When you REALLY want to get away!
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Viking brings a relaxed way of touring Europe, Russia, and China on its river vessels and
tours. Almost all shore excursions are included in the fare, and the pace of river cruising is
less hectic than on a mega-liner. The scenic rivers flow through quiet towns and major
capitals, and Viking allows passengers to see them all without having to pack and repack
like you have to do when touring via bus or car. Since the focus is on the river and the ports
of call, onboard activities are minimal.
There is a mix of ages on the ships, most passengers are 60 plus, and many are retired,
especially on the longer voyages. Viking markets its ships to different countries, so if you
are from the United States or another English-speaking country, English will be the onboard
language. Viking passengers enjoy exploring small villages or historic sites.
Cabins all include hotel-style beds, private
bathrooms and cabins on the Chinese ships all
have private balconies. Many cabins have
windows that open.
All ships in Western Europe and China have
in-room televisions with local programs and some
English programs. Russian and Ukrainian ships
have a public color television and a supply of
movie videos.
Most all Viking ships have open seating. Breakfast is typically a buffet featuring fresh fruit,
juices, pastries, eggs, cheeses and cold cuts or cereal; you can also order from featured
“hot selections” of the day. Lunch usually includes soup, a salad/sandwich bar, choice of
entrée and dessert. Dinner is a multi-course meal with a choice of entrées (typically
including one regional specialty relevant to your destination). Steak, chicken, and Caesar
salad are always available should you prefer.
In Europe and Russia, all our meals are prepared onboard by our European chefs, and
consist of European-style food adjusted to American tastes. In China, your meals are
prepared by both European and Chinese chefs, and our Swiss hotel management oversees
your dining experience.
In China, you’ll have Western-style lunches and dinners as well as family-style Chinese
menus designed by celebrity chef Martin Yan. Steak, chicken, and Caesar salad are also
always available.
Viking offers onboard programs to enhance your understanding of your destinations,
including lectures, demonstrations and theme dinners with regional specialties. Depending
on your itinerary, a folkloric group or local musicians may come aboard, or other activities
may be hosted by your cruise manager. All ships have libraries and internet access; TVs
with local & English programming are in all cabins except on Russia and Ukraine ships. On
itineraries where your ship stays in port during the evenings or overnight, you may choose
to enjoy a show, coffee, or dinner ashore on your own.
The Viking European river ships have two main indoor common areas--the windowed dining
room aft and an observation lounge and bar in the front of the ship. The decor is
contemporary and comfortable. The larger Yangtze river ships have a different layout and
more interior common space. When the weather is good, the top deck has plenty of
comfortable seating.
The Viking European river ships do not have a spa, gym or fitness area. Most passengers
take long walks when docked to get their exercise. The Yangtze River ships have a small
spa and fitness area.
Childfree Policy: Due to the nature of our cruise itineraries, Viking River Cruises does not
maintain facilities or services for children aboard River Cruise Vessels. On all cruises and
cruise journeys, minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied and share a cabin with a
parent, legal guardian or other responsible adult over the age of 21. We regret that we
cannot accommodate children under 12 years of age, and we reserve the right to limit the
number of minors under the age of 18 years on board.
More Information
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PDF Brochure
Viking River Cruises
Europe, China, Russia & Ukraine, South America