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 co*cktail 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! ♥
Hints:
- 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
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 co*cktail or premium wine, you will need to purchase those separately from the bar. For the price of about 3-4 co*cktails/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.
Hints:
• 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.
The Rooms
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.
Hints:
Hints:• 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.
Hints:
• 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
CruisesInternational Travel
As an expert in cruise travel and particularly Viking River Cruises, my extensive knowledge and firsthand experience with various aspects of cruising allow me to provide valuable insights and advice for first-time cruisers. Having been a guest on a Viking River Cruise, I can confidently speak to the unique features and benefits that set this cruise line apart.
Ship Experience: Viking River Cruise ships offer a more intimate and personalized experience compared to large ocean liners. With a smaller capacity of around 200 passengers, the atmosphere is cozier, and there's ample room for dining, excursions, and socializing. The smaller ship size fosters a sense of community among guests, and there are dedicated spaces for quiet relaxation, such as the Aquavit Lounge and private stateroom balconies.
The demographic on Viking River Cruises generally ranges from 35 to 75 years old, ensuring a diverse yet compatible group of travelers. Notably, Viking River Cruises do not allow children under 18, catering to adventurous and active adults.
Mobility and Safety: The cruise experience involves interactive tours with brisk walking, so guests are encouraged to have a certain level of mobility. There are options like "easy walkers" tours for those with slower mobility. The ships have elevators for accessibility, but wheelchair users may find some challenges in certain ports with cobblestone-lined streets.
One notable advantage of river cruising, highlighted as a Viking River Cruise secret, is the absence of seasickness. The smaller size and river routes contribute to a smoother journey. Safety is a priority, with mandatory safety drills, daily briefings, and a commitment to passenger well-being.
Dining: The dining experience on Viking River Cruises is exceptional, with flavorful and varied cuisine. Open seating in the main dining room eliminates the need for reservations or formal attire. Special dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice. Guests can also enjoy the flexibility of dining hours and the casual atmosphere of the Aquavit Terrace Lounge.
Alcoholic beverages like beer and house wines are included with lunch and dinner, but premium options may incur additional charges. The Silver Spirits package is available for those seeking a broader selection.
Accommodations: Staterooms on Viking River Cruises come in various sizes and configurations, offering options like French balconies and verandas. The rooms are well-equipped with amenities, including king-size beds, spacious closets, and refrigerators. Notably, rooms receive twice-daily maid service, ensuring a comfortable and well-maintained living space.
Port Excursions: A standout feature of Viking River Cruises is the inclusion of daily excursions in the cruise package. Guided tours cover a range of destinations, including UNESCO World Heritage sites and local attractions. Guests can also opt for additional excursions, providing flexibility in exploring the destinations.
Tips and Recommendations: Tipping is not included in the cruise packages, and guests are advised to tip the crew and program director separately. Recommendations include building rapport with waitstaff by sitting at the same table and area, taking advantage of heated floors in bathrooms, and being prepared for various weather conditions during excursions.
In conclusion, a Viking River Cruise offers a unique and enjoyable way to explore destinations, combining comfort, personalized service, and cultural experiences. The cruise line's attention to detail, safety measures, and commitment to passenger satisfaction contribute to a memorable travel experience.
For further inquiries or personalized travel advice, feel free to contact me at julie@wanderbloomtvl.com, as I have over 35 years of experience as a travel advisor specializing in luxury travel, including Viking Cruises.
