Christmas Along the Elbe

Viking Astrild is a purpose-built river vessel designed to navigate the serene Elbe River, delivering an intimate and enriching cruising experience through one of Europe’s lesser-traveled yet culturally rich waterways. Unlike Viking’s classic Longships, Viking Astrild belongs to a more compact, custom class tailored to the Elbe’s unique dimensions—allowing it to sail between Berlin and Prague with ease and grace.

Accommodating just 98 guests, Viking Astrild offers an exceptional guest-to-crew ratio and an atmosphere of quiet sophistication. Its smaller size enhances the sense of exclusivity and fosters a deeply personal level of service throughout the voyage. Despite its modest footprint, the ship delivers many of the luxuries and design elements Viking is known for, including stylish public spaces, fine dining, and modern Scandinavian interiors.

Each stateroom on Viking Astrild is river-facing, ensuring uninterrupted views of the picturesque Elbe countryside. Guests can choose from well-appointed Veranda Staterooms and French Balcony categories, each outfitted with hotel-style beds, ample storage, heated bathroom floors, and flat-screen infotainment systems. The décor is light and contemporary, creating a calming retreat at the end of each day’s excursions.

Public areas aboard Viking Astrild are warm, inviting, and designed to highlight the scenery. The Observation Lounge serves as a comfortable hub for relaxing with a cocktail, attending onboard lectures, or simply watching the ever-changing landscape through floor-to-ceiling windows. The Sun Deck offers a peaceful open-air setting with shaded seating, ideal for reading or taking in panoramic river views as the ship glides past castles, vineyards, and timber-framed villages.

Dining is an elegant affair on Viking Astrild. The ship’s main restaurant features open seating, allowing guests to dine when and with whom they wish. Menus are regionally inspired, with local ingredients highlighting the cuisine of Germany and the Czech Republic. Complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks are served at lunch and dinner, and casual fare is always available in the lounge for lighter appetites.

The ship’s Elbe River itineraries are culturally immersive and historically rich. From the Gothic spires of Meissen and the baroque splendor of Dresden to the architectural legacy of Berlin and the artistic charm of Prague, Viking Astrild brings guests to the heart of Central Europe with expertly guided tours and curated excursions. Onboard enrichment includes presentations on regional history, politics, music, and art—ensuring a journey that’s as intellectually rewarding as it is visually stunning.