Viking River Cruises is consistently voted the best-in-class by some of the most prestigious recognitions in the travel industry. In 2019, Viking was again named the #1 River Cruise Line by Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards, and Travel + Leisure readers named Viking a #1 Ocean Cruise Line and one of the World’s Best River Cruise Lines in the 2018 World’s Best Awards. But Viking doesn’t rest on its laurels; they continue to improve the river cruising experience for their guests.

Hear what first-time Viking River Cruise guests can expect in this video:

River Cruise Tour Choices

With Viking, guests get a choice tours to suit their own style and pace. They offer complimentary professionally guided tours – ones that hit just the major highlights or ones that leave no stone unturned – or they can provide everything you need to explore on your own, like bicycles, private car services or walking maps. Whatever your choice, you have the freedom to do it your way.

Onboard Concierge Service

Viking’s Concierge Service handles the biggest and smallest requests and special services. With an impressive network of contacts, they can reserve a table at the best restaurant, order theater tickets, make a spa appointment or make personalized suggestions for a uniquely individual experience.

Enhanced Culture Curriculum

As a compliment to shore excursions, Viking developed a broad range of enriching activities for onboard and ashore. From cooking demonstrations to visits to local markets, musical performances to backstage meet and greets, you can truly immerse yourself in the local culture.

A Celebration of Food

The culinary experience on Viking has always been exemplary, but new “Taste Of” events introduce guests to the food and drink of the region with delightful informal gatherings. They are as much a visual feast as an edible one and an extension of Viking’s core concept that great food and wine go hand in hand with new places and wonderful friends.

Viking River Cruises Fleet Expansion

Viking’s fleet has a tradition of setting new standards and they continue to change the history of river cruising with the introduction of new ships. In March 2019, they added six new Viking Longships and one purpose-built river ship for Portugal’s Duoro River. In addition, the company took delivery of their sixth Ocean ship. There have never been more choices for river cruising.

Viking’s Upgraded Amenities

A Viking River Cruise is an all-inclusive vacation. All Viking River journeys now include complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner service. Bottle water is available anytime and the 24-hour hot beverage bar offers complimentary cappuccino, coffee, and tea. Cruise fares include both onboard dining and pre-selected dining ashore, as well as guided shore excursions and cultural events. Complimentary Wi-Fi access keeps you connected, an expensive optional on many other cruises.

River Cruising continues to grow in popularity and Viking leads the way with new vessels and enhanced guest experiences. No doubt, you’ve heard your neighbor, a member of your civic club or your Aunt Sally and Uncle Ed rave about their river cruise vacation. Don’t get left out of the conversation – book your Viking River Cruise today! Contact the cruise experts at Covington Travel for itineraries and prices, then find out for yourself why Viking River Cruises continues to win award after award as the best river cruise line in the world.

Covington Travel recognizes Viking River Cruises as a valued partner and sponsor of this post. 

Post originally published January 15, 2013; updated May 10, 2019.