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Important Viking River Cruise Tips: Know Before You Go

Important Viking River Cruise Tips: Know Before You Go

River cruising has become a top choice for travelers, opportunity to explore exotic destinations while enjoying luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and unforgettable experiences. My husband Eddie and I fulfilled a bucket list dream with a 12-day Viking River Cruise, seamlessly blending a weeklong river voyage with land-based adventures at both ends. Here are some essential Viking River Cruise tips to help you plan and maximize your vacation.

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Luggage Handling Made Easy

From the moment you arrive at the airport, Viking River Cruises takes care of every detail, including your luggage. A friendly Viking representative will greet you at baggage claim or a designated area, guiding you to a private shuttle that whisks you off to your ship or hotel.

Your bags will magically appear in your room, where you can unpack and settle in for the journey ahead. On departure days, place your luggage outside your door at the designated time, and the attentive staff will ensure it travels safely with you to your next destination.

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Personalized, Immersive Tours

One of the highlights of a Viking River Cruise is the guided tours led by knowledgeable local guides in each captivating city along your route. Follow your guide, easily spotted by their numbered “lollipop” sign, as they share fascinating insights and stories via the convenient QuietVox audio system.

As many stops feature charming cobblestone streets, comfortable walking shoes are a must.

Viking thoughtfully offers “gentle” walking groups with less strenuous routes for those desiring a more relaxed pace. Feel free to choose the tour style that suits you best each day, changing it as you see fit, as your comfort and enjoyment are Viking’s top priority.

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Your Home Away from Home

Step into your well-appointed stateroom and feel instantly at ease. Our 205-square-foot Veranda Stateroom featured a cozy balcony perfect for soaking in the breathtaking river scenery through floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. With a variety of accommodation options, from standard rooms to spacious suites, there’s something to suit every preference.

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Plush twin beds (which can be joined together), ample storage, double nightstands, a mini fridge, a safe, and a bathroom with a glass-enclosed shower and premium toiletries ensure your every need is met. Adjust the temperature to your liking, and unwind with a selection of on-demand movies on the 40-inch flat-screen TV.

The attentive staff replenishes your bottled water daily so you can stay refreshed throughout your journey.

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A Culinary Odyssey

One of the true joys of a Viking River Cruise is the exceptional dining experience. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll be treated to a culinary adventure that leaves you eagerly anticipating each meal.

Whether you choose elegantly plated dishes and action stations or dine on the ever-changing buffet options, the quality and variety are unsurpassed. 

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Savor smoked trout, rich French onion soup, creamy buffalo mozzarella tomato salad, perfectly cooked Chateaubriand, and decadent desserts that will have you dreaming of seconds.

Themed nights, like the popular German buffet (variety of sausages, warm potato dish, Bavarian pretzels, sauerkraut, pickled veggies), transport you to the heart of the region with authentic flavors and lively entertainment.

It even includes an Oompah band and flowing beer.

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Expertly paired wines and beers (included with your cruise fare) enhance each meal. The attentive dining staff quickly learns your preferences and anticipates your every need. Sodas are free of charge, too. 

Embark on a culinary adventure at the Aquavit Terrace & Lounge, a unique dining location where you can savor your meal al fresco, basking in the stunning views from the ship’s bow.

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All-Inclusive Delights

One of the best things about Viking River Cruises is the array of inclusions that come with your trip. From complimentary Wi-Fi to captivating after-dinner programs, there’s never a dull moment on board.

Immerse yourself in enrichment lectures, be serenaded by talented local musicians, marvel at impressive magic shows, test your knowledge with music trivia, and indulge in mouthwatering culinary demonstrations.

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Each night, the cruise director will give you a sneak peek of what’s in store for the following day, and you’ll even receive a handy Viking Daily newspaper delivered right to your stateroom to help you plan your adventures.

And did I mention you can watch non-stop Downton Abbey in your stateroom?

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Onboard Wonders

The Viking Kvasir ship is a floating haven packed with delightful amenities. Bookworms will adore the well-stocked library, where you can borrow various titles to enjoy during your journey. 

Need to catch up on emails or stay connected? The ship offers two computers for your convenience and 24-hour coffee, tea, and hot chocolate service, complete with tasty cookies and pastries.

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For those seeking breathtaking views and a little outdoor fun, head up to the dedicated Sun Deck. This top-level oasis provides 360-degree vistas, perfect for scenic cruising, playing shuffleboard, or practicing your putting skills on the greens.

Viking even boasts an impressive organic herb garden on the Sun Deck!

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With plenty of lounge chairs and seating groups, it’s the ideal spot to socialize with fellow travelers, sip on a refreshing cocktail, lose yourself in a good book, or take a relaxing nap. And if you’re feeling energetic, take a stroll along the walking track for some invigorating onboard exercise.

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Forging Lifelong Friendships

One of our Viking River Cruise’s most unexpected and delightful aspects is the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers and forge lasting friendships. With fewer than 200 guests on board and even smaller groups on excursions and buses, you can meet and mingle with everyone on the boat. 

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Throughout the cruise, we exchanged contact information and formed bonds that have endured long after our adventure ended. I’m still in touch with some wonderful people I met on my previous Viking River cruises!

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Embark on Your Viking River Cruise Adventure

A Viking River Cruise is more than just a vacation; it’s an immersive journey that combines luxury, discovery, and unforgettable moments. With every detail thoughtfully attended to, from luggage handling to personalized tours and exquisite dining, you’re free to relax, explore, and create lasting memories.

Your voyage of discovery awaits, and with these insider tips, you’ll be ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime. Happy cruising!

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Learn more about our cruise adventures: 

Remembering My Incredible Viking Rhine River Cruise

Viking River Cruises: Paris to Swiss Alps in 12 Glorious Days

Eouring Bratislava with Viking River Cruises: The Beautiful Gem of the Danube

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FS Page

Saturday 6th of July 2019

This one's a comprehensive guide that would help a great deal while planning the Viking river cruise. Never imagines staterooms look were so fantastic. The meals look awesome too. Seems like you had a great time.

MelodyPittman

Sunday 7th of July 2019

Thanks so much! They keep getting better and better utilizing the limited space they have. I've loved watching the cruise ships evolve over the past 20 years. Thanks for reading. ;)

Paula

Friday 5th of July 2019

Thanks for answering so many of the questions I had about river cruising. It's totally on my bucket list but I was worried about getting bored. We are pretty active travellers so it's good to hear there are a range of tours each day.

MelodyPittman

Sunday 7th of July 2019

Thanks so much for reading! I appreciate it.

Candy

Thursday 4th of July 2019

I've heard so much about these river cruises and it sounds like something I would really enjoy. It's great that they take care of your luggage from the get-go. The meals look fantastic and good tip about the cobblestone streets. Cobblestone is so beautiful, but they take a toll on your feet so best to wear comfy shoes for sure!

MelodyPittman

Sunday 7th of July 2019

Definitely!

The Holidaymaker

Thursday 4th of July 2019

Very informative post, especially for those who are planning on going on a Viking River Cruise. I for one, like to know what to expect before a trip and I am sure the tips and information you provided would be most helpful. I too would love the German buffet theme dinner, how nice it would be to have a good traditional German food as you are slowly passing by the beautiful landscape. Ah, one day.

Punita Malhotra

Thursday 4th of July 2019

The accommodations look cozy and comfortable and the tiny bathroom packs a punch with it's space saving layout. I don't miid exploring a river cruise myself. You convinced me to pick Viking.

MelodyPittman

Sunday 7th of July 2019

Wonderful! I'm a huge fan! ;)

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