Cruise Line

Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises combines cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and luxurious comfort on iconic river journeys.

A Viking River Cruises ship sails along a tranquil European river bordered by a charming town with red-roofed buildings and spring foliage. The sleek white vessel features a spacious open deck where passengers are relaxing and enjoying the scenic view. The calm water reflects the boat and surrounding landscape under a clear blue sky.

Viking River Cruises

  • 28 years in business
  • 98 ships
  • 30 itineraries

Viking River Cruises offers thoughtfully designed voyages along the world’s great rivers, blending scenic exploration, cultural immersion, and personalized service. With modern, elegantly designed Longships, guests enjoy spacious staterooms, regionally inspired dining, and enriching shore excursions. Viking’s itineraries span Europe, Egypt, Asia, and the Mississippi River, providing exclusive access to historic cities, UNESCO sites, and local traditions. Carefully selected by Small Ship Travel, Viking River Cruises aligns with our commitment to exceptional small-ship journeys that prioritize discovery and meaningful experiences.

Why Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises logo

Viking River Cruises is the world’s leading river cruise line, known for its elegant ships, destination-focused itineraries, and immersive cultural experiences. Designed for curious, sophisticated travelers, Viking’s award-winning journeys along Europe’s legendary rivers—as well as the Nile, Mekong, and Mississippi—deliver an unmatched blend of comfort, enrichment, and exploration. With a modern fleet of purpose-built longships and a focus on thoughtful luxury, Viking sets the standard for river cruising.

The Viking River Experience: Purposeful Design, Meaningful Travel

Viking’s river ships are crafted for comfort and discovery, offering a refined yet relaxed onboard atmosphere. With fewer than 200 guests per ship, travelers enjoy an intimate setting with spacious public areas, all-outside staterooms, and attentive service throughout the journey.

  • All-outside staterooms, many with full verandas or French balconies
  • Destination-inspired cuisine and wine pairings in both casual and elegant dining venues
  • Included daily shore excursions with knowledgeable local guides
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi, 24-hour specialty coffees, and onboard cultural enrichment
  • Adults-only environment (guests must be 18+)
  • Thoughtfully curated programs including lectures, tastings, concerts, and hands-on experiences

Designed for discovery, Viking’s river cruises invite guests to slow down and connect more deeply with the regions they visit.

Iconic Itineraries Across Europe and Beyond

Whether sailing through the heart of Europe or exploring far-flung corners of the world, Viking’s itineraries are carefully crafted to offer a balance of must-see landmarks and lesser-known treasures. Extended time in port, insightful excursions, and curated cultural access are hallmarks of every voyage.

Signature Voyages Include:

  • Grand European Tour – Cruise the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers between Amsterdam and Budapest, visiting historic cities, castles, and vineyards along the way.
  • Danube Waltz – Discover the Old World charm of Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia through a mix of grand capitals and storybook towns.
  • Rhine Getaway – Explore Cologne, Strasbourg, and the castles of the Middle Rhine on a scenic voyage through four countries.
  • Paris & the Heart of Normandy – Journey through the French countryside from Paris to the beaches of Normandy, with insight into history, art, and cuisine.
  • Pharaohs & Pyramids – Sail the Nile aboard a Viking-owned vessel and explore the ancient wonders of Egypt in depth.
  • Magnificent Mekong – Immerse yourself in the culture of Vietnam and Cambodia on an enriching Southeast Asian voyage.

Every itinerary reflects Viking’s passion for history, culture, and authenticity—offering guests an educational and enriching way to see the world.

A Curated Selection by Small Ship Travel

At Small Ship Travel, we proudly include Viking River Cruises in our curated collection for their exceptional standards in design, service, and cultural engagement. Viking’s dedication to immersive travel experiences aligns with our mission to provide journeys that go beyond the ordinary.

Our team of river cruise experts works closely with Viking to help you select the right itinerary, stateroom, and enhancements—ensuring your trip is perfectly tailored to your interests. Whether you're a first-time river cruiser or a returning guest seeking something new, we provide the insight and support to make your voyage seamless and memorable.

Book with Confidence

Booking with Small Ship Travel gives you access to exclusive savings, pre- and post-cruise planning, and expert advice to elevate your Viking River Cruise. From start to finish, we handle the details—so you can enjoy the discovery, comfort, and cultural richness Viking is known for.

Viking River Cruises's Ships

Elegant Ships Perfectly Crafted for River Exploration

Viking River Cruises offers destination-focused voyages that blend cultural immersion, scenic exploration, and exceptional service. As a leader in river cruising, Viking provides travelers with thoughtfully curated itineraries that highlight history, local traditions, and stunning landscapes. With a fleet of modern, elegantly designed ships, Viking ensures that guests enjoy a comfortable and enriching experience as they navigate the world’s iconic rivers. Whether sailing through Europe, Asia, Egypt, or the United States, Viking River Cruises delivers a seamless blend of relaxation, exploration, and learning.

A Fleet Designed for Comfort & Exploration

Viking’s fleet features its renowned Longships, offering a contemporary Scandinavian-inspired design, spacious accommodations, and expansive river views. Each ship is carefully crafted to provide:

  • Panoramic Sun Decks and Observation Lounges for breathtaking views of the passing scenery.
  • Spacious Staterooms, many with private verandas or French balconies, allowing guests to fully appreciate the landscapes.
  • Regionally Inspired Dining, with menus featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional cuisine from the destinations visited.
  • A Relaxed, Adult-Oriented Atmosphere, focusing on enrichment and cultural discovery rather than onboard entertainment.

With small-ship intimacy and thoughtfully designed spaces, Viking ensures a personalized and immersive travel experience.

Exceptional Destinations & Enriching Itineraries

Viking’s river cruises take guests deep into the heart of destinations, providing access to historic cities, charming villages, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Some of Viking’s most sought-after itineraries include:

  • Europe’s Grand Waterways – Explore the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Douro, and Rhône Rivers, visiting iconic landmarks, medieval castles, and picturesque vineyards.
  • Nile River Journeys – Experience the timeless wonders of Egypt, from ancient temples and tombs to the legendary pyramids, guided by expert Egyptologists.
  • Mekong & Yangtze Expeditions – Sail through Vietnam, Cambodia, and China, discovering floating markets, Buddhist temples, and rich cultural traditions.
  • Mississippi River Cruises – Travel through America’s heartland, experiencing Southern hospitality, Civil War history, and vibrant musical heritage in cities like New Orleans and Memphis.

Each itinerary includes expert-led shore excursions, cultural performances, and local culinary experiences, ensuring that guests gain a deep and meaningful connection to each destination.

Award-Winning Excellence & Unparalleled Service

Viking has consistently been recognized for its commitment to quality and guest satisfaction. The company has been awarded:

  • #1 River Cruise Line in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
  • #1 for Oceans, Rivers & Expeditions, a first-of-its-kind achievement for a cruise company.
  • Numerous accolades for innovative ship design, exceptional service, and destination-driven itineraries.

Viking’s dedication to enriching travel experiences makes it a preferred choice for curious travelers who value education, history, and cultural connection.

A Curated Selection by Small Ship Travel

At Small Ship Travel, we hand-select the finest small-ship cruise experiences, ensuring that each partner meets our high standards for authenticity, comfort, and destination immersion. After careful evaluation, we are proud to include Viking River Cruises in our curated offerings, recognizing its commitment to exceptional service and cultural exploration.

Through our partnership with Viking, we provide exclusive access, tailored itineraries, and seamless travel arrangements, ensuring a stress-free and enriching journey. Whether you seek a romantic European river cruise, an adventure through Southeast Asia, or a historical voyage along the Nile, Small Ship Travel works closely with Viking to create the perfect experience tailored just for you.

Book with Confidence

Booking with Small Ship Travel guarantees expert recommendations, personalized service, and exclusive benefits to enhance your Viking River Cruises experience. From pre- and post-cruise accommodations to private shore excursions and seamless travel logistics, we take care of every detail so you can relax and enjoy your journey.

Set sail with Viking River Cruises and Small Ship Travel—where cultural discovery, elegant accommodations, and enriching experiences come together. Contact us today to begin planning your next unforgettable voyage.

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