Many cruisers are ready to take that river cruise but can't figure out where to start with the planning. There are a handful of cruise lines known for their river cruises, but the ultimate in river cruising has consistently been Viking Cruise Line. What sets them apart from the other river cruise lines?
A Brief History of Viking Cruises
Viking Cruises started in 1997 as a cruise line consisting of 4 river cruise ships, with the goal of dominating the river cruising industry. The company grew quickly — by 2007, Viking operated 23 ships in Europe, Russia, and China. In 2013, Viking added ocean cruising to their lineup. In 2021, Viking expanded to North America by adding the Mississippi River to their itinerary list.
They have been doing it right for so many years that the "Longship" design of Viking's river cruise ships is what most other river cruise lines base their own designs on. That is the ultimate compliment in any industry.
What Makes Viking Different?
Adults Only — No Children Under 18
Viking does not allow passengers under 18 years of age. If you are looking for a peaceful, refined atmosphere without toddlers at the pool or teenagers monopolizing the game room, Viking delivers exactly that. The guests you will share your ship with tend to be curious, well-traveled, and interesting — people who are there to experience the destination, not just the ship.
Cultural Enrichment Is the Core Product
Viking's philosophy is built around destination immersion. Every itinerary is designed to connect you with the history, art, food, and culture of the places you visit. Onboard lectures, port talks, and cultural presentations are standard. You are not just sailing past the scenery — you are learning about it.
Shore Excursions Included in Every Port
Every Viking cruise fare includes at least one shore excursion per port of call. This is a significant differentiator from mainstream cruise lines where excursions can add hundreds of dollars per person to your final bill. You can always upgrade to more premium options, but the included excursions are genuinely good.
Beer and Wine Included with Lunch and Dinner
Viking includes beer and wine with lunch and dinner service. While this may seem like a small detail, it meaningfully reduces the "nickel and dimed" feeling that can come with other cruise lines where even a glass of wine with your meal adds to your tab.
Port Fees and Taxes Included
The quoted fare includes port fees and taxes. What you see is what you pay, which makes budgeting straightforward and removes unpleasant surprises at checkout.
The Staterooms
All rooms on a Viking River Cruise have at least a window, and most rooms feature either a French Balcony (a rail outside of a big window that opens) or an actual balcony you can sit out on. All staterooms are equipped with luxury linens, heated bathroom floors, premium toiletries, and an actual refrigerator — not just a cooler, as some cruise ships are known for having.
Regardless of which room type you choose, all passengers have access to an expansive sundeck where they can enjoy the sights of the river, and other comfortable areas to lounge and relax.
The Honest Cons
Probably the biggest con to Viking is that the cruises come with a higher-end cost. However, when you account for everything that is included — the excursions, the meals, the wine and beer, the port fees and gratuities — the value proposition becomes much clearer. Past customers have especially enjoyed the variety of itineraries now available.
Itineraries Worth Knowing About
Viking's itinerary breadth has become one of its most praised qualities. A few highlights:
- Christmas Markets in Europe — sailing along the Rhine while the riverbanks are lit up with holiday markets is one of the most magical experiences in river cruising.
- Egypt and the Nile — Viking now offers Nile river sailings that are truly bucket-list caliber, pairing ancient temples with modern Viking comfort.
- The Mississippi River — for those who want the Viking experience closer to home, the Mississippi itineraries are a wonderful introduction to what Viking does best.
- Ocean Cruises — Viking's ocean ships carry the same philosophy: no children, cultural immersion, included excursions, and refined design. They are smaller than mainstream ocean ships, which means more intimate ports and less crowding.
"Viking is for people who want to experience a destination, not just visit it. If that sounds like you, I can almost guarantee you will love it."
Is Viking Right for You?
Viking is an excellent fit if you:
- Prefer a quiet, adult atmosphere without children onboard
- Are interested in history, culture, art, and local cuisine
- Want a largely all-inclusive experience that eliminates onboard bill anxiety
- Are 50+ and ready to invest in a high-quality, enriching vacation
- Want unique destinations and itineraries beyond the standard Caribbean loop
Viking may not be the best fit if you are looking for a party atmosphere, water slides, casinos, or family-focused entertainment. It is also worth noting that the higher upfront cost can feel like sticker shock without understanding what is included. That's where working with a travel advisor who knows Viking well makes a real difference.
If you are curious whether Viking is the right call for your next trip, reach out and let's talk through your travel goals. I book Viking regularly and can help you find the right itinerary, the right ship, and the right cabin category for your style.