About Viking River Cruises

Cruises from $2,299 per person

Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises is the world's leading river cruise line, known for destination-focused itineraries for curious travelers. Every journey includes a shore excursion and enrichment programs for deep immersion, providing privileged access to UNESCO World Heritage sites across Europe and Egypt, including the medieval castles lining Germany's Rhine Valley and the ancient temples of Luxor.

Designed for "The Thinking Person," Viking River Cruises offers an intimate, adults-only experience on elegant, small ships featuring signature Scandinavian design and regionally inspired dining, consistently recognized by leading publications such as Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure.

Viking River Cruises sails Europe's most iconic waterways, including the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhone, and Douro, as well as select itineraries on the Nile, Mekong, and Mississippi Rivers. With a commitment to all-inclusive luxury, including regional cuisine, beer, and wine with meals, and free Wi-Fi, Viking River Cruises delivers a seamless journey. The combination of a serene, adults-only environment, high-quality service, and deep cultural immersion defines Viking's status as a leader in luxury travel.

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Viking River Cruises Ships

Ship Name Star Rating Year Built Gross Tonnage
4 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2007
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2012
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2016
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2025
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2025
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2027
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2015
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2013
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2023
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2013
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2015
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2013
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2027
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2025
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2022
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2016
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2019
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2015
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2025
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2012
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2026
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2020 5,000
4 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2012 5,000
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2027
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2015
4 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2020 5,000
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2025
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2022
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2026
4 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2026
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2024
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2019
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2018
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
4 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2020 5,000
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2017
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2025
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2012
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2013
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2016
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2020 5,000
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2015
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2013
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2015
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2022
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2015
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2025
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2016
4 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2022 3,600
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2026
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2018
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2020 5,000
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2013
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2016
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2026
4 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2022
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2026
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2019
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2019
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2026
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2013
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2020 5,000
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2015
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2025
5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2025
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2016
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2019
4 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2024
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2013
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2014
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2019
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2019
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2013
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2015
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2015
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2016
3.5 Stars - Viking River Cruises Ship Rating 2015

90 Viking River Cruises Ships

Why Choose Viking River Cruises?

Viking River Cruises is the premier choice for travelers seeking a culturally rich, destination-focused journey that prioritizes exploration and intellectual stimulation over onboard distractions. As the world's leading small-ship cruise line, Viking provides an intimate, adults-only environment where the focus remains on the history, art, and cuisine of the world's most iconic waterways. With a fleet of award-winning Viking Longships, guests enjoy a seamless blend of understated Scandinavian elegance and unparalleled access to the heart of every destination.

Key Reasons to Choose Viking River Cruises:

  • The Thinking Person's Cruise: Viking creates a serene onboard atmosphere designed for curiosity. There are no children under 18, no casinos, and no flashy water parks. Instead, guests enjoy an enriched "Culture Curriculum" featuring world-class guest lecturers, resident historians, and destination performances like Austrian classical concerts or Portuguese Fado.
  • Viking Inclusive Value: Viking offers one of the most comprehensive all-inclusive models in the industry. Your fare includes a complimentary shore excursion in every port, beer and wine with lunch and dinner, specialty coffees, and free Wi-Fi. This ensures a transparent, high-value experience without the "nickel and diming" often found on larger lines.
  • Innovative Longship Design: The signature Viking Longships are marvels of modern engineering and Scandinavian design. Features like the Aquavit Terrace, the only indoor/outdoor al fresco dining area on the rivers, and the floor-to-ceiling windows in the Atrium allow for constant connection to the passing scenery of the Rhine or Danube.
  • Immersive "The Viking Way" Experiences: Beyond standard sightseeing, Viking offers Privileged Access to world-class treasures. This includes "Local Life" home-hosted visits, "Working World" tours of local factories or farms, and private tours of UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the temples of Luxor on the Nile or the windmills of Kinderdijk.
  • Global River Exploration: Viking operates the world's largest fleet, allowing you to explore more rivers than any other line. Sail the legendary Rhine, Danube, and Seine in Europe, experience the exotic Mekong in Vietnam, explore the ancient Nile in Egypt, or discover America's heartland on the modern Viking Mississippi.

Book your Viking River cruise with iCruise today and discover the world in comfort!

What Are Viking River Cruises Ships Like?

Viking River Cruises' ships, primarily the award-winning Viking Longships, are designed to be intimate, elegant, and destination-focused, prioritizing comfort, serenity, and scenic views. With a maximum of 190 guests, these ships navigate the heart of the world's most iconic rivers, docking just steps away from historic city centers. Onboard amenities include a restaurant, bar and lounge, library, and an expansive sun deck with al fresco dining, as well as a variety of stateroom categories and true two-room suites featuring full-size verandas.

Viking operates the world's largest and most modern river fleet, including over 80 state-of-the-art Longships in Europe, as well as purpose-built vessels for the Mekong, Nile, and Mississippi. Every inch of a Viking ship reflects a signature Scandinavian design aesthetic, think clean lines, natural wood, and light-filled spaces that bring the outside scenery in.

  • Innovative Longship Engineering: The patented design of the Viking Longships features a unique squared bow and offset corridors, creating more space for diverse stateroom categories and some of the largest suites on Europe's rivers. This innovation ensures a smooth, quiet ride powered by eco-friendly hybrid engines.
  • The Aquavit Terrace: A highlight of every Longship, the Aquavit Terrace is a revolutionary indoor/outdoor viewing area at the bow. It offers one of the best al fresco dining experiences in Europe's rivers, allowing guests to enjoy a glass of local Riesling or a casual lunch while sailing past the castles of the Rhine Valley or the vineyards of the Douro.
  • Scandinavian Minimalism & Comfort: Public spaces like the Viking Lounge & Bar and the Restaurant feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows for panoramic 360-degree views. The interior is a sanctuary of understated elegance, featuring premium materials, cozy libraries, and quiet zones designed for reading and reflection.
  • Sophisticated Staterooms & Suites: Every stateroom is an outside room with a river view. Options range from French Balcony Staterooms to the expansive Explorer Suites, which feature private wraparound verandas and 270-degree views. Luxury touches include heated bathroom floors, anti-fog mirrors, premium Freyja toiletries, and large, glass-enclosed showers.
  • Enrichment Over Distraction: Viking River Cruises removes common onboard distractions; there are no casinos, waterslides, or children's programming. The focus remains on learning, reflection, and the destinations. Each ship features a structured "Culture Curriculum," with talks, activities, and resources designed to deepen understanding of the regions visited. Guests can spend time in the Library, thoughtfully curated with books tied to each itinerary, or relax on the Sun Deck, which includes a walking track, an organic herb garden, and shaded seating ideal for watching landscapes unfold along the river.

Compare Viking ships and book your next culturally immersive journey with iCruise today!

What Destinations Does Viking River Cruises Offer?

Viking River Cruises offers immersive journeys through Europe's iconic waterways (Rhine, Danube, Seine, Douro, etc.), Asia (Mekong, Yangtze), Egypt (Nile), and North America (Mississippi), focusing on culturally rich experiences through historic cities, picturesque landscapes, and ancient sites, with voyages ranging from classic European routes to unique destinations like the Mekong or Mississippi.

Top Viking River Cruises Destinations

  • Europe's Legendary Rivers: Explore the "Old World" on the Rhine, Danube, Seine, and Douro. Viking's European itineraries are world-renowned for their "cultural thrills," such as witnessing the fairy-tale castles of the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley, attending a private Mozart and Strauss concert in Vienna, or docking steps from the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
  • Egypt & the Nile: Follow in the footsteps of pharaohs on a journey through the "Cradle of Civilization." Viking River Cruises provides expert-led tours of the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the massive temple complexes of Luxor and Karnak. Guests enjoy Privileged Access to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens, an experience rarely available to the general public.
  • Asia & the Mekong: Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia. Sail through the lush landscapes of the Mekong River, where highlights include exploring the ancient stone ruins of Angkor Wat, navigating the bustling floating markets of the Mekong Delta, and experiencing a traditional sunset tuk-tuk ride through the streets of Phnom Penh.
  • North America's Mississippi: Discover the soul of America on the Viking Mississippi. These voyages focus on the musical and historical heritage of the United States, featuring overnight stays in New Orleans for authentic jazz, tours of the Civil War battlefields in Vicksburg, and a "Working World" look at the life of Mark Twain in Hannibal, Missouri.
  • Unique "The Viking Way" Experiences: Viking elevates standard sightseeing into unforgettable memories. Whether it's a behind-the-scenes visit to the Vienna Boys' Choir, truffle hunting with a local farmer in France, or a "Local Life" home-hosted tea in a Nubian village along the Nile, Viking ensures every destination is experienced, not just seen.

Explore all of Viking River Cruises' destinations and book your next journey with iCruise!

What Are the Dining Options on Viking River Cruises?

Viking River Cruises defines the culinary experience through its "Destination-Focused Dining" philosophy, where every meal is an extension of the cultural journey. Unlike larger ocean liners with upcharge specialty venues, Viking provides a highly inclusive model where world-class, regionally inspired cuisine is included in the cruise fare. Guests enjoy elegant multi-course dinners, casual al fresco lunches, and authentic local flavors prepared with seasonal ingredients sourced from each destination, enhanced by herbs from Viking's onboard garden and a curated selection of regional wines.

Signature Dining Venues

    The Restaurant: This is the main, elegant dining venue, featuring panoramic windows and open seating for breakfast, lunch, and a multi-course dinner. The menu changes daily, offering regional specialties such as Wiener Schnitzel in Vienna or Coq au Vin in France, as well as "always available" classics like steak, salmon, and Caesar salad. Breakfast and lunch are a mix of buffet and menu options, while dinner is entirely waiter-served in a social atmosphere where guests can dine with new friends at any time during service hours.

  • The Aquavit Terrace: Revolutionary in concept and design, the Aquavit Terrace offers the most al fresco dining on Europe's rivers, with retractable glass doors that open up the space to the outdoors. With a casual bistro style, it offers a bistro-style menu of "always available" comfort classics, such as grilled steak, salmon, and pasta dishes, with a few rotating regional options. This venue is one of the few places on board where couples can reliably find tables for two.

Viking Inclusive Value & Beverages

  • Included Beverages: A hallmark of the Viking River Cruises experience is that beer, wine, and soft drinks are complimentary with every onboard lunch and dinner. Viking's sommeliers curate a selection of regional wines, such as a crisp German Riesling or a bold Portuguese Douro Red, to perfectly pair with the evening's local menu.
  • 24-Hour Beverage Station: Guests have unlimited access to a self-service station offering premium coffees, cappuccinos, and a wide selection of teas, accompanied by "Mamsen's" inspired Norwegian cookies and pastries throughout the day.
  • Silver Spirits Beverage Package: For guests seeking an elevated experience, this optional package covers unlimited premium wines, beers, and cocktails at any time of day, as well as a selection of house-matured aquavit.

Culinary Enrichment & "The Viking Way"

  • "Taste Of" Events: On many itineraries, Viking River Cruises hosts themed evenings like an Austrian Bierhaus night or a French cheese and wine tasting. These events transform the ship into a local celebration with authentic music, regional street food, and traditional spirits.
  • Privileged Access Culinary Tours: Beyond the ship, guests can participate in "The Viking Way" excursions, such as visiting a local market with the Executive Chef to handpick ingredients for the night's meal or enjoying an exclusive lunch in a Roman wine cellar in Belgrade.

Viking River Cruises Activities: How Does "The Thinking Person's Cruise" Entertain?

Viking River Cruises offers low-key, destination-focused onboard programming centered on its "Culture Curriculum," a sophisticated enrichment program that brings the history, art, and traditions of each region to life through expert-led lectures, cultural performances, cooking demonstrations, and more. As an adults-only cruise line, Viking creates a relaxed atmosphere where guests can continue learning and discovering between ports.

The Culture Curriculum: Enrichment Included

At the heart of the Viking River Cruises experience is the belief that travel should expand the mind. Most enrichment activities are complimentary and included in your fare.

  • World-Class Guest Lecturers: Expert historians, former diplomats, and professors offer lectures that provide cultural and historical context, from Cold War history along the Elbe to the Impressionists before reaching Giverny. These lectures add meaningful context to each journey.
  • Port Talks & Destination Films: Guests can learn more about upcoming destinations with detailed briefings, curated films, and documentaries that highlight the geography and culture of regions such as the Rhine Valley and the Mekong Delta.
  • Regional Craft Demonstrations: Local artisans come on board and demonstrate craft traditions, such as glassblowing, lace making, wooden shoemaking, as well as regional recipes, like Austrian apple strudel, Rudesheim Coffee, and more. These demonstrations provide an immersive, hands-on experience of local culture that extends the destination journey.

Destination Performances & "Local Life"

Viking brings the soul of the destination directly to the ship through intimate, high-quality performances.

  • Local Musicians & Dancers: Rather than Broadway casts, you'll enjoy authentic local talent. Experience a Viennese classical trio, a traditional Portuguese Fado performance, or a spirited German oompah band, all performing in the comfort of the Viking Lounge.
  • Mamsen's & The Library: For those who seek quiet reflection, the Viking Library is curated by London's Heywood Hill bookshop with titles specific to your itinerary. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a "Mamsen's" Norwegian snack while reading about the very castles passing by your window.
  • Interactive Cooking Classes: Join the ship's chef for a hands-on look at regional cuisine. Learn the secrets behind a perfect Austrian Apple Strudel or a traditional French sauce, often using ingredients sourced from local markets that morning.

"The Viking Way" of Exploration

Viking's entertainment extends beyond the ship's rails through their trademarked three-pillar approach to shore excursions, which are designed to offer more than just a bus tour.

  • Local Life: These activities focus on the rhythms of daily life. You might visit a local farmhouse for tea, tour a primary school, or visit a resident's home to hear firsthand stories of life on the river.
  • Working World: Go behind the scenes of the local economy. This includes tours of a Swiss watchmaker's workshop, a Norwegian salmon farm, or a porcelain factory in Meissen.
  • Privileged Access: Viking provides entry to places otherwise closed to the public. Enjoy a private, after-hours tour of St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna or an exclusive visit to the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg (on select itineraries).

Note: While a complimentary shore excursion is provided in every port, "Privileged Access" and certain "Working World" tours may require an additional fee and early booking due to their exclusive nature.

Ready to enrich your perspective? Book your Viking River cruise with iCruise today and experience the world through "The Viking Way."

What are the Best Viking River Cruises Staterooms?

Viking River Cruises reimagines river travel with staterooms that emphasize light, space, and a constant connection to the scenery. Unlike ocean liners, every cabin on a Viking Longship is an "outside room," meaning you will never find an interior stateroom without a view. Designed with a signature Scandinavian aesthetic, these accommodations feature clean lines, light woods, and functional elegance. From the heated bathroom floors to the premium Freyja toiletries, every detail is crafted to provide a serene sanctuary as you sail through the heart of Europe, Asia, or Egypt.

1. Standard Staterooms: The River-View Value

Located on the Main Deck (lower level), these rooms are the most budget-friendly way to experience a Viking River Cruise without sacrificing comfort.

  • The View: Features a high-set, oversized window that allows for natural light and views of the water line.
  • Space & Comfort: While slightly smaller than balcony categories, they offer the same hotel-style beds, luxury linens, and well-designed storage found throughout the ship.

2. French Balcony Staterooms: Floor-to-Ceiling Views

A popular choice for those who want to maximize their view and fresh air without the higher cost of a full walk-out veranda.

  • Innovative Design: These rooms feature floor-to-ceiling glass doors that slide open to a protective railing.
  • Why Choose This: It transforms the entire stateroom into an open-air viewing gallery, perfect for taking photos of the Rhine Valley castles or the Iron Gates on the Danube right from your bed.

3. Veranda Staterooms: Private Outdoor Space

For travelers who prioritize private relaxation, the Veranda Stateroom offers a dedicated outdoor seating area.

  • Private Veranda: Includes a full walk-out balcony with two chairs and a table, allowing you to enjoy your morning coffee or a glass of local wine in total privacy.
  • Ambiance: These rooms are located on the Middle and Upper decks, offering a higher vantage point for viewing the river banks and passing locks.

4. Veranda Suites: Two-Room Luxury

Viking Longships are famous for their Veranda Suites, which offer a true two-room layout, a rarity on river cruise ships.

  • Separate Living Area: Features a spacious living room with a French Balcony, allowing for plenty of natural light.
  • Private Bedroom: A separate sleeping sanctuary that includes a full walk-out Veranda.
  • The Perks: These suites offer more square footage, two flat-panel TVs, and expanded storage, making them ideal for longer "Grand European" itineraries.

5. Explorer Suites: The Ultimate River View

The Explorer Suites are the largest and most luxurious accommodations on the rivers, located at the stern (rear) of the ship for 270-degree panoramic views.

  • Wrap-Around Veranda: The private balcony wraps around the corner of the ship, providing incredible views of the ship's wake and the changing landscape.
  • Premier Amenities: Guests in these suites enjoy priority embarkation, a complimentary Silver Spirits Beverage Package, private airport transfers, and a large bathroom with a double vanity.

Signature "Viking Touches" in Every Room

Regardless of the category you book with iCruise, every Viking stateroom includes:

  • Heated Bathroom Floors: A guest favorite, especially on Christmas Market cruises.
  • Technology: Large flat-screen TVs with an infotainment system including movies on demand and live news.
  • Sustainable Luxury: Refillable premium Freyja bath products and glass water bottles to reduce plastic waste.
  • Quiet Environment: Patented hybrid engines and noise-reduction engineering ensure a peaceful night's sleep.

Which view would you like to wake up to? Compare Viking River Cruises stateroom availability for your preferred dates on iCruise!

What is the Age Policy for Viking River Cruises?

Viking River Cruises is a strictly adults-only cruise line, requiring all guests to be at least 18 years old by the day of departure. Unlike major ocean lines, Viking does not offer kids' clubs or youth programs. This policy is a core pillar of "The Thinking Person's Cruise," ensuring a serene, sophisticated, and distraction-free environment tailored specifically for mature travelers, couples, and multi-generational adult families who value cultural enrichment and quiet relaxation.

The Benefits of an Adults-Only Atmosphere

By maintaining an 18+ environment, Viking River Cruises creates a unique onboard experience that prioritizes the following features:

  • A Serene Onboard Environment: Without the high-energy noise of waterslides, splash pads, or youth centers, the atmosphere on a Viking Longship remains tranquil. Guests can enjoy a book in the sun-drenched Library, participate in a quiet lecture, or relax on the Aquavit Terrace without the typical distractions of a family-focused resort ship.
  • Sophisticated Social Spaces: Every public area, from the Explorer's Lounge to the dining room, is designed for adult conversation and social connection. The lack of "kid-zones" means more space for expanded staterooms, larger public lounges, and intimate dining areas that focus on regional cuisine and fine wine.
  • Curated Culture Curriculum: Because there are no youth programs, Viking dedicates 100% of its onboard programming to adult enrichment. This includes high-level guest lectures from historians, world-class destination performances, and deep-dive culinary demonstrations that appeal to the curious, lifelong learner.
  • Peaceful Pools and Decks: You won't find shouting or splashing here. The pool areas (on ships that have them, like the Viking Mississippi or Viking's ocean fleet) and the Sun Decks are sanctuaries of calm, designed for enjoying the passing scenery of the Rhine, Danube, or Nile.

Why Choose an Adults-Only River Cruise?

While other lines focus on family thrills, Viking River Cruises caters to those seeking a "quiet luxury" experience. This makes it the premier choice for:

  • Romantic Getaways: Couples can celebrate anniversaries or honeymoons in a romantic, elegant setting.
  • Multi-Generational Adult Groups: Adult children and their parents can bond over shared history and world-class art in a refined setting that favors quiet connection over the high-energy, bustling atmosphere of large, family-oriented resort ships.
  • Solo Travelers: The welcoming, adult-focused atmosphere encourages solo travelers to connect naturally with like-minded guests during open-seating meals and shared shore excursions.

Experience the peace and quiet of a destination-focused journey. Book your adults-only Viking River cruise with iCruise today!

How Accessible is Viking River Cruises for Guests with Disabilities?

Viking River Cruises is committed to providing a comfortable experience for all guests. While accessibility is available for certain mobility needs, with accessible staterooms and elevators on most ships, guests must bring their own mobility devices, such as foldable wheelchairs or walkers 22 inches wide or less, and travel with an able-bodied companion. The crew is unable to provide personal assistance with walking, dining, or boarding.

To ensure guests' special needs are met, it's helpful to understand the following accessibility considerations.

1. Mandatory Accessibility Form: For all itineraries (River, Ocean, and Expedition), guests requesting special accommodations, such as the use of a wheelchair, scooter, or medical equipment, must complete and return an Accessibility Form to Viking at least 30 days before departure. This allows the line to determine if reasonable accommodations can be made for specific needs.

2. Mandatory Fit-to-Travel / Medical Form:

  • Expedition Cruises (Antarctica & Arctic): A doctor-signed medical evaluation is mandatory for all guests, regardless of age or health status. Guests must submit a Medical Assessment form, and their physician must complete a Health Evaluation form at least 30 to 45 days before sailing.
  • River and Ocean Cruises: A physician-signed "Fit to Travel" letter is not universally mandatory for every passenger, but may be required if a guest has a significant pre-existing medical condition or is over a certain age (typically 70+).

3. Key Accessibility Constraints

  • River Cruise Limitations: Most European river Longships are not fully wheelchair accessible. Elevators typically only serve the middle and upper decks, excluding the lower "Swan" deck and the Sun deck.
  • Mandatory Companion: Guests with mobility limitations must travel with an able-bodied companion, as Viking crew members are not permitted to push wheelchairs or provide personal lifting or mobility assistance.
  • Mississippi Exception: The Viking Mississippi is the only ship in the river fleet that is fully ADA compliant, featuring elevators to all decks and greater overall accessibility.
  • Hearing and Visual Aids: Viking ships offer fewer assistive features than large ocean liners, but they do provide Braille signage in elevators and public areas. Guests with hearing impairments may request stateroom kits with visual and tactile alerts for door knocks and smoke detectors.
  • Service Animals: Certified service animals are accepted on most itineraries with at least 60 days' advance notice. Guests are responsible for meeting all country-specific entry requirements, which can be complex on multi-country European river itineraries.

What is the Viking Explorer Society?

The Viking Explorer Society is an automatic, free-to-join loyalty program for past passengers of Viking river, ocean, and expedition cruises. Members receive $100-$200 in future cruise travel credits, exclusive onboard cocktail parties, and priority access to new itineraries. The Viking Explorer Society rewards repeat, "curious" travelers looking to expand their worldview by experiencing different cultures and ways of life all over the globe.

How the Program Works

The Viking Explorer Society rewards guests for continuing to sail within the Viking family, regardless of which waterway they choose next.

  • "One Viking" Connectivity: Memberships and benefits are valid across all Viking itineraries, from a Danube River sailing to a Mediterranean ocean cruise or an Antarctic expedition.
  • Automatic Recognition: There are no cards to carry or points to track. Guest status is linked to their profile, ensuring benefits are accessible when they log in to My Viking Journey.

Travel Credits for Future Journeys

The hallmark of the Viking Explorer Society is a time-based discount system that rewards guests for frequent travel.

  • The One-Year Reward: Guests who reserve a new Viking journey within one year of their last voyage receive a $200 travel credit per passenger.
  • The Two-Year Reward: Guests who book within two years of their last voyage receive a $100 travel credit per passenger.
  • Onboard Vouchers: While on board, guests can buy Future Cruise Vouchers at a discount, which can be used like cash for a future booking. These vouchers are often transferable and never expire.

Onboard Recognition & Exclusive Access

Viking treats its "Explorer Society" members like returning friends with special onboard and pre-cruise perks:

  • Members-Only Cocktail Party: On every voyage, guests are invited to an exclusive mixer. It's an opportunity to mingle with the ship's senior officers, share travel stories with fellow members, and enjoy complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres.
  • The "Inside Scoop": Members are the first to hear about new ships and itineraries. This is a valuable perk for Viking, as their most popular river routes and suite categories often sell out over a year in advance.
  • Viking Explorer Society News: Receive a seasonal magazine filled with destination spotlights, cultural insights, and special limited-time offers available only to past guests.

The Referral Rewards Program

Viking has one of the most generous referral programs in the industry, providing credits for guests who recommend Viking experiences to other new travelers.

  • Refer-a-Friend Credits: Guests receive a $100 travel credit for each new traveler they refer who books a cruise. The referred guest also receives $100 off their first sailing, creating a shared benefit for both parties.
  • The "Ultimate Reward": Guests who refer 13 new travelers who complete a sailing within a single calendar year earn a complimentary cruise, up to a specified value. This structure makes Viking particularly appealing to group organizers and socially connected travelers.

Managing Your Membership

  • Applying Past Credits: When booking a new sailing during or shortly after a completed voyage, guests should ensure their travel advisor has the Viking Customer Number so Explorer Society benefits can be applied promptly.
  • Missing Credits: If prior Viking sailings are not reflected in a guest's account, customer service can typically apply credits retroactively using details such as name, date of birth, and approximate sailing date.
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