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Viking Cruises Review

Thursday, April 25th

2024 Cruise Line Reviews

• Viking Cruises
• Best for river cruises
• Over 60 river- and ocean-going ships in the fleet
• Viking Expeditions available to Antarctica, the Great Lakes, and Canada
• Must be 18+
• Complimentary amenities include Wi-Fi; house wines, beers, and soft drinks with onboard lunches and dinners; coffee and hot tea available 24/7; self-service launderettes
• Every sailing includes one shore excursion in each port of call, including visits to UNESCO sites

Viking Cruises is a luxury cruise line that offers river and ocean cruises around the world. The company was founded in 1997 and is known for its Scandinavian-inspired design and focus on cultural experiences.

Small- to mid-range ship sizes

One of the most notable aspects of Viking Cruises is the company's fleet of ships. The river ships are relatively small, with a maximum capacity of around 200 passengers, which allows for an intimate and personalized experience. The ocean ships are larger, but still maintain a sense of exclusivity with a maximum capacity of around 930 passengers. All cabins feature a veranda or French balcony, and the ocean ships also have a variety of suite options available. The company's Scandinavian design aesthetic is evident throughout the ships, with sleek, modern decor and plenty of natural light.

Best choice for river cruises in Europe - and elsewhere

Viking Cruises is particularly known for its river cruises in Europe, which travel along the Rhine, Danube, Seine, and other scenic waterways. These cruises offer a chance to explore historic cities, picturesque villages, and stunning landscapes. Shore excursions are included in the fare and are designed to immerse passengers in local culture, such as wine tastings in Burgundy or a visit to a working windmill in the Netherlands. But, river cruising with Viking is hardly limited to Europe: you can just as easily sail the Mekong, Mississippi, or Nile.

Get to know your destination well

The ocean cruises offered by Viking Cruises also emphasize cultural experiences, with a focus on destinations rather than onboard amenities. The ships visit ports around the world, from the Caribbean to Asia to the Mediterranean, and often stay in port for longer periods of time to allow passengers to fully explore each destination. Excursions are again included in the fare and are designed to give passengers a deeper understanding of local culture, such as a visit to a traditional Japanese tea ceremony or a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra in Jordan. And, for the truly adventurous, Viking Expeditions can take you to sights few people have seen in Antarctica, the Great Lakes, and Canada.

Not your traditional spring break option

Still, it's probably not going to come as a huge shock when we say that there were no traditional "spring break in the Caribbean" options here, like we used as our comparison sailing across cruise lines. Sure, you'll get results if you enter a March date with the Caribbean as the preferred location, but the itineraries will include sailings like an Amazon and Caribbean Adventure from San Juan to Manaus, several Atlantic crossings, and Panama Canal/Pacific Coast. Nonetheless, it's pretty exciting to think of spending 15 days traveling from Barcelona to Ft. Lauderdale, taking three tours and visiting five countries, starting at just $3,299 per person.

Most amenities included in your fare

Moving on to amenities, Viking Cruises offers a range of options to keep passengers entertained and relaxed. Your sailing will always come with complimentary Wi-Fi; house wines, beers, and soft drinks with onboard lunches and dinners; coffee and hot tea available 24/7; and self-service launderettes. Viking Cruises also offers a range of wellness and fitness options on board, including a spa, fitness center, and yoga classes. The company's ocean ships feature a Nordic-inspired thermal suite with a snow grotto, heated loungers, and a sauna. All of these are part of the "Viking Inclusive Value" .

Gratuities are extra

However, Viking Cruises doesn't include your gratuities as part of their complimentary offerings. Your account will automatically be charged $17 per guest per day, which is shared among the waitstaff, stateroom stewards, laundry staff, and others.

All dining is included

Dining on Viking Cruises is a highlight for many passengers, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and regional cuisine. The ships feature a variety of dining venues, from a casual poolside grill to a more formal chef's table experience. All dining experiences are included with your fare.

Passengers tend to be older

One potential downside to Viking Cruises is the demographic of its passengers, which tends to skew older. While the company is making efforts to attract a younger crowd (still 18+, though) with its ocean cruises, these sailings still tend to be popular with retirees.

Top pick for river cruises - especially among retirees

Overall, Viking Cruises is a good choice for (older) travelers who are interested in cultural experiences, scenic destinations, and a luxury onboard experience. The company's attention to detail and emphasis on local culture make for a unique and memorable vacation.

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The 15 Best Cruise Lines

Which cruise line is the best.

Cruising is a popular way of traveling for many people, offering a unique experience that combines the convenience of a floating hotel with the excitement of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. In an average year, over fifteen million people say "all aboard" and set sail on an amazing vacation.

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience. Some are geared towards families, while others are more focused on luxury or adventure. What would you like to see and do while you're onboard? Is a casino a must-have or a rather-avoid? Would a Broadway-caliber show tip the scales for you? Do you need a wide range of activities to keep the kiddos happy while the adults live it up or relax? The onboard activities and amenities can really make or break your vacation, so be sure you know what you're getting.

Cruise Line FAQ

Which cruise line is the best, what is included in the cost of a cruise, what is the minimum age to cruise, what are the dining options on a cruise ship, are cruise ships crowded, do i have to dress up, are activities included at destination ports, can i bring my own alcohol onboard.

Continued from above...

Another factor that can influence which cruise line you choose is the itinerary. Cruise ships travel all over the world, but some cruise lines may not have destinations available where you're hoping to go. You should also consider the size of the ship: larger ships offer more amenities, but smaller ships can access ports that bigger ships can't.

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing.

When you take a cruise, it's almost always expected that you'll tip the crew members who have attended to your needs while onboard: your cabin steward ( who probably leaves your towels folded into fun shapes every night ), your servers at your nightly meals, and the head waiter. Cruise lines have a recommended gratuity to cover all three of those staff members, usually $15-$20 per traveler, per day; the total gratuity amount may be charged automatically to your account, or you may be given envelopes to make cash payments.

While it usually isn't mandatory to pay those gratuities - you can ask to have them removed if they're applied automatically, especially if you've received poor service - it's typically considered in poor taste not to tip at the suggested levels (because crew members' salaries, much like servers at your local restaurant, are based on the expectation of tips paid by guests). And, if you receive service that goes above and beyond, adding to the recommended gratuity is always appreciated. Be aware that tips for bartenders, poolside servers, and professional services provided in the spa or elsewhere are not included in the daily suggested gratuity and may be charged automatically at the time of service.

Now that you have a good overview of the cruising experience, which cruise line should you choose? Beyond the points we already covered, here are a few additional criteria that might make it easier to pick:

• Embarkation port. You could get a great deal on a cruise, but what will it cost you to get to the port? That could involve airfare, an overnight stay or two in a nearby hotel (so that you're less likely to be affected by travel delays), and transportation from the airport or hotel to the port. This is especially true if you're taking a cruise that departs from an international destination.
• Perks for repeat cruisers. Like frequent flyer programs on airlines, most cruise lines offer benefits the more you sail. If you find yourself absolutely loving cruise vacations, it can be advantageous to put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. Rewards programs can include casino benefits, complimentary meals at the upgraded dining experiences, exclusive sail-away parties with free cocktails and tchotchkes, early-access booking on future cruises, and much more.
• Reputation. It's a really smart idea to see what other travelers have said about their overall experience with a cruise line before booking your trip. The ads on TV may make that private island look amazing, but someone who's been there might point out that you'll pay extra to get on that waterslide. Or, previous cruisers could tell you that despite having several formal nights on the schedule, a particular cruise line has no problem with people showing up to dinner in flip-flops and swimsuit coverups. Find out if the cruise line you're considering lines up in reality with what they advertise.

Here at Top Consumer Reviews, cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel and experience new things. And with so many different cruise lines to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But, don't worry: take a look at our in-depth analysis of today's most popular options, find the one that's the best match for your vacation ideas and your travel party, and book that trip you've been dreaming of. Bon voyage!

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Best Viking Cruises

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Viking Venus

Launched in May 2021 from Portsmouth, England, Viking Venus features modern amenities and a contemporary design. The ship can hold 930 passengers and 465 crew members. Amenities include multiple pools and shops, as well as a cinema, a live performance theater, a jazz lounge, a spa, a fitness center and a salon. Plus, you can attend a lecture or discussion with the onboard historian, who helps educate passengers on the cultural aspects of each destination. An onboard cooking school, The Kitchen Table, also allows guests to learn about each destination's unique cuisine. 

Cruisers can enjoy daily updated food options at The Restaurant, diverse cuisine at the World Café, expertly paired tasting menus at The Chef's Table and Italian favorites at Manfredi's Italian Restaurant. There are eight dining venues on board in total, in addition to the ship's cooking school at The Kitchen Table and 24/7 room service.

When it's time to rest, there are six types of accommodations to choose from – all with private verandas. The standard Veranda Staterooms measure 270 square feet and feature plush beds, free Wi-Fi access and flat-screen TVs. Higher-tier rooms come with extras like priority shore excursion reservations, priority spa reservations, in-room coffee and free laundry services. Plus, travelers in these cabins will have more space: Rooms reach up to 1,448 square feet and may include separate living and dining areas.

The Viking Venus sails to popular European destinations like Barcelona , Athens , Bangkok , Istanbul , Rome , London , Sydney and Stockholm .

Viking Saturn

Debuted in May 2023, the adults-only Viking Saturn has the capacity to hold 930 passengers and 465 crew members. Travelers love the ship's clean Scandinavian design and compact size, which allows it to dock in smaller ports that larger cruise ships cannot reach.

On board, travelers have access to a slew of amenities, including a fitness center, a spa, a library, a state-of-the-art theater, a hair salon, an infinity pool and more. A resident historian is also on board to offer lectures and educational programming about upcoming port destinations. When hunger strikes, Viking Saturn offers an array of dining options, from fresh seafood at World Café to afternoon tea service at Wintergarden to traditional Norwegian cuisine at Mamsen's. Or, learn how to prepare regional dishes from your itinerary at the onboard cooking school.

Starting at 270 square feet, standard staterooms come equipped with king-size mattresses (which can be converted into two twin beds), flat-screen TVs, full-size verandas and bathrooms with heated floors. What's more, each accommodation includes 24-hour room service. Travelers who opt to stay in one of the ship's upgraded suites (which reach up to 1,448 square feet) have access to additional perks such as separate living areas and dining rooms, complimentary laundry services and a welcome bottle of Champagne, among other luxuries.

Viking Saturn sails to a variety of destinations in northern Europe (such as Bergen, Norway; London  and Stockholm ) and the Mediterranean (think: Barcelona, Spain ; Rome ; Athens, Greece ; and Istanbul ).

The 930-passenger Viking Sky – which debuted in February 2017 – receives rave reviews from past cruisers for its port-heavy itineraries (fares include one complimentary excursion per port) and luxurious, comfortable staterooms. Cabins offer between 270 and 1,448 square feet of space and include balconies, complimentary Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs and bathrooms with heated floors, among other amenities. Those who opt for an upgraded stateroom or suite are treated to additional perks, like priority reservations at the spa and specialty restaurants.

Viking Sky's activities include classes at the fitness center, treatments at the spa and destination-focused lectures. The ship also offers two pools and two whirlpools, including an infinity pool on the stern of the ship. In the evenings, passengers can enjoy live performances in the theater or watch destination-related movies in one of two cinemas.

Guests also have their choice of cuisine, from alfresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace to Manfredi's Italian Restaurant. With 550 crew members on board, the ship maintains a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio.

Viking Sky sails to the Mediterranean, Europe, Central America and more. The ship also offers world voyages.

Viking Mars

Viking's newest ship, the Viking Mars accommodates 930 passengers and, since it's a smaller vessel, it can dock in many ports where some of the larger ocean-faring cruise ships can't reach. The all-veranda accommodations on this ship, which debuted in May 2022, range in size from around 270 square feet to 1,448 square feet. In-room amenities include free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, safes, minibars filled with drinks and snacks, robes, slippers and 24-hour room service.

Visitors will find a relaxing spa, a hair salon, a yoga area and a well-equipped indoor fitness center (plus an outdoor fitness center) aboard the ship. Those looking to unwind with a book in one hand and a cocktail in the other should snag a cozy spot in The Living Room. Like other Viking ships, the Viking Mars offers educational programming, lectures, cooking classes and more on board.

Cruisers can also enjoy amenities like the main pool and hot tub, the infinity pool, the cinema, the theater, a jazz lounge and various bars. Dining options on this ship include Manfredi's Italian Restaurant, Aquavit Terrace, World Café, The Chef's Table and The Kitchen Table.

Viking Mars receives rave reviews from recent cruisers. The variety of excursions, the delectable onboard dining and the comfortable cabins are a few things previous guests highlighted as superb. However, the staff received mixed reviews: Some experienced attentive and friendly employees, while a few noted they were expecting better service across the board for the price point.

Upcoming itineraries on the Viking Mars include cruises with ports of call in Iceland, Norway, Greece, Italy, Spain, the U.S. and Canada.

Viking Jupiter

Debuted in February 2019, Viking Jupiter is the cruise line's sixth ocean vessel. The ship sleeps up to 930 guests in luxurious staterooms that include everything from large bathrooms to comfortable king-sized beds. As an added bonus, each room is equipped with free Wi-Fi access.

Travelers will have the opportunity to indulge in several onboard activities. They can visit the spa's snow grotto and chill beneath the snowflakes, go for a swim in the infinity pool or let their worries melt away in the hot tub. The Bar and The Living Room offer additional spaces to unwind with a cocktail or mingle with fellow cruisers.

For afternoon tea and light snacks, travelers can stop by Wintergarden, or for a heartier meal, the main dining room, Manfredi's Italian Restaurant or World Café offer scrumptious European delicacies, Chinese fare and everything in between. In the evening, cruisers can catch a live show in The Theater or a destination-themed movie in one of two onboard cinemas.

Recent travelers were wowed by the ship, appreciating its tasteful, minimalist decor. They also found the food delicious and suggested purchasing the upgraded drink package.

Viking Jupiter visits ports in Buenos Aires , Barcelona  and more on both regional and transatlantic cruises.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Viking Jupiter and Viking Orion are the only two ships in the fleet that have a planetarium called the Explorer’s Dome. Refer to the daily program, the Viking Star, to see what shows are available during your voyage. – Gwen Pratesi, Contributor

Launched in April 2016, Viking Sea is the second vessel in Viking's Ocean Cruises fleet. Carrying 930 passengers, the ship's small size is designed to allow direct access to smaller ports around the world.

Viking Sea's staterooms range from 270-square-foot Veranda Staterooms to the 1,448-square-foot Owner's Suite. All accommodations include balconies, flat-screen TVs, king-sized beds, complimentary Wi-Fi access and bathrooms with heated floors. Those who splurge on upgraded staterooms receive extra perks like priority reservations for excursions, spa treatments and specialty restaurants.

The ship's facilities include a fitness center, a Nordic spa (complete with a snow grotto), an outdoor gym and yoga area, a theater and a one-of-a-kind infinity pool on the stern of the ship that gives the illusion of swimming in the ocean.

When you work up an appetite, the Viking Sea offers a variety of dining options to quell your hunger. They range from casual Norwegian cuisine at Mamsen's to alfresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace. Recent passengers report a stellar onboard experience, describing the food as delicious, the ship as comfortable and the service as top-notch.

Viking Sea sails to ports across Alaska, Canada, Europe, the Caribbean and the West Indies.

Viking Star

Debuted in 2015, Viking Star was the fleet's first ocean liner. Welcoming up to 930 passengers, the ship features all-veranda staterooms ranging from 270 to 1,448 square feet. The Owner's Suite offers a dining area that can seat six, an ocean view dry sauna and a 12-seat boardroom, among other amenities.

Beyond their rooms, passengers will find a spa, several shops, a theater that hosts live performances and lectures, two cinemas for screening movies and two pools, including a glass-backed infinity pool cantilevered off the stern.

There are eight dining options to choose from, all with no additional charge or fee. For fine dining, there's The Restaurant, Manfredi's Italian Restaurant and The Chef's Table, which touts a multicourse tasting menu with wine pairings. For a more casual atmosphere, passengers can stop at Mamsen's for Norwegian deli-style eats or the Wintergarden for afternoon tea.

Viking Star sails to destinations in Europe, Central America, the Mediterranean and more.

Viking Orion

The 930-passenger Viking Orion set sail in 2018. All staterooms on the Viking Orion are equipped with balconies, flat-screen LCD TVs and minibars. Cabins also feature bathrooms with glass-enclosed showers and heated floors.

When it's time to relax, cruisers can head to the spa for a treatment or – for a unique experience – cool their body temperatures down in the snow grotto (where snowflakes fall) before jumping into the sauna or hot tub to warm up. Recent travelers said this spa experience is not to be missed. 

The ship is also home to a fitness center, a living room that hosts live entertainment, a library, shops, a salon and two movie theaters. The main pool area is expansive, featuring ample lounge seating, a retractable roof and a poolside bar. At night, the ship screens poolside movies under the stars. 

Viking Orion's guests can enjoy meals at several onboard restaurants, including the main restaurant where menus rotate daily. Or, guests can book a private dining room for intimate gatherings. Recent cruisers raved about the service and food quality across the ship. Come nighttime, the ship's theater offers live performances ranging from themed shows to history and art lectures.

Viking Orion sails to Australia and New Zealand, Asia and Alaska.

U.S. News Insider Tip: One of the most relaxing spaces on Viking Orion (and all of Viking’s ocean ships) is the glass-enclosed Wintergarden, which is located next to the pool area. Afternoon tea is served every day, and it’s not to be missed at least one time during your cruise. – Gwen Pratesi, Contributor

Viking Neptune

Viking Neptune sailed its maiden voyage in December 2022. Those familiar with Viking Cruises may notice this ship is not the first Viking Neptune; an earlier vessel from the early 2000s was the first to bear the name. 

The new 930-passenger, 470-crew boat resembles its sister ship Viking Mars with its modern features and contemporary Scandinavian design. Amenities on board include a spa, a fitness center, a jazz lounge and theaters that host destination-focused live entertainment and movies. 

The all-veranda ship allows guests to enjoy ocean views from any room. The standard Veranda Stateroom measures 270 square feet and features a king-size bed, 42-inch flat screen TV and free Wi-Fi access. Travelers looking for more spacious accommodations can opt for a Suite room. These rooms can reach up to 1,448 square feet and may include separate living and dining room spaces. 

Cruisers have eight restaurants to choose from. The Restaurant – the ship's main dining facility – provides regional cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, while the World Café serves up international dishes. The ship also has a few specialty restaurants included in the fare, such as Manfredi's Italian Restaurant and Mamsen's, a Norwegian specialty cafe. Just keep in mind, these specialty eateries require guests to make reservations. 

Viking Neptune sails to ports throughout Europe , the Mediterranean, Canada and the United States . The ship also offers transatlantic and world cruises.  

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Traveling Tulls

Eco-Travel in Retirement – Nature and Sustainable Luxury Travel

Elegance at Sea: An Authentic Viking Ocean Cruises Review

Embarking on a Viking Oceans cruise promises a luxurious and immersive journey. I am just back from my first Viking voyage, a 12-night cruise on Viking Sea,. In this review, I will share various aspects of the Viking experience, specifically a Viking Sea cruise ship review, to provide insights into what you can expect on this ship. I hope sharing this Viking Ocean cruises review will help you decide on your next adventure.

As a seasoned traveler and occasional cruiser, I believe I am well-equipped to provide insights into the Viking Oceans Cruise experience. My first two European travels (1963 & 1968) involved transatlantic voyages as my Dad was afraid of flying. Cruise ships have come a very long way since those days. (The ”spa” in our first ship, the MS Saturnia, featured vibrating belt machines and a lukewarm tub in a windowless room. But we had Italian language lessons onboard and daily Mass where I, a young GIRL was allowed to serve as altar boy!) Jump ahead 60 years and I have sailed on Windstar’s small ships 6 times, and have also explored other renowned cruise lines such as Princess and Norwegian, offering a comparative lens for evaluating Viking’s unique offerings.

With an extensive travel background that spans 68 countries, and includes bespoke safaris, ,journeys with prestigious tour operators like Tauck and Abercrombie & Kent, and many independent adventures, I bring a diverse and discerning perspective to this Viking Sea ship review. Note: We paid all expenses for this trip. Viking did not discount nor incentivize our travel.

Table of Contents

Booking our first Viking Cruise

Viking offer three categories of journeys – river cruises, ocean cruises, and expedition cruises. We chose the Viking Oceans Cruise – Amazon & Caribbean Adventure – primarily for the itinerary. (Viking offers many unique destination-focused itineraries.) Visiting the Amazon has always been a dream of mine. And we were intrigued to try Viking ships having heard much about Viking River Cruises cultural and educational focus from friends. The Viking Ocean Cruises ships carry 930 passengers which seems like a lot to us but still considered a small ship by most cruisers.

Booking our cruise was a seamless process, with an intuitive online reservation system. However, for this trip, we chose to call Viking directly so as to secure flights that would work for us. We planned on arriving in San Juan a few days before the cruise to enjoy some sunshine and to forestall travel complications winter in New England can bring. The customer service representatives we spoke to during booking were very helpful and within minutes our trip was confirmed.

The next step in trip planning came when it was time to choose excursions. Viking has a unique (to us) reservation system for excursions and dining options. Each stateroom level has a date when reservation booking opens. For example, on our voyage the Penthouse Veranda occupants could make reservations 77 days before the cruise, the Deluxe Veranda 67 days, and the lowest category, Veranda, 60 days before the cruise. This was a stressful and unpleasant experience for us. By the time our category (deluxe veranda) was allowed to book, many tours were sold out. We managed to get much of what we wanted but honestly this added frustration and a sense of classism to the process. Note : Viking guarantees one or two included tours for everyone in each port. These are mostly bus rides or short walks.

Other than the above issue (and a few outside Viking’s control) things went well with Viking’s pre-cruise experience. We used Viking Air (got an offer for free airfare!) and got a direct flight, Boston to San Juan. Once we received our Delta confirmation code, we were able to upgrade our seats. (Some guests were able to upgrade from the My Viking page earlier but for some reason this was not available for our flight.)

A+ Where Viking Shines

The ship: a viking sea cruise ship review.

The focal point of any cruise is the ship. In the case of the Viking cruises which seem to leave ports earlier than most cruise lines we’ve used, the design is paramount. And fortunately, it shines! Viking Ocean ships are designed with elegance and functionality in mind.

The Viking Sea is the loveliest ship we’ve traveled on. The ship’s decor is sleek Scandinavian with bits of whimsy. Spend some time in the Wintergarden and you’ll find birds and iconic landmarks integrated into the ironwork. Birds can also be ‘heard’ in some of the public restrooms. 🙂

Throughout the ship there are unique spaces where you can get away for a quiet read. Thus even with 930 guests onboard the ship never seems crowded. Even the main dining room, the Restaurant, is designed with partial wall breaks to simulate small dining areas.

Other unique public spaces include the ‘Living Room,’ a three-story elegant atrium where you’ll find games, puzzles, and cozy corners to sit while enjoying performances by Viking’s musicians. The Explorers’ Lounge and Torshavn are the focus for evening cocktails, music, and conversation. There are outside terraces for watching the world go by and a sports deck for shuffleboard enthusiasts. Last but a far cry from least is a Viking Ocean Cruise highlight – the extraordinary spa with traditional Nordic elements like sauna, vitality pool, cold plunge tubs, and a Snow Grotto.

Our Stateroom

We’re in a mid-level cabin, Deluxe Veranda, which is narrow, but has a lot of storage and a roomy bathroom with a great shower. (Not always the case on cruise ships!) I haven’t seen the other category staterooms but know the next step up – Penthouse Veranda- offers a few more feet in width and a fridge stocked with wine, beer, etc. Our fridge has soft drinks replenished daily.

When all our things were put away, we had plenty of room in this cabin and veranda to enjoy some quiet time. (270 square feet in total)

Entertainment spaces with exceptional performances

[I neglected to get photos of the Star Theater, Torshavn and the Explorers’ Lounge, so I’ll try to describe each before I direct you to the Viking Serene Scandinavian Spaces webpage.]

• The Star Theater is the primary theater location for live music and is the spot where guests gather for tendering. It is similar in style to other ships’ theaters with alternating rows of bucket chairs and cushioned bench seating. Interestingly, the back of the theater has two spaces which can be closed to create two movie theaters.
• Torshavn is located just steps away from the Star Theater so attracts a lot of people after the evening’s performances. It has a nightclub vibe and is a great spot for late night dancing.
• The Explorers’ Lounge is on the 7th and 8th floor. It’s a thoughtfully designed space with panoramic windows affording lovely views. The Explorers’ Lounge is where you’ll find Mamsen’s, a homestyle eating spot with late night treats.

The onboard entertainment on our cruise was outstanding! We thoroughly enjoyed the Star Theater productions and planned our evenings around them. (We often skip the shows on other cruise lines.)

The entertainment is curated to appeal to a broad audience. The ship’s atrium, the Living Room, has either a classical pianist or a string duo playing almost all day. Lovely background music for your reading. Torshavn, the cozy club, and Explorers Lounge have shows each evening with more contemporary music.

But the best entertainment on this Viking itinerary was the evening show with the resident vocalists. They were immensely talented and the show’s choreography, stagecraft, and audio-visual elements made this a phenomenal experience.

Interestingly, it’s not just the ship’s vocalists that performed but also the cruise director! Big shout out to our cruise director, Ryan Bishop, who kept us informed and entertained all 12 days onboard. What a talent!

Including destination-focused enrichment is one of Viking‘s key attractions. On our Amazon and Caribbean Adventure itinerary we had a resident biologist, a resident historian, and a former CIA agent giving talks daily.

I loved the nature lectures. Dr. Philip Price included a lot of depth to his talks (bringing back much of my long-forgotten biology knowledge) but he seasoned his talk with humor so everyone could enjoy.

Having these short (45 minute) lectures definitely adds to the cruise experience. And best of all, if you’re unable to attend them in person, they are streamed all week on your cabin TV! We always watched one in the evening as we got ready for bed.

(The daily port talks are also available on your cabin TV. This was the first cruise when we actually used the cabin TV.)

The Spa (and fitness center)

What can I say! We loved the spa! It’s a subdued quiet space to relax and rejuvenate after a day touring.

There is an open area with a large ‘vitality pool’ (hot tub with waves and bubbles on demand), a traditional hot tub, heated spa beds and loungers. From this central area you have access to the Snow Grotto and steam room. In each dressing area there is a sauna and cold plunge pool. I valiantly tried everything the spa had to offer but didn’t stay long in the cold plunge pool 🙂

Somehow, I hadn’t time for a massage but exercised in the well-equipped gym before luxuriating in the spa. There are three sections to the fitness center all with large windows to enjoy the view. The aerobic fitness area had many treadmills, several cycles, and a few elliptical machines. The next two rooms focused on weight training and stretching.

B+ A cut above most cruise ships

Service and staff.

The service provided by the crew can make or break your shipboard experience. For the most part, the Viking staff, known for their friendliness and professionalism, elevated our overall experience. We did not rate the service as excellent because it seemed the staff may have had more guests than they could handle. In the Restaurant we had several mix-ups with our orders and sometimes had long waits to be seated or served. But when the waitstaff came they were always friendly and courteous.

We had some frustrations with guest services not following up on requests for post-cruise plans. Our charter flight was scheduled to leave at 6 pm from Manaus so we hoped to use that day to see more of the city and surroundings on a private tour. But three days before we arrived in Manaus, guest services still had no idea what time we’d be disembarking, what hotel we would be brought to, and when we needed to get to the airport. Needless to say, we couldn’t book our tour and spent 6 hours in a hotel conference room before our flight.

But while onboard Guest Services came through with a level of hospitality we hadn’t found on other cruise lines. A big thank you to guest services for hosting an impromptu gathering of participants from Cruise Critic. We enjoyed drinks and appetizers in the 8th floor Explorers’ Lounge as we met offline for the first time.

In general, the crew’s cheerful dedication made us feel valued and well taken care of throughout the trip.

Ambiance/Social Aspects

The ambiance of the ship plays a crucial role in shaping the overall experience. Viking Ocean Cruise ships boast elegant designs with lots of areas to socialize or enjoy some solitude. It’s a sophisticated and comfortable atmosphere.

Of course, there’s little you can do to predict how you’ll enjoy your fellow travelers but on this cruise we met many wonderful people. All were well-traveled, so it was fun to chat and compare notes. The demographics on our tour:

• overwhelmingly American
• almost all over 60 years of age and retired
• very little diversity
• quite a few people with some sort of health or mobility issues. Happily, it seemed Viking is prepared to help everyone participate in events and excursions. The crew were sensitive to the needs of people with mobility issues, quickly seating them on tenders, etc.

Viking Sea cruise ship review: the dining experience

One of the challenges of traveling anywhere is managing expectations. We have had great food on Windstar and read rave reviews of Viking’s food before the trip, so perhaps we came onboard with unrealistic expectations for a ship serving 930 passengers and 465 crew members.

Viking offers a variety of dining venues offer diverse menus, providing guests with many choices for their cruise experience. We greatly appreciated that Viking offered selections in all venues that mirrored the destinations visited. We also appreciated that there are no formal nights on Viking (though there is a dress code for the better restaurants.)

There are many options available, including options for gluten free and vegetarian diets. The food was mostly good but rarely exceptional. Service in the main dining room could be spotty. All the waitstaff was friendly but appeared to be a bit overwhelmed at times. Perhaps the area was understaffed on this trip.

As we’re dedicated to our readers, we tried each of Viking Sea’s dining options. 😉 Here we are ready to try Manfredi’s, the Italian restaurant – yum!

The Restaurant

This is the primary restaurant on the ship. It’s an elegant space with multiple divisions which belied how many guests were being served. The Restaurant offered a fairly extensive menu with some dishes offered every night, some specific to the destination, some vegetarian, and many daily specials. We had some excellent meals here but also several mediocre meals. Our favorite entrees : Beef tenderloin with horseradish mashed potato was my favorite, Dave’s was the Norwegian salmon which is offered daily.

The World Cafe is a cafeteria style option and is open for all meals. The quality of the food and selections offered were quite good. We enjoyed our meals here and understood why some cruisers only eat at the World Cafe. There is a small, shaded spot outside the World Cafe where you can bring your trays to enjoy some fresh air.

Be sure to frequent the World Cafe on Surf n’ Turf night! Lobster tails, shrimp cocktails, etc.! Yum! Dave gives a shout out to the gelato which he sampled daily for this complete review.

Note: the World Cafe is the only restaurant without a dress code. For more about this and other packing suggestions read Amazon and Caribbean Adventure: Your Ultimate Viking Cruise Packing List .

There are two (occasionally three) specialty restaurants on the Viking Oceans Cruises ships. On our trip the third option – the Kitchen Table – was not open. Reservations are required for these restaurants but if you’re not able to secure a reservation before the trip, check with the dining desk managers as there are usually spots available.

Manfredi’s is the Italian themed dining option. It’s a pleasant space with mediterranean design. The food was good and the service in this restaurant was excellent.

Chef’s Table

The Chef’s Table was an alternative restaurant where wine is paired with each course. The theme of the tasting menu rotates every three days, so be sure to check what options are available on the night of your choosing.

We attended Mexican night and enjoyed the wine but were underwhelmed with the food. Our amuse bouche was one tortilla chip topped with an octopus-based salsa. The appetizer was one tamale in a clear soup. The main course was very tasty, but again only a small serving – short ribs with mole sauce and a tablespoon of sweet potato mash artfully displayed. Dessert was a selection of chocolate treats. Note : other cruisers raved about the Asian menu, so give it a try!

Wintergarden

This was my favorite dining option on the ship!

A traditional tea is served in this spectacular space every afternoon with classical music accompaniment. I love afternoon tea so made sure to get there twice on our trip. Scones with clotted cream, finger sandwiches, and sweet delicacies are served with your choice of dozens of teas. Relax, enjoy the music, and indulge.

There is no dress code for the Wintergarden, but many appeared to enjoying dressing as they might for afternoon tea at home.

Mamsen’s

This is a Norwegian homestyle spot (literally) tucked into the Explorers’ Lounge. The recipes and even the plate design come from the kitchen of the Hagen family’s Mamsen (mother). This is where you’ll find traditional Norwegian open-faced sandwiches and specialty desserts.

Definitely try the waffles here one morning! It’s a quiet change from the other dining venues and has a lovely view.

The Pool Grill, as you’d expect, serves burgers, hot dogs, and occasionally a tuna steak all made to order. Very good for a quick meal on deck.

Room Service

We ordered from room service a few times, once for breakfast on our first sea day, and twice when our excursion got us back to the ship after the dining areas were closed. After a steamy excursion it was nice to put our feet up and enjoy a platter of cheese or a Caprese panini.

More Viking Sea options

Honestly, I can’t speak to this very well. There are lots of options listed on the Daily – mahjong, crafters corner, wine and spirits tasting, shuffleboard competitions, just to name a few – but we didn’t partake of anything except team trivia in the Explorers’ Lounge.

There are tables in the Atrium set up for Scrabble and other games. These were always busy and it looked like people were having fun.

Ship’s pools

This is another category that is hard to rank. The main pool is in a gorgeous spot and has a partially retractable roof. I imagine this would be lovely if cruising in a cooler climate, but in the Caribbean and Amazon the roof opening was not sufficient to keep the space cool. We tried this for a few hours and gave up.

On the Aquavit Terrace at the rear of the ship there is an infinity pool and hot tub. This pool was perfect for a hot day in the tropics. Lovely refreshing water with enough space for several bathers. The only drawback here is that deck space is limited, and all loungers are in the sun.

Tips of first-time Viking cruisers

Cabin choice.

If you’re debating which cabin category to select, upgrade. As mentioned in the booking section above, there is a tier system for booking excursions and making dining reservations. If neither of these matter to you, choose whatever cabin you wish. But if you’re hoping to get on a specific tour, book a Penthouse Veranda or above. ( This was a real eye-opener for me. I felt a bit like a second-class citizen when I realized my mid-range cabin didn’t allow me to get some of the tours we’d looked forward to. Not a good feeling when you’ve booked a luxury brand cruise. )

There are 1-2 included excursions in every port of call. In addition, there are many optional tours with prices starting >$60 and up. We opted for two included shore excursions and many of the paid excursions. Most were very good to excellent. I’ve detailed our excursion experiences on Navigating the Amazon and Caribbean with Viking.

Note: Viking seems to leave ports earlier than other lines we have used. Our all-aboard times ranged from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm. This made it more challenging to book tours with local companies (as we’ve enjoyed in other locations ), so we stuck with Viking’s offerings.

There are options to send out your laundry with a quick turnaround, but Viking is unique in providing free laundry facilities and detergent on each floor. This makes it easy to pack light for the cruise . The laundry room does gets crowded so plan on doing your wash in the off hours – during morning excursions, late at night or during dinner hours.

There are three onboard shops, one a jewelry store, one a small necessities shop, and one specializing in Nordic gear and souvenirs. Interestingly, though you have your choice of Nordic sweaters (on an Amazon cruise…hmm) there is no place to purchase a simple tee shirt. We had counted on this while packing so were disappointed. And before you say that the clientele was too upscale for tee shirts, believe me, most guests are wearing casual clothes including tees during the daytime hours and on excursions.

Silver spirit package

All Vikings Sea’s restaurants include wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. We’d heard that the included wine was of poor quality, but we enjoyed every wine we were served. (Mind you, we are not oenophiles.)

Purchasing the Silver Spirits beverage package for $25 per person per night affords the guest upgraded wines, beers, and unlimited cocktails and spirits. As this was our first Viking cruise, we decided to test the value of the package. We enjoyed the included wine and beer, but also ordered cocktails or an evening aperitif as we desired. In the end our bill was $174.50, far less than the $600 the Silver Spirits package would have cost. We’re moderate drinkers on vacation but I think the liberal pours over dinner kept our costs low.

An oddity of the included beverages policy is that at events where sparkling wine is poured continuously, I had to pay $4 for a ginger ale. Hmm…

Viking Air Services

We used Viking Air for our travel. Just a bit of reading online will show you that Viking Air gets mixed reviews with some people being booked on circuitous routes to their destinations. Fortunately, we did not have any of these issues. We were booked on a direct flight from Boston to San Juan, Puerto Rico to begin our vacation. On the return Viking booked charter flights to transport passengers to Miami from Manaus. We gladly agreed to this. As this homeward travel day was long and involved Viking put all passengers up in a Marriott hotel in Miami, served dinner and breakfast, and arranged luggage transport for each leg of the journey. From Miami we had a direct flight home.

Unfortunately, plane issues on both the charter and direct flight home from Miami caused delays. When ultimately our Miami to Boston flight was cancelled, we scrambled to find a flight home rather than spend another night in Miami. Viking Air likely could have booked something for us, but as time was of the essence so we did it ourselves. When Viking learned of our difficult day, they issued us a future cruise credit. Unnecessary as it was not Viking’s fault, but we were impressed and appreciative.

Sustainability Practices

I have seasonal affective disorder (SAD) so we travel to get a few weeks in the sunshine each winter. We try to choose sustainable options as we did in Costa Rica , but sometimes we cruise. This year was challenging with losses of family and friends, so the convenience of a cruise was the best option. We chose Viking as it states a commitment to sustainability.

[Researching a bit, Viking receives mixed ratings for sustainability. Friends of the Earth gives Viking a poor grade despite acknowledging Viking has moved to advanced sewage treatment systems and exhaust scrubbers. The Cruise Line is kinder to Viking, giving the line credit for reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by 40%.]

As I don’t have the ability to precisely measure the environmental impact of the cruise line, I base my comments on what I encountered on the ship.

• Exhaust scrubbers to reduce air pollution
• Viking has discontinued some tours they deemed unethical, e.g. the pink dolphin experience.
• Paper straws are used in all venues when straws are requested
• Serving sizes in the restaurants were not excessive, so less waste here. (However, the buffets in the World Cafe undoubtedly generate a lot of food waste.)
• Time in ports was much too short to support local economies. On other cruises we try to frequent cafes, shops, and local guides, but with an early “all aboard”, on this itinerary we had to stick with ship tours.
• Towels were changed daily despite us hanging them up for reuse.

Value for Money

Viking Ocean Cruises aims to provide value for money. The cost of the cruise, considering the inclusions and amenities, is competitive in the cruise industry. With the cruise cost including full use of the spa, the entertainment, and wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner, we felt that we got excellent value for our money.

We opted to use Viking’s air program and were pleased when offered a charter flight from Manaus to Miami and a hotel night in Miami before transiting home. And doubly pleased when we learned they organized a late (11 pm- 2 am!) dinner for us in Miami. Very professional of them to make these arrangements at their own expense after our cruise days had ended.

Viking Ocean Cruises Review: Conclusion

In conclusion, our cruise experience was a great blend of luxury, fun, and cultural exploration. From the ease of booking to the service on board, Viking Ocean Cruises offer a refined maritime adventure. The Viking Sea is beautifully appointed and without question a great ship. Whether seeking relaxation or immersive activities, travelers are likely to find their expectations exceeded on a Viking Oceans Cruise. I hope you have a wonderful trip!

For more information and recommendations for your Viking Ocean Cruises experience read:

• Navigating the Amazon and Caribbean with Viking: An Honest Review – a specific Viking cruise review
• Amazon and Caribbean Adventure: Your Ultimate Viking Cruise Packing List – packing tips for this unusual journey!

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Amy, a writer on responsible bucket list travel, is your reliable source for insightful travel advice. With a career background in libraries, and a degree in biology and mathematics, Amy's approach to travel is rooted in meticulous research and planning, and her commitment to eco-conscious adventures.

Amy’s dedication to sustainable travel practices, including efficient packing techniques, ensures that every adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the traveler's well-being. Trust Amy to guide you towards meaningful and eco-friendly travel, making the most of your retirement years.

A lifelong New England resident, Amy is also the source for insider tips on travel in the Northeastern U.S.

• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ 25 Tips to Conquer Travel Anxiety: How to Make Travel Easier (and almost stress-free!)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Easy Elegance: 3 Capsule Wardrobe Templates for Travel Planning
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Navigating the Amazon and Caribbean with Viking: An Honest Review (2024)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Amazon and Caribbean Adventure: Your Ultimate Viking Cruise Packing List

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4 thoughts on “ Elegance at Sea: An Authentic Viking Ocean Cruises Review ”

• Pingback: Amazon and Caribbean Adventure: Your Ultimate Viking Cruise Packing List - Traveling Tulls

I’ve been wondering about Viking cruises. I love that it is a kid-free environment but I didn’t realize the bulk of the people are 60+. That’s good to know. I’m saving this as a refresher when I’m ready to give them a try. Thanks!

I’ve never fancied a cruise but the ship looks lovely!

As someone who has never been on a holiday cruise, I found this very interesting. Thank you.

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Russell and Sharon Schwenke

Viking is the best in alaska.

We had done Alaska before, but the Viking trip was the best. Staff were helpful and had idea of areas for us to see. My husband and i love to hike--we hiked or walked every day 10 miles or more. Back on the ship it was great. Food the best and service was outstanding. The views of ports so much closer than other trips of Alaska we had taken before. The iceberg were right there--you could feel the cold ice. Other ships you could see, but not like this. Do Alaska on Viking, you will happy you did.  

Virginia from Pennsylvania

Exploration of a lifetime.

Exploration of a lifetime. Every minute is filled with building vivid memories of Earth’s wonders. I saw the unexpected and unforgettable. The ship was intimate and luxurious. The crew made everyday life on board heavenly. Bravo!  

All we had hoped it would be.

The cruise was all we had hoped it would be. The ship was great and never felt crowded. Our stateroom was very comfortable and had everything we could possibly need. Food was great. . . . Entertainment in the theater was to a very high standard. The staff were always so polite and friendly, often there before we asked. . . . The guides were very informative and we felt we knew a lot more about the country and its indigenous people by the end of the cruise. We also had adequate free time to explore on our own. . . . Following the cruise we had a 6-day trip into the interior of Alaska to see places we were not able to on a cruise up the coast. . . . The whole 6-day trip was organized by Viking and up to their usual extremely high standard. We already have another cruise booked for January 2020, and that will be our 12th Viking cruise. Each one has been different and each one has been brilliant.

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Viking vouchers have undisclosed testrictions

Viking will do every sneaky thing they can to steal your money. I purchased 2 $200 vouchers while on a Viking cruise that they stated had no restrictions or limitations. I recently applied them to a future river which I had to cancel well within the cancellation period without penalty. They kept my $50 deposit but also kept the vouchers so they could not be applied to a future booking. This is completely dishonest and unethical. Avoid this tour operator at all costs.

Date of experience : April 23, 2024

NOT CUSTOMER FRIENDLY

Had a Iceland Cruise in June 2026. I needed to cancel due to personal reasons. I contacted Viking and explained my particutar situation. I was giving Viking over a 2 year notice so the cabin can be resold. Viking denied my request for a refund of the "BIG" $50 Deposit. There are always exceptions to the rules that Viking could have made in my case. NOT CUSTOMER FRIENDLY.

Date of experience : April 10, 2024

We gave Viking $8999.00 toward a future…

We gave Viking $8999.00 toward a future cruise. Due to illness we were unable to book a cruise. When we requested to use that deposit for another cruise and or return the money, they denied the request. Dealing with Miller Rubio was a lesson in duplicity and deceit.I would strongly encourage Ocean travelers to find a more honorable company.

Date of experience : April 04, 2024

Viking air agents are awful

I am writing this review before the cruise. I hope I can return and review this with a higher rating. So far it has been a cluster $&@“. Air management team has been a nightmare. They had my traveling companion on a different flight to Amsterdam. Not good. 3.5 hrs on the phone to get it straightened out and of course more $$ out of pocket. I finally just said I will get myself to Atlanta you get me to Amsterdam and back to Atlanta. So one leg of my prepaid trip is paid by me a second time. No ONE travel consultant assigned to us so absolutely no consistency. Lack of communication has also been a big problem. This is to be the Cream de la cream, cruise travel company. I am not seeing it. Hope it changes with the cruise, but they have a lot of work to do in the front end to be given a top rating.

Date of experience : March 08, 2024

Customer service is no help at all

Customer service is no help at all. We booked two cruises at the same time .. they said we can not have transfer in between the cruise to the air port unless we fly back to USA and fly back to Europe?? Secondly we pay for air plus to book the flight we wanted and they changed our flight from directly to transfer to Canada.. so why we pay for the extra 100 ??

Date of experience : April 01, 2024

Viking Corporate vs Viking Ship's Crew

This review is about Viking Corporate - NOT the Viking Vidar staff. Corporate lies - plain and simple. Trying to get specifics on a cruise itinerary was like pulling teeth. And, other than one Customer Rep - Patricia T - the Customer Reps will either tell you there's no way to find out an answer, or they will just tell you something to get rid of you. So what if what they told you made you make a certain choice of an included or optional tour, and THEN, WHILE ON THE CRUISE, you find out it was a LIE! Because of Viking Corporate, I will never go on another Viking cruise - which is sad because the Ship's Crew will do whatever it takes to make this the best vacation of your life

Date of experience : July 17, 2023

Booked a cruise with Viking (which was…

Booked a cruise with Viking (which was listed as requiring $25 down to book). Shortly thereafter, Viking wanted full payment for a cruise 1 year in the future. Therefore, Viking is holding full payment and collecting interest on the funds. This appears to be a new money making mechanism by Viking using their client's money to increase their cash flow.

Date of experience : August 01, 2023

We have just returned from a wonderful ocean cruise

We have just returned from a wonderful cruise on Viking Sea from Athens to Venice. Unfortunately the airline lost our luggage for five days which was far from ideal but Viking staff provided us with toiletries and also laundered our clothes each evening returning them early next morning. Our cabin stewards, Angel and Rhuel went beyond the call of duty to help us out with a few other missing item. The food was very good, the cleanliness was excellent and most importantly, the Staff were lovely. We mainly did the included excursions and the guides were very knowledgeable and interesting. All transfers were well organised and there were representatives at the foreign airports guiding us to check in and sorting out our luggage transfer so we only had our hand luggage to carry. All in all we were very happy people and have already booked our next ocean cruise with them.

Date of experience : September 01, 2023

Privacy violation

Sent brochure without consent. I sent an email to be removed from the mailing list, but when attempting to call as a backup measure, I was notified that the privacy line was for employees and not for customers. The company is intentionally avoiding ways to respect consumer privacy. I will never be a customer of this cruise line.

Date of experience : February 03, 2024

Viking Venus without most amenities.

Viking Venus : cruise round Med and on to Israel. This was a wonderful itinerary , a beautiful ship , excellent food and service. In fact, everything we have come to expect from Viking except…there were apparently a few cases of a GI infection . As a consequence all water amenities, main pool, infinity pool, jacuzzi and spa were closed for the whole of the cruise! As compensation we have been offered a derisory £200 voucher towards a future cruise. An insult! We will not be booking with Viking again.

Date of experience : November 25, 2022

Multiple airline delays and flight…

Multiple airline delays and flight cancellations resulted in my wife and I missing the first three days of the cruise and no realistic plan to meet up with the boat later, so requested a return flight to US ,which we got. After arriving home, we filed for reimbursement from Trip Mate. Payment was denied because we had used vouchers from covid cancelled cruises to pay for current cruise. $7,000 out the window. Never again Viking!

Date of experience : May 28, 2023

Bait and switch pure and simple

Bait and switch pure and simple. Reserve a cabin at a promotional rate, they cancel. Then, reinstate you at their rate that they want you to pay. Awful. Do not use this cruise line. Many other cruise lines honor their promotions. These people do not!!! Worst experience!!

Date of experience : December 03, 2023

Just received an email from Viking…

Just received an email from Viking informing us that half of the Xmas markets we were suppose to visit will not be open. They marketed the cruise as a Xmas market cruise which is why we booked it. We get the email 3 days prior to our trip and they knew from the beginning the markets would not open until early December. A clear case of bait and switch and will cause us to never cruise with them again.

Date of experience : November 21, 2023

Our first cruise with Viking and…

Our first cruise with Viking and definitely the last. A ship that was only a year old yet was already feeling its age. Staff service was hit and miss, tables for dining too close together and the meals in some occasions very inconsistent and not the 5* star we were expecting. Cleaning left a lot to be desired with housekeeping contacted on numerous occasions due to the poor state of public areas. We did our own flights thankfully as we heard horror stories from other passengers of misconnections and luggage taking extra days to arrive. The crew spent a lot of time cleaning the external areas of the shop - our balcony was cleaned every second day when this could have been better deployed into other areas. The oddest item was when ordering a Pina Colada received a mass of ice which was undrinkable. Complainants were given a tray of sugary cakes - not what we wanted , just good food and service which we paid a lot if money for.

Date of experience : October 03, 2023

Fantastic experience, highly recommended

Fantastic experience, just returned from a cruise with Viking and was blown away by the quality of food, excursions and especially the staff who go above and beyond to ensure you have an amazing time, the ship was outstanding too. Thank you Viking! I have some wonderful memories that will stay with me and my mother forever.

Date of experience : October 03, 2021

What a cracking tour

What a cracking tour with the best guide Chris. Funny, interesting and a great way to see parts of Dublin and hear a bit of history to it too. Definitely recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Date of experience : November 12, 2023

I had a reservation for the Heart of…Delta

I had a reservation for the Heart of Delta Cruise including premium economy for the air portion. I was advised after booking and making my deposit that I was being downgraded to economy. I then called and was told if I wanted premium economy I would now have to pay a higher price. This is called bait and switch and is unethical if not down right fraudulent.

Date of experience : November 24, 2023

Viking Victim Unit

It's been three years now that Viking has held my family's money hostage because we don't wish to take the jab. Viking changed their policy after they took all our money, lured us into taking now worthless vouchers. They refuse to accept the fact that they changed the terms of the contract. Most all other cruise lines have dropped this mandate. The US gov has basically declared the "plandemic" over and all other mandates have been drop but Viking still won't change their policy. If you happen to be in the same position there is a group forming to file a class action law suit against Viking. #VikingVictims

Date of experience : February 01, 2023

I'm with Robin (see below)

I'm with Robin (see below). We are cancelling our river cruise due to viking's heavy handed covid vaccine requirement. Also lost out on the cruise vouchers. NEVER BUY A VIKING CRUISE VOUCHER We will be sailing with a different cruise line and will not be back to Viking. Viking has lost four loyal customers with 10 past cruises between us.

Date of experience : February 18, 2023

Uses stolen information to get…

Uses stolen information to get addresses for their mailing lists. I never use my living address, period. I only receive deliveries from Amazon here. Otherwise, only my state government and previous employers have had it. My state and one of those jobs were hacked last year and my information was stolen. Suddenly, I receive a Viking advertisement here. I have lived here 4.5 years and NEVER received junk mail for anything. What does this leave me to believe? Either 1) Viking brokered a deal to get my address from Amazon without my knowledge or consent--which I don't believe, or I would've gotten spam from other parties Amazon sold my info to in the past. Or 2) They bought it directly from my state. Highly unlikely since the only state dept that has this address is HIPAA protected. Or 2) Viking bought a blackhat list of stolen information from one of the previously mentioned data leaks. Even if I had the money to go on a cruise, I would NEVER use Viking at this point. Trash companies do trash things.

Date of experience : January 07, 2024

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I Traveled on Viking Cruises, the “World’s Best Cruise Line”: My Unfiltered Experience

I would have laughed in your face if you had told me that I’d be writing a Viking Cruises review a few years ago. Self-declared as “not a cruise person,” the idea of getting on any cruise—much less a luxury cruise line like Viking —was so far off my radar that it might as well have been in a different galaxy, save for maybe sailing to Antarctica when I had the funds.

Yet, the opportunity to sail on the world’s best ocean cruise line, as named by Condé Nast Traveler, Cruise Critic, Travel + Leisure, Town & Country, and USA Today, amongst many others, presented itself, thanks to an extremely generous gift from my boyfriend’s parents.

So there we were, a couple of 24-year-olds booking a cruise that would have an average passenger age of 72. And guess what? Despite our considerable age difference, we met so many wonderful fellow passengers, even if there were a few naysayers (let’s say one hater for every two friendly passengers).

We spent months perusing Viking Ocean Cruises and Viking River Cruises itineraries, none of which are under eight days long; we finally picked the Amazon & Caribbean Adventure aboard the gorgeous Viking Sea, a 12-day itinerary stopping at a few Caribbean islands, before sailing nearly the entirety of the Amazon River.

The itinerary seemed like a once-in-a-lifetime trip that frankly, made much more sense to do on a boat than by foot.

After planning and prepping for months (including two pricey, mandatory Yellow Fever vaccines and one-way tickets from Manaus, Brazil), we were informed a week before embarking that our Amazon cruise wouldn’t sail the Amazon at all. Instead, it would sail the Caribbean Islands for 12 days on an itinerary similar to Viking’s West Indies Explorer.

We were given no option to cancel. So, on Thanksgiving week, we packed our bags to leave for San Juan, Puerto Rico, where the ship would depart, and scrambled to cancel expensive flights from Manaus to rebook one-way flights from San Juan during the holiday season.

Would this be a phenomenal, spontaneous adventure or a corporate cruise blunder?

Viking Cruises Rating: Is it a Good Cruise Line?

Overall, I rate Viking Cruises a 7.5 out of 10. My rating isn’t just limited to my onboard experience with Viking, which is easily an 8.5 or 9 out of 10 but includes communication with Viking’s corporate customer service before embarking and the itineraries Viking offers, which really brought down my rating.

Factoring into my rating were stateroom quality and cleanliness, included amenities, available dining, offered shore excursions, entertainment, the on-board staff, corporate customer service, Viking Cruises itineraries, value, and my overall experience while sailing with Viking Cruises.

• Staterooms: 9/10
• Amenities: 10/10
• Restaurants and bars: 7/10
• Shore excursions: 7/10
• Entertainment: 6/10
• Onboard staff: 10/10
• Customer service: 2/10
• Available itineraries: 7/10
• Value: 9/10
• Overall experience: 8/10

Viking Cruises Review: Pros

As a cruise curmudgeon, I was fully prepared to have a very short list of pros for Viking Cruises . Yet, when I stepped on board, my frosty opinion of cruising thawed with the warm Caribbean winds.

I indulged—relaxing in the idyllic Explorer’s Lounge for every sail-away, taking every opportunity to dress up in my chicest resortwear, and marveling at panoramic views from the ship’s wraparound decks and infinity pool.

Here’s what I loved about Viking Cruises:

• Amazing staff—the absolute best part of the cruise
• No kids under 18 allowed
• No pricing surprises
• Included WiFi
• No interior staterooms
• Every cabin has a balcony
• Daily afternoon tea
• Reasonable pricing for premium spirits, cocktails, and wine
• Small ship sizes
• Nearly 1:1 passenger-to-staff ratio
• Beautiful ship design—not tacky or cheesy
• Use of the spa is included
• Self-serve laundry is free
• No limit to outside alcohol brought on board and no corkage fee

Viking Cruises Review: Cons

If this Viking Cruises review is going to be honest, I have to point out the clear and obvious flaws with the cruise line that brought down my rating of it.

Even though I had an amazing time—and I really did—several glaring issues took away from the experience (the fact that we ended up in the Caribbean for two weeks instead of the Amazon being one of them).

After our major itinerary change, we were shocked when our itinerary changed again at the port in San Juan, removing our only sea day and port of call.

We thought that would be where the itinerary chaos stopped until a couple of our ports ended up being shipping ports instead of cruise ports, where our boat was surrounded by cargo and passengers had to be shuttled to and from town.

Aside from those one-offs, these Viking Cruises cons are worth considering before you book:

• Small ship sizes mean a lot of rocking, easy to get motion sickness
• Very few vegetarian dining options, basically no vegan dining options
• Poor communication about itinerary changes
• Inadequate compensation for major itinerary changes with no option to cancel or change
• Housekeeping doesn’t live up to the rest of the staff
• Onboard entertainment leaves something to be desired
• Disengaged, pretentious cruise director
• Paid shore excursion options often lacked excitement
• WiFi could be laggy, cutting out a few times during the trip

What’s Included on Viking Cruises?

What’s earned Viking Cruises its praises is founder and CEO Torstein Hagen’s philosophy that truly all-inclusive, luxury cruising means no nickel-and-diming.

No paying exorbitant WiFi fees, no additional fees for the spa, and no paying for specialty restaurants, the list goes on. With that in mind, we knew this trip would be like any other.

Included on every Viking cruise are:

• Complimentary shore excursion at every port
• Free WiFi onboard
• House wine, beer, and soft drinks at lunch and dinner
• Coffee, tea, and bottled water at all times
• Corkage fees for outside alcohol brought on board
• Access to the spa (treatments are paid)
• Destination lectures and theater performances
• Port taxes and fees
• Self-service laundry, including detergent
• All onboard restaurants, including specialty restaurants
• Freyja toiletries in-room

Viking Cruises Staterooms

One of the most attractive aspects of sailing with Viking Cruises is that there are no interior staterooms on any ship. Every cabin has large windows and a balcony, along with a well-sized bathroom, adding to the luxury experience.

Stateroom design is thoughtful, from the brilliant dressing table—complete with mirror lighting—to the universal outlets and ample storage for toiletries in the bathroom.

The only aspect of our stateroom that didn’t hit the mark was housekeeping. We were originally impressed with our room attendant, who was at our cabin within minutes of us reaching our stateroom to offer extra hangers (massive bonus points). Still, generally, our room wasn’t kept to the standard I’d expect from Viking or a similar luxury hotel.

It was cleaned and the bed was remade in the morning and at turndown, but extras I’ve come to expect at top-tier hotels didn’t exist, like tidying products on the counters, and moving strewn clothing and footwear.

I think our experience may have been an outlier—friends we made onboard received far better housekeeping.

Viking Cruises Staterooms to Avoid

Knowing which cabins to avoid on many cruise lines is crucial for ensuring comfortable accommodations. Not on Viking.

I can’t say there are any Viking Ocean Cruises cabins to avoid, just some slightly better than others, such as those on higher floors or the starboard side versus the port side, depending on where you’re docking. The lack of a casino and major entertainment venues onboard keeps Viking ships quiet.

Are the Upgraded Viking Cruises Cabins Worth It?

We originally booked the cheapest cabin type, the veranda stateroom. When we checked in, we received an upgrade to a room of the same size on a higher floor when our itinerary changed, and 300 passengers dropped out of the sailing.

Are the nicer Viking Cruises cabins worth it?

In my opinion, no. While it was nice to be on a higher floor, so much thought has gone into a top-notch room experience for Viking passengers that the upgrade didn’t make a noticeable improvement to our experience.

Viking Cruises Dress Code

Viking Cruises has specific dress codes for its ships, but they don’t demand ballgowns and black-tie.

Hagen, firmly against the idea that vacation should require stuffy, formal clothing, ensured that Viking Cruises do not have formal nights or theme nights that demand a separate wardrobe.

Given Viking Cruises’ older, wealthy clientele, I was panicked about what to wear on a Viking Ocean cruise before embarking. Would my crop tops and bikinis be okay? As it happens, my fears were totally unwarranted—several staff members even complimented my Caribbean cruise outfits , secretly quelling my nerves.

Viking Cruises Dress Code During the Day

In the morning, casual clothing is allowed everywhere onboard Viking Cruises. Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses—it’s all permitted, including at the main sit-down restaurant.

Athletic clothing and swimwear are not allowed anywhere on the ship except on the pool deck and at the gym. I thought this would be difficult to follow, however because the pool deck includes the World Cafe (the Viking Ocean Cruises buffet restaurant) along with Aquavit (the pool bar), this was very easy to follow.

Viking Cruises Dress Code at Night

At night, the dress code shifts slightly and becomes slightly more elevated. Men must wear slacks and a collared shirt. Polos are okay, but T-shirts are not. Women are allowed to wear dresses, skirts, or slacks but cannot wear shorts.

True to its ethos of a comfortable cruise experience, Viking has considered guests who don’t wish to dress up after the sun sets. Casual clothing is permitted at the World Cafe at all times.

Viking Cruises Staff and Service

Viking Cruises is luxury but hardly snooty or pretentious. Its quiet, subtle approach to luxury feels more like settling into a close friend’s home than something flashy.

Staff seals the approach with an ultra-personal approach to service and an amazingly warm, welcoming demeanor. Even staff we only interacted with once or twice would remember our names, preferences, or stateroom number—it was extremely impressive.

We absolutely loved it.

So many people contributed to making our trip special. They were the very best part of the cruise and absolutely the reason I loved it so much.

So thank you to John, who works ship security and built a friendship with us after teasing me about a lost passenger card on day one; Grace, the restaurant hostess whose memory never failed to surprise us; Rodge, an exceptional bar waiter; Erin, the assistant cruise director who went out of her way to make us feel welcome as the clear outliers (young people) on board; and John, the guitarist engaging in meaningful conversations with us.

Thank you to Amelia, the vivacious sommelier who went out of her way to make the best cocktail I had on the ship; Seema, our favorite waitress who never failed to delight us with jokes and recommendations; Mirza, the best bartender on the ship with ample beer knowledge to share with my boyfriend; and of course the beloved Suta, who was the very, very best part of our day, every day.

I cannot sing praises about the Viking Cruises staff enough. They are reason alone to pick this cruise line over all the others. If there’s one thing to take away from this Viking Cruise review, it’s that. There were so many nights that we would have rather been down in the crew bar than in the passenger area because they were that much fun to be around.

The only staff member we didn’t love was the cruise director—he rarely engaged with guests and was often only spotted socializing with ship executives. It rubbed us the wrong way, especially because the ship’s assistant cruise director and hotel management team executives were so phenomenal.

The fabulous staff’s attention to detail and camaraderie made it extra difficult to say goodbye to the Viking Sea after 12 days onboard.

Viking Cruises Itineraries

Viking Cruises sails several regions through Viking River and Ocean Cruises . Currently, the cruise line has 42 Viking River itineraries, and 94 Viking Ocean itineraries, sailing to over 200 destinations.

From low-key European river sailings to adventurous Antarctic expeditions, itineraries offer something for every type of traveler.

That said, actually choosing an itinerary proved more difficult than expected. Itineraries, for the most part, are very well-planned, but some (especially in Europe) missed the mark a little, skipping out on major destinations in some countries or staying too long in others. It didn’t help that Viking itineraries are long. I really wish they’d add some trips that are four to seven days instead of eight.

However, we generally loved the options available and were very excited about the prospect of sailing the Amazon. 

Talking to other passengers aboard our ship who were avid Viking cruisers, rivers are really where Viking shines brightest. It’s strongly recommended to stay away from itineraries that involve a lot of on-land movement with buses as they aren’t quite the same.

Moving forward, I’d consider booking a river cruise or an Antarctic cruise with Viking, but will probably stay away from anything considered more adventurous due to how our itinerary change was handled, like the Egypt sailing.

When you finally decide on your itinerary, book it well in advance. As Viking only operates small luxury cruise ships, sailings sell out quickly.

Viking Cruises Shore Excursions

I quickly learned that shore excursions can really add up—especially in the Caribbean. We weren’t planning on booking many excursions for our Amazon itinerary as there’s tons to explore independently there, more sea days in the itinerary, and lots of reasonably priced activities from third party tour operators.

The Caribbean was a different story. We learned the hard way that booking shore excursions through your cruise line or through an independent operator can really change your experience, even if they are extra expensive in the Caribbean.

Not given enough time to book through independent operators due to the itinerary change, we bit the bullet and booked several excursions through Viking.

How to Book Viking Cruises Excursions

Book your excursions quickly. Excursions can be booked ahead of embarkment via the My Viking portal, and are available to different cabin classes at different times. Those in the most premium cabin classes get the earliest access.

If you change your mind about excursions and want to book onboard, it’s not a problem. Guest services are available at all hours for last-minute excursion bookings. Tickets will be delivered to your cabin by housekeeping the night before if you book on the ship.

Viking Cruises Complimentary Shore Excursions

Viking acknowledges how important excursions are when cruising by offering every passenger a complimentary shore excursion at each port of call, regardless of cabin type.

Before you get too excited, know this isn’t an invitation to book whatever activity the cruise line offers. Viking determines the free excursion at each port, which is typically a walking or driving tour of the port of call. It’s not the most thrilling way to spend your day, but it can save you some money, especially if you’re at a port you’re not as excited about.

Premium Viking Ocean Cruises Shore Excursions

Other excursions offered are a little more exciting and very pricey. We found many of the excursions offered by Viking at a fraction of the price from Shore Excursions Group , which often sub-contracts the same local providers as major cruise companies.

Overall, offered excursions from Viking weren’t the most adventurous, compared to cruise lines that cater to a younger clientele. They were slower in pace and typically didn’t offer too much physical activity.

We booked several excursions through Viking—catamaran sailing and a walking tour in Saint Lucia, catamaran sailing and snorkeling in Grenada, and a tour of Foursquare rum distillery and a craft brewery in Barbados. We also tried booking an excursion in Dominica after our original plans to go waterfall rappelling fell through; however, it was canceled last minute due to bad weather.

Our excursion in Saint Lucia was phenomenal, save for rain and choppy waters, which were out of Viking’s control. Our excursion in Grenada wasn’t exactly as described, and in Barbados, we were rushed through Foursquare and spent far too long at a mediocre craft brewery.

We weren’t impressed with how Viking handled the snafu in Dominica. After our original choice was sold out, the cruise line refused to add a second tour despite having a waiting list of over 20 people for it, and we weren’t told that the excursion we booked was canceled until we came down to the disembarkment deck to leave.

I wish I could give a better review of Viking Ocean Cruises shore excursions, but I honestly think passengers should book independently to save money and assure quality.

Viking Ocean Cruises Restaurants and Bars

We took full advantage of Viking’s generous approach to dining by trying every single restaurant on the Viking Sea. There are 12 different Viking Ocean Cruises restaurants and bars on board, including the cooking school: The Restaurant, World Cafe, Explorer’s Lounge, Mamsen’s, Manfredi’s, The Chef’s Table, Torshavn, the Library, Aquavit Terrace, the Pool Bar, the Wintergarden, and the Kitchen.

The Restaurant is the main dining establishment on Viking Ocean cruises. This is a sit-down restaurant with outstanding service. The restaurant takes two approaches to its menu, splitting it into a selection of classic plates that never change and a daily rotating destination menu created based on your port of call that day. The vegetarian menu rotates daily and is displayed on the destination menu.

The World Cafe, Viking’s casual buffet restaurant, was our go-to for breakfast and lunch and has surprisingly decent pizza. We tried breakfast at The Restaurant, but found it to be the same quality as the World Cafe. The Restaurant is not open for lunch and always had better quality at dinner.

Explorer’s Lounge was by far my favorite spot on the ship. Located at the helm, the bar’s panoramic views were breathtaking, and the seating was oh-so-comfortable, like your well-lived living room. In the morning, the Explorer’s Lounge operates Mamsen’s, which serves Nordic breakfast favorites inspired by Hagen’s mother’s recipes (definitely get the waffle with all the fixings).

The Wintergarden was also among the best Viking Ocean restaurants for me. It only opens for afternoon tea from 1 pm to 4 pm and is a tranquil spot, especially when the strings duo is playing.

Overall, the food on the ship was far better than expected, but vegetarian options left something to be desired. Plates often felt recycled and relied heavily on creamy risotto or pasta. Manfredi’s, the Italian restaurant, had the best food for vegetarians on the ship—it certainly was not The Restaurant.

Aside from adding vegetarian options, Viking could really improve the timing and quantity of food offered throughout the day. Set dining times often left periods without great food options, and the in-room dining menu was very brief. Late-night nibbles weren’t found except for small charcuterie plates at the Explorer’s Lounge.

Is the Viking Silver Spirits Beverage Package Worth It?

For many, the Viking Silver Spirits premium beverage package may not be worth it. Cocktails and premium beer and wine by the glass are very well-priced, with most cocktails around $10.

The Silver Spirits package is $25 per person per day. Both members of your cabin have to add the package—you cannot purchase it individually.

Originally, we weren’t going to add the Silver Spirits package to our trip, but we decided to after we were offered onboard ship credit as compensation for our itinerary change.

I’m glad we did. Though I think we definitely would’ve drank less without it, it was nice to be able to try all of the different wines and cocktails Viking Ocean Cruises offers without needing to think about price. There are so many different wines available on the ship.

Most of the fellow passengers we encountered on the cruise did have the package even if the value didn’t make total sense for them, simply for the ease of not needing to think on vacation.

Viking Ocean Cruises Amenities

Stepping into the LivNordic Spa on Viking Ocean cruises, you’ll understand why the cruise line is a top choice for travelers.

All Viking Ocean cruises include spa access. The LivNordic Spa, as the name suggests, is based on Nordic wellness principles and includes a full thermal suite consisting of a snow grotto, several saunas, a steam room, cold plunge, hot plunge, and hydrotherapy pool in addition to private treatment rooms. Outside the spa is a small salon for hair, nail, and facial treatments.

The spa is a lovely place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing, but it isn’t huge, so it gets busy quickly. You’re best experiencing it during the day at a port you’re not too interested in. The same guidance goes for the pools, which crowd up on sea days and in the late afternoon.

Speaking of the pools, Viking Ocean ships are the only cruise ships to have infinity pools at sea. They’re plunge pools and surprisingly deep when the boat is docked (levels lower when the ship is sailing). We went for a dip in the infinity pool on the Viking Sea both in port and while sailing and loved taking in the view while swimming. Pool bar wait staff coming around with dipped ice cream cones was the cherry on top.

Other notable amenities included are the WiFi, the sports deck, and the fitness center. The gym is small but gets the job done and has everything you could need for a full-body workout. I loved that Viking put water bottles in each machine, so I didn’t even need to remember to bring one down.

Viking Cruises’ WiFi worked well—when it worked. A few times during the trip, it cut out or became extremely slow, but that’s to be expected when you rely on satellite internet in the middle of the ocean.

What frequent cruisers might notice is that shopping is less robust than on major lines (fine by me!) and that there are no casinos on any Viking cruise ships.

Viking Cruises Entertainment

If you asked even the most loyal Viking passengers what the cruise line’s biggest downfall is, they’d likely say the entertainment.

Then again, you didn’t really choose Viking for entertainment, did you? That’s why cruise lines like Royal Caribbean Cruises , Disney Cruise Line , and Norwegian Cruise Line exist, right?

My trip with Viking Ocean Cruises had the Viking Vocalists, a quartet of musical theater majors performing medleys; John, a solo guitarist; Irina and Nani, a string duo; Lidia, a solo pianist; and the Viking Band aboard as musical performers.

The theater hosted the Viking Vocalists, several destination lectures, a few movie showings, and performances from the assistant cruise director and the cruise director. During the cruise, Viking brought guest performers aboard a couple of times, like a solo guitarist.

The rest of the musical performers could be seen performing in the ship’s bars and common spaces. Classical performers typically were in the Atrium and Wintergarden. The Viking Band played Torshavn, the ship’s club, while the solo guitarist played the Explorer’s Lounge and Torshavn.

We saw the Viking Vocalists a few times, and thought they were kind of just okay. Some members were really talented, others were less so. The choice of music generally wasn’t thrilling or was poorly executed.

By skipping a performance in the theater, we didn’t feel like we were missing out on anything, and we enjoyed visiting with other passengers and staff in the evenings more. Then again, we’re the type of people who found the puzzles in the Atrium and trivia night in the Explorer’s Lounge more exciting prospects.

My favorite performers on the ship were the classical strings duo, who played beautiful pieces, and John, the solo guitarist whose choice of song always matched the location (I still can’t get over him playing “Ring of Fire” in the Explorer’s Lounge as we sailed past a large wildfire in Antigua).

There seemed to be a hierarchy among performers and staff on the ship, and I didn’t like it. Staff in management and the Viking Vocalists (considered the most premium performers) were mostly white Europeans. In contrast, lounge performers and those in service jobs tended to be almost entirely from South and Southeast Asian countries.

Though I’m sure there’s a reason for this, I have to wonder—is there not a pathway for employees from these countries, who make up the bulk majority of Viking Ocean’s workforce, to advance to these more favorable jobs?

Viking Ocean Cruises vs. Viking River Cruises

Is sailing with Viking Ocean Cruises better than Viking River Cruises ?

Viking Ocean Cruises is best for travelers who want to sail destinations like the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Iceland, and China with the Viking service and amenities they’ve come to know and love on a small ocean cruise ship. These cruises are not for those who get seasickness easily.

Viking River Cruises is the better option for all cruisers, generally. Those boats are even smaller than the Viking Ocean, but they don’t tend to rock as much and usually run smoother. It’s easy to stick to an itinerary despite bad weather when passengers can just hop off board and be bussed down the river.

Viking River Cruises is best known for its European itineraries, though it also offers cruises on rivers like the Mississippi and Nile.

What to Know Before Booking a Viking Ocean Cruise

Kids under 18 are not allowed onboard.

People under 18 are not allowed on Viking Cruises. That’s right—during your cruise, there will be absolutely no kids running around or screaming babies making a fuss.

It’s inconvenient for those who want to bring young grandchildren or their kids, but for us, it was one of the best aspects of sailing with Viking. I genuinely can’t imagine sailing on a massive cruise ship filled with families anymore—Viking’s child-free, small luxury cruise ships have ruined me.

If you’re looking for an adult-only cruise line with a younger demographic, try Virgin Voyages .

Viking Cruises Does Not Have Casinos on Its Ships

Put the poker chips away—there is no gambling on Viking Cruises. Puzzles and chess in the Atrium and a round of trivia at the Explorer’s Lounge are the only games to be played aboard.

I really enjoyed not having a casino aboard. It kept the atmosphere of the ship more refined, and I felt like our fellow passengers were cruising because they really loved to travel by sea, not because they wanted to hide out at the casino for the duration of the voyage.

Bring Motion Sickness Pills

Expect a lot of rocking when sailing on small ocean cruise ships like the Viking Ocean fleet. Some nights were better than others—we might feel a constant, slow sway—while others were extremely choppy. My legs would shake rapidly when seated from the motion, and hangers in our closet would hit against the doors.

The boat’s speed definitely affected its movement (as speed increased, so would the sway). We visited the Caribbean when there were strong winds, also contributing to the strong rocking.

Bring Dramamine or motion sickness patches, and lots of them. Even the most confident cruisers have experienced motion sickness on Viking—some staff members said they also do occasionally!

You Will Need Passport Validity of at Least 6 Months

Get your paperwork in order before you embark. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the final date of your sailing.

Depending on your itinerary, Viking may also require proof of visas or certain vaccines.

For our Amazon River cruise, getting a Yellow Fever vaccine was mandatory and had to be administered more than 10 days before we departed Puerto Rico. All passengers had to have a yellow book to prove they were vaccinated.

Pack All the Essentials in Advance

The stores on Viking Cruises are expensive. We were sticker-shocked when we saw that a small bottle of sunscreen at the general store onboard was $30 after running out. Ports of call had cheaper prices, but depending on the port, may not have quality goods.

Stock up by buying things like sunscreen , aloe vera gel , bug spray , band-aids , sunglasses , and the like at home before you go. We ran past a Walmart and a CVS in San Juan before embarking in addition to picking up a few things from Amazon , which helped us a lot.

Viking Cruises Review: The Bottom Line

As much as I hate to admit that my boyfriend was right, he was. Despite everything that went wrong with our cruise, I loved sailing with Viking, even if I didn’t exactly love the destinations we visited.

It really comes down to the staff and service. They made Viking so exceptional. I would absolutely sail with Viking Cruises again—just probably not to the Amazon. We met a couple onboard who had their first Amazon cruise with Viking canceled, only to have it canceled again!

So maybe, just maybe, I’m a little bit of a cruise person now. A small luxury cruise ship, a very expensive cruise person (still probably not a contemporary—or budget—cruise person).

Though planning my own trips will always be my favorite way to travel, Viking Cruises gave me two weeks of relaxation and rejuvenation that I usually don’t slow down enough for.

Thank you so much again to my boyfriend’s wonderful grandparents, for giving us an incredibly memorable, generous experience.

Viking Cruises Review: FAQ

The average age on a Viking cruise is typically in the 70s. On my cruise, the average age was 72 out of over 600 passengers.

Viking cruises are geared towards an older, affluent crowd, who make up the majority of passengers. However, travelers of all ages still sail with Viking. On my ship, two other passengers in their young 20s were sailing with their grandparents.

Passengers under 40 might find that Viking cruises operate at a slower pace than others. Entertainment and excursions are more low-key and low-impact than cruise lines geared toward younger people. I sailed with Viking Cruises at 24 and still made friends with many fellow passengers, even if they were several decades older. We loved making friends with the staff and exploring on our own as passengers with Viking who were under 40 years old.

Viking Ocean cruises typically have 900 passengers. Viking River cruise ships are smaller, usually only sailing with 190 passengers at most.

Eva Phan is the founder of Eva Darling, a travel and style website aiming to empower women to see the world solo while sharing on-trend, luxury feminine style inspiration. Featured in publications including Forbes, Thrillist, and Yahoo News, Eva has combined her education from Parsons School of Design with her incurable case of the travel bug to create a global destination that encourages others to romanticize their everyday.

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Viking Sea Deck Plans & Reviews

Activities & entertainment

• Cooking Demonstrations
• Enrichment Lectures
• Fitness Center
• Hot Tubs (2)
• Hydrotherapy Pool
• Interactive Games
• LivNordic Spa *
• Nordic Ice Room
• Shipwide Books
• Sports Deck
• Atrium Performances
• Pap's Explorers' Lounge
• The Theatre
• The Viking Living Room
• The Chef's Table - Rotational
• Armagnac Tasting *
• Wintergarden - Afternoon Tea
• Aquavit Terrace - Casual
• Theatre Bar - Cocktail Bar *
• Viking Bar - Cocktail Bar *
• Pool Grill - Fast Food
• The Kitchen Table - Interactive
• The Restaurant - International
• Manfredi's Italian Restaurant - italian
• Mamsen's - Norwegian
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The ultimate guide to Viking cruise ships and itineraries

Some cruise lines try to be all things to all people. Viking isn't one of them.

Since its founding in 1997, the upscale cruise brand has carved out a niche catering to a certain type of thoughtful, inquisitive, generally older traveler looking to explore the world and learn a thing or two along the way.

Most Viking customers are approaching their retirement years — or are already there — and they're eager to finally see all the places they didn't have time to visit when raising kids and establishing careers in their younger years.

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For this subset of travelers, Viking offers a wide range of both ocean and river cruise itineraries that have a heavy focus on the destinations visited. These aren't cruises where it's all about the ship.

Viking voyages bring a lot of extended stays in ports where passengers get more time to explore historical sites and experience the local culture than is typical on cruises. Unlike most lines, Viking offers included-in-the-fare tours in every port, allowing every passenger on board to get a guided experience during stops without having to pay extra. (In general, Viking voyages are highly inclusive, in keeping with its "no nickel-and-diming" philosophy.)

On board, Viking's programming revolves heavily around what the line calls "cultural enrichment" — lectures by experts on topics related to the places its ships visit, as well as cultural and culinary offerings that often have a local tie-in.

What Viking ships don't offer is a lot of onboard amusements aimed at families and younger travelers. In fact, the line doesn't even allow children under the age of 18 on its ships. It's one of the only major cruise brands in the world with such a rule.

Viking ships also don't cater to the party crowd. If it's a floating celebration you're looking for in a vacation, this isn't the line for you.

As Viking founder Torstein Hagen likes to say, a Viking cruise is the "thinking person's cruise, not the drinking person's cruise."

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

3 things TPG loves about Viking

• Its focus is on destinations and enrichment.
• The elegant, Scandinavian-influenced design of its ships.
• Its "no nickel-and-diming" philosophy.

What we could do without

• The lack of fitness centers on Viking river ships.

The Viking fleet

Viking has more ships than any other major cruise brand in the world, more than 90 in all. It also has both ocean ships and river ships — something that is unusual among major lines. Despite this, it has one of the easiest-to-understand fleets.

That's because the vast majority of Viking's ocean vessels are carbon copies of each other. If you've seen one, you've seen them all. Ditto for the line's river vessels.

Viking currently operates 11 ocean ships, nine of which are nearly identical. The exceptions are two recently unveiled Viking ocean vessels specifically designed for expedition cruising — a type of cruising that involves traveling to remote, hard-to-reach places on hardy vessels that carry their own landing craft.

The nine nearly identical ocean ships — Viking Saturn, Viking Neptune, Viking Mars, Viking Venus, Viking Jupiter, Viking Orion, Viking Sky, Viking Sea and Viking Star — began rolling out in 2015. Each has the capacity for 930 passengers. Six more nearly identical vessels are scheduled to debut between 2024 and 2028, and Viking has options with a shipyard to order four more of the ships for delivery in 2029 and 2030.

At 47,800 tons, these ocean ships are less than a fourth the size of the giant megaships being built by the likes of Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises, in keeping with Viking's focus on intimate, upscale voyages. Big floating resorts, they aren't.

Note that there is one more vessel in this same series, called Zhao Shang Yi Dun, that has been permanently transferred to a joint venture that operates for the China market. When it debuted in 2017, it originally catered to the North American market and was called Viking Sun.

Viking's two expedition ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, are smaller than the above vessels, as is typical for expedition ships, and carry 378 passengers at maximum occupancy.

Then there are the river ships. At last count, Viking had 80 river ships in its fleet — an astounding number that is the result of blistering growth over the past decade. (As recently as 2012, the line operated just 29 river ships.)

As noted above, almost all of Viking's river ships are of the same basic design and are known as the Longships — a reference to the historic vessels used by Vikings in the Middle Ages.

Most Viking Longships are 443 feet long, the perfect length to fit into the locks on many of Europe's rivers. Viking has also built slightly shorter versions of the Longships measuring 262 feet, 361 feet or 410 feet in length specifically to sail on rivers where lock sizes or other navigational factors require a smaller vessel. The 410-foot-long versions of the vessels, for instance, were specifically built to be able to sail into the heart of Paris on the Seine River.

While most Viking river ships are Longships, there are a few exceptions in the Viking river fleet. Viking operates several smaller, purpose-built vessels on the Nile River in Egypt and the Mekong River in Southeast Asia. It also has several older river vessels that predate the Longships that operated in Russia and Ukraine until recently. (For now, river cruise itineraries in both countries are on hold due to the Ukraine war.)

Viking also recently began sailings on the Mississippi River with a new ship specifically designed for the river and its tributaries.

Related: The 3 types of Viking ships, explained

Destinations and itineraries

Viking has one of the most diverse arrays of itineraries of any cruise line, mostly due to the fact that it operates both ocean cruises and river cruises.

Viking has a particularly large footprint when it comes to European river itineraries, with a wide range of sailings on nearly every European river of any note.

You'll find Viking river ships operating on the Rhine, Main and Danube in Central Europe; the Seine, Rhone, Dordogne, Garonne and Gironde in France; the Douro in Portugal; and the Moselle and Elbe in Germany. Until recently, Viking also operated cruises on the Volga in Russia and the Dnieper in Ukraine. (As noted above, sailings on the latter two rivers are on hold due to the war in Ukraine and may not resume for many years.)

Viking also operates river trips on the Nile in Egypt and the Mekong River in Southeast Asia, and it recently began trips on the Mississippi River.

The line's ocean ships can be found in nearly every ocean and sea around the world, from North America to Europe and Asia.

Viking's ocean ships have a major presence in Scandinavia and Northern Europe, which the line considers its home turf. (The company was founded by a Norwegian family.) It's also a big player in the Mediterranean. You'll find Viking's ocean ships in other key cruise destinations as well, such as Alaska, the Caribbean and Panama Canal, Canada and New England, South America, Asia and Australia.

In addition, in early 2022, the line began its first cruises to Antarctica with its first expedition ship, Viking Octantis. That summer, the same vessel launched the line's first voyages in the Great Lakes — a destination that only a handful of cruise operators visit.

You'll find everything from eight-day cruises in the Mediterranean to 138-day around-the-world voyages among the line's voyages.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Viking ship

Who sails Viking

Most Viking passengers are North Americans who are approaching retirement age or already retired. The company's core market is people who range in age from 55 to 75 years, although it does draw some passengers who are younger or older.

In general, it's an educated crowd, with many passengers coming from professional backgrounds or a life of running their own businesses. They're often people who have spent years focused on work and building up savings for retirement, and they're finally ready to start enjoying the fruits of their labor by spending some of the savings on travel to places they've long put off visiting.

They're also people who can afford a relatively high-end vacation experience. While Viking doesn't market itself as a luxury line, some would call it that. Viking vessels are full of luxury touches, with the pricing to match (see more on what Viking trips cost at the bottom of this story).

In general, you'll find a lot of couples on Viking ships and some solo travelers. You'll also find the occasional multigenerational group — a retired couple traveling with their working-age adult children, for instance.

However, unlike nearly every other cruise brand, what you won't find are families with young kids. As noted above, Viking doesn't allow passengers under the age of 18 on its ships — a key differentiator for the brand as compared to other cruise lines.

Cabins and suites

Is a balcony something you can't live without when staying in a cabin on a cruise ship? Viking could be your line.

Viking is one of the only cruise brands in the world that offers a balcony with every cabin on every ocean ship it operates — even the least expensive, smallest cabins. That's something that even the most upscale of Viking's ocean cruise rivals including Oceania Cruises , Azamara , Seabourn , Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises can't say.

Viking's ocean ships also offer a large number of suites, many of which are quite spacious. Even the smallest cabins on Viking's ocean ships are large by cruise ship standards at 270 square feet, and the largest suites measure nearly 1,500 square feet.

If you're looking for a big open room on an ocean cruise (and are willing to pay for it), Viking offers you plenty of options.

Related: The ultimate guide to Viking cabins and suites

Viking also offers lots of balcony cabins and suites on its river ships, something that isn't always the case in the river cruise business, where space on vessels is at a premium. Unlike its ocean ships, Viking's river ships aren't all-balcony-cabin vessels.

Designwise, Viking cabins and suites across all categories are modern and elegant in an understated sort of way, with Scandinavian-influenced furnishings and decor that tie to the Norwegian heritage of the company's founder.

You'll find beds topped with crisp, white duvets and Scandinavian throws, comfortable contemporary sofas and chairs in neutral tones, and light-wood desks and side tables that combine to offer a residential feel in bedroom areas. Soothing, minimalist colors — think creams, grays and lighter blues — are the order of the day.

Bathrooms in Viking cabins are serene, modernist escapes with luxurious travertine-lined walls, Scandinavian-influenced wood-veneered vanities, shiny white sinks and chrome fixtures.

In keeping with the high-end nature of the brand, Viking cabins and suites have a lot of upscale touches, from sumptuous bedding that envelops you to heated floors in bathrooms. The rooms aren't overly flashy, though.

What they are is eminently functional, with storage in all the right places, lots of outlets for charging your devices and lighting right where you need it. We love the reading lights built into the fabric headboards, which are in addition to the lamps on bedside tables. You won't have trouble seeing the pages of the Viking Daily activity newsletter while lying in a Viking cabin bed.

Other little touches in Viking cabins that show a line thinking about functionality as much as decor include the large and clear lettering on the Freyja toiletries that you'll find in every Viking cabin bathroom. The toiletries were specifically designed with bigger and clearer lettering than is common for toiletries on cruise ships and at hotels so that the line's older customers would have no trouble differentiating the body wash from the body lotion and shampoo.

Restaurants and dining

The number of restaurants and other dining options that you'll find on Viking ships will vary greatly depending on whether you are sailing on an ocean or a river ship.

All of Viking's oceangoing ships, which are much bigger than its river ships, have at least four and usually more outlets serving food of some sort.

Every one of the line's 930-passenger ocean ships has a main restaurant (called, simply, The Restaurant) with rotating menus that include dishes that tie to the destination where the vessel is sailing. There also are casual buffet eateries called World Cafe on every vessel. You'll probably eat most of your meals in one of these eateries.

The main restaurants on these ships are notable for their walls of glass that can slide open to create al fresco dining, something that is unusual in the cruise world.

Each of the 930-passenger ocean ships also has two smaller restaurants with specialized cuisine: Manfredi's, a high-end Italian eatery, and The Chef's Table, which offers a five-course tasting menu themed around a specific cuisine that changes every few days.

There's no extra charge for dining in the smaller restaurants, but reservations are required. Each passenger is only allowed to make one to three reservations per cruise at the eateries, depending on which category of cabin they have booked.

Viking's bigger ocean ships also have poolside grills that serve made-to-order gourmet hamburgers and other grill items. Passengers can grab a snack — with a Norwegian twist — at the forward-facing lounges atop the ships, which are home to a small food counter called Mamsen's. Named after Viking founder Torstein Hagen's mother (Ragnhild "Mamsen" Hagen), it offers authentic tastes of Norway such as traditional heart-shaped waffles, specialty cakes and the brown goat cheese that is found around the country.

Passengers will also find finger sandwiches, scones and teas in the afternoon at the glass-topped Wintergarden lounge at the top of every vessel.

The line's smaller expedition ocean ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, offer four of the above venues: The Restaurant, World Cafe, Manfredi's and Mamsen's.

Viking's river ships, by contrast, typically offer just two eateries: a main restaurant where passengers eat most of their meals and a smaller, casual buffet with indoor and outdoor seating.

Fun fact: The Manfredi's restaurants on Viking ocean ships are named after former Silversea Cruises owner Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, a friend of Viking founder Torstein Hagen. Some Silversea ships, in turn, have lounge areas named after Hagen.

Entertainment and activities

Many of the activities on board Viking's ocean ships revolve around "cultural enrichment," to use a phrase often used by Viking executives. On any given day, you might find an expert on one of the destinations you're visiting lecturing in the theater, or a classical musician performing in the central atrium, known as The Living Room. The ships also offer some traditional entertainment, including production shows with singers and dancers.

On the line's river ships, you'll also find onboard lectures, usually related to the destinations the ships are visiting, as well as destination-related demonstrations and tastings. (On a Seine River voyage, you might have a tasting of local French cheeses or French wines, for instance).

You'll also find live piano music in the evenings in river ship lounges.

Theaters, lounges and shows

Each of the line's ocean ships has a theater at its front that is home to production shows, movie showings (with fresh popcorn available) and enrichment lecturers.

In keeping with Viking's focus on cultural immersion, lecturers often have expertise related to the places you'll be visiting on your sailing. The line also draws a wide range of interesting and accomplished people from all walks of life to serve as guest lecturers, including well-known academics, diplomats and even astronauts.

In addition to the theater, a secondary lounge space on the ships called Torshavn is home to musical entertainment at night. It's also known for an extensive collection of Armagnacs, with one from almost every year of the past eight decades. (A fun game is to try the Armagnac from your birth year. Just be careful — some years are far more expensive than others.)

You'll also find musicians including pianists and guitar players performing at times in the Viking Living Room — a three-deck-high, atrium-like space at the center of the ship. Filled with comfortable seating areas and home to a bar, the Viking Living Room serves as a central meeting point for passengers throughout the day and night. It's also home to the ship's Explorers' Desk — the equivalent of a guest relations area on other ships.

There's also live music at night in the Explorers' Lounge, a two-deck-high observation lounge and bar area at the very top of the ship. The Explorers' Lounge also is home to Mamsen's, the food counter serving tastes of Norway mentioned above.

The pool deck and other venues

The centerpiece of the top deck of each of Viking's ocean ships is the main pool area, which is home to a pool, hot tub and rows of lounge chairs, as well as comfortable seating areas.

The entire main pool area is covered with a glass magrodome that can be opened on short notice on warm and sunny days — or closed if the ship encounters inclement weather.

Just behind the main pool area on each of the ocean ships is a lovely, glass-topped lounge with comfortable seating called the Wintergarden that is home to afternoon tea. A den of serenity, it's one of our favorite places on these vessels.

A secondary pool area with an infinity pool is at the back of each of the ships.

Other interior spaces that are part of the ocean ships include a stylish spa with a thermal suite area that is open to all passengers at no extra charge (something that is not common on cruise vessels) and a fitness center.

Note that Viking river ships do not have fitness centers, which is relatively unusual for river ships. Viking has long argued that few of its customers use fitness centers and the space that would be devoted to one is better used for other things. However, if you're fitness-obsessed, Viking river ships may not be the best choice for your river trip.

Related: The 12 cruise ships with the most spectacular attractions at sea

Children's program

Viking does not allow children under the age of 18 on its vessels and thus has no children's programs on any of its vessels.

What to know before you go

Required documents.

Viking operates international itineraries where a passport is required. Passports must be valid for at least six months. Note that it is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

Viking adds an automatic service gratuity (which it calls a "hotel and dining charge") of $17 per person per day to final bills, depending on your cabin category. If you are unhappy with the service you receive, you can adjust this amount before disembarking at the Explorers' Desk. (You can also increase the tip amount if so desired.) Also, a 15% gratuity is added to bills at bars and for drinks at restaurants.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on a cruise ship

As part of Viking's "no nickel-and-diming" philosophy, the line offers free Wi-Fi service to passengers on all its ships throughout sailings. Note that internet service can be slow at times of heavy use, as is typical on cruise vessels. In addition, in order to ensure fair usage for all, the line limits some heavy-bandwidth applications, downloads and software upgrades.

Related: Wi-Fi on cruise ships: 5 things to know about internet use on board

Carry-on drinks policy

Unlike many lines, Viking allows you to bring your own wine, Champagne, beer and liquor onto ships at embarkation with no limits. The line also doesn't charge a corkage fee.

Smoking policy

On all ships, smoking (including electronic cigarettes) is only allowed in designated outdoor areas. It's forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies.

Some Viking ships, including all of the line's ocean vessels (including its one expedition vessel), have self-serve launderettes on cabin decks with washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. The launderettes are stocked with detergent for the washing machines that, unlike on many cruise ships with launderettes, do not come with an extra cost.

In addition, most Viking vessels offer laundry and pressing services. Such services are complimentary for passengers staying in certain categories of cabins. Otherwise, fees are comparable to what you'll pay cleaners at home. Dry cleaning is available on the line's ocean ships but not on Viking river ships.

Viking's recently unveiled Mississippi River ship offers self-service launderettes but no send-out laundry and pressing service.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry services

Electrical outlets

All of the line's vessels have standard North American-style, 110-volt outlets in rooms as well as European-style, 220-volt outlets and USB ports in cabins.

The currency used on Viking ships is U.S. dollars.

Drinking age

You must be 21 to consume alcohol on Viking ships.

During the day, there is no specific dress code, and people dress casually. If it's a sea day in a warm-weather destination, and you're bound for the top deck, a short-sleeve shirt and shorts are just fine.

Evenings have an official dress code, but it's not too formal. The line asks passengers to keep things "elegant casual" when heading to any of the ship's dining venues, performances or special events. To Viking, that means a dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse for women, and trousers and a collared shirt for men. A tie and jacket for men are optional. Jeans are not permitted.

This evening dress code is not enforced at the casual World Cafe eateries on Viking ocean ships, where passengers can go even more casual in the evenings.

Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Viking cruise loyalty program

Viking doesn't have a loyalty program in the traditional sense — one where passengers earn points every time they travel with the brand and progress through multiple tiers that bring an ever-expanding array of perks. However, it does offer a few basic perks for past guests.

Once you travel with the brand for the first time, you will automatically be enrolled in the Viking Explorer Society. As part of this society, you will receive:

• A credit of $200 per passenger anytime you book a Viking voyage within one year of your last Viking voyage. If you reserve within two years, you receive a $100 credit.
• An invitation to a members-only Viking Explorer Society cocktail party when sailing on Viking ships.
• Early word by email or regular mail on new Viking Cruises itineraries and new ships, as well as special limited-time offers.

Note that the credits mentioned above cannot always be combined with promotions the line offers.

Related: The ultimate guide to Viking's cruise loyalty program

How much does a Viking cruise cost?

Viking sailings aren't inexpensive. Ten-night "Greek Odyssey" voyages to the Greek Islands start at $3,999 per person. That works out to roughly $800 per day for a couple sharing a room. Some of the line's more exotic sailings, such as its expedition trips to Antarctica, cost even more. Fourteen-night Antarctica trips start at $13,995 per person — about $2,000 per day for a couple.

Related: 6 ways to travel to Antarctica in luxury and style

Still, as is typical for cruise lines at the high end, Viking includes a lot in its base price. In addition to a room on board and all meals, the fares include beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; specialty coffees, teas and bottled water around the clock; shipboard Wi-Fi; and (perhaps most notably) a shore excursion in every port. The latter is something relatively few lines roll into their base fares, and shore excursions can be expensive.

Viking also includes access to the thermal areas of its spa in its base fares. Such access almost always comes with an extra charge on cruise vessels.

Viking fares do include port taxes and fees, which can add up to hundreds of dollars per sailing. Most other lines do not include port taxes and fees in their base fares and add them later in the booking process.

Note that Viking does charge extra for two key things that many luxury lines such as Silversea, Seabourn and Regent do not: alcoholic drinks at bars and gratuities. This is one reason some cruisers do not consider Viking at quite the same level as those other brands.

How to book

If you're sure you know what sort of cabin you want, on which ship, on which itinerary — and about a dozen other things — you can head over to Viking.com and book directly.

That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise — there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us — we always recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises.

A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences, and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. An agent can also help you if something goes wrong before, during or after your voyage.

If you're sure that Viking is your line, look for a travel agent who specializes in trips with the brand. You want someone who knows all of the line's many itineraries in detail and, preferably, has sailed on or at least inspected some of the line's vessels, too, to understand the various cabin types and onboard amenities.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your credit card spending when paying for the cruise by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases . This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve , which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card , which offers 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel (and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on dining).

Bottom line

Viking can be defined as much by what it isn't as what it is. It's not a line for families with young children. It's not a line that offers megaships topped with every sort of amusement known to humans. And it's not a line for the party crowd.

What it is is a line that has focused very specifically on "thinking person's cruises" that offer a deeper dive into the destinations that its ships visit than is typical at many lines. It's all about exploring the world and doing so in comfort.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Viking Cruise Line | Must-Know Secrets That No One Tells You

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Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

If you’re a savvy traveler, you probably know about Viking Cruises. The cruise line provides luxurious river and ocean cruises, with “luxurious” being the key word; while most people think of a cruise vacation as a by-the-numbers affair, Viking has redefined guest expectations by providing a carefully cultivated all-inclusive experience.

Courtesy of Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking cruises founder and CEO is Torstein Hagen who started with four riverboats in Russia. Today, the Viking ocean ships employ a unique modernist aesthetic that simply feels different from what you’d get from Carnival, Royal Caribbean, or any of the other industry leaders, and their approach has paid dividends.

When you’re sitting in the Explorers’ Lounge perusing vintage maps or enjoying a thermal bath on the spa deck, you’ll know why Viking Ocean Cruises are held in such high regard.

Of course, the ships’ features might not matter if the routes were boring. Fortunately, that’s not the case: typical Viking ships are significantly smaller than the ships of major cruise lines, (like Viking Polaris, Viking Octanis, Viking Sun, and Viking Star), which ensures that they’re able to enter smaller ports during Viking expeditions. As a result, Viking Cruises offer incredible itineraries with unmatched onboard amenities.

Viking Cruise Line Secrets No One Tells You

1. the true meaning of “all-inclusive”.

If you’ve cruised before, you know that Viking Ocean cruises are…well, expensive. You can expect to pay several thousand dollars for your trip (although rates vary greatly by route and month), which seems costly compared to the $500-600 rates you’d find from other cruise companies.

However, once you’ve paid, you don’t need to spend much more. Your fare includes a shore excursion in each port of call (including all port charges and government taxes), onboard meals with beer and wine, Wi-Fi access, self-service laundry, spa access, and 24-hour room service.

Viking estimates that their amenities are worth about $200, per guest, per day. To get that value, you’ll have to use as many of the onboard services as possible, but it beats constantly taking out your wallet for things like internet access and port fees.

And not to hammer home the point, but Viking cruises are truly luxurious. Standard features like heated bathroom floors and high-quality wooden deck furniture really help the cruise line stand out from its competitors (and no, we haven’t received payment from Viking for this piece). With that said, some If you want to enjoy a cocktail outside of lunch or dinner service, you’ll have to pay for the privilege. However…

2. How To Avoid Overpaying For Drinks

If you’re planning on drinking regularly — no judgments here, we’re talking about a vacation — there are a couple of ways to keep your budget in check.

The most obvious: Pay for the Silver Spirits beverage package, which offers unlimited beers, cocktails, premium wines, juices, espresso drinks, and mineral water for the entire cruise. Prices vary depending on the length of the cruise, but for around $19.95 per night per guest, you’ll never have to worry about what you’re spending.

Is that worth it? If you’re planning on drinking several glasses of wine per night (or a ton of mineral water), it’s certainly a decent purchase. If that doesn’t sound like a great value (or if you’re not planning on paying for enough beverages to justify the surcharge), there’s another option.

“You can also buy local wine and bring it onboard,” a Viking Cruises representative tells TravelAwaits via email. “Each stateroom on Viking Longships and Viking’s ocean ships have a refrigerator, and a corkscrew is also available onboard.”

As with all other aspects of your cruise, the trick is to plan ahead. Make a list of planned expenditures, then do the math to see whether you can justify the Silver Spirits package. If not, you can always grab a few bottles of the good stuff during a shore excursion.

3. Plan For A Pre-Meal Drink

Ocean cruisers won’t want to miss out on Torshavn.

“Drawing its name from the capital of the Faroe Islands, Torshavn is a lively music venue inspired by the romantic jazz lounges of 1940s Hollywood, and it’s an ideal spot for pre-dinner drinks and after-dinner entertainment,” a Viking representative tells us. “This intimate club environment also offers a selection of rare vintage Armagnacs from 1935 through 1965.”

“Don’t miss the opportunity to sample these extraordinary, limited-quantity brandies from France’s Armagnac region in Gascony during your sailing.”

Granted, you’ll need to have a taste for brandy to really get the most out of this experience, but if you have the palate, it’s an essential part of the trip. If that’s not to your interests, you could always relax with a nice afternoon tea.

“Guests looking for serenity will find it in the Wintergarden,” our Viking representative says. “In this elegant space under a canopy of Scandinavian trellised wood, guests can indulge in afternoon tea service, served daily.”

4. How To Pick Your Stateroom

If you’ve got money to burn, you won’t be disappointed by the premium suites on a Viking cruise. That doesn’t necessarily make them a great value.

For example, river cruises have two 445-sq.-foot Explorer suites with private wraparound verandas, floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors, individual climate controls, and a roomy wardrobe. Veranda suites are smaller (275 square feet), but feature large private bathrooms, climate controls, 40-inch flat-panel TVs, and various other amenities. Ocean cruises have similar options, though exact room sizes and features will vary.

However, if you’re looking to save money, think about whether you’ll actually spend much time in your suite. If you’re an active person (or if you’re planning to adopt a slightly more active lifestyle during a two- or three-week cruise), a less expensive stateroom could save you a tremendous amount of money.

Standard staterooms are much less expensive, and while they’re not exactly roomy, that doesn’t matter if you’re just using them as a sort of home base. You won’t have much of a view, but you’ll still get the 24/7 room service, and if you’re feeling claustrophobic, you can always head to a different part of the ship.

5. The Best Time To Travel on a Viking Sea Cruise

When booking your Viking sea cruise, you’ll have an easier time finding staterooms during certain months of the year. For the best possible time, you’ll want to be flexible.

“Guests sailing the rivers in December can experience the traditional European Christmas markets and see the cities in a new way while enjoying local holiday treats and hot mulled wine,” our source notes.

If you’re taking one of the Viking river cruises, do a bit of research on the cities you’ll be visiting. Find out what’s happening, then plan your itinerary appropriately. An easy approach is to sign up for the Viking Weekly, an online newsletter with recommendations, itinerary spotlights, videos, and more. The company also offers print publications designed to get travelers aboard one of Viking ocean ships.

With ocean cruise, timing is less of an issue, but you’ll still want to plan as far in advance as is possible. Viking Ocean Cruises can be booked several years in advance, and for some travelers, that extra planning time can ensure a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

6. How To Make A Viking Cruise Affordable

As we mentioned earlier, Viking Ocean cruises aren’t cheap, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t travel frugally.

Viking River Cruises offer a 3.3 percent discount for travelers who pay via e-check, so if you’re looking for a way to reduce your expenses, that’s a great place to start. You should also research tipping policies for your vessel; while tips are voluntary for both ocean and river cruises, Viking ocean cruises have a discretionary hotel and dining charge of $15.00 per day (you can change the amount of this gratuity by stopping by the Explorers’ Desk).

For river cruises, tipping recommendations vary depending on your location. The Viking River Cruises website contains gratuity recommendations for various cruises, along with currency recommendations.

While you’ll want to show your gratitude to the ship’s staff, you’ll want to know what you’re paying, particularly if you’re traveling on a ship that doesn’t use your typical currency. Planning in advance should help you avoid a costly mistake (or embarrassing faux pas).

7. Don’t Forget Your Cell Phone

Part of the fun of a cruise is getting away from the stresses of your everyday life, and for many of us, that means turning off the smartphone for a while. However, Viking offers a few apps to make your cruise more enjoyable, and if you don’t install them, you’ll miss out.

“The Viking Art Guide (available for free in the App Store and Google Play ) offers a self-guided audio tour of the artwork throughout the public spaces of the Viking Ocean Ships, with insightful commentary from your host, Viking’s Senior Vice President Karine Hagen, as well as a variety of curators and experts,” our source says.

Another essential download is the Viking Voyager app, which lets you see daily events, plan your cruise program, and book shore excursions, spa appointments, and dinner reservations. Sure, you can do all of that without the app, but a bit of technology goes a long way.

As one of the app’s reviewers puts it: “This app is an essential tool for getting the most out of your cruise.”

8. Find the Best On Board Internet Reception

When you are traveling you need to update social media regularly. You can’t just take a cruise, turn off all mobile devices, and not post a single thing. For that reason, Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship, but the reception can be spotty. You will typically notice this when going through the innumerable river and canal locks. 

That’s why you’ll appreciate this advice: the best stateroom Wi-Fi reception is in the bathroom because it is closest to the hallway. As for the entire ship, the strongest Wi-Fi signal is in the library located on the Upper Deck.

9. Try Out All Of The Dining Options

On a Viking cruise, diners can visit any restaurant without incurring any additional charge. Many travelers play it safe, sticking with contemporary American fare at the buffet, but our Viking source strongly recommended exploring all of the ships’ culinary options.

A simple place to start: Mamsen’s, a chic deli located on every Viking ocean cruise ship.

“Located in the Explorer’s Lounge, Mamsen’s serves traditional Scandinavian fare inspired by Ragnhild Hagen – Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen’s mother, or ‘Mamsen,’ as she was known to the family,” our source wrote. “The deli, named in her honor, serves cuisine inspired by her kitchen, from sweet rolls with cloudberry jam, salmon gravlax, and open-faced sandwiches to her heart-shaped waffles served with jam or gjetost and Norwegian brown goat cheese.”

You’ll also want to check out Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant and The Chef’s Table, the cruise line’s premium restaurants. Some suites come with a guaranteed reservation, but if you’re grabbing a stateroom, try to visit the restaurants early in your voyage.

And if you enjoy your experience at one of those premium restaurants, feel free to head back later in the trip — at The Chef’s Table, the menu changes every three days.

10. Know Your Menu

On the ship restaurant menus, you’ll find the left side featuring daily-prepared chef specialties, often regional seasonal cuisine. Meanwhile, the right side of the menu offers standard options like fish, chicken, and steak. 

You’ll discover first-hand that the standard options take longer to prepare than the chef specialties, because a steak, for example, will be cooked to order while the specialties only require assembly. Keep in mind that if you order from the right side of the menu, your entire table will need to wait to be served until your special order is ready.

11. Tour The Bridge And The Galley.

If you’re on an ocean cruise, you can actually take a tour of the bridge and galley, but you’ll need to act quickly in order to get a spot.

“At least once during your sailing, the ship will offer behind-the-scenes tours of the bridge, where the captain and crew manage the direction and speed of the ship, and the galley, the kitchen,” a Viking representative says.

“These are limited capacity and can only be booked once onboard, so talk to the guest services team once you arrive and watch your Viking Daily newsletter to make sure you can secure your spot.”

That might not interest every traveler, but if you’re interested in the inner workings of a major cruise vessel, it’s well worth the time.

12. Get Off The Boat When You Can

Given the luxurious nature of the Viking vessels, it’s easy to understand why a traveler would want to stay on the boat. That’s fine if you’re on an ocean cruise, but for Viking river cruises, make sure you’re taking advantage of the local culture.

“Unlike Viking ocean cruises, sailing on river cruises puts you in the heart of many of the cities you visit,” our source tells us. “During each port of call, guests can explore the destinations with a short walk from their ship’s dock. Plus, the ships sail smoothly down Europe’s waterways, meaning, no waves for those who get seasick.”

This is where a carefully planned travel itinerary can really elevate your trip. Of course, if you miss a stop, you can still enjoy the cities: Viking’s Culture Curriculum program provides onboard performances and lectures from artists, musicians, and historians, along with “authentic culinary demonstrations.”

In other words, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to expand your knowledge of world cultures. Just make sure to make an effort!

13. Don’t Overpack

Remember, Viking cruises provide pretty much everything you need for a great vacation. The worst thing you can do is clutter up your quarters with unnecessary items.

Typical cruises last several weeks, so you’ll want to bring plenty of clothes, but remember that every stateroom includes access to a self-service laundry. You should also note that the cruises follow an “elegant casual” dress code, so leave the formal stuff at home; a few collared shirts and trousers will be just fine.

Most rooms are also equipped with hair dryers, so while you might want to bring other electric products — hair straighteners and curlers, for instance — leave the dryer behind.

And even if you’re extremely particular about your shampoo, you don’t need to bring any onboard. Viking Ocean Cruises provide Freyja shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and body-wash, replenished daily; frequent cruisers say that the high-quality products are one of the best perks of every trip.

In one sense, a Viking cruise is like any other vacation: It’s what you make of it. In every other sense, though, it’s unmatched, especially when compared with cruises from other major companies. Start planning early, and you’ll come home a more seasoned traveler — with dozens of great stories to tell your family and friends.

Are Pets Allowed on Board A Viking Cruise Ship?

No. Only service animals and certified therapy dogs may be allowed at Viking’s sole discretion. Guests who require the help of a service animal must complete and submit the Service Animal Request Form to Viking before final payment is due. 

What Is the Electrical Voltage in the Staterooms on Viking Cruise Ships?

There are both 110V and 220V electrical outlets in your stateroom. All outlets are European style with a ground, except for two US 110V sockets above the desk and one US 110V socket on each side of the bed. There are no UK 3-pin sockets. 

Are the Viking Cruise Ships Non-Smoking?

They are generally nonsmoking, but to accommodate guests who smoke, there is a designated outdoor smoking area on the starboard side of Deck 8. All other areas of the ship are designated non-smoking areas. Restrictions also apply to e-cigarettes.

Is There a Library on Board a Viking Cruise Vessel?

Yes. Viking ocean and Viking expeditions ships include the library located in The Living Room. Book selection is curated by London bookseller Heywood Hill to enrich and enhance your journey.

Are There Luggage Restrictions On Board Viking Cruise Ships?

All luggage on board a Viking Cruise vessel must be stored in the guest’s stateroom. All information concerning luggage will be available to you with ample time to plan for your voyage. A full list of allowable and prohibited items on board is available on their Prohibited Items List.

Brian Thomas is a professional writer with over 15 years of experience. He’s traveled extensively during that time, frequently touring the American Southwest as both a musician and a tourist. In 2019, he visited Japan and Mexico, and he’s become passionate about spreading a simple message: Traveling isn't necessarily expensive, and it's one of the best paths to self-improvement.

Viking Cruises

Review Highlights

“ We have been on 2 Viking River Cruises and 2 Viking Ocean Cruises and have already booked another Ocean cruise . ” in 24 reviews

“ ny is sues. An inc luded tour happens every day, with optional tours that are additiona ” in 5 reviews

“ We have taken four river cruises, Paris to Normandy and the Danube Waltz, Rhine and Portugal River of Gold. ” in 22 reviews

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About the business.

Sailing Europe's storied rivers, the award-winning Viking Longships offer a variety of stateroom categories and true (two-room) suites with full-size verandas. Onboard amenities include a restaurant, bar and lounge, library and expansive sun deck. The ships feature al fresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace, an elegant Scandinavian design and "green" features, such as solar panels, an onboard organic herb garden and energy-efficient hybrid engines for a remarkably smooth ride. Ranging from 8 to 23 days, river itineraries feature Europe's Rhine, Main, Danube, Seine, Rhône, Douro, Moselle, Elbe, Dordogne, Garonne and Gironde; Russia's Volga, Neva and Svir; Ukraine's Dnieper; Egypt's Nile; and Southeast Asia's Mekong. In 2015, Viking introduced its first 930-guest ocean ship. Over the next four years, the fleet grew to six sister ships. In May 2021, Viking welcomed its newest sister ship, Viking Venus, to the fleet. Each boasts a private veranda in every stateroom, a choice of restaurants, the most al fresco dining at sea, an infinity pool, a Nordic-inspired spa, thoughtfully curated book collections throughout the ship, and more. Designed to maximize the amount of time travelers spend in their destination, ocean itineraries include base and combination cruises sailing to Scandinavia and Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Australia and New Zealand, Asia, Alaska, the Americas and Africa. …

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On the Rhine Getaway, are there shuttles to get you into the towns you visit if you just want to explore on your own? In particular Strasbourg and Colmar.

Thank you for your inquiry, Norma. As shuttle service can vary, we encourage you to connect with us at [email protected] with your booking details, so that we may check to see if this service will be offered in Strasbourg and Colmar for your… more

How is the tulips windmill cruise? Best time to go?

Thanks for your interest, Judy. Our guests tend to love this delightful sojourn, which explores the springtime floral splendor of Holland. While we prefer to say the best time of year depends on you, this popular voyage only sails from March thru… more

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441 reviews

After seeing the average rating, I was apprehensive about taking a Viking cruise, although my neighbor had used them several occasions on their ocean ships and highly recommended Viking. My mother passed in June under hospice care at my residence, so I decided to book a short notice trip, which I suspect was a cancellation - since a veranda stateroom with a balcony was available on the upper floor. I've always desired to visit Prague Czech Republic, so I added a Viking pre cruise package for three nights prior to the 15 day Viking Grand European cruise. The long boat ship began our cruise in Budapest Hungary and visited Vienna & Melk Austria, Passau, Regensburg, Nurenberg, Bamberg, Wurzburg, Wertheim Germany on the Danube River. We then continued on the Rhine River to Koblenz & Cologne Germany, Kinderdjik Netherlands, and disembarked in Amsterdam. Overall, the experience was flawless from start to finish. Viking included airfare and transportation to and from the airports. Including transportation from Prague to Budapest. Our prepackage stay for three nights at Prague was at the Marriott - which was a desirable location, included breakfast daily and a city tour. I was also granted access to the club lounge since I'm a titanium elite for life member. The Viking long ship totaled 185 passengers, which enabled the staff to provide superb service. The meals were at set times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. What you won't find on Viking river ships are pools, fitness centers, spa treatments and kids under 18 years old. I do feel that Viking could have included additional nightly entertainment. The staff was incredible from the captain, ship director & manager, head chef, waiters, bartenders, and the maids. The entire staff multitasks - one night, I spoke to the ship director via phone, who took my request for a wake-up call! As for the cruise, all went smoothly without any issues. Our longship stopped at every port on our agenda, which I was advised - ships prior to our sailing could not get thru some of the 68 river locks. This was due to low water or high water, so passengers had to be bused and/or change Viking longship. Viking includes city tours but also offers optional tours, which can be pre booked online or on board if not sold out. I was pleased overall with the organization and the expertise of the tour guides. Viking dining was solid with changing local area menu and a set menu you could choose. Dinner is one seating due to the smaller number of passengers. We met many fellow California residents along with other US residents from Hawaii, Boston, NY, NM, SC, OH,MO, Canadians and several Aussies who few over 30 hours to board our cruise. We met so many friendly and interesting people and we even exchanged phone numbers and emails! This was my first Viking River cruise, I thoroughly enjoyed the history, sights, excellent service, and quality. I'm definitely looking forward to another future experience with Viking.

See all photos from Sandy K. for Viking Cruises

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Feb 13, 2024

Thank you for your kind words, Sandy K. We appreciate you taking the time to outline your experience and are delighted to hear of your satisfaction. We hope to welcome you on board again soon!

I would find another Cruise Line, these people are deceptive and not customer oriented. We were planning a 14 day trip to Europe when my friend told me about the Rhine River Cruise. He said they fly you to Europe and take you on the river for 8 days. The cost of the flight is worth it and makes the cruse part of the trip not much more than staying in hotels. It's what sold me on the cruse. I never would have planned it otherwise! We put a deposit down and later, after many emails and phone calls asking for clarifications and upgrading our room, paid for the trip. When we asked how we book the "free air flight", they told us we don't qualify because we didn't enter a code on their website at the right time. We even went into their offices to try to resolve this but they told us they wont budge. Their attitude was, "we got ya". no, we couldn't get our money back 5 months before the trip, no they wouldn't do anything for us as an alternative, no we couldn't talk to someone in management. (The only person that we could talk to was the guy that trains the phone call takers in customer service.) In the mean time, all their ads, their weekly mailings to our house and their website all say that Air is included. It's an out and out lie. The only upside is that everyone that I talked to told me the Air flights that they provide are bad and they change things around without regard to your other trip itinerary. We went on the trip but got screwed out of $3,000. About the trip- the food was just ok, the onboard entertainment was less then what you'd get hanging out at a neighbors house, the shore trips were mostly ok. The boat was nice and the room was good (we had upgraded to a balcony room) Be warned.

We appreciate you sharing your experience, Gary B., although we regret to hear of your disappointment in your Viking Air experience. We’ve taken note of your feedback and if you'd like discuss this matter further we welcome you to email [email protected] with your booking information. Thank you.

Viking is absolutely awful. They've structured their company around American tourists but have headquartered in Europe knowing this would be where you'd have to sue them. Additionally they've hidden tons of legal jargon deep in their paperwork protecting them from their often misleading commercial materials for cruises and vacations when they know they won't offer what is promised or alluded to and indemnify themselves from any damages or claims by saying they'll make changes "as needed". I traveled with them on an ill fated Christmas cruise through Germany that was supposed to visit multiple Christmas markets. When we arrived - they informed us that ALL of them would be closed due to a shift in the liturgical calendar that year - seriously? Isn't that your only job? The reason for the cruise was specifically to visit the markets which is why everyone had booked it. The PDF for the trip featured photos of the markets and it was billed as a "Christmas Market Cruise". Due to water levels on the Rhine we ended up being bussed LONG hours for boring walking tours and no markets. Eventually - about 3 days into the cruise - we were told we had to pack our bags bc we were being bussed to a hotel for the rest of the trip to bring us closer to the final and only market we'd see in Cologne where the trip was set to end. I had paid for one of the two end suites for my mother's 50th birthday present. So the hotel we were bussed to wasn't even remotely in line with the room I had paid for on the ship. Food was also awful at this hotel and was buffet with no fish. Sub par at best. I was furious. My mother was so disappointed. She has always wanted to see the Christmas markets in Europe. On this cruise - we arrived in these towns just as they were setting it up for the following week - how awful. The cruise began the day after Thanksgiving so most guests had flown on Thanksgiving day and missed time with family to be on this cruise. When I returned - I was offered a $1200 future credit for the issues. In order to be compensated for the lack of accountability for checking the Christmas Market dates by this company, for a Christmas Market cruise, I would have to give them MORE money? Absolutely not. I had spent over $10,000 and requested a refund. Basically the customer rep laughed in my face. Very rude and unconcerned. This is likely bc they know you can't sue them. I had my husband's lawyers on retainer look into this and it would be incredibly difficult and expensive for an American to sue them in Sweden. They know this. I aggressively reviewed them on their own Facebook page, when it started getting traction, they had some employees leave false positive reviews of the company (whose Facebook profiles showed they were employed by them upon clicking their names) and eventually shut down reviews on their page. I went to every site I could find and reviewed them negatively. After some months they offered a $2200 refund if I signed a non-disclosure and removed the reviews. I did not sign and they were not removed. Viking is an awful company that preys on mostly older tourists and has a horrible reputation for not delivering on what they promise. Review sites for them are vastly negative. I wish I had researched them more before my trip. There are many luxury tour companies out there like Ponant, Swan Hellenic, Regent, SilverSea and Windstar - trust me - do not go with Viking.

Dec 28, 2017

Hi, Alison. While our capable onboard crew works to minimize necessary changes to itinerary due to weather beyond our control, your frustration is understandable, and we sincerely regret to learn that this trip fell below your expectations. As we continue to make good faith efforts to contact you and discuss an amicable resolution, our hope is to restore your faith and enthusiasm in Viking Cruises. We look forward to speaking with you, Alison, and wish you and your mother a wonderful New Year.

I just returned from a 3- week adventure in Europe, exploring the coasts of Greece, Italy Turkey, France and Spain. Every day was amazing. I would like to shout out to the exceptional staff that made everything so easy. Laundry returned wrapped in tissue, twice daily room cleaning, anticipating any issues- rain, etc- amazing. The ship was beautiful and filled with adventures for sailing days. But the trip was once-in-a-lifetime. Pompeii, Ephesus, the Vatican, the Uffizzi, Carcason, the home of the Virgin Mary, The Oracle of Delphi and the Sagrada Familia. It was so smooth and the excursions were so well organized there wasn't a single hiccup. My daughter and I will never forget. One thing- a cruise is like a tempting taste of the divine that can only be satisfied by returning for more time. It was a dream come true.

Thank you for your kind words, Victoria T. We are delighted to hear of your satisfaction and hope to welcome you on board again soon!

DO NOT GO ON A VIKING CRUISE IF YOU ARE UNDER 70 YEARS OF AGE!!! I will start by saying the ship and staff were impeccable. The service is top notch. Our cabin was larger than expected and more than comfortable but that is where it ended. My wife and I are both in our mid 40's and everyone on this ship was the age of our grandparents. The average guest was in their 80's and one woman was 97. Not that we mind being around elderly folks but HOLY HELL imagine trying to navigate around a ship when a third of the guest are using canes, walkers and electric scooters. No music! No entertainment! No nightlife. Not that I am a big drinker or party'er but when ALL the dining rooms close at 9 P.M. and most the guest are in bed it feels a bit like a ghost ship. The excursions moved at such a glacial pace my wife and I usually just went on ahead and met the rest of the group back at the bus at the end of the tour. On another bus we were not on one of the elderly had a heart attack and those guest were not able to go to the sight as they had to wait for the ambulance. Pool side during the day was a bit unnerving as most the elderly sleep with their mouths open and unless they're snoring they appear dead. I could not get of this boat fast enough I don't care what I spent no price is worth that suffering.

We have a cruise in June. When booking we were also sold an extension in lake como. I will share pictures of the extension and it's promises and the last photo will be of the view we've been given. Instead of staying on or even near the lake we will be in a Milan suburb next to an Aldi grocery store. We paid $2400 and the customer service reps have basically just said "that's where you'll be" and won't escalate our complaints to anyone willing to see how ridiculous this is. This is absolutely a case of false advertising and future customers need to be really careful when considering this line

I am a two time customer with Viking CRuises. I went on their 8 day Danube cruise in 2022 and on Rhine cruise in 2024. For the 2024 cruise I booked the veranda suite option because the company sold me on the advantage that by doing so I could book business class airfare for $3,000 per person through Viking. I did choose this upgraded option, in large part to get business class air for a total of 6k for my wife and I. When I reached out to their air team to adjust my travel days to fly into Amsterdam (our city to start the cruise) 2-4 days early and to adjust the flight home from Basil to be 2-3 days after the cruise ended, they said that it would be $3k per person extra to make that change (a total of 6k pp for air). I thought this was egregiously unfair so I called the air department and spent time talking with a supervisor in the department (her name was "Amethyst" and we spoke on 1-24-24). She said that my only options to arrive 2-4 days early and leave after the cruise 2-3 days later would require me to pay an additional 2-4k more per person. I then tried my luck with their US based customer service people (ended up spending close to an hour with "Mel" the supervisor there who again said they couldn't help me.) I asked her to ask for some compensation for the misleading sales tactics and to get back with me by email on their decision. To date i never heard back from her. Then i escalated by writing to their chairman's office. I emailed and sent a letter asking for help (and for some compensation for the misleading sales practice). Again, to date i've heard nothing back. This is bad business on their part as i am an affluent traveller who had a third cruise booked with them (which i have since cancelled). I will NOT travel with them ever again. I warn those of you considering cruising with them to watch out. What they say when they sell you the cruise is NOT what they honor when they deliver the cruise.

We appreciate you taking the time to detail your experience, David, as feedback such as this allows us to improve. We would welcome the opportunity to learn more about your trip and address your disappointment, and invite you to email [email protected] with your booking information and any lingering details. Thank you, once again, for reaching out, and we hope to hear from you.

This cruise line is the worst. Rude crew! Bland boring food! Boring entertainment! Not sure how they are voted number one! I would not take another Viking if it was fully paid for!

I'm on the Viking Rindi now. This is my 4th Viking cruise. (3rd river cruise and 1 ocean). I'm the past I've been very happy with Viking. The food was A It's now B-.. We wouldn't let Viking book our airlines again. We ended up with lousy flights ( very early departures, long layovers etc.) We paid a year in advance and paid $50 daily for their silver package ( prepaid booze tab), We are onboard now and they still can't figure out if we have prepaid or not. We have outside patio. We are currently in port in Vienna for two days. Hard to enjoy patio as our ship is parked next to a second identical Viking ship and we are 20 inches away from that ship. So we are staring into each other's cabin. For privacy we have closed the curtains, effectively we have an interior windowless room. Today they moved the ship and now there are now the middle ship in a 3 ship sandwich. Kind of feels like a tenement. The guests seem to get older every trip. I'd guess average age 75. I'm 67. But past cruises had some younger passengers. On the plus side, the service is excellent. I've cruised with s cruise lines pre Covid. I know the world is different post Covid but I will try another cruise line next time.

The view from our cabin into our neighbors cabin

Jenny litwin has the worst service skill and is the reason I would never go on one of these tours

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• Viking Ocean

Viking reviews of shore excursions

By ClevelandKid , June 18, 2020 in Viking Ocean

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ClevelandKid

Greetings all,

Each time a shore excursion wraps up, we fill out a questionnaire about our experiences (you know, on a scale of 1 to 5 how did you like...).

Are those available anywhere even in summarized form?  I am sure Viking won't give it out as raw data, but something/anything would be helpful in avoiding the duds.  Like letting the travel agents see something!

Of course, there is always this forum, but not everyone has done each excursion, so comparison shopping is hard.

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12 hours ago, ClevelandKid said: Greetings all,   Each time a shore excursion wraps up, we fill out a questionnaire about our experiences (you know, on a scale of 1 to 5 how did you like...).   Are those available anywhere even in summarized form?  I am sure Viking won't give it out as raw data, but something/anything would be helpful in avoiding the duds.  Like letting the travel agents see something!   Of course, there is always this forum, but not everyone has done each excursion, so comparison shopping is hard.   Thanks, Pat  

Not aware of that type of data being available in the public domain. Even if it were available, as shore-ex are so contingent on the guide, I not sure how effective the data would be.

In Cairns, we did the included excursion and had a hopeless guide, so our review would not have been favourable. Many others did the same tour and had excellent guides, giving very positive reviews. We actually learned about things we saw from other pax once back on the ship.

Peregrina651

37 minutes ago, Heidi13 said: we did the included excursion and had a hopeless guide, so our review would not have been favourable.

Hopefully, you reported your experience so that particular guide could be weeded out of the program.

18 minutes ago, Peregrina651 said:     Hopefully, you reported your experience so that particular guide could be weeded out of the program.

We provided feedback on each of the shore-ex, as the Manager and staff were most responsive, following up with each of them.

OOPS! Sorry, hit submit too soon.

We always fill out the survey, and found they DO pay attention to them.  We had one excursion that was quite unfavorable, and we let them know about it on the survey.  Before the cruise was even over, we had received an onboard ship credit as well as a bottle of champagne.  Even the positive review surveys were acknowledged at times.  I know some will say you can do better by utilizing private companies for some excursions, but we have generally found Viking excursions to be very good. Over the years, we have decided to stick with them, as it was a lot easier.  Our feeling is to utilize private excursions for only those experiences not offered by Viking.   JohnEB

We second JohnEB concerning fill out the survey.  One that comes to mind was an expensive helicopter tour in Rio.  The few of us that went all complained about the route the pilot took and the brevity of the flight.  Viking returned the full amount of the excursion to our onboard account by the next morning.  A van tour of Rio plus a not so good helo ride for free.  You will have to look long and hard to find a cruise line more fair than that.  This is one of the things that keeps us spending what travel funds we have with Viking.

12 minutes ago, johneb2 said: We always fill out the survey, and found they DO pay attention to them.  We had one excursion that was quite unfavorable, and we let them know about it on the survey.  Before the cruise was even over, we had received an onboard ship credit as well as a bottle of champagne.  Even the positive review surveys were acknowledged at times.  I know some will say you can do better by utilizing private companies for some excursions , but we have generally found Viking excursions to be very good. Over the years, we have decided to stick with them, as it was a lot easier.  Our feeling is to utilize private excursions for only those experiences not offered by Viking.   JohnEB

I wonder about the St. Petersburg tours and if anyone here would chime in. We had planned on Alla Tours for the cruise we would be on as I type. Alla and a couple others are very highly recommended and regarded for the two days in St. Petes. On the re-book for about the same time next year however, we have a goodly amount of voucher credit to "use up" and switching to Viking offerings in St. Petes might be a good way. Anyone recommend alternatives to Alla that they found at least acceptable?

2 hours ago, Jim Avery said: We second JohnEB concerning fill out the survey.  One that comes to mind was an expensive helicopter tour in Rio.  The few of us that went all complained about the route the pilot took and the brevity of the flight.  Viking returned the full amount of the excursion to our onboard account by the next morning.  A van tour of Rio plus a not so good helo ride for free.  You will have to look long and hard to find a cruise line more fair than that.  This is one of the things that keeps us spending what travel funds we have with Viking.

Jim - we had a similar experience in Akaroa (Christchurch). We were originally scheduled for Lyttleton, where we had a great private tour planned, but when they switched us to Akaroa, the 90 mins drive to Christchurch, just didn't make private tours viable. So we switched to ship tours, the included in the AM and punting on the Avon in PM.

The 6.5 hr optional departed at Noon, but the ship was due to weigh anchor at 17:30, so our scheduled return at the tender dock was 1 hr after departure. Since it was a ship's tour, we weren't concerned, but eagerly awaited info on how they planned to resolve. Heard nothing until we received the Viking Daily - they cut the tour to only 5 hrs. Therefore, the tour now comprised 3.5 hrs driving to/from Christchurch, with only 1 hr 40 mins punting on the Avon, a boxed lunch and then a quick walk through the gardens. The bus A/C was non-existent and heading home we sat in direct sunshine, while they sent an employee out to the bus. It was cooler outside than inside the bus.

We requested a prorated refund for the reduced duration, but within an hour had a phone call apologising for the poor experience and advising they issued a full refund. Brilliant service.

We used Red October in St. Petersburg and found them brilliant.  We'd been there a couple of times and knew what we wanted to see.  They did all of that and more.  The first morning they picked us up early (all 6 of us were ready and excited) but things weren't open yet.  They took us to a small but gorgeous church, lit in candles, with the priests chanting before heading out for our excursion.   One warning:  the lunch began with a tumbler full of vodka that was replenished with every sip.  The 2.5 day excursion was so good that our guide was tipped almost the same amount that we paid.  This was about 5 years ago so check the website and reviews for something more current.

We were extremely pleased with Dancing Bear Tours in St. Petersburg. We engaged them for a two-day individual tour (just 2 of us, a knowledgeable guide and a driver). With this arrangement we were able to plan an extensive itinerary as the guide was always with us while the driver was able to drop us at the entrance of all attractions and, by communicating with the guide, pick us up when ready to leave. There was no waiting and no long walks from and to parking lots. A look at their website and a quick email to Julia would be worth while. Undoubtedly the best treatment we have ever received on any tour, anywhere.

stretchcruz

We loved Alla and the small group.

While I was very happy with the quality of the Viking Tour guides - they both were excellent, - the larges coaches that Viking uses are just unable to deal with the massive amount of traffic in STP.  We spent almost 2x the amount of time more time on the bus sitting than touring  the various sites.   I had spent several weeks in STP years earlier on business, bit if this has been my first - or only time in STP... I would have been heartbroken and very disappointed. It's well worth the $$$ in to use the private tours with the small vans or mini busses... 

We were quite pleased with Alla.  Found out the difference between front of the line (as advertised by the cruise line) and skip the line - Alla.  I am sure RO, SPB, etc. are similar.  

Yes TJ Tours in StP used small Mercedes vans and skipped the lines. Excellent guide & service.

• 2 years later...

Does anyone have actual reviews of the excursions (free or paid) that Viking offers on their capitals of eastern europe cruise. Or if you have a site that has reviews I would appreciate it!  Trying to make informed decisions. We have never done a river cruise. Thanks

49 minutes ago, Coco8661 said: Does anyone have actual reviews of the excursions (free or paid) that Viking offers on their capitals of eastern europe cruise. Or if you have a site that has reviews I would appreciate it!  Trying to make informed decisions. We have never done a river cruise. Thanks

You can look through the Viking Reviews  link at the top of this forum. Many reviewers also include each excursion they were on. in their review of the cruise.

You would need name of ship and month and have lots of time to scroll through them to find the ones which are helpful,

. Good luck.

3 hours ago, Azulann said: You can look through the Viking Reviews  link at the top of this forum. Many reviewers also include each excursion they were on. in their review of the cruise. You would need name of ship and month and have lots of time to scroll through them to find the ones which are helpful, . Good luck.

Thank you. I will try that!

Other places to find river reviews:

--Post a new topic in the River Cruising forum asking for comments on the Viking shorex for the stops on your itinerary, naming the stops, because multiple itineraries stop in the same places and offer the itineraries.  People are more apt to respond if they don't have to look up the ports for themselves.  And doesn't matter what itinerary people were on, you only want to here their thoughts on the shorex.  

-- Go to the Viking website and make a list of all the itineraries that include any of your stops.  Next go to the Viking River rolls forum and look for the 2022 roll calls for these itineraries, starting with your itinerary (if this itinerary existed for 2022).  River roll calls are by year not by sailing. Start with post Covid roll calls; the pre Covid do not reflect the current state of affairs.  Then find the roll call for your  itinerary and year -- and join the conversation. 

-- CruiseCritic search function is not very dependable. Better to hunt on your own.  

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Viking vouchers have undisclosed testrictions

Viking will do every sneaky thing they can to steal your money. I purchased 2 $200 vouchers while on a Viking cruise that they stated had no restrictions or limitations. I recently applied them to a future river which I had to cancel well within the cancellation period without penalty. They kept my $50 deposit but also kept the vouchers so they could not be applied to a future booking. This is completely dishonest and unethical. Avoid this tour operator at all costs.

Date of experience : 23 April 2024

NOT CUSTOMER FRIENDLY

Had a Iceland Cruise in June 2026. I needed to cancel due to personal reasons. I contacted Viking and explained my particutar situation. I was giving Viking over a 2 year notice so the cabin can be resold. Viking denied my request for a refund of the "BIG" $50 Deposit. There are always exceptions to the rules that Viking could have made in my case. NOT CUSTOMER FRIENDLY.

Date of experience : 10 April 2024

We gave Viking $8999.00 toward a future…

We gave Viking $8999.00 toward a future cruise. Due to illness we were unable to book a cruise. When we requested to use that deposit for another cruise and or return the money, they denied the request. Dealing with Miller Rubio was a lesson in duplicity and deceit.I would strongly encourage Ocean travelers to find a more honorable company.

Date of experience : 04 April 2024

Viking air agents are awful

I am writing this review before the cruise. I hope I can return and review this with a higher rating. So far it has been a cluster $&@“. Air management team has been a nightmare. They had my traveling companion on a different flight to Amsterdam. Not good. 3.5 hrs on the phone to get it straightened out and of course more $$ out of pocket. I finally just said I will get myself to Atlanta you get me to Amsterdam and back to Atlanta. So one leg of my prepaid trip is paid by me a second time. No ONE travel consultant assigned to us so absolutely no consistency. Lack of communication has also been a big problem. This is to be the Cream de la cream, cruise travel company. I am not seeing it. Hope it changes with the cruise, but they have a lot of work to do in the front end to be given a top rating.

Date of experience : 08 March 2024

Customer service is no help at all

Customer service is no help at all. We booked two cruises at the same time .. they said we can not have transfer in between the cruise to the air port unless we fly back to USA and fly back to Europe?? Secondly we pay for air plus to book the flight we wanted and they changed our flight from directly to transfer to Canada.. so why we pay for the extra 100 ??

Date of experience : 01 April 2024

Viking Corporate vs Viking Ship's Crew

This review is about Viking Corporate - NOT the Viking Vidar staff. Corporate lies - plain and simple. Trying to get specifics on a cruise itinerary was like pulling teeth. And, other than one Customer Rep - Patricia T - the Customer Reps will either tell you there's no way to find out an answer, or they will just tell you something to get rid of you. So what if what they told you made you make a certain choice of an included or optional tour, and THEN, WHILE ON THE CRUISE, you find out it was a LIE! Because of Viking Corporate, I will never go on another Viking cruise - which is sad because the Ship's Crew will do whatever it takes to make this the best vacation of your life

Date of experience : 17 July 2023

Booked a cruise with Viking (which was…

Booked a cruise with Viking (which was listed as requiring $25 down to book). Shortly thereafter, Viking wanted full payment for a cruise 1 year in the future. Therefore, Viking is holding full payment and collecting interest on the funds. This appears to be a new money making mechanism by Viking using their client's money to increase their cash flow.

Date of experience : 01 August 2023

We have just returned from a wonderful ocean cruise

We have just returned from a wonderful cruise on Viking Sea from Athens to Venice. Unfortunately the airline lost our luggage for five days which was far from ideal but Viking staff provided us with toiletries and also laundered our clothes each evening returning them early next morning. Our cabin stewards, Angel and Rhuel went beyond the call of duty to help us out with a few other missing item. The food was very good, the cleanliness was excellent and most importantly, the Staff were lovely. We mainly did the included excursions and the guides were very knowledgeable and interesting. All transfers were well organised and there were representatives at the foreign airports guiding us to check in and sorting out our luggage transfer so we only had our hand luggage to carry. All in all we were very happy people and have already booked our next ocean cruise with them.

Date of experience : 01 September 2023

Privacy violation

Sent brochure without consent. I sent an email to be removed from the mailing list, but when attempting to call as a backup measure, I was notified that the privacy line was for employees and not for customers. The company is intentionally avoiding ways to respect consumer privacy. I will never be a customer of this cruise line.

Date of experience : 03 February 2024

Viking Venus without most amenities.

Viking Venus : cruise round Med and on to Israel. This was a wonderful itinerary , a beautiful ship , excellent food and service. In fact, everything we have come to expect from Viking except…there were apparently a few cases of a GI infection . As a consequence all water amenities, main pool, infinity pool, jacuzzi and spa were closed for the whole of the cruise! As compensation we have been offered a derisory £200 voucher towards a future cruise. An insult! We will not be booking with Viking again.

Date of experience : 25 November 2022

Multiple airline delays and flight…

Multiple airline delays and flight cancellations resulted in my wife and I missing the first three days of the cruise and no realistic plan to meet up with the boat later, so requested a return flight to US ,which we got. After arriving home, we filed for reimbursement from Trip Mate. Payment was denied because we had used vouchers from covid cancelled cruises to pay for current cruise. $7,000 out the window. Never again Viking!

Date of experience : 28 May 2023

Bait and switch pure and simple

Bait and switch pure and simple. Reserve a cabin at a promotional rate, they cancel. Then, reinstate you at their rate that they want you to pay. Awful. Do not use this cruise line. Many other cruise lines honor their promotions. These people do not!!! Worst experience!!

Date of experience : 03 December 2023

Just received an email from Viking…

Just received an email from Viking informing us that half of the Xmas markets we were suppose to visit will not be open. They marketed the cruise as a Xmas market cruise which is why we booked it. We get the email 3 days prior to our trip and they knew from the beginning the markets would not open until early December. A clear case of bait and switch and will cause us to never cruise with them again.

Date of experience : 21 November 2023

Our first cruise with Viking and…

Our first cruise with Viking and definitely the last. A ship that was only a year old yet was already feeling its age. Staff service was hit and miss, tables for dining too close together and the meals in some occasions very inconsistent and not the 5* star we were expecting. Cleaning left a lot to be desired with housekeeping contacted on numerous occasions due to the poor state of public areas. We did our own flights thankfully as we heard horror stories from other passengers of misconnections and luggage taking extra days to arrive. The crew spent a lot of time cleaning the external areas of the shop - our balcony was cleaned every second day when this could have been better deployed into other areas. The oddest item was when ordering a Pina Colada received a mass of ice which was undrinkable. Complainants were given a tray of sugary cakes - not what we wanted , just good food and service which we paid a lot if money for.

Date of experience : 03 October 2023

Fantastic experience, highly recommended

Fantastic experience, just returned from a cruise with Viking and was blown away by the quality of food, excursions and especially the staff who go above and beyond to ensure you have an amazing time, the ship was outstanding too. Thank you Viking! I have some wonderful memories that will stay with me and my mother forever.

Date of experience : 03 October 2021

What a cracking tour

What a cracking tour with the best guide Chris. Funny, interesting and a great way to see parts of Dublin and hear a bit of history to it too. Definitely recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Date of experience : 12 November 2023

I had a reservation for the Heart of…Delta

I had a reservation for the Heart of Delta Cruise including premium economy for the air portion. I was advised after booking and making my deposit that I was being downgraded to economy. I then called and was told if I wanted premium economy I would now have to pay a higher price. This is called bait and switch and is unethical if not down right fraudulent.

Date of experience : 24 November 2023

Viking Victim Unit

It's been three years now that Viking has held my family's money hostage because we don't wish to take the jab. Viking changed their policy after they took all our money, lured us into taking now worthless vouchers. They refuse to accept the fact that they changed the terms of the contract. Most all other cruise lines have dropped this mandate. The US gov has basically declared the "plandemic" over and all other mandates have been drop but Viking still won't change their policy. If you happen to be in the same position there is a group forming to file a class action law suit against Viking. #VikingVictims

Date of experience : 01 February 2023

I'm with Robin (see below)

I'm with Robin (see below). We are cancelling our river cruise due to viking's heavy handed covid vaccine requirement. Also lost out on the cruise vouchers. NEVER BUY A VIKING CRUISE VOUCHER We will be sailing with a different cruise line and will not be back to Viking. Viking has lost four loyal customers with 10 past cruises between us.

Date of experience : 18 February 2023

Uses stolen information to get…

Uses stolen information to get addresses for their mailing lists. I never use my living address, period. I only receive deliveries from Amazon here. Otherwise, only my state government and previous employers have had it. My state and one of those jobs were hacked last year and my information was stolen. Suddenly, I receive a Viking advertisement here. I have lived here 4.5 years and NEVER received junk mail for anything. What does this leave me to believe? Either 1) Viking brokered a deal to get my address from Amazon without my knowledge or consent--which I don't believe, or I would've gotten spam from other parties Amazon sold my info to in the past. Or 2) They bought it directly from my state. Highly unlikely since the only state dept that has this address is HIPAA protected. Or 2) Viking bought a blackhat list of stolen information from one of the previously mentioned data leaks. Even if I had the money to go on a cruise, I would NEVER use Viking at this point. Trash companies do trash things.

Date of experience : 07 January 2024

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The 3 types of Viking cruise ships, explained

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Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information.

Viking is unusual among major cruise lines in that it operates both ocean ships and river ships. Despite this, it has one of the easiest-to-understand fleets.

The vast majority of Viking’s river ships — at last count, there were 80 — feature the same design. If you’ve seen one of them, you’ve seen them all.

Ditto for the line’s ocean ships. Nine of Viking’s 11 ocean ships are nearly identical. The two exceptions are the recently unveiled Viking ocean vessels specifically designed for expedition cruising — a type of cruising that involves traveling to remote, hard-to-reach places on hardy vessels that carry their own landing craft.

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

As a result, the bulk of Viking’s vessels falls into one of just three groups; all the ships in each group sport nearly identical designs.

An introduction to Viking cruise ships

Viking has expanded enormously in recent years with the addition of dozens of new river and ocean ships.

Founded in 1997 with four river vessels, the company operated just 29 ships as recently as 2012. Now, there are more than 90 ships in its fleet.

The vast majority of these ships are river ships — the company’s sole focus for its first 18 years in business. The company dominates the market for river cruises aimed at North Americans, accounting for about 50% of all such trips.

Starting in 2015, Viking began rolling out ocean cruise ships, too.

In early 2023, as noted above, Viking had 80 river ships in its fleet — almost all of which have the same basic design. The exceptions are a few vessels that Viking operates on rivers in Egypt and Asia (more on these ships below). The line also recently began offering cruises on the Mississippi River and its tributaries using a new type of vessel.

Related: The ultimate guide to Viking ships and itineraries

Viking’s ocean ships fall into two distinct groups: a series of 930-passenger traditional ocean ships that began debuting in 2015, and a series of 378-passenger expedition ships that began debuting in 2022.

Unlike most cruise lines, Viking doesn’t use the term “classes” to define different sets of ships in its fleet. Instead, it refers to its series of traditional ocean ships as the “Viking ocean ships” and its series of expedition ships as the “Viking expedition ships.” We’ve followed the same breakdown of the line’s ocean and river fleet below.

Viking ocean ships

Ships: Viking Saturn (2023), Viking Neptune (2022), Viking Mars (2022), Viking Venus (2021), Viking Jupiter (2019), Viking Orion (2018), Zhao Shang Yi Dun (2017), Viking Sky (2017), Viking Sea (2016) and Viking Star (2015).

Size: 47,800 tons.

For years, Viking only operated river ships, and some cruisers still think of the brand primarily as a river cruise company. However, since 2015, Viking has been rapidly rolling out a series of upscale ocean vessels; these new additions are increasingly dominating the world of higher-end ocean cruising.

As of June 2023, Viking has nine ships sailing the world’s oceans, each with a capacity for 930 passengers. That gives Viking 8,370 berths in the upscale ocean cruise market — more than competitors Oceania Cruises and Azamara combined.

The series is far from finished. Six more of the vessels are on order from Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for delivery between 2024 and 2028, and the company also has options with Fincantieri for four more of the ships to debut in 2029 and 2030. Assuming they are all built, Viking’s ocean division will soon be bigger than Oceania, Azamara, Seabourn and Silversea Cruises  combined.

The first thing to know about the ships in this series is that they all are pretty much identical. When sailing on any one of them, you will be hard-pressed to tell what is different.

They’re also quite upscale. While Viking doesn’t market itself as a luxury line, some still consider it so. The vessels are full of luxury touches, from sumptuous bedding in cabins to heated floors in cabin bathrooms.

Related: The complete guide to Viking cabins and suites

Each of the ships in this series has a stylish, Scandinavian-influenced design that is a Viking trademark, and the cabins are large by cruise ship standards. Even the smallest cabins on each of the vessels have 270 square feet of space — a generous amount. Many cabins are significantly bigger than that, with 14 two-room suites on each of the vessels ranging in size from 757 to 1,448 square feet. Many of these bigger suites offer sweeping views from wrap-around private balconies.

Each of the ships’ interior spaces is built around an elegant, three-deck-high atrium filled with comfortable seating areas that have a living room-like feel. Each also has a bar and guest relations desk. At the top of the ships, you’ll find two-deck-high, glass-walled lounges that offer stunning views over the bow. Other interior spaces include a fitness center and a stylish spa with a thermal suite area that is open to all passengers at no extra charge (something that is not common on cruise vessels).

Multiple restaurants on board each of the vessels include Italian eatery Manfredi’s (named after former Silversea owner Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, a friend of Viking founder Torstein Hagen) and The Chef’s Table. The latter features rotating themed menus.

The centerpiece of the top deck of each of the ships is the main pool area, which features a glass magrodome that can close during inclement weather. The main pool area on each of the ships sits next to a lovely, glass-topped lounge with comfortable seating called the Wintergarden, which is home to afternoon tea. A den of serenity, it’s one of our favorite places on these vessels.

A secondary pool area with an infinity pool is at the back of each of the ships.

While all of the ships in this series are essentially identical, you will find small differences on a few of them. Most notably, two of the vessels in the series — Viking Orion and Viking Jupiter — have a small planetarium built into the top level of the two-level lounge at their fronts (known as the Explorers’ Lounge). Some of the later ships in the series have slightly larger fitness centers and slightly smaller hair salons.

Note that in addition to the nine Viking ocean ships officially in the Viking fleet, a 10th ship from the same series, Zhao Shang Yi Dun, caters exclusively to the China market as part of a joint venture between Viking and a Chinese company. When it debuted in 2017, the ship originally catered to the North American market and was called Viking Sun.

Viking river ships

Ships: Viking Fjorgyn (2022), Viking Kari (2022), Viking Radgrid (2022), Viking Skaga (2022) and more than 60 other Longships built since 2012, as well as additional river vessels.

Size: 4,000 to 5,000 tons.

River ships originally put Viking on the map, and they’re still at the core of the brand.

As noted above, the line has 80 river ships in its fleet. The vast majority of them have the same basic design and are known as Longships — a reference to the historic vessels used by Vikings in the Middle Ages.

Unveiled in 2012 and designed specifically to fit into the locks used across many of Europe’s rivers, the Longships broke new ground in river ship design in multiple ways.

For starters, they have a configuration that includes some of the largest suites ever for river ships in Europe. They also have a significant number of cabins with balconies — which is made possible by an innovative cabin area layout that offsets main corridors. (In other words, the corridors don’t run down the middle of the ship, creating a wider side with space for balconies and a narrower side with cabins turned sideways to also create room for verandas.)

Related: The ultimate guide to Viking’s cruise loyalty program

Other innovations include a squared-off bow that allows for eight more cabins than similarly sized ships operated by competitors. Also, quieter engines allow for more cabins at the rear. An enormous amount of groundbreaking engineering went into redesigning the bow areas of the ships, in particular, to enable extra cabins while still leaving room for needed machinery.

As a result of such innovations, the Viking Longships can carry more passengers than similarly sized ships operated by competitors. This has allowed Viking to offer lower prices than other river cruise lines and still bring in a similar amount of revenue per ship — a fact that has contributed greatly to the company’s rapid growth.

Like many river ships, each of the Viking Longships has one main restaurant where most passengers eat their meals as well as one main interior lounge with a bar. There’s also a secondary, casual dining area at the front of each vessel with indoor and outdoor seating. (The outdoor portion, called the Aquavit Terrace, also serves as a forward-facing outdoor lounge during off hours.) Unlike many river ships, the vessels have no spas or fitness centers.

As is typical for river ships, the top of every Viking Longship is covered with an expansive lounge area. There’s also a walking track and an herb garden — the latter used by the kitchen staff to grow herbs used during the preparation of onboard meals.

Most Viking Longships are 443 feet long — the perfect length to fit into the locks on many of Europe’s rivers. Viking also built slightly smaller versions of the Longships, measuring 361 feet or 410 feet in length, specifically to sail on rivers where lock sizes or other navigational factors require smaller vessels. The 410-foot-long versions of the vessels, for instance, were specifically built to sail into the heart of Paris on the Seine River.

Related: Fast-growing Viking unveils four new ships for the Seine

While the Longships come in several different lengths, they are essentially identical in their offerings and decor. The only notable difference is that the smaller versions of the ships have fewer cabins and thus hold fewer people. The 443-foot-long versions of the ship are designed for 190 passengers, for example, whereas the 410-foot-long versions of the vessels hold 168 passengers (since they have 11 fewer cabins).

While most Viking river ships are Longships, there are a few exceptions in the Viking river fleet. Viking operates several smaller, purpose-built vessels on the Nile River in Egypt. It also has several older river vessels that predate the Longships and traditionally have operated on rivers in Russia and Ukraine. (For now, river cruise itineraries in both countries are on hold due to the war in Ukraine.)

Viking also recently began sailings on the Mississippi River with a new ship specifically designed for the river and its tributaries.

As of May 2023, Viking had another 14 river ships either under construction or on order via provisional contracts.

Related: First look at Viking’s stylish new Nile River ship

Viking expedition ships

Ships: Viking Polaris (2022) and Viking Octantis (2022).

Size: 30,150 tons.

Designed to hold just 378 passengers, the Viking expedition ships are specifically designed to take travelers to the most off-the-beaten-path parts of the world, including Antarctica and the Arctic.

As of now, Viking operates just two ships in the series, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, both of which debuted in 2022 . No more are currently on order.

As is typical for expedition ships, these are tough vessels with reinforced bows that let them bump through ice in polar regions; the ships also have extra tanks for fuel and food.

Each of these vessels has its own landing craft on board to bring people ashore in remote locations, as well as kayaks and even submarines for exploring. (The latter is the hot new thing for expedition ships — upscale cruise brands Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Seabourn have been adding submarines to expedition ships , too.)

Like other expedition ships, both Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris are designed to operate with a large and seasoned “expedition team” that includes biologists, botanists, geologists, glaciologists and ornithologists who lecture regularly.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Viking ship

Each of the vessels has several new and unusual features, too. Most notable is The Hangar: an enclosed marina that allows passengers to transfer to a 12-seat excursion craft while still in the protected interior of the ship. It’s a first for an expedition cruise ship.

In another first for a polar expedition cruise vessel, every cabin has floor-to-ceiling glass walls that slide partially open from the top to create a balcony-like feel.

Both Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris are designed to be upscale. Like all Viking’s vessels, they boast elegant Scandinavian designs. The restaurants on both vessels include a version of Viking’s signature Italian spot, Manfredi’s and the Scandinavian-inspired Mamsen’s outlet.

Another feature of both ships that will be familiar to regular Viking customers is a top-of-the-ship, glass-walled Explorers’ Lounge offering stunning views of passing scenery.

In case you’re curious, Viking Octantis is named after Sigma Octantis, the current “south star” that hovers over the South Pole (also known as Polaris Australis). Polaris is named after the current “north star” that hovers over the North Pole. The names are a nod to the polar regions where these expedition ships will likely spend much of their time.

Bottom line

Viking operates more cruise vessels than any other major cruise company catering to North Americans. This is in part because it’s involved in both the ocean cruise and river cruise businesses. Despite its large size, its fleet of vessels is relatively easy to understand. The vast majority of both its ocean ships and river ships are almost identical in their designs.

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SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.