoking.
• No casinos.
• No formal nights.
• No charge for Wi-Fi.

Viking River Cruise Ships

Viking Longboats have four decks:

• The Sun Deck has tables and chairs for guests to enjoy the views plus a walking track.
• The Upper Deck has the library, bar, lounge, Aquavit Terrace, coffee and tea station, and internet cafe, along with both of the Explorer Suites, all of the Veranda Suites, and some of the Veranda and French Balcony staterooms.
• The Middle Deck has Guest Services, the restaurant, the Viking shop, and some of the Veranda and French Balcony staterooms. 
• The Lower Deck has the Standard Staterooms.

Stairs connect all the decks; an elevator service the upper and middle decks.

Viking River Cruise Staterooms

All Viking River cruise ship staterooms have:

• river views.
• king-size beds that can be split to make two twin beds.
• private bathrooms that are separate from the living space.
• housekeeping twice a day.
• a telephone, safe, and refrigerator.
• a closet with wooden hangers.
• luggage storage under the beds.
• free Wi-Fi (though connection speeds vary depending upon location).
• a flat-screen TV with infotainment options.
• 110/220-volt outlets and USB ports.

Stateroom Options

The different types of staterooms range in size, available outdoor space, the time for guaranteed stateroom access, and amenities. Also, the ability to book optional excursions varies by the stateroom level . For example, the guests in the Explorer Suites can book optional excursions before guests in the Veranda Suites. This practice continues through all the classes of staterooms, with the standard staterooms getting the last optional booking options. Having said this, there are often opportunities to book optional excursions once you board the ship. This is because some guests may have canceled their planned optional excursions prior to the cruise, so it’s a good practice to check on this and any other concerns once you’re on board. 

Stateroom Categories

• 150 square foot stateroom with picture window (no outdoor space)
• located on the Main Deck (lowest deck)
• 3:00 pm guaranteed stateroom access
• 135 square foot stateroom with French balcony (sliding glass door with no outdoor space)
• located on the Upper Deck and Middle Deck
• 205 square foot room with full-size private veranda
• 275 square foot suite with full-size private veranda
• located on the Upper Deck 
• 12:00 pm guaranteed stateroom access
• mini-bar with wine, beer, and soft drinks that are replenished daily
• complimentary fruit plate daily
• complimentary laundry & shoe shine services
• expansive 445 square foot living space (separate living room and bedroom) with wraparound balcony at the stern of the ship plus a French balcony in the bedroom. 
• complimentary in-room breakfast service
• complimentary Silver Spirits beverage package
• private arrival and departure transfer (from and to the airport)

Stateroom Amenities

The staterooms and bathrooms are efficiently designed to maximize usable space , and there are many things to appreciate in the staterooms.

• A safe with an electronic keypad is provided in each room. You set the code, so it’s a cinch to remember. It easily holds passports and other travel documents, along with jewelry and money. One tip we learned is to put a shoe (just one!) in the safe the day before you check out. Having to look for the shoe on the last day will remind you to open the safe so you don’t forget your valuables.
• Staterooms have 110V and 220V electrical outlets , so you can plug in whichever fits your needs. We took a universal travel adaptor with 4 USB plugs and 4 outlets and used just one outlet for all of our electronics (smartphones, cameras, tablets , and Apple Watch). That saved precious counter space.
• There’s a full-size   hair dryer with a German Schuko 2-pin plug that matches the 2-prong outlet in the bathroom.
• Upon arrival, sturdy wooden hangers were in your closet; if you need more, just ask, and they will be delivered promptly.
• The bathroom awaits you with a complete supply of Freyja toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and body lotion, along with a shower cap and vanity set. These supplies are replenished as needed.
• The bathroom has a laundry line in the shower that is handy for hanging hand-washed garments.
• Laundry can be sent out to be done. It is usually returned within 24 hours. You can choose to have your garments washed and ironed or ironed only. For an idea of the costs for cleaning and ironing, pants are 6 Euros, a blouse is 5 Euros, and a polo shirt is 3.5 Euros (at the time of publication). Guests in an Explorer Suite or Veranda Suite receive complimentary laundry services.
• There’s a mini-fridge in the staterooms. The staff will replenish whatever you consume when your room is cleaned.
• A large glass bottle of water i n your guest room (along with glasses) will be replenished as needed. (You will also be offered bottled water as you leave for each excursion.)
• There are two listening devices on lanyards and an earpiece (for your left ear) for each device inside your room. When not in use, keep these devices in the chargers so they are fully charged for excursions.
• All rooms have a color TV with live channels, complimentary movies, and Viking programming . We used the TV for weather updates and a map that always shows the ship’s location; this was very handy as we navigated the rivers in between ports of call. 
• Housekeeping will visit your room in the morning to clean it.
• Housekeeping will revisit your room while you’re at dinner. You’ll notice the Viking Daily on your bed when you return to your room later that evening. This publication outlines the schedule for the next day, with all included and optional excursions as well as suggestions on where to visit and eat during your free time the next day.
• There’s room under the bed to store suitcases after unpacking.

Viking River Cruise Common Areas

In addition to your stateroom, there are several key public areas on the longships including an expansive, relaxing lounge and bar, the Aquavit Terrace at the ship’s bow for al fresco dining and soaking in river views, a dining room, a coffee/tea station, a small library, and an area with two desktop computers for guest use. For more details on the areas designed for guest comfort, read the illustrated guide to the Viking River Cruise ship’s common areas .

Embarkation

Staterooms are guaranteed to be ready at 3:00 pm. (If you are booked in one of the suites, you’ll have access to your stateroom at 12:00.) If you arrive before your guaranteed time of 3:00 pm, you can spend time in the Lounge or leave your luggage on the ship and begin to explore the city on your own. A light buffet is available in the Lounge around midday, so you’ll be able to recharge a bit before the cruise begins — a nice treat if you just got off a long flight.

The Viking Onboard Experience

Naturally, safety is a primary concern of travelers and the crew. There was a mandatory safety drill on our first full day of the river cruise. Life vests were under the beds, but prior to the drill, they were placed on our beds while we were at lunch. Just before the drill, we were all asked to return to our staterooms and don our life vests. After that, we went to an assigned group on the upper deck (groups are determined by what floor the staterooms are on), and we had to give our stateroom number to the staff at the assigned location (for roll call). Once everyone was accounted for, we were able to leave, return our life vests to our stateroom, and resume what we were doing.

Each time you leave the ship, you scan your room key . When you return to the ship, you scan it again . This is one way the crew can account for all guests. Before leaving a dock, there may be announcements asking for guests in certain rooms to let the staff know they are on the ship. (It’s not uncommon for someone to forget to scan their card when returning to the ship.)

Attire on a river cruise is casual. During the day on excursions, travelers dress very comfortably as they leave the ship to explore a destination. However, most guests sport a smart casual look for dinner. Leave your dressier clothes at home; no formal nights are on a Viking River cruise. 

Meals on a Viking River Cruise

Three meals are included each day at the following times:

• Breakfast: 7:00-9:00 am
• Lunch: 12:00-2:00 pm 
• Dinner: 7:00 pm

Soda, beer, and house wine are available at lunch and dinner at no charge.

Travelers who purchase the Silver Spirits beverage package (price varies depending on the length of your cruise) can get whatever alcoholic beverage they want during lunch, dinner, and whenever else the bar is staffed (afternoons and evenings) at no additional charge. The Silver Spirits package is complimentary for guests in an Explorer Suite.

If you have dietary restrictions, let Viking know when you book. You should also alert the Maitre d’ once on board.

The river cruises have open seating, so that means you aren’t assigned any table mates. Each time you enter the dining room, you find a table that you want to sit at. We enjoyed sitting with different people; it gave us a chance to learn about their travel experiences and lives a bit. You never know what you’ll learn or who you’ll meet!

Although lunch is available in the dining room, we favored the Aquavit Terrace (at the front of the ship) for our midday meal. It’s relaxed and has an abundant food buffet with soup, a variety of salads, meats, warm sandwiches (like paninis and Cuban sandwiches), fruit, and dessert. There’s always iced tea — often with different flavors every day. Servers take your drink orders (sodas, beer, wine) and freshen up your glass when it is empty. Just inside is the Lounge where we ate one rainy lunchtime. The Aquavit Terrace is one advantage Viking has over its competition. This is a great venue for enjoying the passing landscape on travel days and relaxed dining every day.

Prior to dinner, the chef usually introduces the options including his/her recommendations. On our cruise, this was done in the Lounge just after the evening port talk by the program director. Dinner begins at 7:00 pm in the dining room. If you choose to eat on the Aquavit Terrace, dinner begins at 7:15 pm with all of the same options as in the dining room.

Menu Options

On one side of the menu are the “classics” or options that are always available. W hen we cruised, the “classics” included Caesar salad as a starter; steak, salmon, and chicken as entrees, and Creme Brûlée, a selection of cheeses, a fruit plate, and ice cream for dessert.

On the other side of the menu are “regional specialties” or options that are focused on our destinations. Examples were creamy potato soup, Wiener Schnitzel, and Sacher cake when in Vienna; while in Budapest, the menu featured Hungarian Farmer Salad, Fogas Karpathy (perch and shrimp in white wine sauce), and Zserbo (a layered walnut and chocolate cake).

Without a doubt, we give Viking chefs top marks for the presentation and flavor of the food they serve. We always enjoyed the variety of food from the local areas we were visiting. After all, we travel to experience new places, new food, and new people, so we like to eat local specialties whenever possible. We were never disappointed with our meal selections. Whichever side of the menu you order from, the meals for the entire table are served at the same time.

Guests & Socializing

Cruising is a social experience as you chat with fellow passengers on excursions, at the social hour before dinner in the Lounge, and at meals.  An easy way to begin a conversation is to ask where people are from, about their past travel experiences, and what excursions interest them the most. We’ve found there are a lot of commonalities as well as interesting folks to meet. 

River cruises are designed for the mature traveler as Viking guests must be 18 years old. Many of the guests are retired, but there were quite a few still working or recently retired. 

Exercising on a River Cruise

There is no fitness center or spa on Viking River cruise ships; the space that could be a fitness center is instead put to use in the common areas and staterooms. (European river cruise ships are limited in size due to the rivers they cruise on, so they have the same overall dimensions. Some companies may take space from common areas to put into spas and fitness centers; others, like Viking, use all that available space for staterooms and common areas.)

To burn off some of the calories ingested by the delicious food onboard, I walked in the morning around the sun deck track. 12.5 laps = 1 mile. Viking asks that guests not walk on the sun deck from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am as a courtesy to those whose cabins are just below the sun deck. Getting my heart rate up while enjoying beautiful scenery passing by while the ship made its way down a river was a win-win.

My husband prefers to jog each morning, and he was able to when we were docked in the early morning before excursions began. Other times, we were still sailing, so he could not. A good idea if you’re a runner is to check with the reception desk to map out when there will be time in the morning to leave the ship for a jog or run before excursions begin.

Excursions on a Viking River Cruise

You can sign up for excursions from your account on MyVikingJourney.com prior to your trip. Sometimes optional excursions sell out, although there are usually some available once you’re on the ship. Please note that Viking requires at least 48 hours’ cancellation notice if you are on the ship and decide not to go on an optional excursion. 

There are three activity levels for excursions :

• Easy means the walking will be on mostly smooth (not cobbled) surfaces, there are few steps, and the tours will be 1.5 hours or less.
• Moderate means the walking could be a little more strenuous or have more stairs or inclines. The total time on these outings could be 1.5 to 3 hours.
• Demanding means extensive walking, hiking, or biking. Walking could be on unpaved or uneven surfaces and may involve many steps or steep inclines. The total time on these outings could be longer than 3 hours.

Prior to Excursions

About 15 minutes before each excursion, there is an announcement to remind guests that it is almost time to leave and to remember the listening devices. These devices are attached to lanyards with earpieces. 

You’ll receive an excursion card with a number and a letter. The number indicates which ship you’re on. (This is handy because you might encounter tour groups from other Viking ships that are docked in the same city at the same time.) The letter indicates which excursion group you’re on. Since there are often different excursions leaving simultaneously , this is an efficient way to find which tour guide to meet as you disembark the ship. The buses and tour guides for your group are each marked: the bus has a placard with the same number and letter to let you know you need to board that bus; the tour guide has a red and white sign on a paddle to indicate that group, as well.

Leaving the Ship

As you leave the ship, you’ll scan your room key to indicate your departure and rescan it upon returning . This is Viking’s way of accounting for guests.

As you leave the ship, you are handed a bottle of water.  To conserve resources, you could easily fill a reusable water bottle from home with water in the rooms. There are also bright red full-size Viking umbrellas to take along on excursions if it’s raining. I learned that I probably should have packed a small collapsable umbrella to stuff in my backpack; that way, I won’t be carrying the big Viking umbrella around after the rain has stopped while we’re still sightseeing.

A Few Important Excursion Notes

It’s important to note that when the ship docks somewhere in the morning and you go on an excursion, you sometimes will be brought back to the ship in a different location — like another city further down the river. This taught me to take pictures when I first see a scenic sight just in case I wouldn’t have the opportunity again.

There is precise timing to docking and excursions. For example, we arrived in Cologne at 9:30 am and our walking tour began at 10:00 am. Viking is very efficient with their timing. Likewise, when the ship is ready to leave, it leaves — as long as all the guests are accounted for. 

Not everyone needs to go on excursions. Some guests preferred to stay in the Lounge and simply relax, read a book, or enjoy the view beyond the big plate glass window or take in the views from the sun deck.

Big City Lesson

One thing we learned is that although some excursions will guide you through a large city, if it is inland a bit, you may be spending a significant amount of time traveling from the ship to the city — and comparatively modest amounts of time actually in the city itself. We learned this the hard way one day, and we realized that we actually prefer exploring the little towns that we dock at more. Our preferred day at a town where we were docked included a morning walking tour (an included excursion) to get the lay of the land. In the afternoon, we followed up on some of the suggestions the local guide from the morning had regarding how to spend the remainder of the day. That worked well as we enjoyed some nice non-touristy lunches and other walks and tours on our own.

Viking Communication

We found the onboard communication to be excellent . This includes the Viking Daily which provides information for each new day and the evening updates by the program director in the Lounge before dinner. There are also daily announcements with information on docking and reminders about impending excursion departures. 

TIP: Take a picture of The Viking Daily each evening before heading to bed. Then it’ll be the first photo on your camera roll before the next day’s activities. Doing so will help you remember months and years later where all your amazing pictures are from!

The crew communicates with each other quite well. For example, once the crew knows that everyone is accounted for after excursions, the ship is sailing within minutes of the anticipated departure (as noted in the Viking Daily ). 

Viking Staff

The Viking onboard staff — from the captain, hotel manager, and program director to the housekeeping and wait staff — were all positive, upbeat folks: smiling, accommodating, and helpful. Also, the onboard staff and the local guides speak English well.

Little Touches by Viking

Viking has perfected hospitality on many levels. Their crew is well-trained and genuinely appears to want to make you happy. There are lots of smiles and offers of help. They also are known for providing little touches that many guests appreciate. Here are some examples from our cruise:

• Viking is happy to celebrate your birthdays and anniversaries while onboard. Many people were serenaded during dinner, and special treats made pleasant surprises. We celebrated a big anniversary on our cruise and were delighted with champagne and a special dessert awaiting us in our room after dinner one night.
• Every once in a while, you may be treated to a little “extra” like a refreshing drink served on the sun deck while sailing one day.
• I borrowed some books from the ship’s library and left them on a table in our room. When I returned, I noticed two Viking bookmarks resting on top of the books. Likewise, a few days later, I had just started reading a different book and placed it on my night table on top of my Kindle. When I returned to the room, I noticed another bookmark was placed on top of it. 

Tipping is the universal way to thank someone for providing excellent service — and you will find excellent service on Viking. You can choose to pre-pay gratuities which we did. Prepaid gratuities came to 18 Euros per guest per day. Viking adds a discretionary service charge (15 Euros per guest per day when we traveled) to your shipboard account if you choose not to prepay the gratuity . The tips cover all onboard staff. We also took along some thank you cards and added some extra cash to give to those we felt went above and beyond during our cruise.

The recommended tipping (for each guest) on excursions is 2 Euros for local guides and 1 Euro for bus drivers.  Needless to say, it’s handy to have small change for tipping.

Onboard Account

Viking keeps track of your expenses during the cruise, including bar items, laundry, phone calls, and purchases from the Viking shop (logo wear and souvenirs). When the cruise ends, you settle your account in cash (U.S. dollars or Euros) or by credit card.

Parallel Parked Ships

Sometimes there’s a lot of river cruise ship traffic in popular cities. This was true in Passau, a city of over 50,000, and especially in heavyweights like Vienna and Budapest. When this happens, the cruise ship parks parallel to another cruise ship. This means that your ship could be the first, second, or third ship docked. Furthermore, this means that you may have to walk through another ship to get to shore or people are walking through your ship to get to and from theirs. The ships are designed for this — to have travelers walk through the common spaces. And our experience was that we were usually parked next to other Viking ships, so we walked through familiar spaces.

Having to dock the ship next to another cruise ship also means that the view from your stateroom could be blocked and your cabin could be a bit dark.  We were docked next to other ships several times on our 15-day cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest. It’s not a deal breaker for us, but it’s something every river cruise guest should be forewarned about. 

Transferring Ships

There are times when river cruise ships have to have guests disembark a ship and then board a sister ship. Sometimes the river water levels may be too low in spots (due to the lack of sufficient rain during summer) or there is another issue (like a broken lock) necessitating the change.

When We Had to Switch Ships

Here’s our story. We were sailing from Amsterdam to Budapest. There was a broken lock near Regensburg, about halfway between the two big cities. Viking had a sister ship sailing the same journey in the opposite direction — from Budapest to Amsterdam — so we switched ships. We got off our ship, the Skirnir, in Nuremberg (one of our scheduled ports) before the damaged lock. The guests on the other ship, the Modi, got off the ship at Regensburg, on the other side of the damaged lock. Essentially, each ship then turned around and went back to the city from which it originated. Suffice it to say that Viking has this all figured out and has contingency plans firmly in place.

Impact on Guests

What it meant for guests was a minor inconvenience. We had to have our luggage packed and placed outside our stateroom door by 7:00 am on the day of the switch. Viking collected the luggage (with different colored tags for the three different floors of the ship) and trucked it to where the Modi, our new ship, was docked. All guests left the ship for excursions (the times of the excursions were modified that day so they would all be timed for the same number of hours). After the excursions, we all met at a restaurant in Nuremberg for lunch, had a little free time, and then were bussed to the new ship in the late afternoon. As we arrived at the ship, we were warmly greeted, and we went to our rooms (which were intentionally left unlocked). Our luggage awaited us, and our new room keys were on the dresser.

Since they are sister ships, they are the same, so the only thing that changed was the crew. The one exception was the program director, who made the move with us. Otherwise, we had a brand new crew. We had grown to like the crew on the Skirnir, but we quickly came to like the new ones as well.

Disembarkation

Viking has guest departures timed to match their future travel plans. Viking assigns different colored luggage tags to guests depending on what their next travel destination is (a post-excursion through Viking, a trip independent of Viking, or a flight home). The tags have the time the luggage must be outside the staterooms as well as the time that guests are expected to depart the ship. (Viking asks that luggage not be placed outside the staterooms when going to bed the previous night due to safety concerns — should there be an emergency, having bags in the narrow corridors would pose a safety risk.) 

On our cruise, some guests had to put their luggage outside their staterooms as early as 2:45 am and leave the ship at 3:30 am to go to the airport. Regardless of their next destinations, all guests had to place their luggage outside their rooms no later than 9:00 am. After that point, guests still on board could use the common areas (Lounge or sun deck) until their transfer to the airport or other destination. That way, Viking could clean the staterooms and ready the ship for the passengers boarding later that day for the next cruise.

Planning Your Viking River Cruise

Once you book a Viking River cruise, take the next steps to ensure an amazing experience . One of those steps is to create an online account with Viking. There you’ll find a countdown to departure, background on each port of call, the entire list of excursions available (some are complimentary; others cost extra) that you can book online, a calendar showing your itinerary for each day, and other helpful information about the cruise. For a complete list of action steps

You will receive your final travel documents and Viking luggage tags within three weeks of your trip. Included is a packet of information specific to your ship (including phone numbers on the ship plus embarkation location information) and an itinerary.

Booking Options

Some travelers prefer to book through Viking itself. We opted to book through our travel agent with whom we could meet face-to-face, ask questions, and learn from her knowledge of cruising and different cruise companies. Plus, some travel agents provide onboard credit to cruising clients. Since we booked through our travel agent, Viking sent her the final travel documents, and she checked them before passing them on to us.

Disclaimer: My husband and I paid for our Viking River cruise ourselves. We did not receive any compensation or discounts from Viking or any other organization. I merely want to share our experience on a river cruise with my readers. 

Related Articles

Viking related articles.

• Viking Ocean Cruises: The Ultimate Guide
• Viking Ocean Cruise Excursions: What You Need to Know
• Viking Cruises: Best Action Steps to Take After Booking a Cruise
• Viking River Cruises: The Complete Guide
• Best Sights to See on a Viking Grand European Tour Cruise
• Viking Antarctica Cruise: A Complete Guide for Adventurers

General Travel Planning Articles

• Best Apps and Websites for Savvy Travelers
• Travel Lightly: Top Ten Tips for Your Next Trip
• Travel Planning Timeline
• Expert Tips for Traveling to Europe for More Fun, Less Stress
• How to Use Google Translate While Traveling

Final Thoughts

We thoroughly enjoyed our Viking River cruise. O n our trip, we met interesting people; visited fascinating places; sampled new foods, wines, and beer; and appreciated Viking’s convenience and gracious hospitality . We can’t say enough about how well-run and maintained the ships are. Although we have some other trips planned (that we organize ourselves, as we often do), we are contemplating which Viking cruise — river or ocean — we will be booking next. 

The Viking Grand European Tour from Amsterdam to Budapest was a great experience that we’ll never forget.

To ensure you remember all the great experiences on your cruise, take lots of pictures and create a photo book of your journey when you return home. You’ll be glad you did!

If you have taken a Viking River cruise and want to share your experiences, please do so in the comment area below. 🙂

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108 thoughts on “the complete guide to a viking river cruise”.

Thank you so much for the wonderful information in this guide! We are leaving in 6 days for the Grand European Adventure from Amsterdam to Budapest. This is our first cruise ever, and you have answered many questions we still had. We appreciate you sharing your time and adventures with us, and I signed up for your “Travel With Lolly” newsletter too! Thanks again!

I’m hoping you’re having a fabulous cruise! That’s a great itinerary.

Things that I learned while stationed in Germany and traveling around the local economy. You need some small change for this. – Public toilets have attendants who maintain them and who expect a gratuity (.20-.50 Euros) for use. This may have increased since my last visit. – Damen = Women, not “The Men” – Herren = Men, not “Her”

Thanks, Rich!

Some cruises include excursions. How expensive are the excursions? Where do you find the choices? Thanks!

Hi Leslie, Viking cruises include an excursion at each destination; these are usually general bus or walking tours of a city. In addition, they offer optional excursions that are more targeted to specific interests like concerts, museums, hiking or biking, and farm or winery tours. The anticipated optional excursions are listed on the Viking website for each cruise. They are also listed on MyVikingJourney.com, a site you can access after you book a Viking cruise, along with prices. Prices vary and usually run from $60-$200.

Thanks for this information. I’ve been on a Viking ocean cruise but am going on my first river cruise in June. I found that it’s easy to book shore excursions on one’s own (through “Tours by Locals”, AirBnB, and other venues) and many cost far less than what Viking charges. For example, going to Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny will cost 4 of us about 1/3 of what Viking is charging. Going to a chocolate making session at Lindt will cost $90 per person — about twice that going w/Viking. I know they have staff to pay, and overhead to finance, and many people will want the easier route of booking a Viking excursion. But for those who have the time to explore options online, and are willing to read through reviews to ascertain the good and bad of each offered tour, I highly recommend a little independent booking.

Thanks for sharing, Carol!

Thank you so much for this super-detailed information. :). I have a couple of follow up questions. I read a number of the comments, but time right now is a premium, so I apologize in advance if I am rehashing any prior q’s.

We are leaving on our Rhine cruise next week and are super excited! 1. Is there much sailing during daylight hours? I fear that all the great sailing will be while we are sleeping. The point of a cruise, for me, is a good bit of time enjoying the water. 2. My husband and I are seasoned travelers. Would you encourage or discourage any bookings at locations through outside vendors? I recall the part of your article that indicates the ship may change position during excursions. I would hate to book an outside excursion and come back to find the ship has gone on to another location. For instance, we would like to take a side morning trip to Heidelberg during the stop at Speyer, but we don’t want to do the 9 hour tour available through Viking. We were thinking we may get a ride to Heidelberg and tour the castle on our own. Viking doesn’t really say anything about outside tours.

Thanks again!

Hi Karen, There may be some sailing during the day, depending on the distance between two ports, but most of it is in the evening and at nighttime. You’ll probably be enjoying some views while sailing during late afternoon and early evening. To get more information about the times the ship is expected to be in port, use the Live Chat feature on the My Viking Journey online site to ask about it. When you know when the ship is in port, you can figure out when it will most likely be sailing and if you have enough time for an outside tour. I’ve found the Live Chat staff to be very helpful; hopefully, you will, too! Have a wonderful cruise!

This is a very informative post and the details are very helpful. We will be doing the river cruise at the end of July (Budapest to Amsterdam) and opted for a post cruise excursion that offers 1-day tour and the next day on our own. With this 1 limited free day, can you please recommend a thing or two to do or visit in Amsterdam? We’re thinking of Anne Frank museum, is it worth it? My husband is a classical music junky and wanted to tour or watch something in Concertgebau. I will appreciate your recommendations.

Hi Joel, Spending time in Amsterdam offers so many options! It comes down to what you like to do. I think the Anne Frank House is worth a visit, as are the musuems. The only issue is getting tickets for a visit just a few weeks away. Perhaps going on TripAdvisor will give you ideas for things you’d enjoy doing. They may have recommendations for special interest tours or other experiences that speak to you!

Hi Lolly – oh my goodness! This is the BEST information. Thank you so much for your thoroughness! We are taking our first river cruise in November 2024 (Rhine Getaway on the Gersemi) and we cannot wait, but we are also grateful that we have so much time to research and prepare. A river cruise has been on my list for quite some time. Thank you again!

I’m glad the article helped you prepare for your upcoming river cruise. I hope you have a wonderful time on the ship, exploring new places, and meeting new people. 🙂

Lolly, No questions, I just wanted to thank you for having such an informative post. You answered all the questions we had after going through the Viking pages. Thanks for what you do.

Thanks for the kind words, Keith! I’m glad you found the article helpful.

When using a visa credit card, will the charge be in dollars or Euros?

Hi Glenn, When using credit cards in Europe, it’s usually best to avoid converting the amount into dollars (because there’s usually a fee for doing so). So accept the transaction amount “without conversion,” as you want to use the local currency option.

Although we’ve done probably 25 or so cruises on the big ships this is our first river cruise. We’ll be on the Grand European from Amsterdam to Budapest in July and we’re beginning to get really excited. Of course, that also means that we were starting to come up with all sorts of questions about the ship & excursions. Happily, your article has answered many of our questions!! I do have one question though – can we get additional Euros through the service desk on the ship or should we make sure we have plenty before we board? Thanks so much!

Hi Jan, I’m glad you found the article helpful! About Euros, Viking’s guest services desk will break Euros into smaller denominations, but they don’t handle currency exchanges. If you’re starting with some Euros, you should be able to easily obtain more from ATMs in Amsterdam (and other ports); the guest services desk should be able to tell you where to find one near the ship. Keep in mind that many shops and restaurants accept credit cards (VISA and MasterCard primarily), so you’ll probably use your Euros mostly for small incidentals and for tipping tour guides and bus drivers when on excursions. Accepting the local conversion rate (not into dollars) is usually advantageous when withdrawing from an ATM. For more tips for traveling to Europe, read Expert Tips for Traveling to Europe for More Fun, Less Stress . Have a wonderful cruise!

How much time (approx) did you have in each port?

Great question, Jessica! Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer. You can ask Viking or your travel agent for specifics for the cruise that interests you. As an example, on my upcoming Viking cruise in the Mediterranean, we arrive in port in the mornings by 8:00 or 9:00 am. Our departure times vary quite a bit from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

What a great article! We leave on our trip tomorrow, Antwerp to Amsterdam for ten days. We have never cruised before. This was so helpful. Thank you for sharing.

Thanks for your kind words. Have a marvelous time!

Thank you for this very informative article. Looking at the Viking Daily it appears that included tours are in the morning and optional ones are in the afternoon. Is it then possible to do one of each per day?

Hi Barb, Excursion options vary and are often driven by local tour operators and their schedules. There weren’t separate morning and afternoon excursions for an upcoming ocean cruise my husband and I are taking, and that’ll work out just fine. Most days, my husband and I will go on an excursion in the morning and then explore a town independently in the afternoon (and evening, if still in port) — perhaps having a leisurely lunch in a scenic spot, visiting a museum, or going for a hike nearby. I suggest asking about ideas for independent activity once you’re aboard the ship. The Viking Daily gives some general ideas, and I’m sure the Viking staff can help you find things (e.g., museums, restaurants, shops) that specifically interest you. Oftentimes, it’s exploring on our own that makes traveling so enjoyable. Hopefully, it will be the same for you, too. Have a wonderful cruise!

Great article. Thank you for taking the time to post this. One question: in checking in for your flight at the end of the cruise, did you have any issues doing this on board the ship? We might want to change airline seats, which we cannot do before our cruise.

Hi Ron, I’ve not experienced any issues connecting online while on the ship. If you do, I’d suggest going to Guest Services for help. Have a wonderful cruise!

Thanks for your article it was very informative. My husband and I are booked on the Grand European cruise with an extension in Prague at the end of June. We are traveling with 8 other people. Would there be any issue with booking an independent excursion for the days we will be in Prague or in the ports that we will be in overnight? Viking is only offering us a morning excursion the second day in Prague so we are looking to do some exploring on our own.

Hi Anne, booking an independent excursion shouldn’t be a problem. Quite a few cruisers actually do that. Just make sure you are aware of the times the ship will leave the port so you don’t miss its departure. Have a wonderful cruise!

Great post. Very informative. One question though – How can we tell how much bus travel time is involved in each excursion? We are doing the Grand European Tours B-A with extensions in Prague and Amsterdam, and have booked a full schedule. We are doing the Salzburg Highlights but just read it’s a 2 hour bus ride each way. We don’t even know if it is The Sound of Music “heavy”, and that is kindof why we are doing it. There are other excursions that day that we could do. Thank you for your article and your help!

Hi Kathy, Great question! I suggest signing on to My Viking Journey and using the “Live Chat” feature to get your answer. After logging on to My Viking Journey, go to the “Shore Excursions” section and initiate a conversation with a Viking Cruise rep. You should see a red “Live Chat” box along the margin of the screen. You’ll be able to find out about the length of bus trips to/from excursions and other related information. Have a fabulous cruise!

We have quite a bit of Viking on board credits and wanted to purchase optional shore excursions with that credit. But it looks like pre purchasing using on board credit isn’t possible. What are the chances of excursions still being available when we are on board? We are on the Aug Rhine cruise and our 1st river cruise.

Hi Pat, There’s a good chance that some optional excursions will be available once you board the ship — even if they’re listed on MyVikingJourney as being sold out. That’s because some people end up canceling their reservations for optional excursions. Go to the guest service desk and inquire about the excursions you want and if they’re fully booked, ask to be placed on a waitlist. Wishing you good luck and a fantastic cruise!

I am going on a Christmas Market cruise with Viking in 2024. Since it will be winter with colder temps, I am wondering about the indoor lounging space/common areas on the longboats. Is there plenty of space for passengers indoors in the common areas, if the outdoors are too cold or rainy? Do you know if the outdoor areas on the sun deck can be enclosed for added warmth on these cooler weather trips? Thanks for any thoughts!

Hi Jaime, Viking’s European longship has a spacious lounge, the Aquavit Terrace (some of which can be enclosed in bad weather), and seating in the atrium area — all good choices for relaxing inside while not in your stateroom. The sun deck does not have enclosed spaces. Enjoy your cruise!

Does anyone wear jeans at dinner?

Hi Carolyn,

Per Viking: “There are no ‘formal nights’ in the evening; recommended evening dress is ‘elegant casual.’ For ladies, this may include a dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse; and for gentlemen, trousers and a collared shirt. A tie and jacket are optional.”

However, some guests do wear nice jeans (not torn or ripped) in the evening. It’s relatively easy to dress up a pair of jeans a bit, so the overall look is “elegant casual.” Enjoy your cruise!

GREAT INFO. Scheduled for Grand European in September 2023. Wondering how much american cash we should bring and do we need to get euros prior to arrival (if so how much). You mention that from 5:15-7 there will be drinks & live music or a port talk. If you want wine at that time is there a charge?

What is the availability of restroom facilities in these small towns? Do they charge for use?

Hi Victoria, I’m so glad you found the article helpful! Deciding on cash is a personal choice, of course. My husband and I like to have about 100-200 Euros on us before leaving home. Plus, we always have some dollars with us, too. If you want to obtain Euros before departure, check with your bank or AAA office to see if they can help you. Also, you can get Euros from bank ATMs after you land; there are probably some ATMS near your cruise embarkation site. We’ve never had a problem finding an ATM in Europe, and Viking can surely help direct you to one. Remember to notify your bank of your travel dates and destinations before leaving home! (Another idea is to get Euros at one of the airport currency exchange kiosks, but the exchange rates will probably not be favorable.)

Viking offers complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks during lunch and dinner. At other times, like when gathered in the lounge before dinner, you’ll charge your wine, beer, or cocktails to your stateroom.

Public restrooms are available in European towns, and many charge a nominal fee (.50-1 Euro). Your best bet is to ask about availability, location, and cost at Guest Services once onboard. Have a wonderful cruise in September!

Thank you for great information and insights! We took our first Viking River cruise in 2018 (Rhine – Amsterdam to Basel) and leave in a month for the Danube (Budapest to Regensburg) with the pre and post cruise stays. You answered my questions about docking locations (though understand they are subject to change) and the Hungarian currency. Hope you have been able to enjoy more Viking cruises since your original one.

We are also thinking of taking an old smart phone and purchasing a SIM card that works in Europe for language translation, directions, and apps to enhance our experience. Our US-based cell phone service does not work outside of the US. Do you have any experience about this?

No, Tamara, I don’t have direct experience replacing SIM cards. My husband and I use a major U.S. cellphone carrier that functions well in Europe. When we travel to Europe, we notify our carrier before departure. It’s been a seamless process for us, and it functions well although we do incur additional international charges.

I’m glad you found the article helpful, Tamara. Our next Viking cruise is coming up soon, and I can’t wait. Enjoy your journey!

Lolly, We are going to cruise Viking July on European sojourn with pre post extensions Bucharest and Amsterdam. This will be first river cruise for us. We are in a veranda A stateroom and doing business class flights as a bucket wish. We are experienced travelers on land but this will be a new experience. My first question is, without using the laundry service on board , do you have suggestions on washing items in your cabin? Is there a retractable clothes line in the shower to accommodate hanging clothes. ? You know is it a venus and mars question. Haha. I am sure i will have more later but your thread is wonderful. Any comments on safety in cities? Using ATMs machines? Thank you for your time. Rosetta

It sounds like you have a wonderful journey coming up this summer, Rosetta! Concerning laundry, yes, there is a retractable clothesline in the shower. I’ve hand washed some things in the sink and hung them up to dry on the line, and it worked fine. My husband and I sent out a few clothes to the Viking laundry, which also worked out well. Concerning safety, you can sign up for STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program), a free program run by the U.S. Department of State. Once enrolled, you enter the dates of your travel and your destinations. They will text you with any security issues you should be aware of while you’re away. (When we were in Europe a few years ago, we received texts of some demonstrations in town and were given their locations and advised to stay away. We weren’t near them then, but it was nice to be notified of them.) If you don’t live in the U.S., I’m sure other governments have similar programs for travelers. And about ATMs, we’ve used them in Europe without any problems. Just make sure you notify your bank before traveling, so they don’t flag your ATM transaction in another country as suspicious! Have fun!

I didn’t read through all the comments, so I hope I’m not being repetitive. We thoroughly enjoyed our Viking river cruise from Prague to Paris last summer. I will add one note that we experienced. River traffic varies and the time to pass through the locks can change based on the number of ships, weather, etc. There were a few days when we arrived at our port later than planned and had much less time to explore the city. It wasn’t a deal breaker, but something you should be aware of. We also like to explore on our own, so there were times when we just joined a tour for a while and then told the guide we were going to branch out on our own. We always made sure we were back to the ship on time! We loved our trip and would recommend it to others.

You make an excellent point, Julia. As much as Viking tries to stick to its anticipated docking times, some things – like other ships waiting in line to go through locks, weather issues, and river levels – are beyond its control. It’s just the nature of this type of travel. And I think remembering that delays can arise on any type of travel (e.g., flights, cruises, trains) helps us all manage our expectations. So glad that you had a great cruise!

As mentioned throughout the comments, thank you so much for such insightful and helpful information! My husband and I are doing the Grand Tour B —> A in early October 2023. I am very intrigued by the Salzberg excursion but see that it is a 2 plus hour bus ride each way. Do you have any experience with that destination? Would an excursion like that feel to rushed to enjoy, or do you know if Salzberg is a “not to be missed” kind of place? Really, just looking for your opinion on longer trips off-ship. Thank you!

Hi Robin, you pose a great question, but it isn’t easy to answer! My husband and I had planned to go on the Salzburg excursion, but when we learned we would be spending so much time on the bus to travel there and back (for a total of 9.5 hours), we decided to spend our time in Passau instead. We didn’t regret our decision. We took the walking tour of Passau, enjoyed a leisurely lunch in town, went on a hike, and strolled around town afterward. We liked exploring on our own after getting the lay of the land from the morning tour guide. Having said that, I know that Salzburg is lovely and many people enjoy that excursion. Frankly, I don’t think you can go wrong either way, but they’re two very different experiences. Enjoy your cruise! It’s a great one!

Do you have to go on the planned excursion or can you go off and explore on your own?

Hi Daisy, you have the choice of going on the included or an optional excursion — or exploring on your own. Once you’re on the ship, you’ll learn the times that the ship will be docked in a city, so you can plan your day. For a walking tour (directly from the ship), some passengers go on the tour to learn about the destination and then spend the rest of the day shopping, enjoying a meal, or just wandering around. In addition, some people research other (non-Viking) tour options in advance of their cruise and book a personal or small-group tour to suit their specific interests on their own. Have fun whatever you decide to do!

Just found your site–lots of great info! We’re doing the Rhine Getaway, Amsterdam to Basel in early Oct, but haven’t actually booked yet! We love most of the optional excursions versus the included excursions but about how much do the optional ones cost? Are they like $20 per person or more like $200? For instance, how much is the “Top of Cologne” in Cologne Germany and is it worth it? I like the idea of a smaller group so that is a plus. Thank you!!

Hi Stephanie, Thanks for your kind words. As you know, Viking offers an included excursion in each port. These are typically large-group bus or walking tours of a city that provide a nice overview of a place. The optional excursions have smaller groups and are more focused on cultural, recreational, and even culinary experiences. That’s where you might find biking or hiking options, or as you mentioned, the “Top of Cologne” optional tour. My husband and I took the “Top of Cologne” excursion, and it was one of the best. It was led by an art historian who took us up to the very top of the cathedral (above the ceiling) where the craftspeople worked. Before we descended, we were able to step outside and soak in panoramic views of the city. That was just one of the optional tours we enjoyed and still talk about. There are costs associated with the optional tours and they vary, and I suppose that correlates with the costs Viking incurs. You’ll see all your options on the online My Viking Journey portal when the tours open up prior to your trip. I’ve not taken a Viking optional tour that I didn’t like, but I will say that there are passengers who also book tours independent of Viking due to a keen interest in something and the personal or small-group experience that is available with independent tour guides. Good luck with your planning, and have a great cruise!

So glad I discovered your very informative account of the Viking River Cruise! One question I have is how you handled local currency in Hungary as they do not use the euro. We have extended our cruise to allow two extra days in Budapest, thus giving us four days there. I’m sure we will need some “pocket money” for small purchases. Also, what shore excursions do you recommend while in Budapest?

Hi Pat, I’m so glad you found my article helpful! Regarding local currency in Hungary, you can head to an ATM once you’re there to get the amount of local cash you want. As for shore excursions, my husband and I enjoyed the walking tour (through Viking) that included the funicular up to Castle Hill. Also, we had booked an English-speaking tour of the Hungarian Parliament which ended up being fascinating; if you plan to do this, make sure to make reservations online ahead of your visit. We walked from where the ship was docked to the Parliament building for the tour and enjoyed a stroll back to the ship along the river. On our walk, we passed the Shoes Along the Danube (very moving) and other interesting sights. Some other Viking guests enjoyed their visits to the thermal baths, but we opted to “do our own thing” with the parliament tour and walks to areas recommended by our local tour guide (from the walking tour).

Doing the Grand European Trip for our 50th in May of 2023. Going from A to B with two extra days in Amsterdam and Budapest. 1. We do the red eye and get into Amsterdam early morning. After clearing customs and immigration and getting our luggage, how do we find Viking to take us to our hotel or how does Viking find us? 2. Check-in time for the hotel is 3:00 PM. Does Viking get us into our room early or do we have to check our luggage with the hotel and wait until 3:00 PM? 3. On leaving Amsterdam, check-out time from the hotel is Noon but embarkation is not till 3:00 PM. What does Viking do with our luggage once we check out of the hotel? I don’t want to waste any precious time in Amsterdam because this may be the last time we see it. Thanks.

Sounds like you’ve got a great anniversary trip planned, Gary! A few weeks prior to your departure, Viking will send stickers for you to wear at the airport when you land, so they can identify you as a Viking guest. (You’ll also receive Viking tags for your luggage.) As for the specifics about checking in to hotels and then embarkation timing, I’d suggest you contact Viking directly (or your travel agent if you used one to book the trip). That way, you’ll learn exactly how things will work with getting to and from that specific hotel. I hope you have a wonderful 50th celebration on the Grand European Tour!

Great article. Serious question…..how to get coffee in the morning without getting dressed??? Is room service available or will my husband have the opportunity to ‘fetch’ my coffee?

Hi Catherine, I’m glad the article was helpful. About coffee, there is a coffee and tea station on Viking’s river cruise ships that’s open 24/7 in the main common space. That makes it handy for your husband to fetch your morning cup! It’s also where you’ll find freshly baked goodies throughout the day.🙂 I hope you two have a fabulous time on your cruise!

Hi Lolly, thank you for the great article and this really prepared us for our trip next week. I have a quick question that I wouldn’t seem to find the answer online: We are thinking about renting a car at Koblenz and go to Nurburgring for a few hours and also at Speyer to go to Stuttgart for the day. Is that possible? We found the car rentals and made reservations, but we can’t find any daily schedule of when the ship docks and departs at each port. Just wondering if there is a regular daily schedule and of course we understand the change caused by water level, weather, etc. Thanks again!

Hi Danny, I’m not sure which cruise you’re referring to, but you asked an excellent question about renting a car to make day trips while on the cruise. I think it would be a tight schedule if the ship is docked for just a day. You’d need to factor in picking up and dropping off the rental cars and then driving to and from your planned destinations. 

I’d suggest you talk with the staff once you are aboard to learn of their planned docking times and see what they recommend. That way, you’ll have current information and be able to talk to people “in the know” to see if your plans will work. Even with that information, as you mentioned, dockings could be delayed to traffic on the river or there could be delays going through locks.

I’m sorry I can’t give you a more definitive answer, but so much depends on conditions at the time you board and what the staff recommends. I hope you have a wonderful cruise and that things work out for your planned day trips!

Re renting a car to go to a specific place Viking tours don’t include: Is Uber possible in the cities Viking goes to? I’d much rather take an Uber than rent a car!!! Also, for individualized tours – try Tours by Locals (we’ve had EXCELLENT tours in many, many cities including Europe, India, Malaysia, Thailand…), or AirBnB’s tours.

Hi Carol, Although ride-share companies, like Uber, are in many cities worldwide, they’re not everywhere, so it depends on what cities you’re considering. Some areas also have other popular ride-share companies like Bolt in Europe. It’s best to check availability online — or ask Viking — for the cities you’ll be visiting. As for Tours by Locals, I’ve used them, as well, and was pleased.

We are going on the Grand European tour in October 2022. How can we arrange individual tours or make dinner reservations if we dont know the times or the port arrangements? Do we just work with Viking program director on the day of or the day before?

Hi Kathleen, For individual tours and dinner reservations, I’d let the provider (tour company, restaurant) know what day you’ll be coming into port. They may be familiar enough with Viking’s schedule to easily accommodate you. Once onboard, verify the time you’ll be in port and then fine-tune your tour or dinner plans. Have a great cruise!

We are taking the Grand European cruise, B-A, in late September 2022. The water levels are extremely low right now. Any thoughts on how this might play out for us?

Hi Karen, A few things could happen when river levels are too low for cruise ships. Passengers could disembark and be bussed on an excursion and then afterwards, be bussed to a different location on the river where the water levels are higher. There they may board another ship. For example, sometimes two sister ships sail on the same one-way voyage starting at the same time – just at opposite ends of the itinerary. That way, if they reach a low point in the river, they can have passengers disembark, go on bussed excursions, and afterwards be taken to the sister ship that completes the journey. To accomplish this, passengers pack up the night before the transfer, and while out on excursions, their luggage is transferred to the other ship. When passengers get to the sister ship, their luggage is in their new cabins (which are usually the same cabins they had on the original ship).

Another option, if the river levels are too low overall, would be for passengers to be bussed from destination to destination, staying in hotels, throughout the cruise.

Incidentally, we had to change ships midway through a river cruise because of a broken lock on the river, and Viking handled it professionally and without too much inconvenience.

One thing to keep in mind is that things can change from day to day, week to week – and that includes river levels. Low river levels today might be just fine for cruising in a few days.

I guess the bottom line is to remember that disruptions can happen whenever we travel, so plan to get the most out of each experience and cherish the time that you get to explore new places and meet new people. I hope you have a wonderful time!

Lolly – just finished the Grand European tour a week ago (Budapest-Amsterdam). Was our first Viking cruise, so we used your article as a guide. We could not have chosen any better than the Skirnir and Viking. Everything was as you said – food, service, boat, amenities, all topnotch. (OK, the wifi in the rooms REALLY sucks…but if that’s your #1 problem, you aren’t doing badly). The hotel manager was great – and the program director was a literal Energizer Bunny. Herding 169 tourists onto separate buses all going separate places at separate times…wow, that’s a job! The maitre-d I am convinced is in league with the devil, as she tempted diners again and again with “just try this ONE little pastry”. Our stateroom steward kept the room immaculate. We kept our itinerary full, which might have been an error – trust me, you want to take a breather every few days! Viking then allowed us to purchase a no-expiry date voucher towards another cruise – an amount they matched. So for 200 dollars, we got a 400 value – good for tickets, flights, an excursion, or even the beverage package. We will definitely be using it in the years to come.

Oh, I’m so glad you had a wonderful cruise with amazing service! Haha, I got a kick out of being tempted with just one little pastry! Great service – sounds like Viking! As for keeping the itinerary full, it’s hard not to when you have so many great places to explore, but I agree that scheduling downtime is important, too. I bet you’re planning your next cruise already. I’m looking forward to ours next year!

I was curious about what time you have to be back on the ship at night. We are thinking we would might rather be wandering through the town and trying local cuisine.

Hi Karen, you will have the freedom to wander on your own in the evenings in some locations. Check your cruise itinerary as it will tell you the expected times your ship will be docked at each stop. Once onboard, you’ll be given more specific times, so you’ll be able to fine-tune your plans. Enjoy!

They will let you know on board. They say they will be staying til X o’clock and then leaving. Better be aboard, cuz they won’t wait!

Hi. I wonder if you have any thoughts on us meeting up with friends from Stuttgart. We would either meet in Bamburg or Wurzburg. Is this allowed? Also can you remember if those two cities is where the boat docked. Just thinking of the best options for meeting friends for a short visit. Thank you

Hi Theo, you shouldn’t have any problems meeting up with your friends in either Bamburg or Wurzburg while on the cruise. I’d suggest you reference your online itinerary on Viking’s site before departure to get a rough idea of when you’ll be docked in each city. Follow up with a conversation with the Viking staff when you’re onboard to learn the expected times and exact location of the ship while docked. This should allow you to finalize your plans to disembark and go meet your friends. Enjoy!

WOW, what a complete piece of well written and informative information we have come across. Thanks!! We are heading out on our first river cruise, the Kara from Basel to Amsterdam in late September this year. Trying to guess the weather so we can narrow down what to pack. We’re celebrating our 50th! One of many questions we have is how much currency (and what kind) to bring with us. We saw you comment about change for guides and such and credit cards with no foreign charges. But, what else would we spend money on? We’re planning on a dinner in a town, tour of some beer gardens and lunch in Heidelberg, and just walking around. Your comments are really appreciated.

Congrats on your 50th! Sound like you have a great cruise coming up! As for how much money to bring along, I usually start out with about $300 worth of local currency. That gives my husband and me plenty of money for tipping the local guides and bus drivers as well as Viking staff before we leave. Also, having cash is great for souvenirs, incidentals, snacks, or a quick lunch while exploring a city. By the way, Viking does build in a set amount of gratuities for ship staff (or you can arrange for this on your account before sailing), but you may also want to give a personal cash tip to staff members who are particularly helpful. If you think you might do that, you may want to take along a few blank thank you cards to enclose your extra tips, so you can explain why you valued their service so much. I know other travelers who just get cash out of ATMs while traveling (and I’ve done that, too, of course), but I just like beginning the trip with some local cash. Good luck! Have fun!

Most the times we always take the NCL cruise, but this is the first time on Viking Cruise River The Grand European Tour from Budapest to Amsterdam (for our 22nd anniversary).I’m so glad I found a lot of information from the article that’s very helpful for us for excursions, maybe transferring ships, parallel parked ships and other information. The best description and information about Viking River Cruise, thank you for taking the time to write this information, we’re very appreciate.

Thanks for your kind words, Triana. I hope you have a fabulous anniversary cruise!

Thank you for your informative article! We leave Saturday for Prague followed by the Budapest to Amsterdam Viking river cruise. We have booked all the included excursions, but have held off booking the optional ones as we love to do our own thing when in port, and perhaps covering more “ground” than the optional excursions. Can you tell me which docking/ports might be too far from the cities/towns? Thank you!

Hi Deb, you’re just a few days away from your journey. How exciting! One great thing about Viking is that many times their ships dock right in the towns, so it’s easy to get off and be on your way to make your own discoveries. Of all the stops on the Grand European Tour, these are the cities in which our ship had prime docking spots (making it very easy to go out and explore on our own): Budapest, Vienna, Melk, Passau, Regensburg, Wurzburg, Cologne, and Amsterdam. Keep in mind, though, that things are not 100% the same from cruise to cruise due, in part, to other ship traffic at the time. The best thing to do is to talk with a Viking staff member as soon as you board to find out details for your specific cruise. Good luck! I hope you have a wonderful time!

Thank you for all the information. We are planning to take the Grand European Tour in July of 2023. We are trying to determine if the additional cost for a veranda stateroom is worth the extra expense compared to the french balcony. On average, how much time did you spend on the boat sailing from each port? Do you travel overnight for most of the time or is there day travel as well?

Hi Tanya, Sounds like you have a great cruise coming up! About the stateroom, that really comes down to personal preference. Having the veranda offers you another personal space plus a nice perch (with chairs) from which to view the passing scenery during the time that the ship is sailing in daylight hours. (For my husband and me, having the personal outdoor space was high on our list. We enjoyed relaxing there and enjoying the sights and sounds of being on the ship. We actually enjoyed sitting outside in the dark before bed, too, cruising by small towns.) There’s a mix of traveling overnight (almost all of the time) and during the morning/afternoon/evening (some of the time). If you decide on the stateroom with a french balcony, you will still be able to enjoy some time outside in the common areas while the ship is sailing. I hope you have a wonderful time!

We are scheduled to take the Viking Danube cruise in early June 2022. We chose a French Balcony room. My question is about size of our luggage (or size limitation due room size). I have seem videos of rooms but cannot perceive where we can place our 2 luggages + backpacks and not having to hop over them inside our room. Please hare your opinion with me.

Hi Ricardo, It sounds like you have a great trip ahead! You can store your luggage under the bed(s). Once unpacked, you can put your backpacks in your empty luggage and slide it all under the bed(s) and not think about them until it’s time to leave. Have a great cruise!

First timer on river cruise. Does everyone get back on the bus when the excursion is over or is that the time you make plans for individual sightseeing? Did you use local guides? Did you bring euros or use credit card? Thanks

Hi David, it sounds like you’re gearing up for a great adventure! We went on the Viking excursions (with local guides) and did not book any local guides directly. A few guests scheduled independent sightseeing tours, and it seemed to work out well for them. By the way, the excursions included in the trip are typically large group experiences, while the optional excursions (available at an extra cost) are usually much smaller groups as they are more focused on specific areas of interest. We received great overviews of a place with the large group tours, but what we remember most were the unique experiences that came from the optional experiences. As for money, we used a credit card (with no foreign transaction fees) and Euros (very handy for tipping tour guides and purchasing small incidentals). Have a wonderful cruise!

Thank you for the excellent summary of each important category. It is very helpful to reduce wandering around looking like a tourist while trying to figure out the procedures. 🙂 Any further suggestions about picking up the excursion cards each morning? How early are they available to avoid the rush? Did you see anyone carry on and off luggage? We travel light with one roll aboard and one backpack. Any idea if the Terrace will be open for meals in the chill of November? Is there a restaurant seating option for introverts? 🙂 Thanks again.

I’m glad you found the article helpful, Thomas! Now to your questions. I’d suggest you ask about picking up excursion cards and other details like that once you’re on the ship, as some procedures like this may vary a bit. We travel light, as well, but the ship will take care of delivering your luggage to your room; we just kept our small carry ons (the ones that fit under the airplane seats) with us. The Aquavit Terrace is a great place to have a meal. There’s a section of the Aquavit Terrace at the very front of the ship that’s open to the weather, but there’s also an area (just behind it) that can be enclosed with sliding glass doors, so the area can be enjoyed when the weather isn’t cooperating. And about general seating at meals in the dining room, there’s a choice of large and small tables and there’s no assigned seating, so if you’re one of the early ones at meal time, you’ll have a great chance of finding a setting that suits you best. Have a wonderful cruise, Thomas!

Booked an Amsterdam to Budapest trip in September ’23….our first river cruise (for our 20th). Besides being helpful, your thorough details helped me to envision and imagine, which is my favorite part of planning! The daily planner for Vienna was the best….one of the stranger transitions from Ocean to River cruising is not having your port times right there on the schedule. Thanks for the great details!

I’m so glad you found the article helpful, Rich! I’m with you on how much fun it is to plan trips. Have a wonderful cruise next year!

Thank you for taking the time to write this informative piece. We thoroughly enjoyed a Viking Ocean cruise in 2019 and have been eager to try river cruising. We’ll do the Grand European from B to A in October this year. Your descriptions of the change of ship due to the broken lock and of docking side by side with other ships were reassuring. I will miss the free on board laundromat from ocean cruising though! Your advice about avoiding the far inland tours is wise, I think. We are not interested in spending a lot of time on buses. All the best.

I’m glad you found the article helpful. You mentioned laundry, and although there’s no laundromat on Viking’s European river cruise ships, there is a laundry service that you can use. (Depending on the category of your stateroom, the laundry service may be complimentary.) We sent some clothing to be laundered, and we were happy with that choice. Enjoy your cruise this fall!

Thanks for the great information. We are on a Viking rive4 cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam in April 2023.

What are your thoughts on the Silver Spirits package? I understand drinks are provided with meals but I enjoy a few drinks before dinner.

Good question, John, but it’s not an easy one to answer!

Here are a few things to think about when considering Viking’s Silver Spirits package.

As you probably know, Viking offers nice quality wine, beer, and soft drinks free of charge at lunch and dinner. The Silver Spirits package offers unlimited drinks including cocktails, premium wine, and beer. The Silver Spirits option is offered at a fixed price per guest and spans the entire length of the trip. You either choose it for your cruise, or you don’t – no daily option. (The price of the package varies, but it comes to about $20 or so a day per person.) If sharing a stateroom, both guests must pay for the package.

Paying upfront might offer peace of mind if you like knowing that it’s already paid for and you don’t have to think about an upcoming beverage bill. So it comes down to how much – and what kind of beverages – you’re likely to consume each day. You said you enjoy a few drinks before dinner, and if you add in some premium wine at dinner, the total you spend each day might add up pretty quickly. If you’re interested in figuring out the details, you may want to ask Viking for a bar menu with pricing before making up your mind.

With all that said, my husband and I did opt for the Silver Spirits package. In addition to cocktails, there were some very nice premium wine options aboard Viking, and we had fun trying ones that were new to us. We’ve had no regrets. 🙂

I hope you thoroughly enjoy your Viking cruise next year! Cheers!

Hi, Considering the Silver Spirits package. What are the charges for individual cocktails, apertifs or premium beers/wines by glass? Thanks

Hi Linda, you’re facing a big decision: to go with Silver Spirits or not! As you probably know, the package includes unlimited beverages when the bars are open. That includes any drinks up to $15 like cocktails, aperitifs, and premium wines by the glass. Without the Silver Spirits package, I’d plan on $6-10 for most cocktails, aperitifs, or premium wine by the glass. (Viking offers complimentary house wine and beer at lunch and dinner.) Another consideration, of course, is how often you might order specialty drinks from the bar: at lunch, throughout the day, before and/or after dinner? Some folks elect to get the Silver Spirits package because they enjoy trying new cocktails and/or premium wines while on vacation. Others get the package because they like having their drinks all inclusive without having to think about a bar tab. Hope this info helps you a bit! Have a wonderful cruise!

I agree with a previous comment about this being the most informative, most inclusive article I’ve seen as well. Indeed, very VERY helpful…especially for first time river cruisers. Thank you for your thoughtfulness. Good Job!!

I’m so glad you found the article helpful, Ronnie! Thank you!

I have been on 1 Viking River cruise and 3 (soon to be 4-I hope!) Ocean Cruises. My sister is taking her first river cruise in March and I found this site while trying to find info for her. This is by far THE BEST description and information on Viking River Cruises that I have ever read! Everyone should read this as every question seems to be answered well and clearly!

Thanks so much for the kind words, Laura! It makes me happy when I can help others get more comfortable with and enjoy their travels. Hope your sister finds her Viking river cruise everything she hopes it to be. What a great experience she has ahead of her! 🙂

Interesting information! We’re planning a Viking river cruise May 2022. Trying to navigate changing pandemic restrictions is a challenge I’d rather not have to deal with, but we’ll give it a try.

Thanks, Tom! We do indeed have new travel hiccups and challenges these days. I hope things go smoothly for you and that you have a wonderful time!

My husband and I will be sailing with Viking on a Rhine River cruise (Netherlands to Lucerne) this month and our very first river cruise (during a pandemic). Aside from the new safety protocols Viking has put in place your “Complete Guide to a Viking River cruise” was thoroughly informative, enjoyed the photos and took many notes while reading. Thank you for making me less anxious!

Happy traveling, Lolly!

Oh, I’m so happy you’re able to enjoy traveling safely during the pandemic. Yes, there have been changes to address public health safety, but I’m betting they won’t interfere with your overall enjoyment. And I’m so glad I was able to help you prepare for your cruise. Have fun! Bon voyage!

Thank you! We depart in 9 days on the Grand European tour, and this is the best account I have seen… we’ve done a dozen ocean cruises on several lines, but never a river cruise. My husband had been to a number of these cities on business and wanted me to visit them too, and this makes it sound easy. I liked the posted copy of the daily ‘news’ and we had already decided from our ocean experiences to take the drinks package. We’ve chosen a mix of the included tours and the custom days, avoided any places to which we’ve already travelled and have added in the ‘extensions’ to both ends, hoping to see friends in Amsterdam. Especially your tips on dinner were helpful — I will pack his blazer. And the small umbrellas! Since it will be November, and I’m also afraid of open heights we’ve opted for the French balcony room. The rooms do seem smaller than ocean cruiser rooms: did you stay in your cabin a lot? Thank you so much for this detailed account. Much better idea of what we’re ‘sailing’ into now!

Hi Cynthia, I bet you’re so excited about your upcoming trip! It sounds like you are all set. I just have one clarification about dressing for dinner mentioned in the article you read. Many folks do tend to change from the clothes they wore for daily excursions to something a little dressier for dinner, but I wouldn’t call dinner attire dressy. It would be more like “smart casual” (so no worn jeans and flip-flops, for example). Your husband doesn’t need to pack a blazer if he wouldn’t normally wear one for dinner. (I’m trying to save you room in your luggage!) People are relaxed aboard Viking river cruises (no dressy occasions), and that’s one thing people tend to enjoy about the experience. Have a wonderful time!

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High water (european rivers) – as of june 3, 2024.

Currently, sections of the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers are experiencing high water levels. To varying degrees, these conditions may affect select itineraries. Our Switzerland-based nautical team is continually monitoring the situation and will make any necessary adjustments to accommodate the conditions. Guests and their Travel Advisors will continue to be notified directly if we think that their itinerary might be impacted. Viking has two key advantages with regard to handling water level disruptions. First, we own and operate our ships. We have a Switzerland-based nautical team and a network of local partners and authorities that are focused on monitoring and adapting to current water levels to ensure our guests experience the least possible disruption. Second, we strategically launch sister ships on the same itinerary, but sailing in opposite directions. In the event of high (or low) water, this tactic allows us to implement a ship swap that is typically seamless for guests – both they and their luggage are able to be transferred to their exact, identical stateroom on a sister ship that was purposefully sailing on the other half of the river in preparation for such a disruption. These advantages allow us to minimize the impact that water levels can have on itinerary, which means our guests are better able to focus on enjoying themselves and having a great journey, rather than worrying about potential changes or cancellations.

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Travel, Lifestyle, And Fitness For Those Over 60

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Viking River Cruise Tips: 21 Important Things You MUST Know!

March 7, 2024 //  by  Linda Malys Yore //   44 Comments

Are you looking for Viking River Cruise tips to help you plan your trip?

Do you have questions about what life will be like when you are on board?

Look no further because I sailed the on an extraordinary Viking European river cruise and I have answers and tips for you.

When I sailed, I had no idea what to expect! I can assure you that Viking far surpassed any expectations I had!

Be prepared to be pampered by the attentive Viking staff.  Be prepared to visit fantastic and interesting locations, with local guides hired directly by Viking, to narrate and enhance your experience.

Be ready for sumptuous food. Be ready to meet interesting and wonderful people experiencing your Viking River cruise alongside you. Are you ready???

Viking River Cruise Tips: 21 Imoirtant Things You MUST Know!

#1) viking river cruises are small and intimate so be prepared to get to know your fellow travelers.

I had never been on a river cruise, only on the mega-huge ocean liners. I did not know what to expect.

There were only 186 passengers on our Viking River cruise.

Because your Viking River cruise ship will be smaller it will be easier to master its layout and locate everything.

So one of my first Viking riverboat cruise tips is to be prepared for a more personalized trip,

Prepare to be pampered, and look forward to meeting your fellow travelers on a personal level.

Viking River cruise tips: you decide how busy you want to be during your Viking River cruise!

 #2)  Be Prepared to Be Wowed By The Viking  Staff  Who Works Diligently To Ensure Your Perfect Trip Right From the Start

From the moment you sign up for your trip of a lifetime Viking river cruise, Viking will assign you a booking agent.

This will be your Viking ambassador who will do everything in their power to make your processing effortless.

Another of my Viking River cruise tips is to ask your booking agent all the questions you have.

The stunning lobby of the Viking Baldur. 

#3) Another Of The Viking River Cruise Tips Is To Make Your Online Profile At Home

Once your booking is completed, Viking will instruct you to set up your personalized online account.

You will have access to the daily options during your cruise, with descriptions of shore excursions and lots of information about the Viking ship you will be sailing on.

Another of my Viking River cruise tips is to familiarize yourself with this personalized online resource. There is a Q & A section, videos, and tips for every day of your journey.

Viking River cruise tips: familiarize yourself with the information in your online personalized account while you are still at home.

#4)  Utilize The Personalized Cruise Documents Viking Will Send You Before Your Trip

Well before your departure date, you will receive your cruise documents in the mail from Viking.

Your cruise documents booklet will contain everything about your Viking River cruise in one place.

The itinerary, your specific ship, your flight information (if arranged through a Viking booking agent), and detailed embarkation details for the sailing day.

There’s a “before you go” section, containing information about passports/visas, onboard dress code, packing tips, and local currencies.

The “your cruise in detail” lists in great detail each stop on your itinerary, and explanations of the tours Viking offers, both included and optional tours.

One of the best Viking River cruise tips I can share is to read your cruise documents booklet from front to back to prepare for the best Viking trip ever.

#5)  Do Not Worry About Transfers Because Viking Will Transport You To Ship And Back To Airport

You won’t have to worry about getting to the ship or to the airport once your river cruise is completed, because Viking Viking handles all of that for you.

If you decide to go a bit early or stay on your own to explore after the cruise concludes, (not arranged through Viking) then you will be responsible for your transportation.

This is a great Viking tip to be aware of.

Viking River cruise tips: plan to read the daily newspapers (on the tabletop) Viking provides for several countries, to stay on top of current events!

#6)  Take Advantage Of The Trip Extensions Viking Cruises Offer

You are going to a far-off destination anyway, so why not consider staying longer to enjoy the sights and experience the culture and history?

You will have a variety of cities and destinations to select from which you can add on at the beginning or at the end of your trip.

I was not able to take advantage of this Viking River cruise tip for a variety of reasons.

But my fellow passengers raved about the hotel accommodations and the arranged tours Viking Cruises offered through these extensions.

If you plan a longer stay before or after your river cruise,  speak with your booking agent about your dates.

You can extend your travel plans within 30 days of the beginning or end dates of your cruise. This is a great perk and a great Viking river cruise tip!

#7) You Will Have More Room Than You Think In Your Cabin On Your Viking River Boat Cruise

If you are wondering how you will manage in a small cabin, I can assure you that you will have plenty of space.

You will find a surprising amount of storage space in your stateroom. There are lots of drawers to organize your clothes and unmentionables in.

The closet was large and easy to accommodate the hanging clothes of two adults. If you need more hangers, ask your room steward who will bring them.

Read also: All about my experiences the first week of the Viking Grand European Tour

There is plenty of room for two to walk around the room on a Viking river cruise. 

When your unpacking is completed, you store your luggage under your bed! That is so genius.

Even the largest, most cumbersome piece of luggage can fit under your bed ensuring a tidy room with space to move around comfortably!

Viking River cruise tips: once you finish unpacking, place your suitcase under your bed.

#8)  Utilize The Refrigerator Viking Provides In Your Stateroom

Viking thought of everything by placing refrigerators in every stateroom! 

This is a great perk because you can have chilled water, juice, or whatever you want right at your fingertips in the privacy of your room.

There is no 24-hour room service offered on Viking riverboat tours. So a few Viking tips are to eat a hearty dinner and stock your cabin refrigerator with snacks and drinks for the midnight munchies .

Read next: Week two of my Viking Grand European Tour

A delicious Viking River cruise tips is to keep snacks and drinks in your stateroom refrigerator.

#10) You Will Find A Large Screen TV In Your Room But You May Not Watch It During Your Viking Riverboat Cruise

There is a huge television in every room and there are some great viewing options. You can select from television shows, movies, documentaries, news outlets, and follow your ship’s location.

Another of the Viking riverboat tips is you can decide when you wish to watch TV, if at all, or spend a relaxing afternoon catching up on the world’s current events.

An important Viking Riverboat tip is to place your audio devices in the charging station.

#11) Make Use Of Amenities In Your Stateroom Bathroom During Your Viking River Cruise

While the bathroom was a smidge on the small side,  it is modern and welcoming.

The walk-in shower is luxurious, and Viking even provides a retractable clothesline for washing your unmentionables during your trip.

One of the best Viking riverboat cruise tips is to lighten your packing load, bring less, and handwash some of your clothes during your trip.

Use the clothesline to hang them to dry, overnight or while you are out on an excursion.

There are plenty of shelves for 2 to place toiletries and makeup.

Also, Viking river cruises are so smooth that none of your things will slide around.

Beautifully sleek and modern stateroom bathroom.

Shampoo, conditioner, hand soap, and body lotion are all supplied.

A great Viking river cruise tip is to turn off all bathroom lights during the night, which will trigger the nightlight to come on.

You won’t be worried about stumbling while getting to the bathroom at night.

#12) Utilize The Safe In Your Stateroom During Your Viking Riverboat Cruise

Another of my Viking River Cruise tips is to keep your passport and credit cards in your room safe securely locked.

You may be advised at the beginning of the cruise it will not be necessary to bring your travel documents when you leave the ship.

There may be one or two shore excursions when bringing your passport will be mandatory, but otherwise, keep them securely locked in your room.)

One of my additional Viking River Cruise tips is to make copies of your travel documents while still at home and carry these with you instead as a safeguard.

Lock up your travel documents, jewelry, credit cards, and money.  

#13)  Be Prepared To Be Pampered Because The Viking Cruise Staff Caters To Your Every Need With A Smile

The staff-to-passenger ratio is very close on the smaller and more intimate Viking River Cruises.

You will get to know your cabin steward personally as he/she will be responsible for the daily upkeep of your stateroom, plus fulfilling your daily wishes.

Another of my Viking River Cruise tips is to ask for those things that will enhance your trip as the Viking staff are there to serve you.

The dining room staff, the bar staff, the reception staff, and the officers of the ship you will be sailing on will all be there to serve you. 

And you will recognize them and soon call them by their names. They get to know you very quickly and address you by your name.

Here I am with the officers of the Viking Baldur.. One of the best big Viking river cruise tips: just ask!

Here I am with Tessa, the program director.. Do not hesitate to approach any Viking staff member with questions or concerns.

#14) Let The Staff Know If You Are Celebrating A Milestone While On Viking Riverboat Cruises

If you will be celebrating something special such as a birthday or an anniversary, one of my Viking River Cruise tips is to notify the staff of your riverboat.

You can inform them online while still home in your personalized online account, or onboard the ship once sailing has commenced.

The Viking staff will make sure to personalize your special celebration.

Notify your wait staff of any occasions you want to celebrate.

#15) Dining Options Are Up To You During Your Viking Riverboat Trip

Viking continually is winning top awards for culinary excellence. The Viking kitchen staff stands ready to create unforgettable meals to please you.

My Viking River cruise tip is to notify the Viking staff of any special dietary restrictions or preferences you have. They are professionals and capable of dealing with just about any request.

Another Viking tip is to seek out the Maitre D or the chef as soon after you arrive onboard and identify yourself and your specific dietary preference.

Sit at different tables in the main dining room each time to meet more of your fellow passengers. Seats are not assigned.

#16) Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner On A Viking River Cruise: It’s Up To You!

The two dining locations you can choose from on your Viking River cruise are the main dining room, and the terrace, which is smaller and a bit more casual.

A Viking cruise tip is that you may select which location you wish to dine at, and then inform your wait staff of your dining preference and your customized meal will be served to you.

Another cruise tip is to familiarize yourself with your breakfast and lunch option

Breakfast is served in the main dining room and the terrace.

Muffins and scones are available at two coffee stations, where you can make any fancy coffee you desire, with tea being available as well.

Read Next: The Ultimate 2 Days In Amsterdam Itinerary. if you will be flying into Amsterdam to begin a Viking river cruise!

Consider having lunch out on the terrace. Or breakfast. Or dinner!

Plan to sit at many different tables, with different people to meet more of your fellow passengers.

The same is true for lunch, with cookies and regional pastries being available instead at the coffee stations.

During your trip, a great Viking river cruise tip is to mix things up, be flexible depending on your specific plans for a specific day, take turns trying out all the eating options you have!

Here is one of two coffee stations available on board a Viking River cruise ship.

Breakfast and lunch are offered within a window of time at your pleasure.

Dinner, however, is served promptly at 7 PM for all guests.

Decide to have dinner or lunch out on the terrace.

There is no 24-hour room service onboard Viking river cruises. A great Viking tip is to eat a full dinner and carry away a snack or two to store in your onboard refrigerator.

An additional cruise tip is grab some cookies from either of the coffee stations.

#17) Consider If A  Silver Spirits Beverage Package During Your Viking Cruise Is for You

Onboard during your journey, soft drinks and house wines, both red and white house wines are available to you during lunch and dinner hours.

This is ample time to enjoy a delicious glass of wine or a soft drink.

However, Viking offers for your consideration the Silver Spirits Beverage Package. This includes all wines, beers, cocktails, mixers, long drinks, and soft drinks anytime throughout your day  and night.

A great Viking river cruise tip is to consider if the Silver Spirits Beverage Package is a good choice for you, or not.

This is a personal choice, so discuss it with your Viking booking agent, as we did. If you decide to onboard during sailing, you will be accommodated on board.

Decide if Viking’s Silver Spirits Beverage Package is for you.

#18)  Take Advantage Of The Daily Excursions Viking Offers, Each With A Local Guide

In your personalized online Viking account which you will set up, you will find all the excursions Viking offers you during your cruise.

Every day Viking has an included tour. These tours are free to all passengers. I signed up for every single included tour on our Grand European Tour cruise that I took.

There are also additional optional excursions offered by Viking at a lot of the destinations, which have additional fees.

The Viking motorcoach in Vienna, Austria. All Viking coaches for all excursions are comfortable and quiet. 

ALL tours offered by Viking are exceptional and dive into the local history and current culture of the cities and villages you will visit. .

On each tour, Viking provides a local guide, who usually lives in the area, and will narrate everything.

They are open to questions from the group. You will wear Audiovox hearing devices to hear your guide, which you will find in your room.

One of my top Viking tips is to place your hearing device back on its charger when you return to your room, so it will be fully charged for the next excursion.

#19) You Decide What To Do, Or Not Do, Onboard During Your Viking River Cruise

Another one of the great Viking tips is while traveling on a Viking river cruise, you are in charge of your schedule. You decide how busy you want to be. Or not!

There will be mornings or afternoons during your trip when the ship will be sailing to its next destination. Or days when your ship will remain in port overnight or for a few days.

During these times, Viking always has onboard enrichment programs available.

It is my experience that Viking hand-selects only people who are experts in their fields, who are engaging, and who present their information in an interesting and captivating way. 

Viking river cruise tips is that I recommend you carefully consider your schedule and how rested you are, and attend as many enrichment lectures and demonstrations as you can.

Attend as many onboard enrichment lectures/demonstrations as you can. 

#20)  Be Aware WiFi Is Available But Not Like At Home On Your Viking River Boat Cruise

You will travel through some of the most beautiful countryside and scenery on the planet.

That often precludes a strong internet signal, due to remoteness and mountainous regions.

Once on board, you can ask for the ship’s WiFi password.

One of the biggest Viking river cruise tips is to be careful and check your phone settings frequently.

Be certain that you are on the ship’s Wifi, and not its satellite system, which would be prohibitively expensive.

Another Viking cruise tip is walking around onboard your ship, and speaking with your fellow passengers to reveal the best location(s) that provide the strongest wifi.

Wifi bandwidth is strongest when in port, very early in the morning, or very late at night .

The strongest signals are usually in the individual towns and villages your ship will visit. 

You want to text and check email when out on your excursion tours.

And of course, McDonalds and Starbucks offer free lightning-fast internet anywhere in the world, so a great one of my top Viking River cruise tips is to look for them if you wish to use the internet.

Read Next: 7 Best Things To Do In Passau Germany if this wonderful city is on your itinerary.

#21)  Gratuities Are Expected (You Won’t Mind Tipping!) On Your Viking River Boat Cruise

So what is the the tipping policy on Viking River Cruises?

You will get to know your onboard wait staff during your Viking River cruise.

They are all truly dedicated to serving you and go out of their way to please you.

  In your cruise documents booklet mailed to you, a Viking River Cruise tipping guide is availabe with suggestions for the program director, wait staff, and local guides.

Viking River cruise tips suggest that tipping is totally at your discretion.

Austria night in the main dining room of the Viking Baldur. 

Viking River Cruise Tips: My Packing List!

If you want packing tips read my How to Pack lightly article.

This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

These RFID sleeves would be a solution.

This world traveler adapter kit can charge several devices at the same time.

This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.

My daughter gifted me this  FugeTek Selfie Stick and Tripod  for my birthday. It has Bloothtooth connectivity so it is easy to use.

  These Bagail packing cubes   are  the exact ones I use whenever I travel .

I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for travel and fits nicely in a backpack or purse.

This replaceable carbon filter ensures fresh water when you fill your Bobble.

You will want a backpack or daypack to store snacks, water bottles, phones, extra clothes, etc… This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great.

Mostly everyone is familiar with the Skechers brand, and these Air Run high fashion sneakers come in colors to match your outfits and are still affordable.

If your Viking River Cruise is in warmer weather, maybe you want a pair of sandals to wear at dinner or on local excursions. I highly recommend these Vionics adjustable strap orthotic sandals.

This cotton unisex lightweight scarf is versatile and can be worn in any season.

These unisex polarized sunglasses come in lots of lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable.

If you are fond of aviator-style aviator-style sunglasses these polarized aviators may interest you.

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Reader Interactions

November 27, 2018 at 9:28 pm

This all looks and sounds lovely, I think I shall just have to try one out. Thank you.

November 29, 2018 at 11:00 am

Christine, you would love river cruising. Much more intimate and pampering than a large party cruise ship.

January 6, 2019 at 8:28 pm

10/2018 Danube river cruise was a bus trip due to low river. Viking did not inform their clients.

January 6, 2019 at 9:49 pm

Marlyn, I received an email before my Viking European river cruise about the possibility of a trip disruption due to low river waters. Did Viking not pre-warn you via email about this possibility?

January 21, 2019 at 6:25 pm

We did our eleventh Viking cruise this fall, Basel to Amsterdam. This was our third time on this particular cruise.

Viking did inform us by email that due to the low river levels, we may have to change ships during the cruise. This did happen, but it was greatly preferable to having the cruise cancelled! It was inconvenient to have to pack up our room in the middle of the cruise and then unpack again. But the Viking crew did all the carrying and transporting of luggage between ships.

Meanwhile we had a slightly longer bus trip to our planned destination of Heidelberg Castle, and another slightly longer bus trip back to the ship afterwards. However, we were able to see quite a bit of the German countryside that we normally would have missed, so we thought that was a plus.

We heard that Viking was the only cruise line allowed on most of the Rhine with the water that low. In Cologne, the water level was less than three feet!

January 22, 2019 at 2:42 pm

Wow! Eleven Viking cruises! That’s amazing! Our experience was similar to yours, and only one optional excursion had to be canceled. I thought Viking did an exceptional job of handling the situation. Not too many of our fellow passengers complained because it was not Viking’s fault, it was Mother Nature herself! Have you tried a Viking Ocean Cruise?

March 29, 2019 at 11:19 pm

Hello Linda, I found all your tips helpful and encouraging. My husband and I have an upcoming Danube Waltz cruise on Viking. Do you recall any information about the mattress brand and/or pillow brand that Viking uses? Or can you describe the firmness of the mattresses, and thickness and construction of the pillows? I am wondering if I should bring pillows from home for comfort sake. Thank you, Lory

March 30, 2019 at 8:49 am

I do apologize but I did not check the mattress brand. It was unbelievably comfortable though. Sometimes too hard or too soft hurt my hips and I do not sleep well and I am a wreck the next day, however I had no problems w/the mattress. The pillows were light & fluffy with a good weight. However I did not use them to sleep. I brought my own pillow. That is my personal choice though. I always travel w/my own pillow wherever I go. I am excited for you. I love the intimacy of river cruises. Have a fabulous time.

May 25, 2019 at 11:15 am

I took my first Viking River cruise last June. I was on the Viking Var. It was amazing.The staff, the food, everything was excellent.

May 25, 2019 at 8:46 pm

Ooooh I am so happy you love Viking as much as I do.

June 16, 2019 at 11:38 am

We are leaving in two weeks on our first Viking cruise from Basal to Amsterdam. We are getting excited. This is for our 40 th anniversary. Any tips on what to wear.

June 16, 2019 at 2:51 pm

CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Happy #40. Bring sturdy shoes bc you will probably be walking more than usual. Viking dress code is comfortable. Like what you would wear to church or out to dinner. Check the weather. That will dictate what to bring. My next cruise is having weather in the 90s! Now that really has dictated the attire I will be bringing! Check out my “Alaska Cruise Packing List” on lindaontherun.com. Although it is for Alaska, it has LOTS of cruise suggestions for you to consider, from clothes to electronics and sunglasses. Best of luck to you as you sail with Viking. That is such a pretty part of Europe too!

June 23, 2019 at 10:16 am

Took my son in 2017 first time Viking and it met all expectations and surprised my son on how much fun he had with all us “old folks”. He is dairy free and they made special meals for him each day. My husband and I have cruised the oceans for the past 18 years and are now moving into the Viking world.

Value, service and small boat cannot compare with the other experience!!!!

June 24, 2019 at 1:53 am

So happy your son had a great Viking experience. I am planning to sail with my daughter as well. Hope she loves Viking as much as we all do!

June 26, 2019 at 8:43 am

Thanks for the informative post, Linda! We’re booked for Vikings Waterways of the Tsars in the fall. Have you had any travel experience in Russia?

June 29, 2019 at 2:40 am

No experience traveling to Russia yet. This sounds like a fabulous experience to have. You will be in great hands with Viking!!

July 4, 2019 at 1:21 pm

This is an amazing trip! It was the only item on my bucket list, and I wasn’t disappointed. My adult son and I often travel overseas (the hubby is not a traveler) and he was awed also. Take LOTS of digital cards and extra batteries for your camera. Viking will stop in town for you to exchange money, BUT you have to ask them (then even helped translate!). Also, the banks want CRISP, UNUSED dollar bills. Not sure why, but fortunately I had those (they refused to exchange our used bills). The son and I took several tours independently of each other, and loved everything. We really enjoyed the Bana option – do be sure to take a swimsuit. The son is a professional concert musician, and picked up sever CDs of chants. I collect Russian lacquer boxes, so I enjoyed discussing that with several artisans. My best friend collects Santas, and I purchased a lovely one for her. Either make sure you have plenty of room in your suitcase, or carry a foldable one for everything (we do foldable). Can’t say enough about the Viking Russian cruise. Totally awesome!!!!!

July 8, 2019 at 7:34 am

This sounds amazing. Thanks so much for sharing your experiences!

July 3, 2019 at 6:20 pm

We will be on Viking Hild, Basel to Trier, Rhine and Mosel Rivers. September, 2019. This will be our first Viking Cruise! Really getting excited about this first class experience. Thank you for your information.

July 4, 2019 at 7:14 am

I am very very excited for you. I wish you a very happy trip!

July 4, 2019 at 6:42 pm

We are going on our first Viking cruise on the Rhine. How large are the groups on the included excursions.?

July 6, 2019 at 2:23 pm

Viking does an exceptional job diving up the guests into groups of about 25 or so on excursions. Each group has a local guide that narrates. You will have an audio sound unit w/headphones in your room. You will be able to hear the guide very well. Have a wonderful trip.

October 22, 2019 at 1:56 am

Hello Linda, Thank you for all the wonderful tips. Anyway my hubby n I will be doing our first Viking cruise from November 16-23; this year from Basel to Amsterdam. This will be cold and possibly rainy. Any tips on what to bring to wear? Thanks, Alice

July 5, 2019 at 3:52 pm

My mom and I are leaving for Viking Homelands in late August and will need 6 different currencies for tipping local guides (excursions). And I’m not sure how prevalant credit cards will be accepted for shopping during the excursions. Any pointers on this front?

July 6, 2019 at 2:19 pm

I would suggest you call Viking or the travel agent that booked your cruise for you for some info and answers. Those are important questions. I am currently traveling in Europe visiting several different countries. In my travel info, locations that only accepted cash & not credit cards was disclosed beforehand. The cruise line or your booking agent will probably have answers for you. Have a great time. PS- I travel a lot with my daughter too.

July 8, 2019 at 4:01 pm

We will fly into Basel for our Rhine Getaway Cruise. Should we have Swiss Francs in addition to euros? Or will even have time to site see and be on the ship instead?

July 11, 2019 at 11:14 pm

I am so excited for you! This sounds fantastic. I would call Viking directly to get the answer to your question.

August 14, 2019 at 4:04 pm

Great article. Viking is the Best. We are taking our 4th in March; Passage to Eastern Europe this time. Have done the Grand European twice as we loved it so much the first time. Paris to the Swiss Alps was also great. We always do pre or post extension since we are already there and it adds to the great cruise.

August 16, 2019 at 1:51 am

Linda, I am currently on Vikings Waterways of the Tsar’s cruise from St Petersburg to Moscow. It is *unbelievable* and I encourage you to add this to your list! The food, the itinerary & of course the staff are all unbeatable!!!

October 5, 2019 at 9:34 am

Considering a Rhine River cruise with Viking. Do you know if Fox cable news is available on the in cabin TV? I know if sounds like a stupid question, but my travel companion can’t sleep without it being on at night.

October 6, 2019 at 5:17 pm

I am going to say I am pretty sure, but I would call Viking to be specifically sure.

October 10, 2019 at 4:06 pm

We are going on our first Rhine cruise later this month. Are curling irons allowed on board ?

October 10, 2019 at 9:36 pm

Look in the fine print of the cruise document booklet Viking sent you to clarify. On my trip, they were not permitted. (But Viking did not search luggage either)

January 27, 2020 at 4:08 pm

I’m so excited to go on my first Viking Cruise. I’m doing the Cities of Light. What is customary to tip the boat staff & who all should I tip. Sorry I have no clue.

January 27, 2020 at 4:15 pm

I am SO HAPPY for you. Viking Cruises has a tipping policy you can access on their website. Wishing you the absolute best trip. Bob Voyage!

January 27, 2020 at 4:33 pm

Oh great, I will check it out. Do you have any idea when we eat a meal off the ship What the tipping would be? 15-20% like here in US?

December 11, 2022 at 7:48 pm

Thanks for all the information! We are getting ready to leave on our first Viking river cruise – Danube Christmas Market!

December 22, 2022 at 6:29 pm

We just went on the Viking Danube Waltz cruise. It was amazing! Your tips were very helpful on what to expect. We did an extension after the cruise in Prague. Very worth it! Funny thing, the hotel room was enormous compared to our cabin on the boat, but had less storage space. I preferred the bathroom on the boat!

December 26, 2022 at 2:30 pm

Thank you so much for sharing your Viking experience! I love all the storage on the Viking river boats!

May 29, 2023 at 11:55 am

Did I see gloves (dress gloves? rubber?) amongst your items in your stateroom? What purpose does these serve?

May 31, 2023 at 3:40 pm

Hi Diane, I used gloves to wash undergarments during the cruise.

August 31, 2023 at 7:39 pm

I can think of only one tip: GO! Book a cruise now. You will not regret it. Best time I ever had.

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Things to Expect on a Viking River Cruise

By: Author Melody Pittman

Posted on March 30, 2024

A Viking River cruise promises a cascade of moments enveloped in luxury, culture, and unparalleled hospitality. Each twist and turn tells a story as the ship unfolds the treasures along the Seine, Rhine, or Danube, whichever journey you’ve chosen. You’re invited to live and breathe this narrative. Here’s more about what to expect on a Viking River Cruise vacation.

Your Voyage Beckons

Upon arrival in Paris (or your embarkation city), the City of Lights extends an enchanting welcome as your vessel, a sleek beacon of modern navigation, awaits your arrival. The Viking Fjorgyn (For this article, I’ll refer to my cruise onboard this ship) is a masterpiece of maritime design that  becomes your floating home,  tucked within the cinematic backdrop of the Eiffel Tower, mere steps away.

Pro Tip:  For this  Paris to Normandy cruise , the ship will be overnight in Paris, so your arrival time is less critical than many other itineraries. 

Thanks to Viking for hosting me on two river cruises. As always, opinions are 100% mine and unbiased.

A Morning Ritual to Cherish

Greet the day aboard with a delicious breakfast spread in the inviting ambiance of the ship’s main restaurant or the lovely indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. Good food is certainly something you’ll expect on your Viking River Cruise, and trust me, you’ll get plenty.

Mornings are a time for indulgence—perhaps you’ll enjoy Eggs Benedict, warm pancakes, or a taste of fresh muesli. The daily spread caters to every palate. Guests are free to eat from the buffet or order a plated meal from the menu—or both.

Should you wake up early, coffee and pastries will await you in the common area in front of the lounge from 6 AM to 11 AM.

Coffee and pastries are available in front of the Lounge from 6 to 11 AM. Guests can also enjoy a continental breakfast (with a few breakfast-sized dishes) on the Aquavit Terrace. The fruit is also fresh, no matter what location you are in.

Culinary Reverie at Lunch and Dinner

When it’s lunchtime, sit in the restaurant or take in the riverside views from the Aquavit Terrace. From chicken salad, Vichyssoise, and grilled paninis to comforting lasagna that speaks of home, Viking’s menu selections tantalize your taste buds with every course.

And when the day wanes into the evening, dinner is an affair you’ll want to linger over. I’ve never had a bad meal on Viking River Cruises, which is a bold statement. I love that you can hop from table to table to meet new cruisers during your journey and that you have staples for the picky eater who may not like every night’s course.

Complimentary beer and wine are served with each. Guests can also buy drinks at the bar anytime of day or night.

Pro Tip:  You’ll find the daily menus on your stateroom TV and posted outside the restaurant. 

A Night of France Extravaganza

Prepare to be whisked away on a culinary odyssey through France (or your chosen destination) as Viking serves up a spectacular Taste of France dinner during one night of your itinerary. This tour de force of gastronomy reflects the Viking commitment to delivering authentic and spellbinding experiences.

Having cruised in Germany multiple times, I thought the German Food Feast was sensational, but the French night even one-upped it. Regardless, it’s a great effort for them to make such a unique international food and drink dining experience.

To see what looks fun at your German cruise ports , check out this post.

Well-Appointed Staterooms

Viking River Cruises has neutral color hues throughout your stateroom and all the comforts of home. There are drawers, a closet for unpacking, and a dresser for housing personal items, water and glasses, all your paperwork and brochures, and electronics. Kudos to Viking for offering enough outlets for charging.

The bathroom is functional, with space for storing toiletries and a built-in hairdryer and vanity. However, I can’t remember if the outlets allow for US devices (curling iron, electric shaver, etc.), so it’s always a good idea to bring a  travel plug adapter . 

Enrich Your Spirit With Daily Activities

Each sunset brings an opportunity for personal enrichment, with port talks from the program director that paint a vivid picture of tomorrow’s adventures. My favorite was the Enrichment Lecture: Painters Along the Seine, which provided in-depth insights into the most famous French-connection painters Renoir, Monet, and Van Gogh. You can also listen from your stateroom.

Pro Tip:  Viking offered an optional painting class to help you create your own impressionistic painting. The fee was 10 euros per person and limited to 25 guests. 

Wine and cheese tastings are the jewels in the crown of onboard activities, where the region’s best varieties are served on your plate. And then there are the wine tastings—think Bordeaux, Moscato, and Rieslings.

And don’t even get me started on the live music—your evenings will be elegantly scored by talented local musicians and the ship’s pianist, each note a celebration of the region’s artistry.

You can sometimes request your favorite songs. Dancing is encouraged.

The Viking Daily and Excursions to Enrich Every Da y

Imagine unwinding in your cabin after an event-filled day, only to find the Viking Daily newsletter awaiting you with what tomorrow brings. This isn’t just a newsletter; it’s your passport to the excitement of the upcoming day’s adventures.

Whether a gentle exploration tailored for ease or an adventure accessed by motorcoach, these inclusive outings promise to reveal the soul of the regions through which you travel. One is included daily with Viking, plus a few options for purchasing an additional paid excursion.

Please note that when the description mentions “leisure,” such as a leisure walk, it is suitable for all ability levels. The guide will be mindful of anyone with walking disabilities and take it slow.

In Paris, our  Panoramic Paris  featured a bus ride around town. In my past cruises, my favorite add-ons were:

• The  Palace of Versailles .
• Picturesque Honfleur on foot.
• A Bernkastel-Kues wine tasting.
• An eight-hour tour of Normandy and its beaches. 

Find everything from weather forecasts, precise sunrise and sunset times, and enchanting histories of locations eagerly awaiting your visit. Should you venture solo and need to reach the ship, Viking’s contact numbers are always at hand, ensuring a safe and secure experience.

Revel in Unparalleled Sun Deck Serenity

Sunny days and scenic cruising confer on the Sun Deck. It becomes a sanctuary for relaxing moments, a sip of something delightful, or the perfect corner to lose oneself in the pages of a book, all while the scenery plays out before you.

Some of the Viking ships have a putting range, giant yard games, and herb gardens on top. There is also plenty of seating and excellent places for photo ops.

A Vanguard in Health and Safety

Viking River Cruises indeed heeds care and caution regarding passenger safety. In a world of uncertainty, your well-being is the topmost priority. Courtesy runs through the ship in the form of ample hand sanitizer stations, yet carrying your own is the signature of a seasoned traveler.

Conscientiousness dictates the use of masks where appropriate, when applicable, reminding us that our health is our own to guard.

The Ultimate River Cruise Experience Beckons

With every detail meticulously planned and every vista thoughtfully presented, a Viking River Cruise is more than travel – it’s an adventure where passengers meet the wanderlust of the soul. It’s an invitation to witness the world up close, imbued with charm and ensconced in the ease of world-class amenities.

There’s a world out there waiting to be seen, and it’s seen best from the deck of a Viking ship, a brand devoted to bringing you the quintessence of exploration. Sail away with Viking and relish the river cruise experience as it should be – authentic, awe-inspiring, and unforgettable.

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Viking River Cruise: 15 Things to Know Before You Go

By Helene Sula

The moon shone brightly on the smooth Rhône River as we sailed silently, passing dimly lit chateaus and castles. I took a seven-day Viking River Cruise through France’s Provence and Lyon region and was not only enthralled with the scenery but adored the ship itself. 

If you're considering a Viking Cruise or want to know what it's like to sail on a river, this post will guide you through everything you need to know before you go.

I boarded the Viking Buri on a windy spring day in Avignon, France. Upon arrival, waiters greeted me with a lemongrass scented towel and a glass of ice water. After briefly looking at our passports, the Maître d' himself ushered our luggage into a cozy stateroom and explained the features of the room.

Was this really a cruise? Yes. And it only gets better from here.

Viking Cruises offers excursions on the sea and river. I was delighted to spend seven days along the Rhône River on the Provence and Lyon itinerary .

Viking features a number (over 60 in fact!) of river cruises on their fleet. I've outlined what you can expect on a river excursion.

15 things to know before you take a Viking River Cruise

It’s stress-free..

When I set sail on Viking I was immediately met with many questions, the most frequent, why take a cruise? To me, taking a cruise is probably the most relaxing vacation.

Travel planning usually takes a lot of time: where to stay, eat, sleep, and most importantly, what to see. But when taking a cruise much of this (and more) is done for you. With a Viking cruise, you know they've taken care of everything. You can sit back and enjoy the scenery around you. No need to stress. When I really want to relax I choose Viking.

See my first time cruising with Viking, here:

Stress-Free Travel with Viking Ocean Cruises

Very few “extra” costs

I hate being nickel and dimed. When paying for a vacation, I want to know all of my costs up front. This is one thing I love about Viking. Once you pay for your cruise, you’re pretty much all set. Included is a tour every day, all of your meals, and unlimited beer and wine at lunch and dinner. If you want an alcoholic drink at any other time, you can purchase the reasonably-priced “Silver Spirits” package which includes unlimited top-shelf liquor, specialty beer, and wine — available whenever you want.

Once you book your cruise, you’ll receive extensive details about your journey and options for booking tours. Of course, you can stick to the included tours. We spent more to take a few optional tours. For example, we took a truffle, cheese, and wine tasting tour outside of Lyon — one of my favorite experiences on the trip. We also purchased an additional trip to a Les Baux to see “Carrieres de Lumières” — an incredible display of Van Gogh’s artwork on an old stone quarry wall. Set to music, it felt like walking through a real life “Fantasia” and as if I was part of the artist's masterpieces. I think these tours were all well worth the additional cost. 

At the bottom of this post I share my exact trip itinerary.

It’s surprisingly casual

I was a bit worried that I wouldn’t have enough formal wear for dinner at night, as is required on some cruises, but not to worry. Viking River cruises are somewhat casual.  I loved that I could wear jeans or a dress at dinner. I would suggest packing a nice pair of flats, blouse, and jeans or pants, to wear for dinner (no shorts or t-shirts). You don’t have to wear a long black dress every night. I did also pack a few dresses, leggings, and I ended up buying a Viking fleece on board. I wasn’t anticipating how chilly France would be in May! I always pack my tennis shoes and a few lightweight sweaters. 

You won’t spend tons of time in the room, but opt for a balcony

The itineraries with Viking sometimes mean you might visit one or two places in a day. That means you’ll have lots to see and do. But, when you are cruising, it’s absolutely wonderful to see the sights from the comfort of your room’s balcony. We spotted stately chateaus, vineyards clutching the sides of cliffs, and hilltop towns nestled beside fortresses. You can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea as you watch the world sail by. It’s a not-to-miss experience!

For me, one advantage of a river cruise is the luxury of having all your belongings in one place. I travel a lot and am often hauling my stuff from place to place. With a cruise, I can easily visit multiple places across the country, or even countries, and have the convenience of putting everything in one spot and knowing all my meals, transfers, and sleeping is in one convenient and comfy spot.

Bring Your Cruise Documents

This might sound like a no-brainer, but the two things you shouldn't forget are your passport and your cruise documents. The documents outline all the details you need to know about your trip and also include things like handy luggage tags.

You'll also find important information such as currency, language, and flight details if you booked with Viking.

Something to note is that Viking provides transfers to and from the airport, so you won't need to worry about getting to and from. Since I was exploring France a bit before my cruise, I found my own way to the ship. But they provided transfers from the ship to the airport when I was departing.

Leave your converters at home

Another great feature of a Viking River cruise is the ship's electrical outlets. Is that a crazy thing to say?! Yes. But having to pack additional converters or keeping your fingers crossed that your curling iron won't blow up is a nice feature. On the Viking ships you'll find American plugs (as well as European), making it easy to plug in your electronics.

Basically, Viking thinks of everything — just one reason I love this company.

Tell the staff about your special occasions

Michael and I were celebrating our 8th (!) wedding anniversary aboard the ship. I casually let the ship staff know about it. To our delight, on the night of our anniversary, the waitstaff surprised us with a delicious cake, candles, then serenaded us to “It's Now or Never.” It was such a memorable moment!

Viking goes out of its way to make you feel special, especially if you're celebrating an important event. So feel free to let them know.

The ship has WiFi, but it's limited

Yes, they advertise WiFi on board the Viking ships, but it's not going to be lightning fast Internet like you're used to at home. Just something to keep in mind. The Internet is good enough to check your emails or social media, but not quite strong enough to upload a video. This is not the case on ocean cruises, but I did find this on the river.

It's all about the destination

Yes, the cruise ship is incredible. But get off the boat! When you dock ashore, Viking includes an activity each and every day. This makes Viking different from other ships. They want you to get off the ship and find out more about the places you're visiting.

If you want additional help you can also use the onboard concierge to plan additional experiences or things to do. I highly recommend using these services to find unique options, food, and things that interest you.

Seven days isn't enough? No worries! Viking offers trip extensions so you can see even more of the cities and learn more about the history.

The food alone is worth the cost of the trip

All the Swiss-trained chefs prepare the food fresh every day. Viking menus emphasize specialty dishes from the region where you’re cruising. All the delicious food on Viking is included and starts with a breakfast buffet and a choice to order off-the-menu. You can also grab pastries in the Aquavit terrace.

Lunch is served in two locations: the dining room for a more formal order off-the-menu, or pasta and salad from the buffet. The Aquavit terrace grill serves burgers, hot dogs, and more. Dinner is served in the dining room or Aquavit and you’ll order off-the-menu.

You’re encouraged to order a starter, main dish, and dessert. Don’t worry if you can’t choose. They’ll bring you both! I particularly enjoyed the savory soups such as mushroom truffle and French onion. There’s also a coffee and water station with soft, fresh baked cookies. They're dangerous — I couldn’t pass by without grabbing one. The exceptional food on Viking is worth the cost of the cruise alone. 

Almost everyone on the ship has sailed with Viking before

The first night of our arrival we received welcome drinks and listened to music in the Aquavit lounge. The staff went over important information before introducing themselves. Then the guests were asked if they had sailed with Viking before. Nearly every hand shot up! A true testament to the Viking experience. 

There's a reason why Viking consistently receives awards as the best cruise company out there.

The cruise is great for adults of any age

Viking doesn’t allow children on board. You must be at least 18 to book a cruise. Most of the time you’ll find a bit of an older crowd. But that’s not to say younger cruisers will feel out of place. There are activities to appeal to all ages. 

River cruising differs greatly from ocean cruising

Having sailed with Viking on both ocean and river, I can tell you the experience is not the same. Ocean cruises feature a much larger ship, a wider variety of restaurants and entertainment, and a bigger crew. The Viking River cruises are more intimate. You usually dock overnight at many of the ports, leaving you the option to explore in the evening if you choose. 

Leave time to explore your ship

The Viking Longship is an absolute masterpiece of Scandinavian design. Clean lines and beautiful, modern decor are featured throughout the vessel.

We sailed on the Viking Buri — well equipped with everything you could need and more. A glamours marble entryway leads to a lovely staircase toward a library, beautiful dining room, sun deck, bar, lounge, as well as many tucked away corners where guests can relax. 

The staff are world class

One day I mentioned that I preferred Diet Coke over coffee in the morning. Every morning after that, the waiter or waitress brought me a Diet Coke with a fresh glass of ice, I never had to ask again. They specialize in that personal touch, even making a point to remember names!

Intent on making the trip the best ever, the staff are fun, personable, and helpful. They not only cook, clean, organize, and serve, but they also entertain. One reason I and others keep coming back to Viking is because of the incredible staff. One important note: you tip additionally per day, per person. I recommend to also tip any staff you feel went above and beyond. For us, it was the Maître d, bartender, and piano player.

Here’s a look at our exact 7-day Viking Buri Provence and Lyon Excursion:

Day 1 – arrival and avignon.

We arrived in Avignon and headed to the ship where a light lunch was provided. Our luggage was whisked right into the room and we had time to explore the boat and meet our fellow passengers on the ship.

Day 2 Arles

At Arles, known as the place where Van Gogh cut off his ear, we did a walking tour, saw the incredible Roman ruins, and walked the lovely sun-drenched cobblestone streets. Here we also went to Les Baux to see the “Carrieres de Lumières” exhibit in the quarry.

Day 3 Avignon

Heading back to Avignon, we walked through the city walls and explored the Pope's Palace- one of the most important historical sites in France. Now, it's used for a theater festival each year. We also went to the market and sampled oysters and candied fruits.

Day 4 Viviers

Lavender is extremely prevalent in Provence. On a tour of a lavender museum, we learned the many uses of this beautiful flower. Driving through small towns near the area I spotted house after house with blue shutters — a signature color in Provence.

Day 5 Tournon

After exploring the small town of Tournon, we hopped on a steam train! Yes, this was an included tour — incredible. We passed beautiful churches, bridges, and a gorge. Afterward, we took a walking tour of Vienne with its lovely church and Roman temple.

This, my second time to Lyon, reminded me of what makes this city so special — the incredible church, the views all around the city, the intricate and historical murals that explain its history. Because we were docked in Lyon that night, we could stroll the streets and take in the well-lit city after dark.

Day 7 Lyon and Excursion

Today we left Lyon on a bus tour that started with learning and tasting wine in the Beaujolais region. After wine, we had a feast of truffle flavored delights followed by a truffle hunt with an adorable dog. We finished off the day learning about goat cheese making, and we brought home salted caramel sauce.

Day 8 Departure from Lyon

On our final day, we packed up our stuff, had a delicious breakfast, and Viking assisted us straight to the Lyon airport. I was so sad to go, but know I'll be booking another Viking cruise soon!

How to choose a Viking cruise:

First and foremost think about the length of time. You can opt to spend seven days cruising the river or opt for two weeks cruising in the ocean.

Are you adventurous? Do you prefer seeing the sights like castles and walking cobblestone streets? Consider what you like to do or what's on your bucket-list and let the cruise fit your options.

If you're still feeling stuck, just remember, you can't really go wrong. Viking prides itself on going to astonishing and enriching destinations. I find Viking to be really exceptional. We left feeling they made every possible effort to make our trip special. And it was. 

MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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Viking Grand European Tour 15-Day River Cruise Review

I was more than ready for this Viking Grand European Tour 15-day river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam. Lee Oliver, our Viking Lif river ship Program Director, greeted us at the gangway with a warm “Welcome Aboard!” 

Those two words were like music to my ears. Maybe not Bartok or Liszt but music nonetheless.

Budapest , Hungary, on the beautiful and sometimes-blue Danube , has so much to experience.

A mid-afternoon boarding gave guests plenty of time before dinner to explore this spirited yet somewhat austere city, either on their own or with a Viking tour excursion.

Viking River Grand European River Cruise Review

In This Post...

In the course of two-weeks, we would cruise on three rivers; the Danube, Main and Rhine rivers. Along the way, Viking Lif  had 12 scheduled cruise ports to visit before docking in Amsterdam. A couple of port tour excursions offered day trips to other nearby ancient towns, and I highly recommend those options. Here’s our itinerary.

Grand European Tour Itinerary

• Day 1:    Budapest, Hungary
• Day 2:    Budapest and Bratislava, Slovakia
• Day 3:    Vienna, Austria
• Day 4:    Melk, Austria
• Day 5:    Linz, Austria and Passau, Germany
• Day 6:    Regensburg, Germany
• Day 7:    Nuremberg, Germany
• Day 8:    Bamberg, Germany
• Day 9:    Wurzburg, Germany and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
• Day 10:  Wertheim, Germany
• Day 11:  Koblenz, Germany
• Day 12:  Cologne, Germany
• Day 13:  Kinderdijk, The Netherlands
• Day 14:  Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Getting to Budapest by Train

As a solo traveler and someone who doesn’t fly, it was a challenge to figure out how to get to Budapest. After one night in Munich, Germany, it was an eight hour train ride to Budapest.

In First Class on trains in Europe, you’ll find many English-speaking passengers from North America. It was easy to strike up conversations with fellow travelers and the eight hours quickly passed.

With the help of Viking reservations, I pre-reserved a driver to meet me at Budapest’s historic Keleti station.

Within 30 minutes of pulling into the station and getting into the taxi, I was on board Viking Lif , met our program director and settled into my cozy cabin. Our Viking Grand European Tour was about to begin.

RELATED:   How to Take the Train to Budapest for a River Cruise

Day 1:  Viking Lif Embarkation

By the time I arrived at the ship in the late afternoon, other passengers had already unpacked and were mingling about the vessel. They had enough time for a short city tour and were enjoying cocktails in the lounge. 

I had about an hour to get acquainted with my cabin and Viking Lif river ship before the first pre-dinner meeting.

At 6:30pm, it was time to head to the lounge, meet the other guests and attend the informative yet brief review of our river cruise itinerary. Though the meeting was necessary and very informative, I really looked forward to tonight’s dinner. 

All I ate on the eight-hour train ride from Munich to Budapest was a bowl of Hungarian Goulash. No complaints…the goulash was very good and of course, very appropriate!

READ NEXT:  Getting to Budapest for Viking Grand European Tour Embarkation

It was a balmy autumn night that beckoned tourists and locals alike to stroll along the banks of the Danube late into the evening. I was tired but excited to finally have a chance to walk across Budapest’s historic Chain Bridge. 

Camera in hand, I must have crossed the Danube four or six times, snapping photos of the warm yellow bridge lights, couples strolling arm in arm, and the magnificently illuminated state buildings that line the riverfront.

Finally, it was time to call it a night. Tomorrow, our Grand European Tour river cruise would begin with a full day of sightseeing before we even got underway.

READ MORE:  In-Depth Review of Embarkation Day in Budapest

Day 2:  Touring and Tasting Budapest

If being chatty at breakfast isn’t your thing, there’s the option for a very relaxing breakfast buffet at Aquavit Terrace every morning. It’s also a good way to plan your morning time if you have a 9:00am or even earlier tour departure. This was usually how my day started; quiet, comfortable, and a cappuccino in hand.

By 8:15am on our second day in Budapest, passengers heard the first warning announcement for our city tour departure.

Know Your Tour Departure Time

Here’s how it’s done on river cruises. You know your tour departure time, say 9 A.M. At 8:45 A.M. over the PA system, you’re given a 15-minute heads-up for the tour to leave. 

Then you hear a 5-minute warning for your motor coach departure. The tour departure time that’s posted is not when you should walk out of your stateroom. It’s actually when the bus departs. I’ve had to run to catch the bus on more than one occasion.

Today’s complimentary morning tour was your basic European city overview; historic places, medieval churches, political hotspots of yore. In the scope of four hours, we would either drive by, stop to view or exit the motor coach to stretch and take photos. 

Highlights of Our Budapest Tours

Morning tour of budapest.

Our motor coach drove across the Chain Bridge to Buda side of the Danube. This is the hilly side of the city where many of the most beautiful building are located.

Views from the Buda side of the river…

Fishermen’s Bastion, built between 1895 and 1902, the beautiful towers and covered terrace weren’t built to defend the territory but to provide unparalleled views of the city. We had ample time to wander along the terrace and up to the Neo-Romanesque designed towers. This is the prime photo op location for sweeping vistas of Budapest.

Back aboard Viking Lif in time for lunch. As there would be on every day of the cruise, you can choose from two lunch venues; The Restaurant with table service and a buffet or in Aquavit for a café lunch, buffet-style. Most days, I chose Aquavit Lounge.

Afternoon Tour on the Pest Side

Budapest jewish and hungarian history.

I signed up for the optional 2:00PM Dohány Street Synagogue and Hungarian Jewish Museum tour. The motor coach let us off just a short walk to the synagogue. Part of the intrigue was seeing the small shops, bars and cafés in what was once the Jewish Quarter, or Ghetto.

Built in the Moorish Revival style between 1854-1859, it is the largest synagogue in Europe. In addition to the main synagogue (Great Synagogue), inside you’ll find the Hungarian Jewish Museum, the Graveyard and the Memorial.

The Weeping Willow memorial is in the courtyard behind the synagogue. On its leaves are inscribed the names of 30,000 Holocaust victims. The father of actor Tony Curtis, Emanuel Schwartz, funded the weeping willow memorial. 

The courtyard was named Raoul Wallenberg, the Swedish diplomat who managed to save thousands of Jews from going to concentration camps.

Stopping for a Slice of Budapest’s Finest

After a stop at a small shop for a Hungarian pastry called, “Flódni”, we boarded the bus to head back to the ship. We returned just in time for Cocktail Hour.

Tonight was the official “Welcome Aboard” toast by Captain Marcin and Hotel Manager Eve. One sparkling wine down and just before dinner, we had our next day’s briefing. Next port going north on the Danube would be Bratislava, Slovakia.

READ MORE:  Top 10 Things to See in Budapest

Day 3:  Bratislava, Slovakia and Funny Little Men

I woke up to see that we were underway, gently cruising along the Danube towards our next port, Bratislava , Slovakia.

Following breakfast and before we’d arrive, a mandatory safety drill was held. Warm autumn weather quickly drew everyone to the top deck and the drill took all of 15-20 minutes.

Afterwards, many of us stayed and either walked laps or settled into a lounge chair. With a mid-afternoon arrival into Bratislava, the day would be relaxing and informative. 

Program Director Lee led an enrichment talk about Vienna coffeehouses (where to go and what to eat) and a background about Austrian-born composer Wolfgang Mozart.

Locals have a great sense of humor as can be sensed when you try to find all the bronze statues. When I was in Bratislava, I counted eight almost human-size funny little men bronze statues. How many will you find?

Day 4:  Vienna, Austria

This wasn’t my first visit to this medieval city. From the beautifully baroque Schönbrunn Palace to a peek at the Spanish Lipizzaner Horses, Vienna has something surprising or magnificent around every corner.

I decided to pass on the complimentary morning motor coach tour of the city and get some writing done. One thing to note about Vienna, river cruise ship dockage is usually too far to walk to the city center. It is walkable but most people opt for a bus into the city and some will then walk back to the river ship.

Too good to pass up, I signed up for the Chef’s Tour to the Farmer’s Market (Naschtmarkt). A bit of walking, two subway trains and we were smack in the middle of a working-class neighborhood and a several-blocks-long farmer’s Market.

After a couple of hours, we were back on the subway, walked two blocks through Mexikoplatz and past St. Francis of Assisi Church and we were back on Viking Lif …in time for cocktails, of course. But not much time to spare. 

Not-to-Miss Evening in Vienna

I had signed up for the optional ($) Viking excursion tour to a concert hall for a Mozart and Strauss concert. Every river cruise line offers this but I had never done it. There would be an early dinner on board and then leave on the motor coaches before 7pm for the concert hall.

The concert hall was beautifully Baroque. We were all packed in on folding chairs like sardines in a tin though not as smelly. The performances were excellent with most of the music and singing were familiar classical pieces. 

If you have a chance to book a shore excursion that includes a concert in Vienna, I highly recommend it.

Afterwards, everyone was really quiet on the motor coach back to the ship. It had been a busy, long day from one end of the city to another.

When we arrived back to the ship, we were greeted with a special Viking Grand European bedtime treat: goulash soup in Aquavit Restaurant. The gorgeous bowl of soup and a fresh-baked crunchy roll accompanied me back to my cabin. Within an hour, I was asleep. One more port in Austria tomorrow.

Day 5:  Melk, Austria

All that glitters is mostly gold.

Melk is a curiously monastic community with the resplendent gold Melk Abbey high on a hill overlooking the Danube. Cobblestone street wind through town, leading to the Abbey’s grand entrance. Monks from the Abbey stroll through town and work in the Abbey as they have for more than 900 years.

Plan to spend about an hour inside the Abbey. You can walk up to the entrance or take a motor coach to the top of the hill.

The baroque interior is dazzling, the library has over 80,000 medieval manuscripts and several hidden doors. Leave time to step outside for a sweeping view of the city and Danube below. 

It’s a pleasant stroll over a little bridge back to the river ship, or take the motor coach again. The town is lovely with cafés and small boutique shops.

With a “Be back on board” at 3:45pm, we were welcomed with an Austrian apple strudel-making demonstration. Then the habitual cocktail hour, daily port briefing and the slow walk into the dining room. Another satisfying multi-course dinner and off to bed.

Every night on the river cruise there’s entertainment in the lounge. So far, we’ve had the onboard musician at the keyboard and dancing, Slovakian folk dancing show and the goulash event. With days so busy, evening entertainment has been kept to a minimum. I think Viking knows that we’d be exhausted.

READ NEXT:  Viking Adds New Pre- and Post-River Cruise Options

Day 6:  Passau, Engine Issues and a Slight Detour

Surprise! We were informed last night that Viking Lif was having engine trouble and we’d not make it to dock in Passau. Instead, Viking Lif would tie up in Linz. So at 8:15am, (it was a really early wake-up!) passengers boarded Viking’s motor coach for a full-day nine-hour tour.

Sadly, one man had to see a doctor in the nearest town so he and his wife had to stay in Linz. I was working under deadline to file a story, so a 9-hour day in motion put me into panic. 

Viking’s Program Director, Lee, made similar arrangements for me so that I could spend the day writing instead of touring. I was so incredibly happy when I found out I would have a hotel room for the day in Linz and would get a full day’s writing done.

Even the light drizzle didn’t stop anyone from walking in the city center. After my friend’s doctor appointment, the three of us met for lunch and a walk through town. Linz is one of the most non-touristic larger cities I’ve visited in Europe. It’s very charming. And I’ll bet it’s even lovelier during the holiday/Christmas market season.

At 5:00PM, a white minivan arrived and the three of us were off to meet Viking Lif , fully repaired at the shipyard in Linz. All the other passengers were on their way back from Passau. And we all arrived in time for cocktail hour, daily briefing and another very nice dinner in the dining room.

Onward to Straubing, Germany! Almost halfway through our Viking Grand European Tour. Tempus Fugit.

Day 7:  Regensburg, Bavaria – Germany

This was one of those years in central Europe when the rain seems to never stop. Germany and France had seen flooding at the end of summer and rivers were swollen and overflowing their banks. 

As we made our way up the Danube, I started to watch the water’s edge. I knew from past river cruises, if I saw tree trunks submerged and debris quickly flowing past us, it meant trouble.

With high water, river ships cannot fit under the dozens of ancient bridges. Locks get stuck. But Viking Lif made its way to Straubing and by 2:00pm, we boarded the motor coach for the short ride to beautiful medieval Regensburg.

I was so glad Regensburg was included on this Viking Grand European Tour. It’s among my favorite places in Europe. This is the oldest city on the Danube and dates back to the year 179.

While the Dom St. Peter Gothic Cathedral is one of the grandest in all Bavaria and worth a visit, I always head to the Alte Würstküche, meaning, “Old Sausage Kitchen”, it’s the oldest restaurant in Germany.

The restaurant is usually packed with tourists throughout the summer but this rainy October day, I had no problem getting my own indoor table. Once you’ve finished your beer and extras, take a walk across the Old Stone Bridge. Built between 1135 and 1146, it was the bridge used by the knights on the second and third Crusades to the Holy Land.

Danube Begins to Look a Little Ominous

What I saw from Regensburg Old Bridge didn’t look too good. I’d been on enough floods on the rivers in Europe to recognize the inevitable.

The Danube was rushing past us downstream heading towards the Black Sea, its terminus. Trees were submerged. The water was creeping up to the lower levels of the medieval buildings.

While we were in Regensburg, Viking Lif sailed from Straubing to Regensburg to meet us. This was a chance for passengers who simply yearned for a quiet day onboard to just cruise.

Back onboard with time to freshen up before the daily briefing. But tonight, the meeting took a sudden twist. The Program Director proceeded with an (un)expected announcement.

To paraphrase, Lee said, “Pack your bags, we’re changing river ships in the morning”. It was a very busy evening for everyone. 

We would disembark with our carry-on luggage the next morning at 8:30 AM in Deggendorf, then board a bus to meet sister ship, Viking Skadi, in Nuremberg. Our Viking Grand European Tour was about to take a twist.

Day 8:  Changing Ships and a Detour

A visit to an extraordinarily bizarre monument.

With our luggage taken off the ship and loaded onto buses, we only had to bring along our carry-on bags. 

I had been through this river ship shuffle three times in the last few years so I knew what to expect. River cruisers seem to roll with the punches. There’s nothing you can do when there’s a flood or a drought except board a bus and change ships.

Viking had a really good plan on the way to Nuremberg. Driving through Bavaria en route to Nuremberg, we stopped at Walhalla, Germany’s monument to its native Germanic language politicians, scientists, artists and other distinguished people over the centuries. 

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Danube river, Walhalla looms on the horizon bearing a striking resemblance to the Parthenon in Greece.

By 11 AM we were back on the bus leaving Walhalla, heading to our next ship. 

How River Cruise Ships Deal With Floods

To explain how this ship shuffle works, our original river ship, Viking Lif, couldn’t go any further upriver – the water was too high to let Viking Lif go under the next bridge. Viking Skad i, on its way south from Amsterdam, couldn’t get past Nuremberg for the same reason. 

Thus, each ship would swap passengers and bus everyone to the other ship. Then the ships do a U-turn and continue on the route of the original river ship. Everyone would end up at their scheduled port. Viking had this ship exchange experience down to a science.

We had reached the half-way point of our Grand European Tour. Where did that first week go?

READ MORE ABOUT:  What exactly happened on this ship-shuffle day

I divided my Viking Grand European Tour river cruise into two parts. 

This is part one; Budapest to Nuremberg. Click the link below to continue onto our  second week; Nuremberg to Amsterdam.

CONTINUE READING : WEEK 2 ABOARD VIKING SKADI – NUREMBERG TO AMSTERDAM

Thank you for reading the first half of my Viking Grand European Tour. Spoiler alert:  Seven more days of cruising, castles, culture and cuisine.

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Hi Gary, Thank you for your comment and for reading my article. I think I did this cruise in 2018. The last two years were a wash for sure. Nothing has changed with the itinerary, unless it is a last minute decision. Viking still advertises for their Grand European Tour so I think my article is very reliable to help readers decide to try this amazing trip. Viking did a great job, especially when you consider the unexpected ship change. Thank you again for taking the time to write. I hope you have the opportunity to try this cruise.

Hi Ruth, Thank you for writing and taking the time to read my post. As you saw, this river cruise was with Viking and it was wonderful. I also recommend AmaWaterways, Avalon and Uniworld for these longer cruises – they also carry fewer passengers.

While a suite isn’t necessary, it does give you more space. But similar to ocean cruising, in my opinion, as long as I can open a door for fresh air, a balcony or french balcony on a river cruise is fine…and less expensive. Whichever line you choose, have a wonderful river cruise. Thanks again for your comment.

When did you take this cruise? It looks like a great cruise.

This is the River cruise I’ve been wanting to do..I’m just undecided which company to go with. This seems very busy to get everything in. I also wanted a suite room but maybe that’s not necessary. Your article is very informative especially about the changing of boats due to water issues..I’ve always wondered how that would work.

Hi Terry, Thank you, too, for reading my article and your comment. Much appreciated!

Most interesting thank you

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Updated on August 17, 2022 by Sherry Laskin

Hot Topic: Surprise Cruise Reveal Ideas

My Viking Journey: What to Expect After Booking a Viking Cruise (Before you Sail)

We booked a Viking Cruise and were delighted to proceed with signing up for their My Viking Journey guest website, pre-cruise. Though we wouldn’t board our river cruise ship for weeks, it felt like we were well on our way as we logged into the system to continue planning our trip.

If you’re planning a Viking River Cruise or a Viking Expedition Cruise (or thinking about signing up), we have the inside info you want to know regarding what happens after you book your cruise.

We’ve been through the process of booking and waiting for our Viking cruise, like you. Here, we will let you know what you can expect in the time between booking and the time you sail. 

➞ Be sure to sign up for the free printable too, which you’ll see about 1/3 of the way down the page.

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We were hosted by Viking, and truly only recommend hotels, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases

Your Viking Cruise is Confirmed

You carefully researched your cruise options, then chose to book a sailing with the reputable brand, Viking. You’ve booked directly with Viking, with a travel agent, or with a third party like Priceline . You’re confirmed!

Your anticipation builds as you count down the days until your cruise embarkation date. In the meantime, you wonder what to expect after you have your Viking ocean or river cruise confirmation number in hand.

Your cruise confirmation number is important because you need it to log in to the “My Viking Journey” website. 

Mark Emails from Viking as “Important”

Be sure to mark any emails from Viking that come your way, so they’re filtered to your “Primary” inbox if you have Gmail. That way, essential emails (including Viking documents) will not be sent to spam.

You can also add any Viking email addresses to your contacts list in your email account. This will also help ensure they don’t go to spam.

The “My Viking Journey” Experience

“My Viking Journey” is the website you’ll have access to once you have your cruise confirmation number. All Viking guests have access to this portal, whether it’s a river cruise or ocean cruise. You can continue with your Viking cruise vacation planning in this awesome portal!

Access to My Viking Journey is open for your cruise planning until seven days prior to embarkation .

Log into Your My Viking Journey Account

If you’ve never sailed with Viking, you must create a new account on myvikingjourney.com .

Whether it’s your first sailing, second or sixth, you’ll need your cruise confirmation number that you received after booking. **This is how you link your upcoming cruise to your “My Viking Journey” Account.**

Overview of What you Can Do in My Viking Journey 

This is your go-to center for booking your excursions, checking your stateroom configuration (like if you want two twin beds or want them to be pushed together for one double bed), adding on a drinks/spirits package pre-cruise, and pre-paying gratuities. 

We loved logging in to see our cruise at a glance in My Viking Journey. If for nothing else, it was an exciting reminder that a booked river cruise was in our near future!  

Though it may take a few minutes and some clicking around to understand how the categories in the program are organized and realize what categories are linked to specific options, you get the hang of where things are within a short amount of time.

Your access to My Viking Journey is no longer available seven days before your embarkation date.

Free Printable for your Pre-Cruise Tasks and Timeline

If you’re someone who likes to print a list of tasks like we’ve laid out here and put it on your desk or the fridge, we have a treat for you. Simply enter your email address and we’ll email you a link to our free printable that will help you stay organized for your Viking cruise.

Download the free printable

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at anytime.

The First Thing to Do in My Viking Journey: Add Excursions

We recommend booking any additional excursions you want immediately because it is the only thing that may sell out. Things like the Silver Spirits package won’t sell out, nor is there a timeframe to when you can pre-pay gratuities. As long as you do these tasks one week before your cruise starts (when My Viking Journey closes) you’ll be golden.

If you add your desired excursions first , you’ll have peace of mind that you secured your choices before they potentially fill up. Furthermore, the closer to the sail date you book your cruise, the fewer spots will be available for additional excursions.

Have your credit card handy. You’ll need it to pay for any excursion you add that has a cost beyond what’s included in your cruise.

For example, we booked an additional excursion for our Viking River Cruise in Bordeaux in advance. It was a walking tour in Blaye that took us behind the scenes of what the general public gets to see and into the lives of residents who live there. We were glad we booked it!

We opted to add this to our cruise while we were still home, considering our excursion options. 

What about Excursions that are Automatically Included with your Cruise?

A lot of excursions are included with river cruise bookings. These are mostly walking tours that are typically included with river cruises (that’s why we think they’re one of the best cruise options on the market – they include so much for the price ). 

You’ll notice you can add included excursions to your reservation. But do you need to add them if they’re already included?

We opted to do so because we figured, why not? We liked seeing it on our final excursions document that was emailed to us before the cruise. (Image below shows how the included tour appears in My Viking Journey.)

If you don’t opt into the included excursions in advance, you’ll still be able to participate in them during your cruise. So why add them at all?

The benefit of adding them in My Viking Journey in advance is simply so Viking knows how many people on the cruise are interested ahead of time. This helps them prepare more accurately.

On the guest side, it is fun to see the excursions at a glance when you log into your account. We found it helped keep us organized. It’s a good way to bookmark included tours you want to participate in.

If you don’t add additional paid excursions (ones that cost extra money) beforehand, or you want to add any during your cruise if there’s still room, you can do so on the ship. 

Things to Do After You Book Excursions

Other things you can do in My Viking Journey before you sail include:

• Choose your bed configuration : If you’re a couple, you likely want the beds pushed together. If you’re friends or siblings sailing together, you will likely want two twin beds with space between them.
• Pre-pay gratuities : We always opt to do this so we don’t have to worry about it on the cruise. If you prefer to pay gratuities onboard instead, you can.
• Enter your passport information (they still ask for your passport when you board the ship, which is usual. It’s a good safety measure to make sure guests are who they say they are).
• Select any upgrades to alcohol packages if you like, like the Silver Spirits Beverage Package. (Image below of what that add-on option looks like in My Viking Journey.)

Check your Passport Validity

You also want to check your passport’s expiration date right after you book. This is just in case you need to renew your passport. You’ll want to ensure you don’t leave this for the last minute if a renewal is in order!

Flights are Booked (Potentially through Viking Air)

Depending on a cruise package or promotion you book with other river cruise lines, flights may be included. (Emerald Cruises, for example, often runs free-flight promotions.)

Viking sometimes offers promotions, like if they run a cruise special and include air for a special starting price, like “Air from $599,” for example. (We’re not saying they never offer free air or never will, we’ve just never seen those promos…so don’t hold your breath!)

Nonetheless, Viking offers great air travel rates through Viking Air.

You certainly have the option to book them on your own if you wish. If you do, you might have more flight carriers and time options since Viking (though they have many options) doesn’t partner with every airline. That said, they have a lot of air partners, including any major carrier you’d be interested in.

Benefits of Booking Flights with My Viking Air

Since Viking handles thousands and thousands of flights, they have exclusive rates that appeal to many travelers. This is perhaps the most apparent benefit of booking through My Viking Air .

Secondly, you can choose to upgrade your seats to Business Class or Premium Economy at their special rates.

Thirdly, complimentary transfers between your hotel and/or airport could be available through My Viking Air. This depends on when you arrive for your cruise and when you leave to go home after your cruise.

For example, if you land at the airport the same day as embarkation and you leave for the airport the day your cruise ends, Viking will provide transfers to and from the airport. This simplifies travel logistics to and from your Viking cruise ship and the airport.

Can you Book Transfers through Viking if you Book Air through Another Provider?

Yes. Viking Air includes transfers as do all of their extension packages. If you decide to book air separately, you can purchase airport transfers through Viking up to 30 days before your cruise departure .  

Viking Air when Flights are Canceled or Rescheduled

If you book flights through Viking and there is an issue when you travel, you call Viking for help. Their hotline is available 24/7 when you are in transit. However, if you book directly through an airline, you call the airline for help. 

Viking Air Hotline Phone Number

In regards to who to call in the case of an air travel delay, cancellation or emergency, Viking’s official statement is:

• If you have a travel protection plan in an air travel emergency, please contact that provider.
• If you do not have travel coverage and you purchased air from Viking, please contact 1-877-523-0580.
• If you arranged your own air and are traveling independently, contact the emergency number listed in your Cruise Documents.

Our Experience Having Our Flights Home Canceled While on our Viking Cruise

We can attest to being on the receiving end of an airline cancellation when traveling. After we received the frustrating news, we had to communicate with Viking Air the night before we disembarked the ship.

Our canceled flights were no fault of Viking’s; during an infamous “summer travel” season, airlines were canceling flights left and right.

This happened while on Viking Forseti for a cruise in Bordeaux. We immediately called the Viking emergency hotline number they provided us in advance (via email) as soon as we heard the news.

They answered the phone at 11:00pm local time in France, which was 2:00pm in California (Viking’s airline support is US-based). They remedied the flight situation within a reasonable amount of time.

It was reassuring to have them handle it like the pros they are and guide us through rebooking while we were in a foreign country.

Is it Best to Book through Viking Air or on your Own?

We don’t have a recommendation for one over the other. You need to make a personal decision about what is best for you and your family. While the thought of everything for your Viking cruise being in one location is really nice, we understand that some people may want to book separately.

All we can say is weigh your options, from cost to flight path and customer service, and book what’s best for you. If you book your own flights and want to book transfers through Viking, just make sure you do so 30 days before your cruise or the options won’t be available anymore.

What you Can do to Prepare for Your Viking Cruise Ahead of Your Trip

Now that your cruise and flights are booked, you’ve secured your excursions, pre-loaded any documented info like your passport number, and have decided if you want to upgrade your alcohol package, you have plenty of time to: 

• Get excited!
• Check to make sure your passport is valid for the length of time needed in the country (or countries) you’re visiting. For example, if you visit Germany, Austria, The Netherlands, and Switzerland for a Danube River Cruise , you need to make sure your passport will be valid for 90 days after the last day of your trip.
• Check if you need a visa . (For example, you need visas if you’re traveling to Southeast Asia for a Mekong River Cruise .)
• Research your destination(s) : It’s always great to know some history of where you’re going, even though you’ll learn about it during the cruise. 
• Educate yourself about what to expect on a river cruise if it’s your first one. We have this article for you to eliminate surprises.
• Create your packing list : Check out our recommended cruise essentials to order ahead of time and set aside for your river cruise, no matter the time of year you sail.

Download the “Viking Voyager” App

Though you won’t use the app much before your trip (most of its functions do not work pre-cruise anyway – they only function during the cruise), it’s smart to download the Viking Voyager app from the App Store while you’re home. 

There is wifi on the cruise ship, but its strength is spotty depending on what port you’re in or where you’re sailing. Why wait until you’re on the ship when you know that it’s good to download for your cruise anyway? (It’s also likely your at-home wifi speed is much faster than on the ship.) 

Truth be told, we didn’t use the app much during our cruise. During our week-long cruise, we only opened it a few times. This was because they print a “Viking Daily” that housekeeping places in your stateroom every day.

This document shares the cruise itinerary for the following day. Additionally, Viking includes fun history and fun facts about the area in the bi-folded paper.

The app pretty much has the same information as Viking Daily.

Two to Four Weeks before Your Cruise: Viking Embarkation Documents Will Arrive in the Mail

If your cruise balance is paid and your Viking Air is in good standing, you can expect to receive a packet in the mail anywhere from two to four weeks before your sailing that contains the following:

• Viking welcome letter
• 1 Leather luggage tag per guest
• 2 Personalized embarkation tags per guest
• 1 Arrival transfer sticker per guest (if applicable)

Note that if you book within two weeks of your cruise or your Viking account isn’t in good standing within the two weeks before your cruise, you will not receive this packet in the mail.

Within One Week of Your Cruise: What to Expect Before your Viking River Cruise

Get excited! Your cruise is fast approaching.

As a reminder, My Viking Journey access closes seven days before your cruise embarkation. So be sure you have done the following by this time:

• ✔️ Prepaid gratuities if you wish
• ✔️ Chosen your excursions
• ✔️ Made a decision about the Silver Spirits packages

Here’s what to do the week before your cruise: 

• Start to pack your bags if you haven’t already. (Don’t forget your passport!)
• Get your {health} ducks in a row : Refill prescriptions as needed and check on current health regulations to enter the countries you’re visiting. Check to see if you need proof of COVID vaccines or a negative COVID test to enter the country. You may also need to fill out a Travel Form or Travel Locator Form of some sort for entry to the country you’re visiting ahead of your trip. (We had to do so within the week we traveled to France for our cruise on the Garonne River in Bordeaux.) 
• If you are traveling in the area on your own before the cruise starts and you plan on getting to the cruise port yourself (as opposed to having Viking transfer you from the airport to the port of embarkation) be sure you have the address of the port and dock where the ship will be . 
• Make note of any emails from Viking that you want to have handy . We labeled all our Viking correspondence with a “Viking” label as we received the messages, so they were easy to access with the click of a button in one folder in our email account if we were online. (We don’t always rely on ship wifi. For example, when we’re at the airport we hop on airport wifi, or if we’re in a taxi we use our Solis hotspot for wifi . This is so we avoid cell phone roaming fees.)

Documents that Viking Emails you During the Week Leading Up to Your Cruise 

You’ll receive a “Final Viking Journey Summary” document approximately one week before your cruise. 

This has the name of your trip (for us, it was “Chateaux, Rivers & Wine” in Bordeaux, France), your booking status (which should say “final”), and your booking number at the top. 

Below is a summary of what else is included in the digital PDF, along with a summary of what PDFs they attached to the email, like the Guest Information Form and Passenger Ticket Contract.

Your Journey Summary

Guest information form, passenger ticket contract.

Within days of your cruise, you’ll receive an email from Viking with their Travel Emergency Hotline number should any flight complications arise when you travel. This came our way three days before our cruise. Make note of this phone number, just in case. (We needed it when our flight home was canceled, so we were glad we notated it!)

Below, we go into more detail about what each PDF contains:

Names, itineraries, flights, pre-selected excursions, shore excursions that have symbols for excursion type (example: Sightseeing, Beach Access, or Privileged Access), level of difficulty, features (like if it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site), and what the excursion includes, like a meal or snack. 

This includes the information Viking has on file for you, like your name, address, and emergency contact details. 

All guests with a Viking cruise booking receive this. It can also be found in the footer of Viking’s website if you ever want to refer to it. (It’s likened to a Terms & Conditions document for your cruise.)

My Viking Journey Conclusion

The anticipation will build from the moment you solidify your cruise booking with a confirmation number to logging into My Viking Journey. Your excitement will grow as you book your air, transfers, and excursions, and prepare for your vacation with documents emailed and snail-mailed to you.

Most people don’t like surprises (especially in travel), and now you know what to expect after you book your Viking cruise!

Read this next:

• 26 Helpful Things to Know your First Time on a River Cruise
• Why are River Cruises So Expensive? (Or are They the Best Cruise Value Out There?)
• All About the Bordeaux Cruise Port

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Viking River Cruise Secrets for First-time Cruisers

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For many, a Viking River cruise is the top of a well-curated travel bucket list…for good reason.  The destination offerings are unique, the luxurious accommodations inviting, and the on-board service is world-class.  But…there are certain travelers (like me) who have never been on a cruise and were hesitant to get on a ship. Guess what?!  Not only did I take the cruise, but I loved it!  These Viking River Cruise Secrets for first-time cruisers will change you from non-cruiser to cruise lover too!

{I was a guest of Viking River Cruise but my opinions + photos are my own. May contain affiliate links}

Viking River Cruise Secrets for First Time Cruisers

Confession time:  Although I love to travel and explore new destinations, I was never particularly interested in traveling by cruise.  Concerns about seasickness, tiny cabins with no space to breath, and hidden port and drink fees kept my feet firmly planted on land.   I had zero interest in being on a huge ship with hundreds of people, dressing up for dinner every night, with short port excursions crowded with people.

Still, with so many interesting cruises and cruise destinations, I warmed up to the idea over the years.  A river cruise was one of the cruises I was most interested in, so when I was invited on a Viking River Cruise this winter, I was excited.

Still, some of those old apprehensions resurfaced, and I didn’t know what to expect.  Oh my goodness, was I pleasantly surprised!  My cruise turned out to be nothing at all like I expected and it was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had.  I honestly cannot wait to take another Viking trip!

On the Ship

Smaller & More Intimate |  Unlike large ocean liners, Viking River Cruise ships are smaller, most with a capacity of 200 passengers.   A smaller ship makes time on the ship cozier, with room for dining, excursions, and finding a seat on the tour bus.  A smaller ship also allows guests to get to know other guests and crew more easily.

But…just because one is on a cruise with 200 people does not mean you have to be with those people all the time.  There are plenty of places on the ship for quiet time, including the Aquavit Lounge for more intimate dining, the rooftop sundeck with lounge chairs and breathtaking views, and private stateroom balconies for peaceful reflection.

Intimate Setting = Fun Activities – I traveled right before the Christmas holiday so my ship was festively decorated with a Christmas tree, gingerbread house, and other holiday decorations.  In addition, the staff prepared fun activities to make the season extra special for guests.  The program director (JP) advised me that Viking River celebrates occasions both large and small to make the voyage even more special for guests.  Imagine celebrating your birthday or anniversary with 200 of your closest friends!

The Demographics |  The average age demographic for guests is 35 – 75, but there were guests aged 24 -84 on my particular cruise and everyone had fun interacting. As of August 1, 2018 children under 18 are not permitted on Viking River Cruises.  Most of the cruise activities and tours are geared toward adventurous, active adults, with lots of walking/hiking.

Mobility   | Many of the tours are interactive, with lots of brisk walking, so I recommend guests have a certain level of mobility available.  With that said, there is an easy walking group (more on that below), so people who walk with a cane or walker should have no problem.  There is also an elevator on the ship for people who have trouble with the stairs on the Viking longships. However, the hallways are too narrow for someone who is wheelchair-bound.  Also, getting around the cobblestone-lined streets in the excursion ports might be difficult for wheelchair users.   

Smaller Ship + River Cruising = No Seasickness | One of the best Viking River Cruise secrets of my trip was no seasickness.  I barely even felt the ship move, and when I did, it was a gentle lull.  Even moving through the locks on the Rhine was easy, with just a few little quiet bumps each time.

Safety First | All guests are required to view a safety video on the first day of the cruise and participate in a safety drill with a life jacket for about 15 minutes on the second day.  The drill is a minor inconvenience, and I was impressed with how seriously the crew takes passenger safety, so was not bothered by the drill.

Daily Briefing | Just before dinner each night, the program director hosts a daily briefing for about 45 minutes, highlighting the activities that will take place the following day.  It may not seem important, but the briefing offers valuable information about excursion times, places of interest while in port, and activities that take place throughout the day.  Try not to miss the briefing, it really is helpful in learning more about the destination you are about to see. 

Hint: The briefing takes place in the Observation Lounge, making it easy to meet friends and grab a pre-dinner cocktail while listening to the session.

Tipping | Gratuities are not included in Viking River cruise packages, so be prepared to tip $10-12 per person/per day at the end of the trip to your favorite crew and $2 per day for the program director.  The staff is so accommodating that you will probably want to tip more, so use this guide as a baseline. It is best to tip in cash with the currency most used on the trip.  For example, if you are taking a European river cruise, tip in Euros.

Note:  On my cruise, the crew works 3-4 weeks without a break. Once one group of cruise guests leave, they ready the ship for a new group and set sail.  The staff should be commended (and rewarded) for their friendliness, courtesy, and hard work in making Viking cruises so accommodating for guests.  Be nice to the staff, they are always nice to guests! ♥

• A Viking River cruise is the perfect opportunity to relax and be social or to have one-on-one time, your choice.
• Take time to get to know the other guests, as most everyone is friendly, but also allow quiet time to recharge your batteries.
• Participate in social activities.  They are entertaining, allow you to let your hair down a little, and have fun with the other guests and crew.
• Get to know the staff.  They are friendly, accommodating, and truly want to make your voyage memorable.

Dining On-Board  |  Cruises usually have mixed reviews when it comes to food, but the cuisine on my Viking River cruise was flavorful and appetizing, with a nice variety and beautiful presentation. The chef combines local specialties with traditional Continental flavors to create unique and delectable dishes.  Breakfast was buffet-style (with a wonderful omelet station), but guests can order Eggs Benedict, pancakes, and other specialty items off the menu.  Lunch has three appetizer, entrée, and dessert menu selections, with a pasta and salad buffet.

Dinner is a choice of three appetizers, entrees, and dessert choices, as well as a standard chicken, steak, or fish dish.  Some of the wonderful entrée choices on my cruise included Chateaubriand, grilled prawns saffron, and porcini mushroom ravioli.  For those looking for a more casual dining experience, I recommend the Aquavit Terrace Lounge upstairs, with buffet and casual menu options. Guests with food sensitivities or special diets should advise staff before cruising so the staff can make accommodations.

Note:  There is usually a seafood option for pescetarians, but true vegetarian options are rare without prior arrangement.

Flexible Dining Options | Viking River cruise ships have open seating in the main dining room. This means no reservations are required, no reserved seating, and no dressing up (unless you want to). Honestly, after a full day of shore excursions with lots of walking in the cold, it was nice to go to dinner in a comfy sweater and leggings.  I appreciated not having to go to dinner in formal attire. Goodbye ball gown! (Psst-I even wore slippers to dinner one night and no one was the wiser!)

Breakfast is usually served 7 a.m. – 10 a.m., lunch from 12:30 – 2:00 p.m., and dinner from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. and guests can come any time during those dining hours.  The dining tables seat 6 or 8 people, with a few tables for 12 guests, but with plenty of seating, guests can sit alone or with friends.  My group of six sat together every night in the dining room, but it was nice to sit and visit with other guests at breakfast and lunch.  Seating in the Aquavit Lounge is even more casual, with tables of two and four.

Alcoholic Beverage Options | Beer, house wines, and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner, but if you want a cocktail or premium wine, you will need to purchase those separately from the bar.  For the price of about 3-4 cocktails/premium wines a day, you may want to order the Silver Spirits package, about $22 a day, per person.  A pricing guide for alcoholic beverages is available here so you can decide which option is right for you.

• Sit at the same table or area each time you dine, as you will likely have the same waitstaff.  This will allow the servers to get to know you and your preferences.  By the third day, your servers will bring drinks without asking, know if you are vegan or gluten-free, or allergic to certain foods.  The wonderful waitstaff added so much to our experience.

• The European butter served on European cruises is ambrosial!  The butter has the consistency of cream cheese and a slightly sweeter, less salty, and creamier taste than American butter.  Give me all the butter!!

• The breakfast yogurt/fruit parfait, sprinkled with a bit of granola is a must.

• Save room for dessert. Delicacies such as Valrhona chocolate tarts, raspberry sorbet, or cream puffs with praline add an elegant finish to a wonderful meal.

Stateroom Variety | Staterooms are available in several sizes and varieties, including staterooms with windows, staterooms French balconies, and veranda, and suite rooms with a separate living room area.  All rooms have standard king-size beds, a large double closet, drawers and desk area, refrigerator, and a separate bathroom with a shower.  The king bed can also be divided into two twin beds with prior notice.

The bed was comfortable, with sparkly clean sheets and plenty of fluffy pillows.  The closet was large enough to fit clothes and a large suitcase, but there was also room under the bed for the suitcase.  The dresser drawers were handy for gloves, hats, and scarves, as well as undies and socks.  Ample storage allowed me to keep my belongings tucked away and have more freedom to move about the room.

Electrical outlets  | The staterooms have sockets for both 110 (US) and 220 (European) voltage, which means that if you are from the United States, you can plug your mobile phone, laptop, and other devices in a regular outlet without the need for a European adapter.

Bathrooms | The bathrooms are small, but easy to move around, with a sink, toilet, shower, and storage area for toiletries.  The shower has doors that fold open to expand the bathroom when not in use, yet easily fold closed to seal in the water when the shower is on.  The shower itself is surprisingly roomy, with a shelf for shampoo and soap. The water took seconds to warm up and had good pressure, and the premium toiletries were a lovely touch.

Note: I have received several questions about bringing curling irons on a Viking ship.  Viking did have a policy that prohibited curling irons for safety reasons, but I understand they have changed that policy as of September 2018.  Please check with your travel agent when booking your trip to make certain the policy to allow curling irons is still in place.

Daily Service | Rooms receive twice-daily maid service.  In the morning, the bed is made, the room cleaned, and fresh towels stocked.  In the evening, attendants turn down the bed, layout the next day’s itinerary, and dim the lights for the evening.

• Lower level rooms are water level, so have smaller windows that do not open.  I recommend a room on the main or upper level to get the best views and add more “room” to your room. A veranda stateroom is definitely worth the extra cost –  I had a veranda stateroom and loved having the veranda balcony to step outside to take photos and take in the scenery.

• Two words:  Heated Floors.  The bathrooms have heated floors to keep toes warm. It does not sound like a big deal, but on a cold winter night, heated floors are a healthy slice of heaven on earth. The room attendants turn the warmers on in the evening so guests have warm tootsies at bedtime, but the heated floors can be turned on at any time.

• If you are doing a pre or post-trip land excursion, you may still need that European electrical outlet adapter .  Bring one just in case.

• The onboard boutique sells clothing (with a Viking logo) but does not sell toiletries, medications, or other supplies.  Be sure to bring your own over-the-counter and prescription medications as a pharmacy may be difficult to find while in port.  Also bring enough toothpaste, razors, etc., although these are easier to find in port.

• Make sure the announcement speaker is turned up in your stateroom so you can hear announcements.  The speaker volume is located on the wall near the television in standard staterooms.  A couple on my cruise inadvertently turned down the volume and missed a morning departure announcement, missing a tour. Oops!

Port Excursions

Included Excursions | One of the best Viking River Cruise secrets is that a daily excursion/guided tour is included as part of the cruise package, while most large ocean cruises do not include any excursions. On my cruise, guided tours included a trip to the Black Forest, with a visit to a cuckoo clock factory and black forest cake demonstration, walking tours to five UNESCO World Heritage sites (including cathedrals, castles, and windmills), and walking tours in the Christmas markets in almost every city.

Optional Excursions | Guests can purchase optional excursions when booking their trip, or book optional excursions while on the cruise (if available).  Optional excursions on my trip included winery visits, museum tours, a private tour to the top of a Cathedral, a visit with a Dutch cheesemaker, and a beer dinner.  The optional cruises offer another way to get a taste of the destination you are visiting, so I definitely recommend signing up for a few optional excursions.  My beer dinner in Cologne was a ball!

• Flexibility – Book every excursion available or plan your own adventure, it’s up to you!  The ship is at each port of call for several hours, so guests may have the flexibility to venture out on their own if they chose.  Also, because many of the docks are located in the center of a city, getting around town is fairly easy.  Guests can even take a guided tour, then venture on their own at the end, and in some cities, shuttle service may be available several times a day back to the ship.  Check with your travel agent or concierge to see if you will have time to venture on your own, and to help arrange transportation and activities.  Note:  Some Viking River Cruises may not be as flexible while in port, depending on the destination, so work with your booking specialist to plan independent touring.

• Many guided tours offer an “easy walkers” tour for guests with slower mobility.  I have lupus and the cold was not kind to my joints, so I signed up for the “easy walkers” tour bus after the first day.  The tours are the same, but the pace is slower and more relaxed.  A bonus in taking this tour option is that it allowed me more time to take photographs at each location.

• Don’t necessarily sign up for every guided tour available, especially if you want a little downtime.  Most of the tours are pretty fast-paced (even the easy walker’s tour), and with some of the tour times 4-5 hours long, it can get exhausting if you are on the go every day.  It’s your vacation time, after all, don’t overdo it!  Keep an afternoon or two open during the trip, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery from the sundeck, read a book, take a nap, or visit with other guests.

• Keep some Dramamine and a water bottle in your day pack for tour bus trips.  The tour buses tend to be warm and some of the routes are winding mountain roads…not a great combination for motion sickness.

• Use the free handheld headphone systems provided in your room for tours.  I forgot mine on a tour and missed half of what the tour guide said.  The headphones are a must!

• For winter travel, wear layers and keep gloves and hats handy.  Weather conditions can change at a moment’s notice, and you may want to shed a layer or two on warm tour buses. Layering is probably a good idea for summer travel too, when moving between an air-conditioned tour bus and warmer outside temperatures.

• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes on the guided tours.  Some of the tours include a lot of walking (even for the slower-paced walkers) and many of the pathways in Europe have uneven cobblestone streets.  Leave the heels for nighttime entertaining.

• Pickpockets can be a problem in Europe, so ladies should wear a small cross-body handbag that sets close to the body, and men should use a neck or waist wallet.  Do not put your phone or wallet in your back pocket. Use an RFID blocking sleeve or wallet for credit cards to block credit card skimmers from getting your personal information.

What are some of your Viking River Cruise secrets? A river cruise is a wonderful way to get your feet wet for cruising (pun intended), especially when cruising on an award-winning river cruise line.  I think you will find, just as I did, that you can’t wait to experience another Viking River cruise. I may even be ready to try an ocean cruise, and thankfully there are Viking ocean cruises as well!  My cruise was a Christmas Markets cruise , be sure to read some of the highlights of cruising during the holidays!  

I hope these cruise secrets were a help, but if you have other questions about my Viking River cruise experience, please leave a message in the comments area below, I would be happy to answer your questions, and if I do not know the answer, I will find it for you.  If you have questions from a travel writers perspective, please email me at jules @ acorkforkandpassport.com 

Travel Advisor Information

I have over 35+ years as a travel advisor. It is more important than ever to have an experienced advisor assist with your travel plans. If you are looking for a travel advisor to help you with a new Viking cruise, please reach out, I am an experienced luxury travel advisor and would love to work with you. Please reach out to me at julie @ wanderbloomtvl.com or visit my Viking page.

***Note: Please only contact me at julie @ wanderbloomtvl.com if you would like to work with me as your travel advisor. I am not permitted to advise on a cruise you booked with another travel advisor or with Viking cruises directly.  Thanks!

Wander & Bloom Travel 

Julie is the chief food, travel, and luxury lifestyle writer/photographer/publisher for A Cork, Fork, & Passport. Julie has 35+ years in the travel business as a writer, travel advisor, and traveler. She is an accomplished home chef, recipe developer, and mixologist, but her proudest job is wife and mom. She loves board games, 80's New Wave, and chasing dachshunds! Julie lived in the Phoenix, Arizona area for 25 years but recently moved back to upstate New York.

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I loved your review. I found it interesting to read someone else’s opinion of our favourite holiday company. Almost all of which I agreed with. This year we are taking an ocean cruise with Viking (something my husband said he would never do until Viking started them.

Denise, Thank you so much! I would love to try a Vikings Ocean cruise as well and would never have considered it, if it were not for such a wonderful experience in the river cruise!

Loved your river cruise tips. Interesting that the daily briefing is audio vs a printed itinerary. I’ve been on many (100+) regular cruises but have yet to take a river cruise. One day…

Debra – You do receive a printed itinerary in your room, the daily briefing is more to highlight certain places in each city, what each tour covers, etc.

I haven’t done a cruise for about 10 years, I think it’s about time I got my feet wet again! Viking River Cruises look like something I enjoy it, I prefer smaller & more intimate spaces. Would you recommend going in summer or winter or shoulder season?

Sheena: I went on a winter cruise and other than the temperatures, the trip was lovely, especially since we were able to enjoy the Christmas markets. I have heard from others that summer is a great time to go as well and the sundeck is nice to lounge on. For the best prices, shoulder season is always good but I know Viking has some good specials right now for all year!

I am going on my second river cruise in April. I wish I had read your article long before taking my first one. (I am sharing because it is THAT good!!). I think that sometimes people compare river and ocean cruising so they are in total shock when they arrive for a river cruise. I had ocean cruised 25+ times at that point and I was still blown away by the differences. My stateroom was so small that my roommate and I honestly thought they were Candid Camera’ing us before pulling down the “shelf” that made a bed. We were so close at night we could have held hands across the 6″ that separated us. LOL Anyway, well done, loved the photos, all the facts, and this was amazing!

Thank you so much Melody! For a first cruise experience, I don’t think it could get any better than a Viking cruise!

What a great comprehensive guide. Like you, I’m not a huge fan of cruising, but I tell myself that if I’m going to do one, it’s going to be a Viking Cruise. I love the focus on culture and history. Your tips are great!

Thank you so much Tara, the history and cultural of the areas we visited were one of my favorite parts of the trip!

I’ve never considered a Viking Cruise because I knew about the kids needing to be 12+. I’m now thinking I want to do the cruise for my 50th birthday! That would be so much fun – our kids would be old enough. and the European butter would make me so very happy :-))

You will love it!!

Very nice review. My husband and I have traveled quite a lot, generally independently, but have booked our first Viking Cruise next month and are very excited. Tips and suggestions are very welcome indeed!

Enjoy your trip, you will love the Viking service!

Wonderful information! Is it best to tip as you go so the staff knows you are taking care of them, or just at the end?

It is recommended to tip at the end, but you could probably do extra as you go too.

Hi! Thank you so much for the info! My husband and I just booked our first river cruise for next year…I’m a planner We are so excited! Your tips really helped…can’t wait!

Thank you Tracy– I truly loved my Viking cruise and hope you do too!

We are going on our first Viking River Cruise in October along the Rhine, from Amsterdam to Basel. What kind of outer layers would you recommend for the fall in Europe. I have never been to Europe and am so excited! Also, are there any must-do optional or included excursions? Thanks for the great read!

Sherrie– You will love the trip! I have not been on a Viking Rhine trip in October, but have been to Amsterdam at that time, and the temperatures average about 55-60 degrees. I think long pants and a light jacket will be fine. You should have the same excursions I had on the longship Eir–definitely do all the daily included excursions, including the windmills, Cologne Cathedral, etc. For optional tours, the Top of Cologne Cathedral is a must (unless you are afraid of heights), the beer dinner, the cheese tasting in Kinderdijk, and the military museum near Strasbourg.

Thank you for great information! Getting ready for our first cruise in July (Amsterdam to Budapest and adding Prague) and sooo excited! Just a couple of questions… regarding tipping, can you estimate how many “favorite crew” you tipped? Seems like we’d be interacting with several. I had read another post where it said tips were shared. Just want to be prepared. Also, is there a retractable clothsline in the bathroom?

Sharon: Hi and welcome! Your trip sounds wonderful! I believe I tipped about 4-5 people — our main waiter, the housekeeping staff (which was shared I believe), the program director (which is tipped less–about 3 Euros a day). We may or may not have slipped our waiter a little extra because we know they share the tips. 😉 Also, I tipped the tour guides for each excursion, 1-2 Euros per. There was a retractable clothesline in the shower on my ship–I know because I washed some linens in the sink and hung them on the line to dry. I just checked with a friend who has been a Danube river cruise (the cruise you are taking) and she said there is clotheslines in the bathrooms on those cruises too!

Thank you for all your wonderful tips. My sister-in-law and I (widows) are going on our first Viking River Cruise – Romantic Danube in a few weeks. We are both turning 80 and this is our Birthday gift to us from us!! We are very excited, as we love anything that is educational, historical, and restful!! All that you have indicated certainly fits the bill, perfectly. It was recommended to us, by a friend who is a Viking Cruiser…….that we bring along walking sticks for stability on the cobblestone streets. We are healthy and very capable of walking and we don’t need canes, but what are your thoughts about the walking sticks?? My only concern about this trip…… is that they do not allow curling irons and my hair will be horrible and unmanageable without a curling iron. Have you any suggestions regarding that dilemma??

Hi! I am so excited for you, you will truly have such a wonderful time! The cobblestone streets are definitely uneven, so if your friend recommended a walking stick, I agree that it might be a good idea for balance. Amazon sells collapsible walking sticks, so you could always bring one and just keep it in your purse, just in case. As far as the curling iron, yes, they did not allow them for safety reasons, but I just heard that Viking changed their policy and allows them now. To be sure, please check with the travel agent that booked your trip or call Viking directly to confirm that this is true. Have a great trip!

Great review and tips. I am going on the Danube cruise from Passau to Budapest. We are traveling in October and can’t wait. We are extending in Prague and Budapest. If anyone has any thoughts on this cruise – would love to hear them.

That is great, have fun!

Julie, my spouse and I take a cruise every year (not loyal to any one cruise line at this point), however, we are going back to Viking for our second cruise (first, being the Grand European, which we absolutely loved). Our second cruise with Viking will be Waterways of the Tsars (Russia). We will be the absolute first to say that the staff/crew on all the ships we have been on work their tail feathers off and we are grateful for that. We were taken aback a bit by the suggested daily gratuity for this trip ($25 per day per passenger). While we know that this can be adjusted, just thought it a bit high (considering we also tip on the side as well). Thoughts?

The daily gratuity is usually divided among the staff including the people you don’t see, including the cooks, dishwashers, etc, however, I am not familiar with $25 per day, we were told $10-15 per day. Perhaps because your cruise is a longer cruise? Ocean cruise tipping is similar.

Julie, Thank you for the tips! Most recently I have travelled on a Cunard ship, ergo, was wondering about how casual Viking is. Last Cunard had 3 formal nights! Should I bring long skirts or will I be safe with linen trousers and shirts?

Hi Gretchen! Viking is so much more casual! Yes, you can wear linen pants and shirts, no fancy long skirts/dresses necessary. If you do want to dress up a little for the cocktail lounge, a short little black dress would be fine, but you don’t have to wear formal gowns. If truth be told, I wore black leggings, a tunic, and my bedroom slippers to dinner one night. My slippers were under the table so nobody saw them during dinner. Shhh. 😉

Julie ,, what tid bits can you offer for photo / video taking ,, we are taking a cruise in July ( Budapest to Munich ) ,,,

Thanks Matt ,, Texas

Matt: Can you be more specific in your question? What exactly are you looking for? I have not taken the Budapest to Munich cruise, so am unable to offer any tips on the routing. You can bring a digital camera and equipment with you, there is a safe in the room. Most of the time I used my cell phone to take photos as my camera equipment was heavy to lug around on the cobblestone streets. Thanks.

I read in a post concerning curling irons on Viking river cruise ships that they may have reconsider allowing them. My Viking travel agent states that is not so. However when I call Viking direct a person there stated they would allow battery operated curling irons. I am very confused as what to do!

Last I heard, they allowed curling irons, but you have to abide by what Viking said directly to you.

Hi Julie My husband and I are going on the NOV 2019 8 day river cruise. Loved your insight we think it may help a ton. Our friend’s went a couple of times before us and even told us which cabin to request. My husband needs special water as he has to use a C PAP at night, they have told us that this will be no problem they will have it waiting. Do you know if the Christmas shops are open that early in the year? Thanks again for all the information Donna B

Donna, I am so excited for you, have a great trip. You did not indicate what date in November you are going, but the Christmas markets usually open the Friday before Advent starts, which is four Sundays before Christmas. I hope you get to enjoy them! Here is more information about the Christmas markets. https://acorkforkandpassport.com/christmas-markets-on-a-viking-rhine-river-cruise/

Thanks for writing this! I’m heading to the same cruise you took in June 22 w my mom. I have arthritis, fibro, and hypermobile joints. I expressed a LOT of concern to my mom about my disabilities and mobility issues but…. she might be more optimistic than I. I’m looking into the possibility of renting an electric mobility scooter in the towns we dock in, for a day rental. But if they take you via bus….then it sounds like that is not going to help me, as I’m sure they wouldn’t allow even a portable/travel scooter on the tour bus.

I don’t think I can handle 4 hours of being on my feet, so I’m very very nervous about this trip :/

Did many people, that you were aware of, make their own excursions? Being on a hot bus crammed with other people could potentially be really bad for me, as I also have a mast cell disorder and two big triggers are fragrances and heat.

Of the stops, which did you think was the one most skippable? I want to see as much as I can but also need to be realistic and plan it out. I’d hate to not plan and end up missing one of the prettiest towns, you know?

I would reach out to your travel agent or Viking direct about your concerns.

I don’t believe any of the stops should be avoided, they are all truly wonderful. You would not be on the tour bus for long periods of time–the most time I spent on the bus was going to the Black Forest, it was about a 40 minute drive. The rest of the stops is about a 20-30 minute ride on the tour bus. Also, you would not be on your feet for four hours, the most time spent walking at one time was about one hour–there is plenty of opportunities to rest. I would talk to the concierge on your cruise, they can put you in the “slower” walking group as I did. The pace was slower and more relaxing, with more rest stops.

Good luck, I know this trip will be amazing for you!

we are doing the grand european tour and were going to book a french balcony on the middle deck. Is there a particular room that would be best for us? Also, before we book, does it matter what side the the boat we are on. Will we miss sights because we are across from the Veranda balcony rooms?

If you are able to upgrade your room to a full balcony on the top level, I would do that for the best views. The middle level is fine but you will not have the eye level for views as you would on the top level. Also, when in port, the ships often dock against other ships so you will likely only have a view of the other ship’s windows. If your budget only allows a french balcony, you are better to get a room closer to the back of the ship, on the left side facing the front. Something else to note: Depending on the time of year you are traveling, you will still have the best views from the top deck, so room location is not necessarily a concern. In the winter months the top deck can get chilly but the views are worth it!

In addition to being a travel writer, I am a travel advisor with over 34 years of experience. If you would like assistance booking your Viking trip, it would be my pleasure to assist you. Please reach out to me at [email protected]

Just a quick note, Viking now has a gratuity package for their River cruises so you can opt to pay their suggested tips ahead of time if you’d like.

Thank you for letting me know.

For those who WANT to do the excursions but are afraid of the amount of walking, it might help to do what I did on a previous river cruise: take along a folding 3-legged seat/cane. My problem is more the standing still while the guides give their spiel, and often you are in a place where there is no seating. It is really nice to be able to rest up while they talk. I added a strap so that when walking I could sling it over my shoulder. I had no problem taking it onboard the ship nor the airlines.

Great tip, thank you!

Thanks for your article, we are booked for the Grand River Tour with Viking for next year !Your writing is really informative – thanks agin .

Wonderful, have fun!

Thanks for this information. We are going on our first Viking European Tour the first two weeks of September. What would you suggest for clothing at that time of year? Is it necessary to bring rain gear? Thanks.

I don’t believe you will need to bring rain gear in September, it is a beautful time of year to travel! If you do have rain, it will be minor.

My mom and I are leaving next week on the Amsterdam to Basel Rhine Christmas cruise. I’m sure she will be glad to hear about the “easy walkers” option. I’m very excited hear that you liked the Cologne Beer Dinner – I’m doing that one solo and am really looking forward to it. Great tips!

Thank you so much. I loved the Cologne beer dinner, so much fun. Enjoy your trip!

Hi Julie. Thanks for the comprehensive and very informative information regarding a Viking River Cruise. We will be taking our first Viking River Cruise on the Danube and have a question regarding the timing specified for excursions. If an excursion states ending at 6:00pm and another excursion starts at 6:30pm is their sufficient time between the end of one and the beginning of the other (since they are specified as only 30 minutes apart) to take both excursions. Thank you in advance.

Hi Rich! It really depends on the tour, some are near enough that it wouldn’t be a problem and others need to factor in transportation time. I would check with your travel advisor or Viking representative that you booked your trip with to make certain you will be able to do both tours.

who knew so many people had issues with curling irons- another reason Im happy to be bald. care to elaborate on booking trips before the trip or once your on the ship/boat.

By trips do you mean shore excursions? There are approximately 190 people on the ship but each tour can only take about 20-40 people, so it is best to book the excursions in advance as some may book up/sell out before the cruise. If there are excursions available when you are on the ship, absolutely sign up for them but have a few must-have excursions booked in advance.

Thanks for the great information. Two questions 1. What are the normal cruising times daytime or overnight or both? 2. If I purchase something at local can items be shipped to US easily?

The cruising time really depends on the time of year and the cruise. Summer cruises tend to cruise during the day while you are touring; late fall/winter cruises tend to cruise overnight while you are sleeping. Check your cruise itinerary for more information or ask your travel advisor.

Regarding purchases while on the trip: Many local vendors will assist in shipping items back to the United States and I am quite certain Viking concierge staff on the ship can assist with this as well.

We have not booked yet but are possibly trying to work our trip around a wedding in Germany. Therefore we feel we would have to begin or end our trip with flexible days and flight in order to reach our destination and fly . We are wanting to know about the flight portion of the trip. Do you both directions with a Viking set schedule? Ir could you do one direction in your own?

I am not sure I understand your question but I will try…

You are not locked into booking air with Viking so if you have a wedding, you can do a Viking Cruise before or after the wedding. If you do air with Viking, they can work with you on getting the flights you need but you may not have ground transportation to the cruise location if you come in early or depart late. One of my Viking trips I came in a few days early and I had to arrange my own transportation to get to the cruise ship. Does this answer your question? Your best bet is to talk to an experienced travel advisor (I happen to be one!). Please reach out to me at [email protected] if you need assistance with booking your cruise! Thanks.

Thank you very much. You did answer my question!! It sounds as though you are able to personalize within reason with Viking! Now to sort it out! Thanks

I am looking to cruise as a single…are most people in pairs? Will I feel like a 3rd wheel?

You should not feel like a third-wheel at all! The people who attend Viking cruises are generally friendly and outgoing. Many of the tables for dinner are for larger groups so you will be able to mingle and sit with others during the cruise and get to know people easily and there is after-dinner activities designed to get people socializing. When booking your cruise, see if Viking is offering a single-suppliment special, otherwise you will pay a higher price for a single person in the stateroom.

Our friends and my husband and I are looking at doing a Vikings cruise in the fall. We are interested . In Italy and Croatia. But any other countries are welcome. Looking at pamphlets is quite overwhelming so any help you can give would be greatly appreciated

I am going to reach out to you via your email address to see if I can assist you further through my travel agency.

Thanks for the wonderfully accurate description of the Viking cruises. My wife and I are heading out for our 6th cruise in a few days, and I would echo everything you wrote about your experience. I didn’t see these tidbits in your article, or in the comments.

1. You mentioned the printed itinerary we receive each night for the following days activities, but one of the best tips we got from our cruise director on our first sailing from Basel to Trier was to take a photo of the itinerary on your cell phone. No need to carry any paper with you on the excursions, but it also makes remembering where all the photos were taken on the trip. 2. My wife and I both enjoy nice wine, and one of our favorite perks about Viking River Cruises is that you can bring as much of your own wine and liquor on the ship as you like. Apparently a major departure from other cruise lines. On a trip from Amsterdam to Basel with two of our adult children, we carried a case of wine for the trip that we purchased in Amsterdam before sailing.

Thanks again for the well-written description. I’ll recommend it when people ask us why we are so “sold” on Viking.

Thank you for the additional tips, wonderful!

Hi Julie, Where exactly in Cologne is your photo above taken with that church in the background? we leave for our Viking Cruise in early January and want to see where you were. Thank you!

This photo was taken in COlogne right by the Viking port at the Reingarten Park. Thanks, Joanna!

I was told that river cruise is accessible for wheelchairs. Is this not the case?! My husband can walk short distances but would need wheelchair to go entire length of ship.

My comment was based on my individual cruise and a wheelchair would be difficult to use on some river cruises based on the reasons I listed in my article. However, river cruise companies have several different ship sizes so I would reach out to the cruise line directly with any questions regarding wheelchair size.

What time does the ship shut down for the night? Like how late can one get a drink at the bar/hang out on the decks?

I think it really depends on the ship, the route, and the time of year. For the cruise I was on, the bar was still open until at least 12 midnight.

There are many others excursions available in many cities other than the ones offered by Viking. Are those excursion offices close to the ports so we can book when getting off the ship? Or must we book them prior to our trip? Your article was very informative. Thanks so much.

You should try to book them prior to your trip but it really depends on the time of year and where you are going. You can also ask on the ship with the ship concierge, they can assist with excursions and dinner reservations, etc. For ocean cruises I definitely recommend booking excursions outside of the cruise company but for river cruises, their excursions are always better, in my opinion.

I`m in my early 70s, and single. I plan on going on the Danube cruise in October. Will I have to pay for a double occupancy stateroom? I can“t seem to get any of my girlfriends interested in going, so it will be solo for me! Thank you.

Madeline: Each cruise company has their own policy when it comes to single or double occupancy and I believe Viking always charges for double, unless they have a special promotion. Be sure to check Amawaterways, they sometimes have single occupancy specials. If you need assistance with your trip, I am also a veteran travel advisor, please email me at [email protected] . Thanks!

My hubby and I are booked on the Grand European Tour for June 2024. Im recently recovering from achilles tendon surgery (Jan. 2024),and Physical Therapy and may bring a cane. Thanks for info on asking about the “easy walking” tours. My main question is: are there restrooms on bus in case of emergencies? I have Crohn’s disease and very anxious about traveling in general. Thanks!

Hi Chris! I do not recall if they had restrooms on the coach buses but I do not believe they do. Please check with your travel advisor or Viking to be sure. Thanks.

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We created a Viking FAQ section to deal with the many questions about ones Viking River Cruise. Questions range from what time do Viking cruises depart to please tell me about a Viking river cruise ships layout and of course the natural one Viking river cruises what is included. Questions asked range to what is a viking beyla deck plan to simply a statement Viking Jarl. Every day new questions arrive and we love answering every Viking FAQ to our office.

What is the tipping policy?

Our onboard staff is dedicated to providing you with the best cruise experience possible, and it is customary to give gratuities in recognition of their service. How much you choose to tip is at your discretion. To save you from worry over whom to tip and how much, we suggest you pre-purchase our standard recommended gratuity in My Viking Journey. The amount will be shared among the onboard staff who helped support and provide for your cruise experience, including your Program Director, waitstaff, stateroom stewards, galley staff, nautical staff, and others.

Is there internet access aboard the ship? Are there computers, or should I bring my laptop?

All of our ships offer free Wi-Fi. You may use your personal device or one of the ship’s computers in our Internet Café. Our connection relies on a satellite terminal—the best possible solution for river cruising. Due to the nature of data bandwidth and latency, as well as potential interruptions in satellite signals based on terrain and weather, you may experience slower online connections than you are accustomed to at home. In order to ensure fair usage for all, we reserve the right to limit heavy-bandwidth applications, downloads or software upgrades so that all our guests have access to Wi-Fi. We suggest that guests limit large uploads/downloads and live streaming. Please download your content prior to your cruise, as bandwidth will affect your service and cannot be guaranteed. We would be pleased to help you with your device settings once you are on board.

We hope you will understand that we will do our very best to provide you with an enjoyable online experience, and remember you will likely be able to access standard Wi-Fi and data roaming services on shore in most towns and cities you visit.

What is the electrical voltage in the stateroom? What kind of converters will I need for my computer/cell phone/camera battery charger?

If you are traveling on a Viking Longship, you will find both 110V and 220V electrical outlets in your stateroom. The 220V outlets are German Schuko 2-pin safety plugs. There are also several US 110V sockets. Should you need an adapter for these outlets, they can be found at most electronic or travel stores, or are available for sale in the onboard shop. (Remember that if you’re staying in a hotel for part of your journey, you’ll want the appropriate adapter for that country as well.) In your stateroom, you will also find a USB socket to charge cell phones and tablets; just bring the appropriate cable with you. Modern electronic devices can accommodate different electrical currents, so you probably won’t need a current converter. Please note that heat-producing appliances, such as irons, steamers, curling irons and heaters, are potential safety hazards and therefore not permitted on board. Hair dryers are provided on board and in our hotels so you likely do not need to bring one with you.

Do you have any packing tips?

Yes. We do.

What to bring

We suggest bringing comfortable, casual clothing. Ties and jackets are not required; there are no formal nights although some guests choose dressier clothing for the Captain’s Dinner. Consider dressing respectfully when visiting places of worship and other religious sites where you may be denied entry if wearing clothing considered to be inappropriate or too revealing. Your Tour Escort can assist you with any questions. Also, please consider baggage weight restrictions on the intra-China flights when packing.

Here is a short list of items you might want to bring with you: – Comfortable walking shoes – Dressier shoes – Collapsible umbrella/lightweight rain gear – Lightweight jacket/warm sweater/sweatshirt – Sunglasses, sun hat or visor – Toiletries (including medical remedies) – Warm coat, gloves and water-resistant footwear (as needed for cooler months)

Pack in your carry-on baggage

We suggest you bring copies of your key travel documents (passport information page, airline tickets, credit card numbers and insurance information) and carry them separately in case you lose your originals.

You might also want to consider packing the following items: – All needed medications, including prescriptions, in their original, labeled containers – Eyeglasses, contacts, contact lens solution – Important papers and travel documents – Camera gear, film or extra memory cards, extra batteries – Valuables

Optional items

Here is a list of optional items to consider bringing with you: – Electric converter/adapter for North American appliances (220V) – Travel alarm clock, travel flashlight, binoculars, anti-bacterial wipes and/or hand sanitizer – Small calculator for foreign exchange calculations – Travel journal/notepad and/or reading material – Small, basic sewing kit/extra buttons; pack scissors in checked bags – Address list or pre-addressed labels for sending postcards

NOTE : Most hotels and Reception onboard have hair dryers available for guest use. Also, laundry service (no dry cleaning) is available on board for a fee.

What are the amenities available?

Your ship has hair dryers for guest use, as do most hotels. Your stateroom amenities include shower gel, shampoo, lotion, shower cap and vanity kit.

What is your single supplement?

On occasion, Viking Cruises will make special solo traveler fares available. Please check back for pricing updates, and in the meantime explore the Viking Inclusive Value fares currently available on all our river and ocean cruises. With Viking Inclusive Cruising, we offer you great value every day, in a category that will fit all your travel needs.

How do I know which ship I am travelling on?

Your booking displays your ship and stateroom category.

Can you provide docking location and/or port address information?

Viking has secured many dock locations along the rivers, and we strive to arrange the most convenient docking available. Due to limited space or local regulations, occasionally ships may be required to dock alongside each other, so your view may be temporarily blocked and you may need to pass through another ship (or other ship’s guests may pass through yours) to disembark. Your preliminary itinerary document gives you more information about cities along the way and approximate times of arrival and departure.

Are there elevators on the ship?

Yes, your ship has elevators.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We can in most cases. Every meal has vegetarian options on the menu, and our chefs are able to prepare low-salt or gluten-free cuisine. Guests requiring special diets such as diabetic or low-cholesterol meals must alert Viking Cruises one month prior to departure and inform the Maître d’ when on board. The chefs will make every effort to accommodate these requests.

Are the ships non smoking, are there smoking areas?

All Viking ship interiors, staterooms and verandas are nonsmoking; this policy also applies to e-cigarettes. Each ship has an outdoor smoking area, generally on the Sun Deck.

Is there fitness equipment on board?

While your ship does not have any fitness equipment, feel free to walk the Sun Deck for your daily exercise, or take part in our shore excursions and walking tours.

Does my ship have a library?

Yes. Your ship’s library offers informative and inspirational books about the history, geography, biology and current affairs of the countries through which you cruise.

Is there an onboard ship?

Yes. Your ship has an onboard shop offering Viking-branded items, souvenirs and toiletries.

Is it possible to visit the wheelhouse on my ship?

Your cruise typically offers visitation times for the wheelhouse, during which you can ask your Captain questions and see how the ship is steered. Except for these scheduled visits, please don’t enter the wheelhouse unless explicitly invited by the Captain or First Officer.

Is there an onboard concierge?

Yes. Our onboard Viking Concierge can help you customize your trip, such as procuring museum or concert tickets; directing you to a special bookstore or café; or making a spa reservation ashore. Just contact the Concierge desk once you’re aboard.

Are visitors allowed on ship?

We regret that for security reasons visitors are not permitted aboard the ship.

Is a list of ship emergency telephone numbers available?

A list of ship telephone numbers can be found at the link below; you can provide the phone number for your ship to your contacts for use in case of emergency. If you would like to make or receive phone calls on a non-emergency basis, you should know that your cell phone may not work overseas, or it may work but run up large international roaming charges. You should contact your cell provider to see if you can make arrangements before you go.

What do I need to embark the ship?

Please be sure to have a valid passport. A copy of your printed (or electronic) Cruise Documents may expedite embarkation at certain ports but is not required to embark your ship.

What time is embarkation?

You’ll be able to access your stateroom at approximately 3:00 PM; should you arrive before this, you can relax in the Lounge or leave your luggage with the staff and explore on your own. A light lunch buffet will be available in the Lounge around midday for early arriving guests.

My stateroom

What amenities are in my stateroom?

Your stateroom is stocked with complimentary bottled water, soap, shampoo, conditioner and lotion, which are replenished as needed.

Will I be able to watch TV in my stateroom?

All staterooms have a color television with a selection of live TV channels, including news, sports and finance channels, on-demand movies and in-house programming. Because satellite coverage is dependent on weather conditions and location, there may be times when programming is temporarily unavailable.

Are there irons and ironing boards in the staterooms?

For your safety, we do not have irons or ironing boards in the staterooms, as they are a fire hazard. Instead, clothing can be pressed for you.

Is there a phone in my stateroom?

Each stateroom has its own phone, and charges will be placed on your shipboard account. Phones function via satellite and there may be times when reception isn’t possible. This satellite service is comparatively expensive, and you may prefer to use your own personal mobile phone to make international calls instead.

Once we have unpacked in our stateroom, where do we store our luggage?

Most staterooms have ample space under the bed for your luggage; the space under the bed is about 15 inches, which can easily accommodate most full-sized suitcases laid flat. In the event your stateroom does not have space under the bed, you will be able to store your luggage elsewhere on your deck.

Are the staterooms on the ship air controlled?

Yes, all Staterooms are equipped with easy-to-use air conditioning.

Will there be a safe in my room?

Yes. All staterooms include a complimentary safe for you to store any valuables.

Will there be a hair dryer in my stateroom or should I bring one? What about shampoo and other toiletries?

Your ship has hair dryers for guest use. Most staterooms are equipped with a hair dryer; if there isn’t one in your stateroom, you can request one at the Reception Desk and it will be provided to you. Your stateroom amenities include shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, plus a shower cap and vanity kit.

Are there refrigerators in individual staterooms?

Yes, your ship has a small refrigerator with a mini-bar and room for you to store your own items.

We need Twin Beds; is this possible?

Most staterooms have beds that can be set up as either queen-size or twin beds. Please inform us of your bed configuration preference so we can make sure your stateroom is set up properly when you arrive.

Life on Board

What are the onboard dining times?

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in your ship’s restaurant; you may opt for breakfast or lunch in the Lounge, or take a plate to the Sun Deck. Room service is not available. While serving times can vary depending upon excursions and cruise schedules, they are generally:

• Breakfast: 7:00 AM–9:30 AM
• Lunch: 12:00 PM–2:00 PM
• Dinner: 7:00 PM

Hot coffee and tea from the coffee station, as well as bottled water in your stateroom, are complimentary throughout your voyage. Soft drinks, wine and beer are complimentary during lunch and dinner service; a charge applies outside these hours. You may bring local wines on board, and our Maître d’ will be happy to serve your wine without any corkage fee. Should you require a special diet such as vegetarian, low-salt or similar and have not already notified us, please contact us immediately. Once aboard the ship please inform your Maître d’ of any dietary requirements and our chefs will make every effort to accommodate you.

How do I find out about life on board my ship and in my stateroom?

Viking’s river cruise ships are built to provide a comfortable, relaxing backdrop for your cruise. Spectacular scenery beckons from every part of the ship, including the Sun Deck, Restaurant and Lounge, and your stateroom. Follow the link below to discover further details about what life is like aboard a Viking Cruises ship.

Is there a “dress code” on the ship? Dress during the day is casual including shorts (if the season is warm), trousers or jeans and comfortable shoes for walking tours. There are no “formal nights” and recommended evening dress is “elegant casual” such as a dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse for ladies; for gentlemen, trousers and a collared shirt. Ties and jackets are optional. We suggest you pack comfortable walking shoes, dressier shoes, a collapsible umbrella/lightweight rain gear; items you can layer like lightweight jackets/sweaters; sunglasses, a sun hat/visor, sunscreen; and toiletries including a travel-sized hand sanitizer. Depending on the season and destination, you may also want to add a warm coat, gloves and water-resistant footwear.

What is the language spoken aboard the ship?

Your ship’s key staff, Program Director and local guides speak English, as will your fellow guests. You’ll find a variety of languages ashore, but your English-speaking local guide accompanies you on all escorted tours. Should you wish to travel on your own, you may want to bring a small travel dictionary or smart phone translation app.

Is there internet access on my ship? Are there computers, or should I bring my laptop?

We are considering purchasing the beverage package; it would be useful to know what the by-the-glass beverage prices are.

On board our river cruise ships, you may have free assorted hot teas and specialty coffees anytime, as well as house wines, beers and soft drinks with onboard lunches and dinners; bottled water is supplied in your stateroom and is refilled as needed. If you choose to upgrade to our Silver Spirits beverage package, you can enjoy unlimited beverages including a selection of premium local wines, beers, cocktails, specialty coffee drinks, soft drinks and juices throughout the day; plus an open bar (during operating hours). You may purchase the package prior to sailing or once on board.

Please note you must be 21 years of age or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. Both guests in a stateroom must purchase the package for the full length of the cruise in order for it to be valid.

Will there always be someone available if I need to speak with a Viking representative?

Yes. Our ship’s Reception Desk is always open to assist you. You can also drop off any cards or letters for mailing; if postage is required, a fee equal to your postage amount will be added to your stateroom account.

Will we be able to have laundry done on the ship? What are the prices?

Laundry service is available aboard your ship; unfortunately, clothes cannot be dry cleaned.

Can I use my mobile phone during my trip?

If you wish to use your mobile phone during your trip, check with your phone provider to see if your phone and service will work. It may be less expensive to rent an international phone or buy a SIM card on site; should you choose to use a local SIM, ensure that your phone can accept one.

A list of ship telephone numbers can be found at the link below; you can provide the phone number for your ship to your contacts for use in case of emergency. If you would like to make or receive phone calls on a non-emergency basis, you should know that your mobile phone may not work overseas, or it may work but run up large international roaming charges. You should contact your cell provider to see if you can make arrangements before you go.

I would like to stay in touch with family, friends and associates back home. What do you recommend?

From our list of  ship phone numbers ,  you can obtain the phone number for your ship and provide it to your contacts in case of an emergency. If you would like to make or receive phone calls on a non-emergency basis, you should know that your cell phone may not work overseas, or it may work but run up large international roaming charges. You should contact your cell provider to see if you can make arrangements before you go.

• To call overseas from North America, dial: 011 + country code + area code + the number
• In country, dial: 0 + area code + the number (do not use the country code)
• Within the area code, dial: The number you’re calling (only)
• To call from one country to another when overseas, dial: The international access code (usually 00) + country code + area code + the number

Note: Most mobile phones allow you to place a “+” before the country code, area code and number you’re calling and will automatically connect, regardless of your location.

Can I order a gift?

You can order a gift for delivery on board. Please note, orders and full payment must be received no later than 30 days prior to sail date.

What is the Viking river cruises services guarantee?

We hope you love your cruise from the very beginning; however, should you be dissatisfied with our service upon first check-in (hotel or aboard ship) including food, personnel or shore excursions — just notify us within 24 hours of the start of your journey (if your first check-in is aboard ship, notify your Program Director; at a hotel, contact your Viking Host). We then have 24 hours to correct the situation, and in the unlikely event a solution isn’t possible, you can then depart as soon as possible and we’ll refund 100% of your cruise price. We can assist with any departure reservations, but your return trip/alternate travel plan costs are your sole responsibility. This Service Guarantee cannot be activated or applied due to Acts of God, Strike or Other.

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What is the local currency where we are going? Will I be able to exchange Money on Board? What forms of payment are accepted on the ship?

Your ship will be unable to exchange money, so plan on bringing some currency with you and exchanging it for local currency at a bank or currency exchange office, or getting cash as needed at ATMs. If you are planning on using an ATM, you should verify with your bank that your ATM card and PIN will work overseas.

Items purchased aboard the ship will be added to your shipboard account. You may settle your account in cash (local money, dollars or euros) or with a credit card (sorry, the ship is unable to accept traveler’s checks).

Can I use my credit card throughout my journey?

MasterCard, Visa and American Express are accepted in major shops, restaurants and hotels, and may also be used to settle your shipboard account. Notify your credit card companies that you will be traveling abroad to avoid any restrictions on your account.

American credit cards with magnetic stripes may not work in European automated ticketing machines (such as transit vending systems) as these require chip and pin cards; contact your credit card company for details.

What are the rules with VAT (Valued Added Tax) in the countries that I am visiting?

A number of countries have a national sales tax (VAT) levied on goods. It is possible that with the proper point of purchase documentation you may get a portion of this tax refunded on unused, high-value, new items purchased from a single retailer; we recommend you research what’s necessary for the country from which you plan to purchase a high-ticket item before you depart. Depending upon flight schedules and timing, it may be possible to receive a refund by applying at the airport kiosk before departure, but understand that it can take some time and effort to achieve this.

Can you help me deal with money and currency issues?

Yes. Here is some information to help you deal with money and currency issues, both on shore and aboard your ship.

Currencies & exchange rates

Local currencies vary with the regions where we travel:

China uses the renminbi (RMB), whose basic unit is the yuan.

Egypt uses the Egyptian pound.

Most of Europe uses the euro. Hungary uses the forint, and the Czech Republic uses the koruna.

Hong Kong uses the Hong Kong dollar.

Cambodia uses the riel.

Vietnam uses the dông.

Thailand uses the baht.

Israel uses the shekel.

Jordan uses the Jordanian dinar.

Russia uses the ruble.

Ukraine uses the hryvnia.

Current exchange rates are available in the financial sections of newspapers and at websites like  XE  and  CNN Money .

Are ATM’s available?

Yes. ATM’s are a good source of cash overseas; however, they may or may not be conveniently located in the larger cities and may be rare in smaller towns along the rivers. Your itinerary may not always allow you sufficient time to locate one. Your Program Director or tour guide can probably help you.

When available, ATM’s dispense local currency for internationally accepted ATM cards and/or credit cards, and have a service fee of approximately 3%. If you are planning to use ATM’s, you should confirm with your bank prior to departure that your ATM/credit card and Personal Identification Number (PIN) will work abroad.

Can I exchange currency or travelers checks?

Unfortunately, your ship will not be able to change money for you or accept travelers checks for payment of your shipboard account. You may be able to change cash or travelers checks at some hotels, most banks and exchange bureaus for a fee.

Chinese law prohibits exchanging cash or travelers checks onboard your ship. To change Chinese currency back to U.S. dollars, euros or other currencies, you will need to provide all receipts and currency declarations. Because this process can be quite time-consuming, we suggest exchanging currency in smaller increments, as needed.

In Russia/Ukraine:

Russian and Ukrainian currency is regulated. Change your hard currency (U.S. dollars, euros, etc.) only at official exchange points and use only rubles or hryvnia as cash (by law, our ships cannot exchange cash or travelers checks for hryvnia). A fee will be charged. The local people will be happy to accept your dollars for tips, taxi rides and souvenirs, but it is technically not allowed.

How do I confirm my flights?

Flight schedules, policies, seat assignments and luggage restrictions are always subject to change, so please confirm these with your airline directly at least 72 hours prior to departure.

What will I need for customs?

Obtaining Your Travel Documents:

Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. If you should choose to make your own air arrangements, transfers may be purchased through Viking Cruises up to 30 days before departure for an additional cost, or you may make your own transfer arrangements.

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If you are traveling with us to China, Russia, Egypt, Jordan or Southeast Asia, you will need a visa. As a service to guests, visas are available from an independent third party upon request. If you would like to obtain your visa through our partner, please visit their website and download a visa kit. Complete and return the forms to the visa company in a timely manner so that you will have your documentation in time to travel. The timing is explained within the kit instructions. Should you decide to obtain a Russian visa directly instead of using the kit, you will need to contact Viking Cruises for an Invitation Letter using the link provided. Anyone who wishes to obtain their own visas for Southeast Asia should make sure to get a single-entry visa for Cambodia and a double-entry visa for Vietnam (Vietnam and Cambodia e-visas may not be used with this itinerary). This will enable travel to Vietnam, to Cambodia and back to Vietnam during the course of the itinerary. Note: Viking River Cruises accepts no responsibility for obtaining required visas nor for advising guests of visa or other immigration requirements.

Distribution of Travel Documents: Tickets and other travel documents will be issued approximately 3 weeks prior to departure. All early document requests will be charged a $25 early processing fee. Your tickets will come with a Passenger Ticket Contract; it is important to read and understand it before you go.

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Most airlines will allow you to check-in 24 hours prior to your first flight. When you receive your tickets, please check the departure date and time carefully to make sure you understand when you are flying, and when you must check-in. Some flights are overnight or “red-eye” flights leaving very early in the morning. For these flights you may need to check in at a later time on the previous evening (example: an 11:00 PM check-in for a 1:00 AM flight). Please note that your flight may be a “code-share” among partner airlines. Make sure you check your flight information carefully to determine your air carrier. This will assist you in finding correct departure gate information and help you understand which airline’s luggage restrictions and other rules will apply to you.

What is my seat assignment?

When you receive your air reservation, it may or may not reflect a seating assignment. Airline policies concerning specific seat requests, random seat assignments, and check-in-only seat requests vary widely. Additionally, airlines sometimes change their schedules or change aircraft, resulting in a different configuration from the one in place when your reservation was made. Therefore, air seats are not guaranteed and may be changed by the airline or by Viking. When you contact your airline, you can find out whether you have seat assignments and what the policy is regarding obtaining or changing seats.

What are my airport transfer agreements?

Transfers are included with roundtrip airfare purchase. Itinerary details will be provided approximately 3 weeks before your departure in your final document package. If air is not purchased from Viking River Cruises, transfers between the airport and ship/hotel may be purchased separately at an additional cost per person, per direction. Embarkation (ship) check-in is generally at 3:00 PM; earlier arrivals may relax in the Lounge or leave luggage aboard while exploring the port city.

Check-in time at most hotels is often in the early afternoon and if you arrive earlier the hotel may allow you to check in if your room is ready or will store your luggage so you can explore on your own. On departure day, guest disembarkation (ship) is generally at 10:00 AM and hotel check-out is generally at 12:00 PM. If you made your own flight arrangements and would like to book/purchase transfers through Viking, you can request assistance by phone or click on the link to the right. Transfers may be purchased up to 30 days before departure.

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Many airlines include up to one complimentary piece of luggage per guest on international trans-oceanic flights, but may charge for luggage on international domestic flights. Viking guarantees one complimentary piece of luggage per guest, for all flights if travel is international and purchased through Viking Air. If an airline charges a fee for the first piece of luggage, Viking will reimburse this fee for up to one piece of luggage per guest; compensation excludes travel within the United States and its territories and between the United States and Canada. For reimbursement, please mail receipts, including the booking number and the name of the traveler, to Viking, Attention Air Department, 5700 Canoga Ave. Suite 200, Woodland Hills, CA 91367.

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If you have travel protection, please contact your provider – a phone number will be printed on your policy.

If you do not have coverage and purchased air from Viking, call us at 1-877-523-0576.

If you arranged your own air and are traveling independently, contact the emergency number listed in your Cruise Documents.

What should I pack in my carry-on luggage?

We advise you carry on: valuables; medications in original, labeled containers; glasses/contacts, etc.; important papers (passport, insurance, medical records), Cruise Documents, emergency contact information; and cameras, memory cards and batteries.

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• River Cruising

Earliest time for Viking River Cruise embarkation

By kpgclark , March 23, 2017 in River Cruising

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What is the earliest time you may board a Viking River Cruise on the day of embarkation? Is 10 too early? Thanks.

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FuelScience

Based on past experience, you can show up at 10:00, but don't expect your stateroom to be ready. They will probably have snacks in the lounge, or you can drop off your luggage and go sightseeing. They will probably have a light lunch around noon.

Thanks. I didn't expect the stateroom to be ready. I just want to check out of the hotel and get to the port with our bags to drop them off and wander around a bit.

Clay Clayton

I don' t think you will have any issues.

When we were disembarking in Budapest last year, we stayed aboard until well after lunch so that we could go directly to our hotel and check in. Viking told us we were welcome to stay aboard as long as we wanted (including dinner which we didn't take them up on) as long as we were out of our staterooms by 9 am, 9:30 am?. Anyway, while we were lounging in the lounge waiting for lunch to be set up, a number of folks trickled in - some as before 10 am as I recall...certainly before 11. Of course your mileage may vary but I bet not.

Those that fly in the day of the cruise are brought directly to the ship. I know we have boarded before 10 in the morning. We have been lucky each time with our room being ready but others have had to wait until 3:00 PM. There is always a lite lunch on the Aquavit Terrace and in the afternoon an introductive walking tour of the city where the ship is docked. We always try to take the walking tour because on some cruises, the cruise does nothing in the city where we are docked the first day.

For some reason Viking has nothing scheduled for the embarkation day. The walking tour of Amsterdam is scheduled for the following day.

You usually do not find out about them until you are on the ship. We did one in Amsterdam. The walk usually just helps you get the layout of the city. Walked thru the Red light district and the main square and got a good historical background. We have always had a walking tour the first day in Europe on Viking. We just consider it a bonus for arriving by early afternoon.

I would think that is because you ARE staying in Amsterdam. Some people have complained that they won't see the embarkation city because the ship departs that evening. In that case, having an informal walking tour would be a nice idea.

They call it a welcome walk and it is usually led by the cruise director vs a local guide. But I always love them. After flying all night it is so nice to get on the ship, enjoy a cappuccino in the lounge, have a nice lunch and then take a lovely welcome walk to get some fresh air and exercise before getting settled in your stateroom. Makes me want to book a cruise right now :)

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Chris Cruises

Cruise news, tips and inside information.

RIVER CRUISING

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CULINARY WONDER AROUND THE WORLD

OCEAN CRUISING

VOYAGE AROUND THE WORLD

Easy Embarkation Begins Viking River Cruise

Posted on August 18, 2014 August 25, 2014 Author Chris Owen

The people that work with Viking River Cruises do a whole lot of things right, starting with easy embarkation. As our bus pulled up curbside, stopping between Viking Hermod docked on the Rhone River on one side and the city center of Avignon on the other, on hand to greet us was the ship’s Program Director , Matthew Scott. Welcoming us to Avignon, Scott explained the simple embarkation procedure; follow him.

Led to the reception area of their Viking longship , passengers pick up their stateroom cards and are escorted to their home away from home for the voyage. No credit card put on file, no line, no delay. Arriving about lunchtime, a light buffet was served in the ship’s Aquavit Terrace, an open-air dining venue located at the front of the ship with a spectacular view of a bustling French riverside. Salads, sandwiches and made-to-order pasta were featured and crewmembers served soft drinks, beer and wine; included with each meal.

On this trip, we chose to try Viking’s Silver Spirits Premium Beverage Program.   While all meals are always accompanied by hot tea, iced tea or coffee, regional house wines, beers and soft drinks, the Silver Spirits program offers more. One of the few add-ons available, Silver Spirits brings unlimited premium wines, beers, espresso drinks, juices and mineral water for the entire duration of the cruise plus cocktails and a bottle of sparkling wine. It’s a €300 upcharge for both Lisa and I but that charge slip would be the last one I would sign for the entire voyage.

That’s actually one of the big reasons I like the Silver Spirit ’s plan; no signing for beverages outside of mealtime and no limitations on what we can explore in the way of wine. A bonus, bartenders are called “Bar Chef’s” and share their knowledge freely. Already we have made a great friend in Hugo the Bar Chef who is leading us on our own journey through the ship’s wine list.

Taking a bottle of wine back to our stateroom (another advantage of the Silver Spirits plan), we unpacked and explored our suite, an actual two-room accommodation that was going to be just perfect for our trip. Details to follow on the different cabin categories and distinct advantages of the Viking Longships.

The afternoon provided an opportunity to visit Avignon on a short walking tour, promoted as a good way to ‘stretch your legs” after a long flight.  I tried, but was captivated by a Ferris wheel that had been erected between the river and the city center since the last time I was here; for the launch of 18 Viking Longships in one day, last spring. Then, a bit of a chill was in the air and while the Guinness record-breaking event was the hottest ticket in town, there was little time to linger and just take in the day. Today there was and I took advantage of one feature of a Viking River Cruise that you don’t see on the TV commercials or in a brochure: you can do whatever you want to do.

That thought was echoed later in the day by Program Director Scott at the first of a nightly briefing that would happen just before dinner each night of the cruise. “You can use the tour as a guided way to get to the city center,” Scott explained to the passengers who had gathered in the ship’s lounge. “You can stay with your guide for the duration, or just for a while, breaking off from the group if you see something of particular interest,” he explained, noting “just let your guide know so they can be sure you know how to get back and won’t be counting you as one of those they are looking after.”

Scott also explained other housekeeping items of general interest that were already covered in pre-cruise documentation, making more sense of procedures and the daily routine now that we were actually on board Viking Hermod.   Also in attendance was the ship’s Hotel Director Stephen Burnham who ran the demographics of our particular sailing with a show of hands on where passengers came from. Overwhelmingly North American other nationalities mimicked previous sailings in kind and number, coming from Great Britain and Australia.   Interestingly, when asked who had sailed with Viking River Cruises before, nearly half the passengers on board had their hands in the air. It was going to be a big group at the past guest party, later in the voyage.

That night, we took advantage of another little-publicized feature of a Viking River Cruise, the ability to dine al fresco in the ship’s Aquavit Terrace. The limited menu has a nice selection from which to choose, but the star of the show that night was the fabulous view of the Rhone river and all that was happening around us. Overhead we saw backpackers walking along a bridge on foot with others on bikes or in cars. To either side were couples strolling along the riverside, stopping to enjoy the evening. To the side of Viking Hermod, the Ferris wheel turned into the night as did we after a nearly perfect, relaxing day of embarkation.

Viking Hermod would stay docked overnight in Avignon, allowing those who wished to sample the nightlife to do so without limitation.   Sailing away at 5:30 in the morning, we would make our way to Tarascon and Arles for our first tour of the trip, walking though a town beloved by Vincent Van Gogh as we begin to see what Viking’s “Portraits” of Southern France is all about. That’s next.

Come along with us from leaving home to returning and everything in-between right here.  We’ll be posting live accounts of what happened along the way. Here is a handy guide with links to where we can be found and followed:

ChrisCruises.com-  Live Event  In Progress  daily blog posts and this Day by Day account of our trip (see below)

Facebook-   Facebook page daily posts  and  photo albums

Twitter-   Live posts  – hashtags to follow:  #VikingTravels    #VikingLongships

Instagram –  Live photo posts  with commentary/captions as they happen- most recent posts here at ChrisCruises.com (on the right)

Flickr-   Live photo-only posts  and  photo albums

Google+   Posts  from ChrisCruises.com, all in one place

Spotify-   River Cruise Playlists 

Tumblr –  Live photo posts , as they happen, from me; like Instagram without captions.

Tumblr Bonus:  Lisa’s Tumblr, themed  “The World As Lisa Sees It”  posts one photo each day as it has for years.  Follow along to see how Lisa experiences this trip as well.

Pinterest-   Photo boards  for each place we visit, Viking Hermod and a roundup of Viking River Cruises  Portraits of Southern France  itinerary

Exposure-   Photo Storybooks  for each event

Have questions for us before, during or after the event? We are Vikings and always in touch Email [email protected]

Chris is on location this week, sponsored by Viking River Cruise touring in Europe by river.  As always, Chris provides the details to let readers decide what resonates (or not) with them in an unbiased, factual manner.

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