Top 10 Tips for Viking River Cruises: Unlocking the Secrets of a Memorable Journey

Embarking on a Viking River Cruise is an exciting adventure filled with cultural exploration, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable experiences. To help you make the most of your journey, we’ve compiled our top 10 tips for newbies, based on our own incredible Viking River Cruise adventure. Let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to a truly memorable voyage

Viking River Cruise Top 10 Tips for Newbies

1. Maximize Your Cruise Duration: Keep in mind that the first and last days of your cruise are typically for embarkation and disembarkation. If you want more time to explore, consider booking a longer cruise duration to allow for ample onshore adventures.
2. Plan for a Pre-Cruise Arrival: Arrive at your departure destination at least two days in advance. This will give you time to adjust to the time zone, overcome jetlag, and provide a buffer in case of travel delays or interruptions.
3. Make the most of Airfare Flexibility: If your package includes airfare, take advantage of the flexibility offered by Viking. For a $100 adjustment fee, you can customize your arrival and departure locations and dates. We used this option to maximize our trip by adjusting our flights to include a business class flight to Budapest and returning from Paris. It was a great way to enhance our journey for a minimal cost.
4. Embrace the Guided Tours and Independent Exploration: Take full advantage of the incredible tour guides provided by Viking and book every free tour offered. These knowledgeable professionals bring destinations to life with fascinating stories and insights. Additionally, if you’re comfortable exploring on your own, consider planning some of the paid tours locally to save money. It gives you the flexibility to tailor your itinerary while still experiencing the highlights.
5. Maximize Your Onshore Time: To make the most of your exploration, plan to have lunch in town instead of returning to the ship. In some places, the boat may be 30 minutes away from downtown, which means you can lose a lot of time going back and forth. By enjoying lunch in town, you’ll have more time to immerse yourself in the local culture, visit attractions, and truly experience the destinations.
6. Evaluate the Silver Spirits Package: Before opting for the Silver Spirits package, consider your beverage preferences. If you and your partner don’t indulge in expensive wines or cocktails, you may find that the complimentary regular beer and wine provided during lunch and dinner are sufficient. In some places, you can purchase wine very inexpensively and bring it onboard. For instance, we bought 1L of wine for 4€ in Vienna. Take advantage of these opportunities to enjoy local flavors without breaking the bank!
7. Budget for Crew Tips: Be aware that crew tips are typically due at the end of the cruise. When planning your budget, factor in these gratuities to ensure you can show your appreciation for the exceptional service provided by the hardworking crew. Our cruise circa 2023 tips were ~$20/day, so a few hundred dollars for 8 days.
8. Socialize in the Bar Area: Arrive early to the bar area for pre-dinner drinks and the next day schedule briefing which usually start around 5:30. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends, share stories, and create connections that will enhance your overall experience. The camaraderie formed during these moments adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your cruise.
9. Leave the Umbrellas Behind: Viking provides amazing large golf umbrellas onboard, so no need to pack them. Trust us, they will come in handy, especially if the weather surprises you (like ours did!). Travel light and let Viking take care of this essential item.
10. Savor the Culinary Delights: Prepare your taste buds for an exceptional dining experience onboard. The food is spectacular, with a variety of menus to suit every palate. Enjoy the standard menu but make sure to try the daily specialties, which are based on the locations visited during your cruise. Make sure to attend the pre-dinner briefing to hear the Chef’s recommendation for the day!

Conclusion:
With these top 10 tips in mind, you’re well on your way to unlocking the secrets of a remarkable Viking River Cruise. Prepare for a journey filled with enriching experiences, stunning destinations, and the warmth of Viking hospitality. Embrace the adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.