river Ship
Viking Beyla
by Viking River Cruises
Viking Beyla is a custom-built river ship designed specifically for the delicate waterways of the Elbe River in Germany. With a guest capacity of just 98 and a compact, shallow-draft design, Viking Beyla is tailored for intimate exploration, offering a highly personalized and immersive experience between the culturally rich cities of Berlin and Prague. Named after the Norse goddess associated with earth and agriculture, the ship reflects a deep connection to the landscapes and heritage of Central Europe.
Unlike Viking’s larger Longships, Viking Beyla is smaller in scale but equally refined. Its reduced size allows it to navigate the narrower and more variable depths of the Elbe, while still delivering the elegance and comfort Viking is known for. The ship’s interiors draw from Scandinavian design traditions—light wood finishes, natural textiles, and clean lines come together to create a serene onboard atmosphere that mirrors the tranquil river environment.
The ship features a selection of staterooms and suites that are exceptionally well-appointed for their size. Guests can choose between Standard Staterooms with half-height windows or French Balcony Staterooms that open up to river views. Each room includes hotel-style beds, private bathrooms with heated floors, flat-screen infotainment systems, premium bath products, and ample storage. Though compact, the accommodations are thoughtfully designed to feel both cozy and sophisticated.
Public spaces aboard Viking Beyla foster both relaxation and enrichment. The Lounge is a bright and airy space where guests can enjoy daily briefings, lectures, and social hours. The Aquavit Terrace offers both indoor and outdoor seating with glass walls that open fully, creating an al fresco environment perfect for dining or enjoying a glass of wine as the countryside drifts by. The Sun Deck, though modest in size, includes lounge chairs and an ideal vantage point for viewing castles, farmland, and river towns along the Elbe.
Dining on Viking Beyla is intimate, locally inspired, and always fresh. The main dining room serves regionally focused dishes that reflect the culinary traditions of Saxony and Bohemia, using ingredients sourced along the route. From hearty German stews to Czech pastries and local wines, every meal is an extension of the day’s cultural journey. Complimentary beer and wine accompany lunch and dinner, enhancing the communal and relaxed onboard dining atmosphere.
Shore excursions are the heart of the Viking Beyla experience. Expert-led tours in ports like Wittenberg, Meissen, and Dresden reveal a rich tapestry of history, art, and architecture. Guests can explore UNESCO-listed sites, centuries-old porcelain workshops, and baroque landmarks, with many excursions designed to provide insider access and authentic local interaction. Optional excursions further personalize the experience, offering chances to dive deeper into specific interests such as classical music, WWII history, or traditional crafts.
With its smaller guest count, personalized service, and ability to navigate a unique stretch of river, Viking Beyla offers a rare and enriching cruising experience. It is an ideal choice for culturally curious travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate voyage through the heart of Eastern Germany and the Czech Republic.
250 sq. feet
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180 sq. feet
-180 sq. feet
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122 sq. feet
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140 sq. feet
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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.
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.
Designed for discovery, Viking’s river cruises invite guests to slow down and connect more deeply with the regions they visit.
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:
Every itinerary reflects Viking’s passion for history, culture, and authenticity—offering guests an educational and enriching way to see the world.
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.
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.
Reach out to our travel concierges today to create your perfect journey.
