Viking River Cruises rules the waves on Europe’s waterways and further afield. It is the world’s largest river cruising company with a fleet of 23 vessels that sail the major arteries of Europe, such as the Rhine and the Danube, along with rivers in Russia, China and the Ukraine. The Norwegian-owned company, which was founded in 1997, now offers a full range of cruises which enable passengers to explore some of Europe’s most beautiful cities from the comfort of their “floating hotel”. The beauty of river cruising is that it enables people to see more than one place in one trip and soak up the often stunning countryside in-between. Think of it as like a floating city break.

Viking River Cruise holidays look to complement their natural surroundings with an irresistible combination of comfortable surroundings, great food and good service. The line’s vessels, most of which are only a few years old, vary in size with the smallest taking around 125 passengers and the largest accommodating more than 300. On average, most Viking River Cruise boats take around 150 passengers and boast spacious lounges with huge picture windows which make it easy to enjoy the ever-changing picture postcard views passing by. In the evenings, this is the place for pre or after-dinner drinks and the setting for the entertainment arranged for some evenings, which includes various singing and cabaret acts. The ships also have an internet station and a library. On deck, there is plenty of space to sit and relax or walk off the hearty meals, while the Viking Sky and Viking Danube boats even have their own small swimming pools. The pace is gentle and tends to attract older well-travelled who enjoy the relaxed ambience and being able to explore.

Meals are an occasion on Viking River Cruise holidays with lavish multi-course lunches and dinners, with tempting snacks and culinary treats in-between. However, there is little formality and the atmosphere of a Viking River Cruise is laidback and casual. The whole feeling is one of being pampered and cabins are more like hotel rooms with big double beds, huge floor to ceiling windows offering fabulous views and en-suite facilities. Another bonus of Viking River Cruises is that most tours and excursions are included in the price and these are offered at each port of call.