Viking celebrated the start of its 2024 river season in Europe this week, as its award-winning Viking Longship fleet begins sailing itineraries throughout the region. As well, the line announced that its newest ship for the Nile River—the 82-guest Viking Hathor—was “floated out,” marking a major construction milestone.
“With its rich history, culture and scenic regions that are best explored by river, Europe remains our most popular destination,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “As more curious travellers become familiar with river voyages as a seamless method for exploring, we are pleased to begin a new season on Europe’s iconic waterways.”
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Getting to know fellow guests is a rewarding part of the river cruise experience. (Photo Credit: Bruce Parkinson)
The European river season continues to be extended, as travellers vote for lower fares and smaller crowds away from peak season. Viking is making that easier, with a new opportunity to call on ports along the Danube River during the winter months with the 10-day itinerary, Treasures of the Danube. The new voyage will sail between Budapest and Passau, from December 2024 until early March 2025.
Viking guests also have the opportunity to explore the Rhine River during the winter season, with the 10-day Treasures of the Rhine itinerary, which debuted in December 2023 and sails between Amsterdam and Basel.
Viking’s River Voyages in Europe
Sailing March through December, some of Viking’s other popular river itineraries in Europe include:
Rhine Getaway (8 days; Amsterdam—Basel) – Invite your clients to explore one of Europe’s best-loved rivers, with calls in Amsterdam, Cologne and Basel.
Danube Waltz (8 days; Budapest—Passau) – This itinerary reveals the best of Vienna and Budapest, as well as lesser-known Central European cities like Bratislava and Passau.
Romantic Danube (8 days; Budapest—Regensburg) – With medieval towns, grand cities and stunning scenery, this journey on the “Blue Danube” is one your clients are sure to love.
A Viking longship docked on the Seine in Paris. (Photo Credit: Bruce Parkinson)
Paris & the Heart of Normandy (8 days; Paris roundtrip) – Viking ships dock in the heart of Paris, offering glorious views of the Eiffel Tower. This voyage celebrates history, art, food and customs in France’s most alluring urban and pastoral settings.
Lyon & Provence (8 days; Lyon—Avignon) – Your clients will witness the beauty that inspired artists like Cézanne and Chagall on this eight-day voyage along the Rhône.
Christmas on the Rhine (8 days; Basel—Amsterdam) – This journey immerses guests in the spirit of Christmas as they journey through storybook villages, sample tasty yuletide treats and browse colorful stalls for handcrafted ornaments and unique gifts.
Danube Christmas Delights (8 days; Budapest—Passau) – Travellers can take part in European holiday traditions and experience the region’s renowned Christmas markets.
Christmas on the Seine (8 days; Paris roundtrip) – Your clients will enjoy the scented aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts amid a festive backdrop of Christmas markets.
Viking river ship on Douro River in Portugal. (Photo via Viking)
Portugal’s River of Gold (10 days; Lisbon—Porto) – This 10-day cruisetour includes a hotel stay in Lisbon and the added bonus of a visit to Spain. The custom-built Viking ships cruise the Douro River Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated wine region and a UNESCO Site.
Grand European Tour (15 days; Budapest – Amsterdam) – Viking’s most iconic itinerary traces the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers between the windmill-dotted waterways of Holland and the stunning landscapes of Hungary.
A Viking river ship in Egypt. (Photo Credit: Viking)
Meanwhile, as it prepares for an August 2024 debut, the 82-guest Viking Hathor was “floated out” in Egypt, marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water. The Viking Hathor will join the company’s growing fleet of ships for the Nile River and will sail Viking’s popular 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.
“Egypt is a phenomenal destination, and we are pleased with the continued interest for our Nile River voyages. Our guests are thinking people who are curious about the world -- and Egypt, with its cultural treasures and ancient antiquities, remains at the top of the travel list for many of them,” said Hagen. “With the float out of the Viking Hathor, we look forward to welcoming more guests to experience this fantastic region.”
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