viking river cruise fleet

Viking River Cruises Fleet

Viking cruise line ship fleet information. Cruisedeckplans.com shows the different classes of ships in the Viking fleet. On this page you can also compare features and dining options for each Viking ship. You will find daily service charge information, size in tons and number of cabins for each ship. You can CLICK ON any ship to go to the ship page for that ship. Check out our unique stateroom capacity trend chart showing the changes in the size of the Viking cruise line ship fleet over the past few years. Check out our Master Ship List . You can filter and sort by cruise line or ship.

CLICK on a ship below to go to the ship decks and cabins page. Viking River Cruises has 61 ships in the fleet. You can filter the Viking fleet by ship class using the box below. Typically Viking River Cruises will build or buy several ships sharing similar features. They define the different types of ships as classes. Ships of the same class may be almost identical to each other.

Viking Aegir

CLASS: Longship Tons 4k Built 2012 Cabins 95

Viking Akun

CLASS: Helgi Tons 4k Built 1990 Cabins 102

Viking Alsvin

CLASS: Longship Tons 4k Built 2014 Cabins 95

Viking Atla

CLASS: Longship Tons 4k Built 2013 Cabins 95

Viking Baldur

Viking Bestla

Viking Bragi

Viking Buri

Viking Delling

Viking Eistla

Viking Embla

Viking Emerald

CLASS: Emerald Tons 4k Built 2011 Cabins 128

Viking Europe

CLASS: Europe Tons 4k Built 2001 Cabins 75

Viking Fontane

CLASS: Fontane Tons 3k Built 1991 Cabins 56

Viking Forseti

Viking Freya

Viking Gefjon

CLASS: Longship Tons 4k Built 2015 Cabins 95

Viking Gullveig

Viking Heimdal

Viking Helgi

CLASS: Helgi Tons 4k Built 1984 Cabins 102

Viking Helvetia

CLASS: Sun Tons 4k Built 2006 Cabins 99

Viking Hemming

CLASS: Hemming Tons 4k Built 2014 Cabins 53

Viking Hermod

Viking Hlin

Viking Idun

Viking Ingvar

Viking Ingvi

Viking Jarl

Viking Kadlin

Viking Kara

Viking Kvasir

Viking Legend

CLASS: Legend Tons 4k Built 2009 Cabins 97

Viking Lofn

Viking Magni

Viking Mandalay

CLASS: Mandalay Tons 1k Built 2002 Cabins 30

Viking Mani

Viking Mekong

CLASS: Mekong Tons 1k Built 2012 Cabins 28

Viking Mimir

Viking Modi

Viking Njord

Viking Odin

Viking Prestige

CLASS: Legend Tons 4k Built 2011 Cabins 97

Viking Pride

Viking Rinda

Viking River Neptune

Viking River Sun

CLASS: Sun Tons 4k Built 2005 Cabins 99

Viking Rurik

CLASS: Rurik Tons 4k Built 1990 Cabins 98

Viking Schumann

Viking Sineus

Viking Skadi

Viking Spirit

Viking Torgil

Viking Truvor

Viking Vidar

Viking Vili

About Viking River Cruises

When it comes to river cruising, Viking River Cruises is the world leader. From Europe to Russia and Ukraine, from Asia to Egypt, we offer cruises that allow you to fully experience the wonders each region has to offer. Discover the Far East with a fascinating cruisetour along the Yangtze River, Mekong River or Irrawaddy River. Take in the European countryside along the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Elbe or Douro. Our river cruises are a great way to explore new places or see a new side of a familiar destination. And a river cruise offers unrivaled convenience - unpack once in your deluxe stateroom, relax and enjoy everything the journey has to offer. All-inclusive pricing, comfortable deluxe accommodations, intimate ships, delicious cuisine, daily guided shore excursions and exemplary service all add up to an unforgettable vacation.

Stateroom Capacity Trend Chart

Watch growth and decline rates. Rapid growth may lead to quality and service issues.

The following is a listing of some of the features that Viking River Cruises offers.

CRUISEDECKPLANS.COM Use the input buttons above to go to the main page for a Cruise Ship or Cruise Line.

Viking Cruises Ships by Size, Age and Class (2022)

Viking Cruises has an active fleet of eight ships currently with ten further ships on order ( Viking Polaris , Viking Neptune and Viking Mars due in 2022, Viking Saturn due in 2023 and six further Ocean-class ships which are unnamed at present).

In this guide, we will cover all the different ships in the Viking Cruises fleet and how they compare to each other.

Introduction to Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises is actually one of the subsidiaries of the recently (2020) renamed Viking corporation. The company consists of Viking Ocean Cruises, Viking River Cruises and Viking Expedition Cruises.

Viking Cruises was founded in 1997 by Torstein Hagen (a Norwegian billionaire) in St. Petersburg, Russia with the launch of four Russian river cruise ships offering luxury river cruises in Russia. They are now headquartered in Basel, Switzerland (for operations) but have a marketing team and offices in North America.

It wasn’t until 2013 that the company launched Ocean-going cruise ships and today they have a fleet of six ocean-going ships and two expedition ships (as well as the largest fleet of river ships in the world, totalling 76 ships).

The first ocean-going Viking ship was Viking Star which took its maiden voyage in 2015.

Each of the Viking Ocean Cruises ships is identical in size, capacity and design. Viking Ocean ships have a distinct feature over many other cruise ships – they have no inside cabins, each one instead has a private balcony!

One notable exception to the fleet is Viking Sun , which has actually been renamed Zhao Shang Yi Dun and sails under a Chinese flag exclusively for the Chinese market under a joint partnership between Viking Cruises and China Merchants Shekou Cruises .

Viking Cruises Ships Frequently Asked Questions

Which is viking cruises newest ship.

Viking Octantis is the latest Viking Expedition ship and Viking Venus is the latest Viking Ocean ship.

Which is Viking Cruises biggest ship?

All of the Viking Ocean ships are the same size. But they are all bigger than the Viking Expedition ships.

Which is Viking Cruises smallest ship?

All of the Viking Ocean ships are the same size. However, the Viking Expedition ships are smaller at 30,150 GRT and carry only 378 passengers each.

What is Viking Cruises oldest ship?

Viking Star is the oldest ship in the Viking Ocean Cruises fleet. Her maiden voyage was in 2015.

Who owns Viking Cruises?

Viking Cruises is a privately owned company founded by the Norwegian Billionaire, Torstein Hagen .

Are Viking Cruises ships all the same?

All of the Ocean-class ships are identical. The two Expedition-class ships are also identical to each other.

Are Viking Ocean Cruises and Viking River Cruises the same?

Yes. In 2020 Viking Cruises was renamed to just ‘Viking’ and now have Viking Ocean Cruises, Viking River Cruises and Viking Expedition Cruises as their three main brands.

How many passengers are on a Viking Ocean Cruise?

All Viking Ocean cruise ships have a maximum capacity of 930 passengers.

Did Viking Sky sink?

No. In March 2019 Viking Sky became stranded off the coast of Norway. 460 of the passengers were rescued by helicopter, with the rest of the passengers staying on board until the ship reached Molde safely. No one was injured and the ship was repaired.

What caused the engine failure on Viking Sky?

The ship’s engines suffered an automatic shut down due to the loss of oil pressure. Due to the bad weather, the ship rolled quite significantly (though well within operational limits) and various fixtures and fittings were broken. As a safety precaution, just under half the passengers were evacuated before the ship managed to restart one engine and sail under its own power to the Port of Molde, Norway.

Where is Viking Sun?

Viking Sun was renamed Zhao Shang Yi Dun and sails exclusively in the Chinese market via a joint partnership with China Merchants Shekou Cruises.

Viking Cruises Ships by Size (from largest to smallest)

What does ‘tonnage (grt)’ mean.

GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) is a term used to calculate the volume inside a ship. It is a measure of cubic capacity and is calculated by the total volume from inside the hull and decks of the ship. 1 GRT = 100 cubic feet of space. In essence, the bigger the GRT – the more ‘space’ the ship has for passengers, cargo, etc.

How are ‘Passengers (Max)’ calculated?

You’ll see multiple numbers for passengers on ships – this is because many ships include extra beds in cabins (such as the sofa/couch can convert to a pull-out bed) – but the majority of cabins usually have 2 people in them. the ‘Max’ number is if every cabin used their additional pull-out bed, etc. This number is unlikely to be reached very frequently.

Viking Cruises Ships by Age (from newest to oldest)

Are all of viking cruises ships new builds.

Yes. All of the Viking Ocean Cruise ships are purpose-built for Viking. The current and future ships are all built by Fincantieri in Maghera, Italy.

Viking Cruises Ships by Class (from newest to oldest)

What is the difference between the ocean-class ships.

There is no physical difference between the Ocean-class ships, they are all the same size, design and capacity. They do differ in various artwork through each ship.

Each of the Viking Ocean ships is rated Ice Class 1C which is the lowest rating for ships – this is about 0.4m of ice in the Baltic regions.

What is the difference between the Ocean-class and the Expedition-class ships?

The Viking Expedition ships are purpose-built expedition ships to sail in Antarctica and the Great Lakes where the ship not only carries fare-paying passengers but also conducts scientific research throughout the voyage too.

The two ships ( Viking Octantis now sailing and Viking Polaris due in late 2022) are both rated Polar Class 6 which allows them to operate through ice in Summer/Autumn and medium first-year ice.

Both ships have a passenger capacity of just 378 passengers and carry numerous extra technical pieces of equipment, including two submarines, a first for a cruise ship.

Final Thoughts

Viking has come a long way since it was founded back in 1997. From redefining River Cruises, they swiftly moved on to redefine Ocean Cruising with their matching ships and child-free policies and now are moving into the smaller, but fast-growing market of expedition cruising.

Whichever ocean ship you choose, you will feel at home with Viking’s nod to all things Norwegian and exploring – you’ll enjoy the same facilities and layout on each ship too, which makes cruising with them a dream – just pick your region and enjoy your voyage!

If you enjoyed this article you may like our other articles that compare  MSC Cruises ,  Royal Caribbean ,  Holland America Line  and Celebrity Cruises ships .

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Viking River Cruises Fleet

The small ship experts

Viking takes you closer to your destination, docking right in the heart of the most fascinating cities…

Immerse yourself in new cultures…

…on board our award-winning river cruises. With sleek Scandinavian design features and all the comforts of a luxe hotel, our ships are built to gently carry you into some of the most incredible cities in the world. You will arrive rested, relaxed and ready to explore.

Travel with ease

Unpack your bags just the once, then settle in and witness the ever-changing landscapes and breathtaking scenery surrounding you. Discover the highlights of the world’s most spectacular rivers — from the Rhine to the Mekong — all right outside your stateroom door.

Thoughtfully designed ships to enhance your journey

Our award-winning Viking Longships have set the new standard in river cruising, providing the most spacious suites on Europe’s rivers — including staterooms with full-size verandas. The streamlined Scandinavian design features and floor-to-ceiling windows create elegant, inviting interiors bathed in natural light. If you’re still craving more of the great outdoors, you can head up to the expansive sun deck or dine al fresco on our Aquavit Terrace.

Because we own and operate our ships, no detail escapes our attention — that’s the Viking difference. We became the number one river cruise line in the world by always putting the needs of our valued guests first, and we will stop at nothing to maintain our high standards. Join us on board and discover why our guests choose to return to our river cruises again and again…

"Viking takes you closer to your destination, docking right in the heart of the most fascinating cities…"

Viking longships.

GUESTS: 190, DECKS: 4, STATEROOMS: 95

VIKING EGYPT SHIPS

GUESTS: 82, DECKS: 5, STATEROOMS: 41

VIKING MISSISSIPPI

Viking saigon.

GUESTS: 80, DECKS: 3, STATEROOMS: 40

"Our state-of-the-art Viking Longships offer guests unprecedented levels of comfort..."

Viking is proud to boast the world’s largest fleet of river ships with over 70 vessels sailing the great rivers of the world. From our award-winning Longships in Europe to our custom built vessels that sail the Mekong, Nile and Mississippi our ships are prized for their artfully designed, timeless interiors.

For the purpose of this section, we have focused on our fleet of Viking Longships. For other vessels, please visit our website to see the full details.

Viking Longships

Our state-of-the-art Viking Longships offer guests unprecedented levels of comfort, including full-size verandas and the largest suites on the rivers of Europe. Whichever category you choose, your hotel-style bed topped with European linens and duvets provides the perfect place to turn in after a full day exploring Europe’s great towns and cities. You’ll also feel pampered by bathrooms equipped with heated floors and premium Freyja™ bath products.

Explorer Suite

At 41.3 square metres, our Explorer Suites feature a separate living room with a generously sized sitting area, desk and access to a wraparound veranda with spectacular 270-degree views. A private bedroom with a French balcony gives you space to relax and take in the sweeping vistas of your destination. The Explorer Suites are our largest staterooms on board.

Veranda Suite

At 25.5 square metres, our Veranda Suites feature a private bedroom with a balcony so you can relax in comfort. The spacious bathroom is complete with anti-fog mirrors, and the adjacent separate living room offers a generously sized sitting area as well as a small desk. The fullsize veranda right outside the glass door provides fantastic views of the ever-changing scenery.

Veranda Stateroom

At 19 square metres, our Veranda Staterooms feature ample storage space, a 40” flat-panel TV, a spacious bathroom, as well as a floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door that opens onto a full-size veranda.

French Balcony Stateroom

At 12.5 square metres, our French Balcony Staterooms are comfortable, airy and designed with an understated elegance in mind. Featuring ample storage space, a 40” flat-panel TV and a spacious bathroom, these staterooms also include a floor-to-ceiling glass door that opens to a railing.

Standard Stateroom

At 13.9 square metres, our Standard Staterooms offer all the comforts and conveniences for an enjoyable journey. They feature ample storage space, a 40” flat-panel TV and a spacious bathroom.

"Destination-focused dining. Every meal is bursting with fresh, local flavours..."

Viking River Cruise

There is no better time or place to tantalise your tastebuds than when you’re travelling, which is why our talented chefs are dedicated to creating unique dishes that reflect the destinations you are visiting, as well as some timeless classics.

Locally Sourced Ingredients

Provençal lemons, Hungarian paprika, artisanal cheese from Lyon and freshly picked dill from our onboard herb garden — these are just some of the tasty elements that inspire our chefs to create a range of authentic dishes. Of course, these creations are best paired with a glass of wine from the local region.

Everyday Luxury

On a Viking river cruise, every meal is a special occasion. Feel the weight and texture of our quality linen tablecloths and napkins, and delight in the sparkling glassware and fresh flowers adorning your table. Villeroy & Boch, Iittala and Marimekko tableware complement the Viking dining experience perfectly, as will the wonderful company of your fellow travellers.

Regional Cuisines

Our signature “Taste of…” events introduce you to the flavours of the local region. For example, the “Taste of Germany” event features pretzels and sweet mustard, bratwurst and Kölsch beer. These occasions also provide the perfect opportunity for you to mingle with the other guests on board.

Impeccable Service From Morning To Night

Enjoy our attentive world-class table service in the chic Restaurant as you sail into your next port. Start your morning with à la carte breakfast, enjoy a warming soup and a light salad at lunchtime, then settle in for a multi-course fine dining experience in the evening.

"Onboard Enrichment. Bringing history and culture to life"

World-class guest lecturers.

From authors and archaeologists to former diplomats and news correspondents, these experts will shed light on your destination’s art, music, architecture, geopolitics and more.

Destination Performances

Each Viking itinerary includes one or more destination performances representing an iconic art form from that region — whether it is Portuguese fado music, Viennese opera or a ballet recital at St. Petersburg’s famous Mariinsky Theatre.

Cooking Demonstrations

Take the flavours of your favourite destinations home with you. Our cooking demonstrations will show you how to recreate a variety of regional treats and beverages — from a traditional Austrian apple strudel to a delicious German Rüdesheim coffee.

Informative multimedia presentations covering the must-see landmarks, history and culture of your next destination will have you feeling prepared and ready to start exploring.

Wine Tastings

Let us introduce your palate to a wide selection of sensational regional wines, as well as some vintages crafted by our own Viking vintner.

Craft Demonstrations

Learn about the time-honoured traditions of local artisans, from glassblowing and lace making to silkscreen printing and wooden shoe making.

Classical & Regional Musicians

From local ensembles to acclaimed choirs, we invite a wide range of talented musicians on board our ships to perform for you. Let these sounds lift your spirits and soothe your soul.

"The Thinking Person’s Cruise. Created for curious, discerning travellers — just like you"

To Travel Means To Discover, Learn And Grow. At Viking, we believe travel should be more than just a trip — it should be a doorway to cultural insight and personal enrichment. That’s why our cruise itineraries are designed to help you explore and engage with your destination through its food, traditions, cultures and customs. Before you travel, we provide you with everything you need to prepare for your journey — from filmographies that inspire wanderlust, to informative and enlightening reading materials. Ashore , you might accompany your ship’s chef to a local produce market, step behind the scenes at a famous theatre company, tour a glassblower’s workshop, or view private collections and hidden vaults inside a world-class museum — the possibilities are endless. Onboard activities are also designed for the thinking traveller who is eager to learn. Viking offers informative lectures on history and art, as well as cooking demonstrations, musical performances and restaurant menus inspired by local cuisines. We take every opportunity to bring your destination to life. Connect with like-minded travellers on board our ships. Each space has been designed to put you in touch with your surroundings and create a relaxed atmosphere where you can mingle with your fellow guests. By the end of your journey, our hope is that you will feel infinitely more connected — both to your destinations and to your newfound friends.

Viking River Cruises Itineraries

With Viking, you will sail into the heart of the greatest cities and charming towns, so you can explore up close.

Viking River Cruises Shore Excursions

Viking provides a complimentary shore excursion filled with cultural and historical highlights.

Why Book with Viking River Cruises

We include more in your fare than other cruise lines including all meals, shore excursions, and more.

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Viking River Cruises Profile

Sail the Rivers of the World

Linda Garrison

Viking Cruises is a cruise line which offers both river and ocean cruises. Based in Basel, Switzerland, the Viking River Cruises signature longships offer river cruises ranging from 8 to 23 days, sailing the rivers of Europe as well as Russia’s Volga, Neva and Svir Rivers, Ukraine’s Dnieper, Egypt’s Nile, China’s Yangtze, and Viet Nam's Mekong.

Viking River Cruises Lifestyle

Viking brings a relaxed way of touring Europe, Russia, Egypt, China , and Southeast Asia on its river vessels and tours. Almost all shore excursions are included in the fare, and the pace of river cruising is less hectic than on a mega-liner. The scenic rivers flow through quiet towns and major capitals, and Viking allows passengers to see them all without having to pack and repack like you have to do when touring via bus or car. Since the focus is on the river and the ports of call, onboard activities are minimal. Although some of the cruises travel through more than one country, most provide a more in-depth visit to only one country such as the cruises in Russia, China, Egypt, and Portugal.

Viking River Cruises Ships

Viking River Cruises has rapidly grown its fleet of river ships over the past few years—as of July 2018, Viking operates a fleet of 62 river vessels and 6 ocean ships. Its Longships are the company's most prevalent style of vessel. This fleet sails the rivers of Europe, Russia, and China—in Europe, the Rhine, Main, Moselle, Danube, Douro, Elbe, Seine,  Garonne, Dordogne, Gironde and Rhône; in Russia the Volga; in Egypt the Nile; in China the Yangtze; and the Mekong and Irrawaddy of Southeast Asia.

These river ships average in size from less than 75 guests on the Southeast Asia river ships to over 250 on the Yangtze River ship, the Viking Emerald. Most of the European river ships carry about 150–200 guests. The European cruises are the most popular, with most tours running between March and December. The November and December European cruises are especially popular because they visit some of the world's best Christmas markets.

Viking River Cruises has plans to sail the Mississippi River in the US by 2027, with ships sailing itineraries from New Orleans.

Passenger Profile

Although there is a mix of ages on the Viking River ships, most passengers are 60 plus, and many are retired, especially those favoring the longer voyages. Although Viking markets its ships to different countries, English is the primary onboard language and off-ship tour guides are also English-speaking. Viking passengers enjoy exploring small villages or historic sites. Viking's small river ships are not suitable for children or those who need to be constantly entertained.

Accommodations and Cabins

All Viking ships have outside cabins with large windows, French balconies, or full verandas. Cabin size and layout vary by ship, but all have amenities like hair dryers and adequate storage space. Voltage is both 220 and 110, so an adapter may be needed for recharging some batteries or using a curling iron. Cabins have a TV with news and documentary channels and movies.

Cuisine and Dining

All Viking ships have open seating, with tables set for 4 to 8 passengers. Breakfast and lunch include a buffet and/or menu dining, and dinner always includes at least two choices of appetizers, soups, entrees, and desserts. In addition to the menu items, broiled chicken breast, steak, or a Caesar salad are always available at dinner.

Menus are set fleet-wide each month, so all ships sailing the same destinations are serving basically the same foods. On the cruises in China and Southeast Asia, local cuisine is served along with a full Western-style menu. Complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks are included with both lunch and dinner service on most itineraries.

Onboard Activities and Entertainment

Onboard activities and entertainment on the Viking ships are limited to local talent in the evening, reading, playing games and cards, or just sitting in the observation lounge and watching the river scenery slide by. Local glassblowers, musicians, singers, and even wooden shoe makers come onboard the ship to demonstrate their talents and crafts and enhance travelers' knowledge of the local culture. When the ship is cruising in the daytime, most passengers can be found in the observation lounge or on the outdoor decks enjoying the sights.

Ship Common Areas

The Viking European river ships all have two main indoor common areas—the windowed dining room and an observation lounge and bar. Some ships also have a library and small sunroom/bar in the aft of the ship. The Longships have the Aquavit Terrace, a contemporary indoor/outdoor dining area forward of the Observation Lounge. When the weather is good, the top sun deck has plenty of comfortable seating.

Viking river ships sailing elsewhere in the world have a different layout with more interior common space.

Spa, Gym, and Fitness

The Viking European river ships do not have a spa, gym, or fitness area. Most passengers take long walks when the ship is docked to get their exercise. However, the Yangtze River ship has a small spa and fitness area.

European river cruising has come into its own the last 20 years. Many inland countries in Europe are now accessible to cruise lovers, and you can sail from Amsterdam all the way to the Black Sea with Viking River Cruises. While tips are not included in the fare, Viking offers outstanding quality for the cost, especially when you consider that almost all shore excursions are included.

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Viking: the river fleet expands with eight new ships

Viking welcomed eight new river ships into its award-winning fleet during a celebration in Paris.

Of the eight new Viking longships , four ships, the Viking Fjorgyn , the Viking Kari , the Viking Radgrid and the Viking Skaga , were built specifically to sail along the Seine and take guests to the heart of Paris with an exclusive docking location at Port de Grenelle, a few steps from the Eiffel Tower. The other four ships, the Viking Egdir , the Viking Gersemi , the Viking Gymir and the Viking Hervor , will sail the famous Viking routes on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.

Viking River Cruises

The event comes as Viking continues to celebrate its 25th anniversary and a year of major events, in fact in January 2022, the company launched Viking Expeditions and its first polar-class ship, the Viking Octantis . By the end of the year, Viking will also have welcomed a second expedition ship, as well as two new ocean-going vessels, new purpose-built ships for the Nile and Mekong Rivers, and new voyages on the Mississippi River.

“As we celebrate 25 years of sailing the world’s iconic waterways, it is always an exciting day when we welcome new ships to our fleet and offer more opportunities for curious travelers to explore the world in comfort,” he said. Torstein Hagen, president of Viking . “Today we are particularly pleased to honor eight talented and established individuals as godmothers of our new river vessels and look forward to another season of European river travel.”

In keeping with the maritime tradition dating back thousands of years, Viking has invited eight distinguished cultural partners and members of the company’s extended family to serve as ceremonial godmothers of the new ships. The naming event was carried out by connecting the new ships via satellite through two European cities: Paris and Amsterdam, and in keeping with another maritime tradition, a bottle of Gammel Opland brandy was broken in the bow of each new ship.

Building on Viking ‘s offering in Paris and the four new ships sailing along the Seine, the company also announced a new post-voyage extension entitled Paris: A Culinary Experience , which will explore the cuisine of the French capital. Available starting in 2023 for guests sailing on the 8-day “Paris and the Heart of Normandy” itinerary, the new extension allows guests to immerse themselves in the culinary history of Paris and sample the gastronomic delights the city has to offer.

In addition, Viking has announced a new itinerary, the 8 days of “Christmas on the Seine” , departing from Paris, which will be available during the holiday season starting in 2022. Guests will cruise through the snow-capped Normandy countryside enjoying the festive Christmas markets. Christmas and special themed parties on board.

Don’t miss more Viking updates, news, tips and reviews on Cruising Journal with photos, videos and cruises on offer!

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Discover Our Ships

Viking River Cruises boasts the most extensive fleet of river cruises vessels, and we are proud to offer you the best ships in each region where we travel. Viking ships are specially designed to navigate the world’s great rivers and provide convenient daily access to a plethora of destinations and experiences. Enjoy all the comfort and elegance of river cruising: attentive and professional staff, delicious onboard meals and spectacular scenery from every stateroom and public area.

Find out more about award-winning Viking Longships

Explore Ship Classes: Start with Our Award-Winning Longships

You’re about to discover the most convenient way to see the world. On a Viking ship, you will sail into the heart of your destination, so you can explore up close and in depth.

Our innovative, award-winning Viking Longships have set the standard in river cruising: our intimate vessels have all the amenities of a fine hotel, providing the ideal opportunity to comfortably be transported each day to and from your next destination—where enriching discoveries are usually just a short walk from your ship.

Throughout our decades of sailing the world’s great rivers, Viking has repeatedly reinvented the European river cruise vessel. By continuously building upon our tradition of innovation, we have set industry standard and delighted our guests. Meander along Europe’s great waterways, gliding past magnificent vistas and pausing to explore riverside ports.

Float along the life-giving Nile River on the new, all-suite Viking Ra , enjoying comfort and style that ancient pharaohs could only have dreamed of, and witness the monuments of ancient civilizations that once flourished on the river’s banks. You also spend time in some of the best hotels in Cairo on each of our Egypt cruisetours.

This new, state-of-the-art vessel was inspired by our award-winning Viking Longships ® and features the clean Scandinavian design for which Viking is known, as well as public spaces that are familiar to our river and ocean cruise guests but have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages.

Designed to navigate the Mekong River, hosting just 80 guests, Viking Saigon offers understated elegance and has been built to reflect the clean, Scandinavian design principles for which Viking is known. Explore one of the world’s most scenic regions in comfort with outdoor verandas, hotel-style beds and public areas bathed in light, offering panoramic views of your surroundings.

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Viking boasts a fleet of small, all-veranda, modern ocean ships. Each sister ship is engineered at a scale that allows direct access into most ports. Classified by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” the fleet features understated elegance and Scandinavian design.

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Viking Jupiter Float Out

May 10, 2018. The 930-guest Viking Jupiter —the sixth Viking ocean ship—touches water for the first time during its “Float Out” in Ancona, Italy. Join Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen and Norwegian soprano Sissel Kyrkjebø, the ship’s godmother, as they celebrate this major construction milestone.

Viking Jupiter Naming Ceremony

January 15, 2020. Amid a festive celebration that paid tribute to the spirit of exploration, our sixth ocean vessel was officially named in Los Angeles, California. The ship’s godmother, world-renowned Norwegian soprano and crossover singer Sissel, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for Viking Jupiter —a naval tradition that dates back thousands of years.

Viking Orion Naming Ceremony

June 14, 2018. Amid a spectacular celebration that paid tribute to the spirit of exploration, our fifth ocean vessel was officially named in Livorno, Italy. The ship’s godmother, retired NASA astronaut Dr. Anna Fisher offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for Viking Orion —a naval tradition that dates back thousands of years.

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The Best Mississippi River Cruises to Discover America's Heartland

By Jackie Sheckler Finch

The luxury ships and historic tours are nice, yes. But the real star of Mississippi River cruises has always been the river. There’s nothing quite so Americana as getting to know the many personalities of this 2,350-mile stretch, flowing from northern Minnesota’s Lake Itasca through 10 states until it reaches Louisiana , where the Mississippi River Delta gives way to the Gulf of Mexico.

The slow, meandering journeys of Mississippi River cruises have long proven an ideal way to discover the distinct stories of America’s heartland. In the words of Mark Twain (which no Mississippi River story would be complete without), the towns and cities located on the mighty river's shores are “cheering to the spirit” and “reposeful as a dreamland,” with “nothing to hang a fret or a worry upon.”

The challenge modern travelers now face is when, where, and how to go about this iconic American voyage . Below, see our answers to these frequently asked questions, plus our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024.

Which cruise lines do Mississippi River cruises?

After American Queen Voyages shut down in February, only two Mississippi River cruise lines currently remain in operation.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, American Cruise Lines (ACL) has a fleet of more than 20 American-built ships sailing across the country and remains family-owned and American-crewed. ACL offers a Mississippi River fleet of three luxurious 180-passenger modern riverboats– American Melody , American Symphony , and American Serenade —plus two classic paddlewheel ships, the 180-passenger American Splendor and the 150-passenger American Heritage.

The new kid on the Mississippi is the Viking Mississippi, a 386-passenger, five-deck vessel that first set sail in September 2022. The cutting-edge cruise is Viking’s first foray in the US, adding to their fleet of more than 90 ocean, river, and expedition vessels navigating the world’s seven continents.

What is the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise?

For an 8- or 9-day cruise, the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise is around $4,000 per person in a stateroom. Although prices might seem high initially, many of these cruises include extras that aren’t always complimentary on ocean cruises such as free WiFi, at least one free shore excursion in every port, paid port taxes and fees, and a pre-cruise hotel stay. Viking offers complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner. Meanwhile, American Cruise Lines offers complimentary beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks. Gratuities are also included in American Cruise Lines fares.

What is the best time of year to go on a river cruise?

Spring (late March through mid-June) and autumn (September through November) are the best times of year to go on a river cruise in the US. Spring blossoms add a colorful touch to the shoreline, and you can never go wrong with autumn foliage. The temperatures are mild, if not pleasantly cool, and passengers are eager to welcome a new spring travel season—or to enjoy one last autumn river adventure before winter arrives.

What month is best for a Mississippi River cruise?

If we had to pick just one, September is the best month for a Mississippi River cruise. The weather is usually mild with less likelihood of rain, and autumn colors are beginning to paint the shoreline. Keep in mind, however, that the Mississippi is the fourth largest river in the world—so temperatures any time of year are not going to be the same in warmer Louisiana as they are in cooler Minnesota.

Below, see our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024, featuring stops in iconic American cities like Nashville , Memphis , and New Orleans .

22-day Mississippi River Odyssey: New Orleans to Red Wing, Minnesota

Enjoy the charms of America’s great river on a journey aboard the Viking Mississippi from New Orleans to Red Wing, departing September 20. Custom built to sail American waters, the vessel features river-facing staterooms with either French or step-out balconies.

Stops include Baton Rouge and St. Francisville in Louisiana; Natchez, Vicksburg, Greenville, and Rosedale in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; Paducah in Kentucky; Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, and Hannibal in Missouri; Burlington, Quad Cities, and Dubuque in Iowa; La Crosse in Wisconsin; and ending in Red Wing, Minnesota.

With so many fascinating shore excursions to choose from, it’s well worth taking time to tour the St. Louis Arch . Opened in 1965, the monument to America’s westward expansion is far more than just a stunning photo by the riverside. Venture underground between the arch legs for a museum. Climb aboard a tram to be transported 630 feet up to the top of America’s tallest monument for some stunning views.

12-day Heart of the Delta: Memphis to New Orleans

The 386-guest Viking Mississippi spans five decks, making it one of the largest passenger vessels on the Mississippi. Inaugurated in 2022, the ship features a modern Scandinavian design with an infinity pool and a two-story Explorers’ Lounge observation area similar to its ocean ships. Directly in front of the Explorer’s Lounge is an expanded outdoor seating area known as The Bow. Three restaurants serve both Southern regional cuisine and international favorites.

The cruise starts in Memphis on November 14 and includes stops in Rosedale, Greenville, Vicksburg, and Natchez in Mississippi as well as St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Darrow in Louisiana, ending in New Orleans. The “Mississippi Sings the Blues” shore excursion visits iconic sites along the Mississippi Blues Trail such as historic Dockery Farms, considered the “birthplace of the blues.”

The tour stops in Clarksdale, the fabled “Crossroads” where legend says blues great Robert Johnson reputedly sold his soul to the devil in exchange for his guitar prowess. Stops at the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi and the Delta Blues Museum completes this perfect trip for music lovers.

9-day Music Cities Cruise: Nashville to Memphis

Music is the main focus of this cruise offered by American Cruise Lines, which begins in Nashville on July 9 with an unforgettable visit to the legendary Grand Ole Opry and ends in Memphis, where passengers will enjoy live music on Beale Street and a tour of Elvis Presley’s Graceland . On board the American Splendor, passengers will enjoy spacious cabins and popular rocking chairs. First inaugurated in 2016 and fully redecorated in 2022, this ship offers the nostalgia of a classic paddlewheeler along with the comfort of modern amenities.

While in Nashville, explore the Johnny Cash Museum, then walk upstairs to The Patsy Cline Museum. Nightly entertainment spotlights the musical heritage of this region as the world’s newest paddlewheeler journeys along the river. The itinerary also includes Clarksville and Dover in Tennessee plus Paducah in Kentucky. In Paducah, stroll along the riverfront with more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting Paducah’s past. Stop by Paducah’s National Quilt Museum, the world’s largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.

23-day Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Sail 1,393 miles through 10 states on a comprehensive exploration of the mighty Mississippi on the new American Serenade . Inaugurated in 2023, the 91-cabin American Serenade won Best New River Cruise Ship of the Year 2023 by Cruise Critic , the first time an American ship has received this prestigious award.

“With extra-large all-balcony staterooms and suites, trendy interior décor, an innovative hydraulic bow and retractable ramp, and one of the most gorgeous sun decks we’ve seen on a river-going ship, American Serenade sets the bar for domestic US river cruising high,” the award notes.

The epic itinerary beginning July 18, 2024 includes 22 ports of call including Oak Alley, Houmas House, Baton Rouge, and St. Francisville in Louisiana; Natchez, Vicksburg, Greenville, and Tunica in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, and Hannibal in Missouri; Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa; and Winona, Red Wing, and Saint Paul in Minnesota.

Arati Menon

Hannah Towey

Maya Silver

12-day Mississippi River Gateway Cruise: New Orleans to St. Louis

From the French Quarter in New Orleans to the towering Gateway Arch in St. Louis , this American Heritage cruise lives up to its name. Inaugurated in 2015 and totally redecorated in 2022, the 84-cabin American Heritage is the perfect vessel for this interesting itinerary, its design reminiscent of the days when steamboat paddlewheelers plied the Mississippi in the 1800s.

The 12-day voyage departs from New Orleans on July 2. Ports of call along the way include Baton Rouge in Louisiana; Natchez and Vicksburg in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; and Paducah in Kentucky . An onboard expert shares tales of the importance of steam-driven paddlewheels in establishing riverfront communities along the great Mississippi River.

Step ashore in Natchez and enjoy a cold drink at the Under-the-Hill-Saloon, once one of the rowdiest establishments on the Mississippi River in the 1800s. Legend says that Mark Twain stopped here when he was just another riverman named Samuel Clemens.

9-day Lower Mississippi River Cruise: Memphis to New Orleans

This nine-day American Melody cruise departs Memphis on September 8 and features eight ports of call including Vicksburg and Natchez in Mississippi, and St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Houmas House in Louisiana. At Vicksburg Military Park, learn how the 101st Airborne Division got its “Screaming Eagles” nickname, plus the tale of its famous soldier, a young guitar player named Jimi Hendrix. At Houmas House, see the bedroom where Bette Davis stayed to film the 1964 movie Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte . Joan Crawford was the intended co-star but Bette and Joan feuded so Joan quit and Olivia de Havilland replaced her.

Launched in 2021, the five-deck American Melody has 91 staterooms, all with private balconies and full-length sliding glass doors. The ship has several spacious lounges, a fitness center, large dining room, café for casual dining, sun deck, library, and an impressive four-story glass atrium in the center of the ship. The ship’s unusual bow opens and lowers a platform for passengers to easily walk ashore.

9-day Upper Mississippi River Cruise: St. Louis to St. Paul

Board the American Symphony cruise ship to visit Mark Twain’s hometown and experience the real-life inspiration behind Life on the Mississippi, the classic memoir chronicling the author's days on the river as a steamboat pilot.

The 91-cabin American Symphony, recently inaugurated in 2022, has 100% private balcony accommodations and a unique bow that opens with a retractable gangway that can be extended for landings virtually anywhere. The ship also features lounges soaring 40 feet above the water with triple the glass of other riverboats for spectacular views. Comfy deck chairs welcome passengers to enjoy the undeveloped countryside, picturesque islands, and fascinating dams and navigation locks.

Departing September 27, this itinerary features seven ports of call including Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa, and Winona and Red Wing in Minnesota. In Hannibal, visit the actual home—with a whitewashed Tom Sawyer fence—where Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) grew up. In Dubuque, see the 1989 “Field of Dreams” movie site known for the famous quote, “If you build it, they will come.”

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Viking is Expanding World’s Biggest River Fleet with 10 New Vessels!

All we can say is “wow”! Viking just announced that it’s building 10 more Viking Longships. The river line already operates 80 river vessels globally. That’s the world’s largest river fleet for any cruise line.

So, what’s up with the massive order? Simply put, Viking reports soaring consumer demand for its vacations on European rivers. Still, an order for 10 river vessels is a pretty big one. 

Key factors in that decision? Viking says it already has 50 percent of U.S. marketshare for river cruising. Certainly, many of The Meandering Traveler’s readers have taken one or more Viking cruises. We know that many of you love the brand and are already planning your 2024 or 2025 Viking cruise now.

That factor, plus many new Viking guests sailing for the first time have led the line to decide that more ships will absolutely be needed in future years.

(Photo above shows one of the most beloved spots on all Viking Longships — the Aquavit Terrace, delivering casual dining with great views. Photo by Viking.)

Expanded River Fleet: Where and When?

So, to meet the growing demand for European river voyages, Viking says that it will position eight of the new Viking Longships on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. They will sail the line’s most popular itineraries, providing more “space” for more travelers to enjoy those.

In fact, Viking will go year-round on the Rhine starting this month, giving travelers more departure dates throughout the year.

The other two new river vessels will join the line’s fleet on the Seine River. That total order of 10 does include one Viking Longship for the Seine River that was announced earlier in 2023.

In terms of delivery time frame, Viking says five of the new vessels will be delivered in 2025. The remaining five will begin river cruising in 2026.

Exploring the World in Comfort

To officially mark the start of construction on all 10 ships, a keel laying ceremony — a maritime tradition — was held this week at Neptun Werft . That’s a shipyard in Rostock, Germany, that’s certainly highly experienced in building Viking Longships. In fact, all Longships have been built there since the series debuted in 2012.

“Ever since we started Viking 26 years ago, our mission has been to help our guests explore the world in comfort. We focus on the destination, and we build elegant, innovative ships,” says Torstein Hagen , chairman of Viking. “We look forward to welcoming these new Longships to our European fleet and introducing ‘The Viking Way’ of exploration to even more guests in the coming years.”

Expanded River Fleet: What’s a Longship? 

Offering Viking’s signature Scandinavian design, the Viking Longships each host 190 or fewer guests. Did you know that they comprise the vast majority of the world’s river fleet? So, if you like sailing on a Longship, you’ll find plenty of options.

“Accommodations-wise, guests can choose from a variety of staterooms, all with an outside view,” says Shelby Steudle, president, Pavlus Travel . As top sellers of Viking’s ocean, river and expedition cruises, Pavlus’ personal travel planners are skilled at assisting clients thinking of a Viking cruise.

Seeking the ship’s “top digs”? “Then be sure to check out the spacious Explorer Suites with a wraparound private balcony,” adds Steudle. “You’ll have fantastic views from the forward terrace and through floor-to-ceiling windows. And since the walk-out balcony actually wraps around one side of the ship, you’ll get different views of the scenery outside.

Here’s a good video produced by Viking to show what an Explorer Suite is all about.

River Fleet Features: Longship Public Spaces

In terms of public spaces, the Viking Longships have wonderful dining, lounge and bar spaces. They also have a top deck walking track, so guests can get a bit of exercise while viewing magnificent riverbank scenery at the same time.

The praise we most hear from guests, though, focuses on the indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace.

Nestled at the ship’s bow, this casual outdoor space with tables and chairs is great for sightseeing and also for dining. Offering breakfast and lunch, it’s the ultimate in al fresco casual dining with close-up riverbank views.

Or, as one travel industry friend recently remarked, “Talk about destination immersion, this is it! The Aquavit Terrace puts me right  ‘into’ the destination in a simple, satisfying way.” We’d certainly agree in seeing guests dining on their Longship’s Aquavit Terrace (see photo below) in Budapest, Hungary.

Sustainability-wise, these new vessels also feature solar panels and a hybrid propulsion system with batteries. Plus, they’re equipped for shore power, so they can reduce their reliance on fuel while in port. 

What Else is New for Viking?

This week’s news from Viking about further expansion of its European river fleet was significant. But, alas, Viking has been busy on other river fronts too.

• In 2024, Viking will add to its Nile River fleet with Viking Hathor , and the following year welcome another Egypt vessel, Viking Sobek
• In Southeast Asia, Viking will launch the new Viking Tonle   on the Mekong River in 2025. 

In addition, Viking continues to build its robust ocean fleet too. Recently, Viking celebrated the “float out” of its newest ocean ship, Viking Vela . That 998-passenger vessel will debut this month.

New 2024 Ocean Itinerary

One of Viking Vela’s journeys — a new itinerary for Viking in 2024 — is the 16-day “ Malta, Morocco and the Mediterranean .” Sailing roundtrip from Barcelona, Spain, Viking Vela will visit seven countries.

Guests will stroll through Marseille, France, as well as visit Corsica, birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. During shore excursions to Seville and Granada, Spain, they’ll learn about Spanish flamenco dancing and Moorish architecture And they’ll go ashore in the North African cities of Algiers, Algeria; Tunis, Tunisia; and Casablanca, Morocco.

This new itinerary for Viking Vela is operated on three dates in November and December 2024. At press time, cruise fares started at $7,999 per person, double occupancy. Contact your personal travel planner to assist with finding the right departure, selecting accommodations, booking value-added contract air travel and more.

If you’re thinking about a Viking vacation, one fact is crystal clear. You’ll certainly have many new ships from which to choose in 2024, 2025 and 2026. From our perspective, Viking truly has honed an excellent shipbuilding formula over the years. The result is consistent high quality.

It’s a great time to plan a 2024 or 2025 vacation along a lazy river or the high seas.   And since Pavlus Travel is a top seller of Viking vacations, be sure to ask them about any special promotions, discounts or amenities available.

Important Notes from  Pavlus Travel

• If anything does tweak your interest in this blog and you DO have questions about specific pricing, brochures, savings, accommodations, accessible options and so on, please contact us at   800-528-9300.
• Or  visit us online at Pavlus Travel’s official agency Web site;  t here you can “live chat” with us online too!
• This blog site is designed for “basic, general information” about travel. It’s not staffed by travel advisors.
• Any price examples used in the above blog are subject to change. They also do not represent the full range of options; a travel advisor can assist with additional information.
• Please don’t use the Reply Section below if you are asking for pricing, travel dates, accommodations, brochures or other specific requests. Please use the 800 number or online link. 

Susan J. Young

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Viking Announces 10 New River Ships, Expanding Award-Winning Fleet

Posted on December 7, 2023 December 7, 2023 Author Chris Owen

Viking®, the world’s leading river cruise line, announced the upcoming addition of 10 new Viking Longships® to its fleet by the end of 2026! This exciting expansion marks a significant milestone for the company and reflects the growing demand for Viking’s exceptional river voyages.

The new vessels will be built at the renowned Neptun Werft shipyard in Rostock, Germany, where all Viking Longships have been crafted since their debut in 2012. This partnership ensures the highest standards of quality and innovation, continuing the legacy of Viking’s award-winning fleet.

Five of the new Longships will be delivered in 2025, with the remaining five arriving in 2026 . These beautiful vessels will sail popular itineraries on the Rhine, Main, Danube, and Seine rivers, offering even more opportunities for guests to experience the magic of Europe’s waterways.

Viking River Cruises is known for its commitment to unparalleled comfort, elegant design, and a focus on the destination. The new Longships will uphold these values, offering guests a truly immersive and unforgettable journey. Featuring a patented design, the vessels will boast spacious staterooms, the innovative Aquavit Terrace, and Viking’s signature Scandinavian design aesthetic. Additionally, the new Longships will be equipped with hybrid propulsion systems, solar panels, and shore power capabilities, demonstrating Viking’s dedication to environmental sustainability.

This exciting expansion comes on the heels of several other significant achievements for Viking. In 2023, the company was voted #1 for rivers, oceans, and expeditions by both Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure, solidifying its position as a leader in luxury travel. Viking also celebrated the launch of its newest ocean ship, the Viking Vela®, and announced the upcoming arrival of the Viking Tonle®, a new ship specifically designed for the Mekong River.

With the addition of these 10 new Longships, Viking will further strengthen its position as the premier river cruise line. This expansion demonstrates the company’s commitment to providing its guests with unparalleled experiences and exploring new destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first river cruise, Viking offers the perfect opportunity to discover the world in comfort and style.

• For more information about Viking River Cruises and its award-winning fleet, visit www.viking.com .
• Viking Returns to Antarctica for Third Season
• In High Demand: Viking Egypt
• Viking Names Newest Nile River Ship
• Viking Wins All The Awards That Matter
• Viking Plans 10 More Ocean Ships By 2030

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Viking River Cruises boasts the most extensive fleet of river cruises vessels, and we are proud to offer you the best ships in each region where we travel. Viking ships are specially designed to navigate the world’s great rivers and provide convenient daily access to a plethora of destinations and experiences. Enjoy all the comfort and elegance of river cruising: attentive and professional staff, delicious onboard meals and spectacular scenery from every stateroom and public area.

Find out more about award-winning Viking Longships

Explore Ship Classes: Start with Our Award-Winning Longships

You’re about to discover the most convenient way to see the world. On a Viking ship, you will sail into the heart of your destination, so you can explore up close and in depth.

Our innovative, award-winning Viking Longships have set the standard in river cruising: our intimate vessels have all the amenities of a fine hotel, providing the ideal opportunity to comfortably be transported each day to and from your next destination—where enriching discoveries are usually just a short walk from your ship.

Throughout our decades of sailing the world’s great rivers, Viking has repeatedly reinvented the European river cruise vessel. By continuously building upon our tradition of innovation, we have set industry standard and delighted our guests. Meander along Europe’s great waterways, gliding past magnificent vistas and pausing to explore riverside ports.

Float along the life-giving Nile River on the new, all-suite Viking Ra , enjoying comfort and style that ancient pharaohs could only have dreamed of, and witness the monuments of ancient civilizations that once flourished on the river’s banks. You also spend time in some of the best hotels in Cairo on each of our Egypt cruisetours.

This new, state-of-the-art vessel was inspired by our award-winning Viking Longships ® and features the clean Scandinavian design for which Viking is known, as well as public spaces that are familiar to our river and ocean cruise guests but have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages.

Designed to navigate the Mekong River, hosting just 80 guests, Viking Saigon offers understated elegance and has been built to reflect the clean, Scandinavian design principles for which Viking is known. Explore one of the world’s most scenic regions in comfort with outdoor verandas, hotel-style beds and public areas bathed in light, offering panoramic views of your surroundings.

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Beautiful river cruises that will take your breath away

Posted: 2 January 2024 | Last updated: 2 January 2024

River adventures

There are trips especially for solo travellers

Finding alone time is increasingly easy on river cruise ships, many of which are going all out to cater to solo travellers. Take Riviera Travel River Cruises – every year the line operates a number of sailings designed specifically for solos. On these cruises, all cabins are single-occupancy only and there are no single supplement charges. In 2023, Riviera’s solo-friendly cruises include sailings along the Danube, Douro, Rhine, Rhône and Seine.

Ganga Vilas offers the world’s longest river cruise

Does disembarkation day always come too soon? Consider opting for one of the growing number of longer cruises. Ganga Vilas currently offers the world’s longest river cruise – a 51-day sailing along 27 rivers in India and Bangladesh onboard the luxurious 18-suite Ganga Vilas riverboat. The downside? These cruises don’t come cheap – prices start at around £26,000 ($32,000) per person.

CroisiEurope offers paddlewheel cruises on two European rivers

Paddlewheel ships aren’t just found on US rivers. CroisiEurope is the only cruise line to run paddlewheel cruises on two European rivers – the Elbe and the Loire. Other boats are few and far between – these rivers are notoriously shallow but the latest paddlewheel technology means CroisiEurope’s boats can sail these stretches of water year-round.

A-ROSA SENA is one of Europe’s most family-friendly ships

River cruises are often seen as the preserve of couples, but change is afoot. In 2022, A-ROSA River Cruises launched A-ROSA SENA , the only river cruise ship in Europe to have a dedicated kids’ club room. AmaWaterways’ AmaMagna has a theatre area where children (and big kids) can watch movies and play games consoles, and Uniworld’s Generation Collection cruises offer kid-friendly activities and excursions.

Viking Cruises’ fleet has both ocean and river boats

If you’re a fan of cruising, what could be better than pairing a river cruise with an ocean one? For example, combine a sail along the Douro, which cuts across Spain and Portugal and finishes at the Atlantic coast, with an ocean-going cruise sailing out of Porto. Doing so is easy, especially if you sail with a line like Viking Cruises , which has a fleet including both ocean and river boats.

Viking holds the record for launching the most new ships in a single day

AmaWaterways’ Colour of Provence cruise focuses on Black heritage in Paris

Europe’s rivers are lined with ancient cities and landmarks, but several cruise lines are delving deeper in Europe’s history by tackling a more diverse range of subjects. AmaWaterways is a great example – in 2023 its Colour of Provence cruise includes a three-night visit to Paris which focuses on the city’s Black heritage, while another AmaWaterways cruise along the Rhône river includes a Black heritage tour of Marseille.

You can explore the Amazon Basin with Seabourn

More river cruise lines are heading to remote rivers. One example is Seabourn . In 2023 the line launches a 14-day Wild Guianas To The Amazon Basin cruise, which sails along Brazil’s Guajará River, a tributary of the Amazon. Excursions include a trip to meet local Indigenous groups – a reminder that Amazon river cruises are great options for getting off the beaten path.

Avalon Waterways has some of the largest windows on a river cruise

River cruise ships make excellent use of space, and we’re increasingly seeing this applied to windows. If you don’t manage to bag a balcony suite, don’t panic – it’s highly likely that you’ll have floor to ceiling windows. If you’re a stickler for a fantastic view, consider sailing with Avalon Waterways – their windows are some of the largest on a river cruise ship, and their Panorama Suites have the widest opening, wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in river cruising.

American Queen Voyages has launched exciting new itineraries

American river cruises have become incredibly popular in recent years, and in 2023 the American Queen Voyages launches the longest itineraries offered by this historic cruise line. The 23-day itineraries (the first one departs in July) will sail along the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers and take in lesser-known destinations such as Maysville in Kentucky, Madison in Indiana, Point Pleasant in West Virginia and Marietta in Ohio.

You might meet your hero onboard an AmaWaterways ship

River cruising companies are going all out to provide deeper insights into the places their ships sail through. One example is National Geographic Expeditions, which recently announced that it will join forces with AmaWaterways and launch several National Geographic Expeditions-chartered departures in 2024. Onboard experts – all of whom will be familiar with itinerary destinations – will include photographers, authors and explorers. 

You can sail along the Hudson River with American Cruise Lines

Fancy sailing past the Empire State Building? Now you can – kind of. American Cruise Lines is the only cruise line that offers sailings along the mighty Hudson, along with several other lesser-known rivers, including the Napa and San Joaquin Rivers in California.

You can combine rail and water with Uniworld

In 2022 Uniworld launched cruises combining Danube River sailings with trips on Golden Eagle Luxury Trains. These rail and river cruise packages offer guests the chance to take a five-day train journey through central Europe before boarding the ship. Expect more cruise lines to combine these modes of transport in the coming years.

Experts will join passengers onboard Ponant ships

Uniworld’s decision to combine sailing with luxury railway trips onboard Golden Eagle’s trains is a sign of the times – we’ll see more collaborations designed to enhance guests’ experience. In 2023 Ponant is collaborating with Smithsonian Journeys to offer sailings with onboard experts, such as world-renowned climate specialist Steve Paton, who will provide further insight into areas such as the San Blas archipelago.

Riverside Luxury Cruises is the new kid on the block

River cruising might sound like a crowded market, but the launch of Riverside Luxury Cruises in April 2023 proves that there’s always room for more. This new line launched with one ship – Riverside Mozart – and offers cruises starting in Vienna, Budapest and Passau. The ship’s rooftop bar looks pretty special, although we’re equally excited about the cuisine, inspired by regions the ship sails through.

Even the busiest rivers have quiet spots

The landscape is fabulously diverse

Some river cruise companies cover lakes too

CroisiEurope is the only river cruise line operating on Lake Kariba in Southern Africa. There are two cruise ships to choose from – African Dream and Zimbabwean Dream. Both ships accommodate 16 passengers in eight cabins, and there’s a rooftop bar and restaurant from which guests can soak up the views.

Most river cruises are truly all-inclusive

We’ve all come across cruise lines which claim to be all-inclusive but are actually anything but. These days, more cruise lines are going all out to offer passengers better value for money by including everything from premium drinks to excursions. Scenic River Cruises is a great example – cruise prices include flights from the UK, transfers, premium drinks, all meals (including fine dining ones) and excursions.

You’re unlikely to feel seasick on a river cruise

River cruises will take you to the end of the world (almost)

River cruises can take you to some of the world’s most remote places, as well as waterways which simply aren’t explored very often. CroisiEurope, for example, is the only operator to offer cruises on Spain’s Guadalquivir River (pictured at Seville), while the Heritage Line’s new Upper Mekong cruise, which sets sail in August 2023, will focus on remote areas of Laos.

You can cruise the world’s longest river

The views are better

There are no interior cabins on river cruise ships – all cabins face outwards and most have floor-to-ceiling windows. Cruise lines make the most of the space in innovative ways, too. On several Uniworld vessels, for example, mirrors are actually concealed televisions. The cabins at the rear of riverboats are often the cheapest – but if you’re a light sleeper, remember that this is because the engines are located here. 

Cruise lines are investing in air-filtering technology

One example is Amadeus River Cruises . In May 2023 the line launched Amadeus Riva, which has a hi-tech air filtration system with a two-stage purification system capable of removing aerosols – including any containing microscopic virus particles – from interior spaces.

The added extras are getting better

It's easier to avoid the crowds

There are no (or at least fewer) boring transfers

On ocean cruises, the excitement about seeing the local landmark/record-breaking attraction/ancient site quickly dissipates when there’s a one-hour bus journey between you and the site in question. Not so with river cruising, simply because of the increased accessibility. A great example is the iconic arch in St Louis, Missouri (pictured) –  this feat of engineering is just a 10-minute walk from the dock used by river boats.

Now check out the world's oldest man-made structures still in use today

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