Things I Was Asked about a Viking river cruise.

What do you do in the evening without “traditional entertainment venues”

After diner on the cruise there is usually some type of "fun" game that is facilitated by the cruise director. This could be something along the lines of a family feud, or music challenge/trivia game that usually lasts from 9-10 PM. After this, the on board musician will

usually provide some entertainment, but most of the "night life" is over by 10:-10:15. The onboard bar stays open a bit later, but most to the ship is quit by 11:00

What are the cabins like?

Because of the over all size of the ship, the rooms tend to be on the smaller size. The lower cabins (swan view) are the smallest, but provide enough space and comfort for sleeping and preparing and closing the day out.

The inside cabin was comfy and provided exactly what was needed. This was a place to rest and refresh for the next day's adventure.

If a "view" is a must, you can consider the top and second floor of most ships. The full sliding balcony rooms offer slightly more room, but the comfort level is pretty much the same. The balcony rooms offer space to sit outside and watch the landscape. Keep in mind, most travel is done in the evening and often times, ships dock next to each other and your "view" may be hindered.

Your view may be obstructed while docked. Sometimes it is just the luck of the draw.

Are there enough options of food choice?

Each evening there was a "local favorites" menu and their "standard" menu which provided plenty of options and selection choices. The food is served in a European style with portions smaller then many Americans are accustomed to. There is no buffet, and other then meal times, food is not readily available. The choices are fewer at meal time simply because the kitchen is significantly smaller. Are their options? yes, are they as plentiful as a ocean cruise? No.

The chef was on hand each evening to let the passengers know about the evening meal. He was very hands on.

Each evening, the chef provided a description of the region dishes he and his staff has prepared for the passengers and truly was prideful of their creations.

What is the customer service like?

All members of the staff are English speakers. Most of the staff is from Europe and take pride in "sharing" their heritage with the customer. Their ultimate goal seems to help and please the customer on board. The management (supervisors) are not hidden behind a closed door, but out in front every day helping customers and making sure they are happy. Although cruises are often known for great customer service, the river cruise industry takes it up a notch. With only 140-190 passengers on board, the staff truly gets to know their passengers and they aim to provide the best experience possible.

The leadership of the ship was frequently front and center to speak with passengers in a group, and were always available to speak with customers one on one.(L-R: Hotel manager, ships captain, and cruise director).

Is a Viking river cruise for everyone?

No, it is not for everyone. The river cruise passenger tends to be slightly older, 50-80 and is looking for more of a cerebral experience to engage in a countries culture, and history. No everyone will enjoy a discussion and demonstration of the history of the waltz. Or a presentation from a history professor about the history of the Danube. There is always an ABC (Another Beautiful Church) around the next corner, and amazing history, and cultural experiences. There is a lot of walking, up and down cobble stone hills that may be a problem for some with mobility challenges.

Each of the members of the crew who are front facing take a special pride in sharing their culture.

On our cruise, the cruise director sang a song that his grand mother taught him. Very touching

Explain the value of a Viking River cruise (Dollar for dollar Vs. say another oxen cruise company.

Viking was the first to market in river cruising. Are they the cheapest? No, are they the most expensive? No. They provide value in their experience and level of industry awareness and ability to scale. Their prices seem to be middle of the road, but their value seems to be top 90 percentile leading to a replicable product and process. In comparing their product to similar providers they are usually ranked top for value and quality, leading to repeat customers.

You said a Viking river cruise is a cultural experience, what do you mean?

Understanding that Viking's goal is to immerse their passengers in the culture of the location, they do this by the way of food, entertainment, and education. They are one of the few river cruise companies that provide their upcoming passengers with reading recommendations and video recommendations to help passengers prepare for their trip with educational resources.

Who is a Viking river cruise customer?

Viking’s river cruises are designed for a very specific demographic, primarily attracting travelers aged 50 and older, with a large portion between 60 and 75. Most are retired or semi-retired professionals who now have the time and disposable income to enjoy extended travel, and because Viking does not allow children under 18, there are very few younger families on board. Passengers typically come from middle-to-upper income households, often retirees, professionals, or business owners, and are generally well-educated with a strong interest in history, art, culture, and fine dining. While the majority of guests are from the U.S. and Canada, there is also a notable presence from the UK, Australia, and Europe. These travelers prefer cultural immersion over nightlife, enjoy guided excursions, museums, and architecture rather than adventure sports, and value structured yet relaxed travel that doesn’t require managing logistics. They appreciate Viking’s all-inclusive, upscale but not overly luxurious approach, favoring comfort, predictability, and enrichment through lectures, tours, and local cultural experiences. In Viking’s own words, their guests are “curious, experienced travelers who are interested in history, culture, cuisine, and enriching experiences”—in short, affluent, well-educated, 55+ travelers seeking an easy, culturally rich, and comfortable way to explore Europe and beyond.

Would I do another Viking river cruise? Why?

I would do another river cruise, but I am interested in trying other companies to be able to share with my clients the pros and cons of each brand. I am looking to do a cruise on each of the other two major competitors to be able to compare the experience and provide honest and timely reviews of each of the major brands.