7 benefits of river cruising

If you’re not a fan of traditional cruising, there’s one type that will change your mind. Believe it or not, people who don’t typically go for guided tours and ocean-going cruises love river cruising.

No wonder. River cruising is a refreshing, laid-back way to travel. A river voyage has the same unpack-once benefit as ocean cruises but also some notable­—and welcome—differences from its seafaring counterpart. Smaller ships mean fewer guests and a more intimate, streamlined experience. River cruises offer additional comfort and convenience, with plenty of perks included in your fare.

Viking, a pioneer in the industry, offers enriching river voyages in Europe and around the globe. Ready to explore bucket-list destinations while being pampered with all-inclusive luxuries? Read on for 7 distinctive benefits of river cruising.

On Viking’s 8-day Paris and the Heart of Normandy voyage, for example, you’ll travel the Seine River from Paris into the Normandy region, where you can see the inspiration for Claude Monet’s water lily paintings at his garden in Giverny. You’ll also explore France’s shared history with the U.S. on the D-Day beaches.

A Danube River journey, meanwhile, will take you to the fascinating city of Budapest, the grandeur of Vienna, and small medieval burgs in Germany. And because Viking River voyages provide one complimentary shore excursion in every port of call, you’ll be sure to enjoy the highlights of each destination.

When you’re eager to explore a port, the last thing you want is a long wait to get from ship to shore. On a river cruise you’ll enjoy easy access to shore excursions. One of the best benefits of river cruising is that most of the towns you’re visiting are situated right along the river. In many ports, your ship will dock right in the heart of town. Within minutes, you can hop off the ship and start exploring.

There’s no nickel and diming on a river cruise. With Viking Inclusive Value, everything you need is included. Your cruise fare covers a shore excursion in each port, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites. It also includes meals with beer and wine at lunch and dinner, and 24-hour access to specialty coffees, teas, and bottled water. And unlike many ocean cruises, you’ll have access to onboard Wi-Fi at no additional cost.

Some itineraries are designed around traveler interests such as history, wine, and culture. Viking’s partnerships with top cultural institutions, such as the BBC and the Royal Academy of Arts, ensure that your included excursions and onboard lectures and presentations are both enlightening and entertaining.

The regional cuisine served onboard takes your immersion into each port even deeper. Viking’s destination-focused dining invites passengers to discover new cultures through food.

Uncrowded, intimate, and luxurious, Viking Longships become a cozy home while you’re traveling. With an average of only 190 passengers on European river itineraries, you’ll find yourself striking up conversations with fellow passengers and the friendly, attentive crew.

Viking River voyages are adults-only, so you can truly relax among other like-minded travelers. Viking Longships offer numerous spaces to gather with your loved ones or fellow vacationers and enjoy a delicious coffee or take a dip in the rooftop pool.

Plus, the casual dress code and no assigned seating means you can stay comfortable and dine on your time.

The convenience to customize your cruise experience continues onboard. The Restaurant, Viking’s main dining venue, features regional and classic fare, offering variety for every meal.

Aquavit Terrace, an open-air space, provides alfresco dining in a relaxed setting. Reservations aren’t required for either option so there’s no need to plan ahead.

With gentle, easily navigable waterways, seasickness is almost nonexistent, and you’ll wake up refreshed and ready to enjoy the unparalleled vistas. Medieval castles? Check. Vineyards sparkling in the sun? Check. Quaint church spires. Absolutely. Each day, there’s something new and exciting to see. 

If you’d like to enjoy the scenery from the privacy of your room, select a stateroom or suite with a panoramic window, French balcony, or veranda. Or simply find a cozy spot on the ship’s deck or other public spaces and take it all in.