If you’ve never been on a Viking River Cruise, then it’s understandable that you might have some questions.

“Are river cruises slow paced? Will I get bored? And how structured is each day?”

In this blog post I will answer all your questions and explain what it’s really like to spend a week on a Viking River Cruise, with insights from my own trip down the River Seine.

What is it like on a Viking River Cruise?

Viking River Cruises typically offer a relaxed, culturally immersive experience that is structured and well organised.

The river ships themselves are generally small, intimate vessels which have a relaxed atmosphere. Their size allows them to navigate places like the Danube and Rhine rivers, docking in small ports that are right that are right the centre of the action.

Excursions are offered daily, with at least one included in your cruise fair, and balanced alongside scenic sailing and free time. Entertainment is offered in the Lounge each evening, and meals take place at fixed times in the Restaurant.

The dining experience has to be a highlight of any Viking River Cruise, which is served at a very high standard. The choice of food at breakfast time is extensive, with lunch and dinner offering a number of regional and classic options.

The onboard catering team are very friendly and happy to tailor the menu to your needs. As a vegetarian who doesn’t like cheese, I was well looked after by a senior member of staff, who always made sure that the kitchen were serving something that I would enjoy. Sometimes she would even ask the chef to make me a bespoke meal if there wasn’t anything I liked on the menu!

I’m not the sort of person who makes a big fuss about things, so I was very impressed.

A Typical Day on a Viking River Cruise

Morning: Scenic Views + Guided Excursions

Breakfast is served each morning in the Restaurant and the choice here is extensive. I loved visiting each morning for a freshly made omelette, prepared by the chef at a live cooking station while I watched. The Aquavit Terrace makes a great alternative option for anyone who wants a lighter breakfast of a drink and pastries.

Often the ship will be docked by early morning, but make sure you check the itinerary for exact timings.

If you’ve booked a morning or all day excursion, then you will meet beside the ship shortly after breakfast. Be prepared for lots of on-foot exploration, and don’t forget to pick up your QuietVox (also referred to as a Whisper) from your stateroom before you leave.

Afternoon: Free Time or Scenic Sailing

Most morning excursions will return you back to the ship in time for lunch in the Restaurant. This is a great chance to regroup and chat to friends about your day so far, and enjoy a delicious meal.

I should admit here that I often skipped lunch in favour of a nap before our planned afternoon activities. After lunch you may wish to join an additional excursion, if it’s offered, explore independently or spend time relaxing onboard. On other days you may spend the afternoon scenic sailing, which essentially gives you time to take in panoramic views as you progress through the river.

Whatever you do, make sure you’re back on the ship before it sets off again for the next port. Sometimes the river ships leave in the early afternoon so don’t get caught out!

Evening: Dining + Low-Key Entertainment

Evenings on a Viking river ship usually have a sedate, sophisticated feel, and begin with a pre-dinner port talk in the bar. After that the guests will usually head down for dinner, so you’ll want to be quick to nab your preferred table. Dinner is delicious multi-course affair with drinks included with the meal.

Note that Viking River Cruises usually have fixed times for lunch and dinner - although if you arrive late I’m sure they would do their best to accommodate you. I found the catering team to be very friendly, always going above and beyond to make sure their guests are happy.

After dinner, evening entertainment will usually be hosted in the Lounge featuring live music or dance. We also enjoyed a music quiz one evening which was a lot of fun! Alternatively, you can spend time relaxing in your cabin, where you have access to a wide range of movies and TV shows on your television.

Night: Docked or Sailing to Next Stop

Overnight the ship will begin sailing towards your next port. The river ships usually progress fairly slowly, and the water is very calm in comparison to sailing on the ocean. In warmer weather, this is a great time to sit out on your private veranda to wind down before heading to bed.

On some occasions the ship may remain docked overnight, which gives you a chance to head off on an evening stroll to enjoy the sights. I enjoyed the last night of my Seine river cruise docked in Paris, where I joined a boat tour with magnificent views of the Eiffel tower.

Sample 7-Day Viking River Cruise

Day 1: Embarkation

The first day of the trip will involve arriving at the ship, checking in, and attending the welcome briefing. This process is very quick and feels similar to checking into a hotel, rather than embarking on a cruise ship.

After boarding you will also be required to attend a muster drill. These take place in person, before the ship sets sail, and requires all guests to visit their muster station.

You will typically be able to embark the ship from late morning, in time for a light lunch, with cabins ready by mid-afternoon.

Day 2: First Full Day

During the first day you will get the chance to adjust to the pace of river cruise life, enjoy your first onboard breakfast and head out on an excursion.

The rest of the day will involve a three course lunch and dinner, with evening entertainment.

Day 3–6: Immersive Travel Days

The main part of your cruise, these days will facilitate guided tours, scenic cruising, and independent exploration. You will also have access to three delicious mealtimes and evening entertainment.

Although Viking River Cruises tend to be quite structured, you can join in with as much or as little as you like and really make the experience your own.

Day 7: Departure

The final day of your cruise, make sure you get up early for breakfast before disembarkation. Viking will usually sort your transfers for you, so reaching the airport in time for your flight will be a breeze.

What’s Included (and What’s Not)

Included

As with other Viking cruises, a lot of added extras are included in the fare. This includes all of your meals with selected wines, beer and soft drinks, a least one daily excursion, WiFi and gratuities.

Speciality teas, coffees and bottled water are also available 24/7, free of charge.

Depending on where you’re booking, the price of the cruise will often include your flights and transfers from the airport. In the UK this will usually be return flights from London, with some regional airports available too.

Not included:

So, what does a Viking river cruise not include?

Unless you have the Silver Spirits Beverage Package, alcoholic drinks outside of mealtimes will cost an additional fee. Certain premium beverages such as cocktails and spirits also cost extra unless you have the drinks package.

At each port there will usually be a number of excursions available that cost an additional fee. These are completely optional and bookable in advance. Bear in kind that the Viking river ships generally do not have pools, spas or casinos, meaning that they won’t be included in your cruise fee.

What I Loved on my Viking River Cruise

There are so many things that I love about a Viking River Cruise. The overall experience feels relaxed and luxurious, with fantastic food and a great atmosphere.

A river cruise also makes a great way to explore new destinations, and on my Seine voyage we docked right in the centre of Paris, which was amazing!

Although I always enjoy the bustling atmosphere of an ocean ship, there’s something lovely about the streamlined, stress-free experience that comes with travelling on a river ship. I also love the little library that comes installed on all of their river vessels, with books that are tailored to the destination.

Potential Downsides for Cruisers

If you’re used to travelling on larger ships, then you need to be aware that river cruises are a very different experience. The days are fairly structured with set mealtimes, and just one evening entertainment option in the Lounge.

River cruises also tend to have a higher price point, which is typical when sailing on a small ship. All voyages are 18+, so not suited to families with children, and probably won’t be favoured by anyone looking for a party like atmosphere.

Who Is a Viking River Cruise Best For?

A wide range of people from all walks of life will find themselves well suited to a Viking River Cruise.

This includes couples and groups of friends who enjoy cultually focused trips, with lots of time to explore on a destination focused itinerary. Solo travellers will also have a great time, with plenty of opportunities to meet other cruisers and make friends at mealtimes, while on excursions and during slow evenings in the lounge.

Similarly, retirees and older travellers will love the ease of a Viking River Cruise, which is flexible yet well structured. All of the activities are optional, and the small size of ships makes them easy to navigate.

My Tips and Tricks

Make sure you book early in order to have the best choice of cabins
Prepare for walking-heavy excursions, and pack comfortable walking shoes and light layers
Arrive a day early if booking your own flights, as the ship will leave without you if you are delayed
Choose your itinerary carefully. No two river cruises are the same, so consider the climate and activities offered and opt for a destination that works for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Viking River Cruise boring?

This really depends on your definition of boring! If you’re after an upbeat, party-like amostphere, then a Viking River Cruise won’t be for you. Alternatively, if you enjoy culturally rich experiences with good food, a relaxing vibe and lots of exploration, then you certainly won’t be bored.

How much free time do you get?

The answer here is as much or as little as you like. While there are fixed meal times for lunch and dinner, as well as included excursions each day, you are free to participate in as much or as little as you like. Nothing is mandatory (apart from the muster drill on embarkation day).

Are excursions included?

Yes, at least one excursion is included in the cruise fare each day. You can also book alternative excursions that cost an additional fee - information for these will be sent to you prior to boarding.

What should you pack?

I would advise packing comfortable clothing, with plenty of light layers to suit time spent outdoors exploring. Steer away from clothing that is overly formal, as there will be no formal nights and the dress code is relaxed throughout the day.

I’ve written a full river cruise packing list which you can read here.

Is it worth the price?

In my opinion, I would definitely say that a Viking River Cruise is worth the price.

These cruises are a luxury, high-end experience, with food, excursions and entertainment all included in the fare. If you have the budget, then you will definitely get your money’s worth on a Viking cruise.

If the price seems a bit higher than you’re able to pay, then I would recommend keeping an eye on their website, as they often have some great deals if you’re able to be flexible with timings.

Final Thoughts

A Viking River Cruise makes the ideal vacation for anyone who wants to explore a new location and immerse themselves in the local culture. You will eat well, dock right in the centre of vibrant ports and enjoy luxurious facilities onboard the ship.

These cruises are ideal for a wide range of travellers, whether that’s young couples, retirees or groups of friends travelling together.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, culturally rich way to explore Europe, then embarking on a Viking River Cruise is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to do it.

What Is It Like On a Viking River Cruise?