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Viking Romantic Danube, Budapest to... - Viking Cruises France

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The Viking staff was always courteous and friendly. The food and dining room service were very... read more

We are posting this in tandem to the one about the French river cruise and are suggesting that if... read more

Viking Romantic Danube, Budapest to Regensburg

Romantic Danube – July 2022 We enjoyed sailing with Viking on the Budapest to Regensburg Romantic Danube cruise. The food was excellent and the wait staff was wonderful. Our French Balcony room was comfortable, clean, and well-equipped. The excursions were very good, although we thought the Budapest tour could have been more comprehensive and the Vienna tour more accessible. The day we arrived in Budapest, we had a very short walking tour of the area near where the ship was docked by the Elisabeth Bridge. The guide encouraged the group to go into Budapest at night, but fatigue and a lack of information about logistics kept us staying at the boat for a good dinner and early night. The next day’s tour before leaving was mostly a driving tour and it was very hard to get a real feel for the city or really see the major attractions. If you want to adequately see Budapest, consider doing the pre-trip excursion. Additionally, check on the status of the construction on the Chain Bridge. That bridge was under construction while we were there, so we missed some iconic views. With respect to Vienna, we had a day of free time to explore Vienna, but the boat was pretty far from the various attractions and we had to figure out how to get to the various places. It would have helped tremendously if Viking had provided a bus to and from a central point. We greatly enjoyed the optional Mozart and Strauss concert, however be aware that the seats are very close together and the concert room is packed. The tour of Gottweig Abbey was lovely. The optional tour to Salzburg was also wonderful and we thought well-worth the 2 hour bus trip each way. The Danube is a lovely river and we enjoyed sailing very much. We were fortunate with the river levels until we got to Passau, Germany, when the level became too low to sail on to Regensburg. Viking did the best they could do with respect to docking as close to our destinations as possible and using the bus as needed. They had to cancel and refund the optional tours to the Weltenburg Abbey and the Danube Narrows. However, Viking rearranged the Regensburg walking tour to give us extra time in that charming city, provided reimbursement for lunch in town, and arranged for a later bus to pick up guests. The Viking Daily newsletter is very helpful in keeping guests aware of the next day’s activities. The daily Port Talk is also helpful. However, I missed the comprehensive “Cruise Documents” booklet that used to come in the Viking package with the suede zip pouch. I guess Viking thinks the App is supposed to take the place of that booklet, but the internet was very spotty on our cruise (unlike in past Viking cruises to France and Germany). All in all, a very good trip. We will sail with Viking again soon.

First I will say the cruise ship, the staff, and the food were excellent. One compliant is that one of our excursions was cancelled due to bad weather and Viking customer service told us all the other excursions were sold out no other options. Essentially leaving us to walk around town all day. We went into the town and found other companies offering the same excursions as Viking for less cost. I recommend using TripAdvisor to find other excursions. We did this and had a great time. Most of the towns where the cruise ship stopped were small fishing villages with many seasonal tourist shops. Not much else to see. The travel arrangements included in the Viking package are the worst travel arrangements possible. Viking contracts with air carriers for economy seats only. There are no options to upgrade as these are contract rates. Even our travel agency could not arrange any seat upgrades even though they were available. The trip home was the worse possible travel. Had to leave the ship at 6;30 am for a 2 hour trip to Anchorage. A 5 hour wait for a flight from Anchorage to San Francisco that got in at 10:00 pm. Then we have to catch a red eye from San Francisco leaving at 11:00pm getting to Dulles at 7:00am. Alaska is beautiful! The people are friendly and helpful. But, I would research all options before taking the Viking tour.

We were shuffled from our ship docked in Strausburg to the other towns which meant 4 or more hours on a bus each day until we were transferred to another ship in the middle of our cruise; at that time we exchanged boats with another group of passengers. We missed the UNESCO castles. Very disappointed. The food was not very good.

OK so readers of cruise reviews will already know that when things go wrong with a Viking booking, then they can go REALLY wrong. But hey they don’t always go wrong, and we’ve just had a really good 15 day cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam. All Viking’s longships are almost identical so you don’t really need to know we started on Viking Vali with 168 passengers and were swapped to Viking Tir half way due to very low water levels on the Rhine between Passau and Nuremberg. So that put paid to a couple of included excursions somewhere around Regensberg...no big deal, and the swap was managed well with just a four hour swap coach ride and the inevitable packing and unpacking. Viking have created really well designed ships over recent years for their European river offerings......nice neutral decor, comfy furniture, excellent plumbing in the shower rooms (e.g. top grade Grohe taps and shower), good food (although not as varied choice as on ocean cruises), comfy well lit beds, sufficient drawer and hanging space, a nice little balcony for a Verandah Stateroom (nice to have if you’re isolating with Covid for a few days as we were). Yes the evening entertainment’s very limited but we got round that by watching movies and tv series in our cabin when not watching the world go by from the well designed sun deck. Of our 15 days the sundeck was only closed off for 4 due to many many low bridges on the upper Danube. The crew were cheerful, very polite and provided adequate service at meal times. The Cruise Director Stephen Guy followed us over to our swap ship half way which was good as he is an excellent host running the excursions and our briefings throughout each day......and as an ex professional singer....a fine singing voice. The captain did a fine job in navigating us over the shallow parts, as for a while it looked like we might never make it to Amsterdam (as Europe experienced an exceptional heatwave). Mostly the guides on the excursions were informative and entertaining and the coaches used were modern with toilets, and the Viking QuietVox system for listening sotto voce to guides worked well. All in all, a fine voyage on two fine ships with excellent crew.

Was very excited for my first river cruise that we booked in 2019. Accepting that voucher has been hell and such a regret. Terrible customer service as we’ve had to book and re book several times and Viking added requirements that were not required when we accepted the voucher. 24 months have passed and they still refuse to give us our money back - disregarding their own policy. From being so excited, I couldn’t be more disappointed.

While we are looking forward to our Rhine River cruise, have to say the booking process has been an absolute nightmare!!! Our cruise was booked for June and due to a medical emergency I had in May, we needed to re-book the cruise to a later date. The good news is that there was something available in September. You would think it would be simple to re-book THE EXACT SAME CRUISE for a different date, but Viking required us to cancel the original booking and wait to receive credit vouchers to re-book. Thank goodness the cruise still had cabins available after that process! Why did they make us re-book you wonder? All to save the $400 on board credit that somehow DID NOT transfer with the vouchers. According to Viking there's no way to get us the credit. Just no way to do it. Well, here's to hoping the cruise experience is better than the pre-cruise experience!!

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Viking River Cruises’ Romantic Danube: How To Make The Most Of Every Stop

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River cruising is a popular way to get the ease and convenience of a cruise while enjoying a more intimate experience.

Viking River Cruises is one of the most recognized names in the industry, and we had the chance to take their eight-day Romantic Danube cruise in the wintertime. The cruise stops vary from year to year and season to season, but each version has stops in Germany, Austria, and Hungary.

During our trip, we wanted to indulge in one of our favorite travel hobbies: visiting different European Christmas markets . Not only did we immerse ourselves in many memorable Christmas markets, but we also explored some charming, beautiful, and historically important towns.

Viking River Cruises’ Romantic Danube offers so many different ways to optimize your time. Our experience was absolutely magical, and we wanted to share some suggestions for how to make the most of every stop on this unforgettable itinerary.

We were guests of Viking River Cruises on their Romantic Danube itinerary. All opinions expressed are our own and are based on our experiences.

Nuremberg, Germany

The Romantic Danube itinerary varies, sometimes beginning in Hungary and other times in Germany. The stops may vary slightly as well. But wherever your specific journey takes you along this beautiful river route, you’ll find a lot to explore.

Our itinerary began in the German city of Nuremberg . Steeped in World War II history, it witnessed the rise and fall of the Third Reich. History buffs can visit the Nazi Party Rally Grounds , the Nazi Documentation Center , and other historical sites.

But as the second-largest city in Bavaria (after Munich ), Nuremberg also has lots more to offer. The Old Town features beautiful half-timbered houses along with the medieval Imperial Castle . Art lovers can visit the home of German Renaissance artist Albrecht Durer , explore the Germanisches Nationalmuseum , and enjoy numerous art galleries around town.

The food is incredible in Nuremberg, so we recommend having at least one meal or hearty snack ashore. Don’t miss the city’s skinny German sausages served three to a roll or on a plate with sauerkraut or potato salad. Paired with a frosty local beer, it’s a perfect meal.

Stop by the open-air Hauptmarket in the city center for a colorful look at local produce, flowers, handmade gifts, and delicious food specialties. If you happen to be there during the holiday season , you’ll see the transformation of the Old Town into a winter wonderland where over 180 vendors make up the Christkindlesmarkt . Stalls display art, local products, handcrafted goods, and treats of the season. Glittering lights and fresh greenery enhance the festive atmosphere.

Regensburg, Germany

A well-preserved medieval city on the northern portion of the Danube River, Regensburg boasts some of the most interesting historic buildings in Bavaria.

The Altes Rathaus is a bright yellow building dating to the 1200s. The Thurn und Taxis Palace is the impressive residence of an aristocratic family that had amassed a fortune from postal operations in the early 1800s. During the holiday season, a Christmas market springs up on the castle grounds. The Porta Praetoria comprises the ruins of a gateway made of rough stone blocks dating to the 13th century. Neupfarrplatz, a Roman fortress built during the reign of Marcus Aurelius, was later home to one of the first Jewish communities in Germany. The ornate German Gothic Saint Peter’s Cathedral is worth seeing, too. Walk across the Old Stone Bridge, a pedestrian walkway over the Danube, and then turn to see the colorful clock tower.

A UNESCO World Heritage site , Regensburg also has great food. The Historische Wurstkuchl , or Historic Sausage Kitchen, is 1,000 years old and the oldest sausage kitchen in Europe, maybe even in the world. If you have time, sit a while at the Weltenburger am Dom , a restaurant and brewery right next to the cathedral. Try the amazing schnitzel with a beer from Weltenburg Abbey, the oldest monastery brewery in the world.

Passau, Germany

Right on the Germany-Austria border, Passau is a picturesque city. It’s known as the City of Three Rivers, since it’s where the Danube, Ilz, and Inn Rivers come together. Something you won’t find in many other places is a wasserstand , a chart depicting high water marks from floods in the city center. It’s drawn on a wall of the old town hall as a reminder that while being at the confluence of three rivers may be beautiful, it is not without risks.

Art is important to Passau, with the city’s modern art museum and a unique glass museum containing more than 30,000 European pieces of art glass. Check out the fun Artists’ Alley, where cobblestones painted in bright colors line the streets and darling boutiques hold plenty of unique souvenirs.

Passau is home to one of the largest pipe organs in the world, with almost 18,000 pipes. It resides in the gorgeous baroque Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. If the timing is right, you could catch a concert for an unforgettable experience.

Modern pleasures in Passau include the Klostergarten, a contemporary park that is home to farmers markets and gardens. It lights up at night with dramatic lighting, water features, and choreographed fountain displays, perfect for enjoying on an evening stroll.

Melk, Austria

As the Romantic Danube cruise moves into Austria, you’ll spot the Melk Abbey standing grandly atop a hill overlooking the Danube. More than just an abbey, it’s a complex comprising seven courtyards, a beautiful church, and a library with over 90,000 volumes and rare manuscripts.

Melk is located in the Wachau Valley , where small towns and monasteries flourished during the Renaissance. The scenery is stunning. Several castles — including Schloss Schallaburg , Schloss Artstetten , and Schloss Schonbuhel — beg to be explored, and the ruins of other castles dot the landscape.

If you’re interested in local food and beverages like we are, the Wachau Valley is renowned for its apricots and wine. In addition to excellent wines made from grapes such as riesling and gruner veltliner, apricot wine, apricot dumplings, apricot cake, and some unique items made with saffron are also local specialties.

Krems is the town at the other end of the valley and is sometimes part of the Romantic Danube itinerary.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are so many things to see, do, and eat that you will not want to waste a moment of your time there.

We have to put the Viennese culinary culture at the top of our list. Famous desserts like sacher torte and apple strudel, gorgeous coffeehouses, incredible farmers markets, delicious street food, and a wide range of restaurants provide many opportunities to sample local delights. Most people don’t know that Vienna is also home to its own wine regions, making the local wine a great option to try.

Music is another highlight of Viennese culture. The City of Music has many venues from which to choose. The Musikverein , Vienna State Opera , Wiener Konzerthaus , and Schonbrunn Palace offer concerts featuring everything from the classical music of Mozart and Strauss to jazz, pop, and rock. There are also cafés, bars, and nightclubs offering food, drinks, and music in a more intimate setting.

World-renowned palaces like Schonbrunn and the Hofburg as well as sacred spaces like Saint Stephen’s Cathedral and Karlskirche impress with their magnificence.

Of course, Vienna also offers gorgeous Christmas markets in stunning venues like the City Hall, Belvedere Palace, Maria Theresien Square, and Schonbrunn Palace, among others.

Animal lovers can check out the elegant Lipizzaner stallions performing at the Spanish Riding School or visit Vienna’s Tiergarten , the oldest zoo in the world.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is actually three different cities: Buda and Obuda on the west side of the Danube  River and Pest on the east side. That only adds to the intrigue of this unique destination.

The quieter Buda side has hills and a funicular, which you can ride to the top for a panoramic view of the Pest side. The City Park is a lovely place to stroll, with botanical gardens, a municipal zoo, the Budapest circus, and a museum of agriculture. There’s also a huge timer containing sand that takes a year to go from the top to the bottom. It’s started all over again every New Year.

The Great Market Hall features three floors of local produce, prepared delicacies, crafts, and souvenirs. If you like to shop, be sure to stroll along Vaci and Kiraly Streets, pedestrian roads full of touristy joints as well as fun local shops and cafés.

Budapest has several spas and thermal baths in which you can relax while also getting your history fix; many of these structures have been around since Ottoman times.

Budapest also boasts several phenomenal holiday markets, including the Advent Feast at the Basilica , considered among the best Christmas markets in Europe.

The folks at Viking River Cruises know that the spectacular Hungarian Parliament Building is a vision at night. They generally provide an opportunity to see it while you’re on the water and make a picture-perfect memory to last a lifetime.

What To Know Before You Go

Viking River Cruises offers several excursions as well as a variety of add-ons. Be sure to take time before your departure to explore what interests you and book anything extra well in advance because space is often limited. While the ship is comfy, the service delightful, and the onboard activities lots of fun, be sure to get out and explore at every stop. There is so much awaiting you on your Romantic Danube journey.

Diana Laskaris and Sue Reddel are the Co-Founders of Food Travelist . They travel the world and find the best food every destination has to offer. They've tried it all. From Michelin starred fine restaurants to tasty street food on a stick. They hope to bring the world just a bit closer together by sharing a meal and learning about different cultures and ourselves through food and drink. They are both Certified Culinary Travel Professionals and frequent authors of articles about food & travel.

How To Make The Most Of Shore Excursions: Viking Cruises Danube Waltz

Latest update: December 2023. Coming soon, Danube River Christmas Markets, inside scoop. 

In October I joined Viking  Cruises on the Danube Waltz cruise. This was my second river cruise and I was blown away by the grand cities, small towns, and the inspiring shore excursions on this Viking Danube cruise.

Traveling with Viking Cruises is special, no question; their unique cultural immersion programs, shore excursions, elegantly designed cruise ships, and food and beverage program, are recognized by travel experts the world over.  

Photo courtesy of Viking Cruises

Optional shore excursions Danube Waltz 

Viking offers classic and iconic tours with local guides at every port–some are optional, and some are included. Every excursion is listed in your cruise documents and on the Viking website .  I take all of the included shore excursions because Viking only books guides who are experts on their chosen destination.

Optional tours are designed to give you further opportunities to dive deeper into the culture. In Budapest, you could visit the iconic Széchenyi Bathhouse for a slice of local life, or learn to make Hungarian pancakes and tour the Grand Market. There is an additional charge for optional tours. 

Széchenyi Thermal Baths Budapest, Photo by grassrootsgroundswell on flickr

What Makes The Danube Waltz Shore Excursions Special? 

One of the exclusive Viking excursions offered on the Danube Waltz itinerary was a visit to Gottweig Abbey with spectacular views over the Wachau Valley. Viking guests have the opportunity to tour the 900-year-old abbey, view a short film about life at the abbey, and admire the extensive art collection.

We also enjoyed a taste of sparkling apricot wine made by the Benedictine monks who live and work at the abbey . Viking is the only cruise line with access to Gottweig Abbey . This is one example of Viking’s privileged access tours. 

Göttweig Abbey, Benedictine monastery near Krems in Lower Austria, founded in 1083, a World Heritage Site., photo courtesy of Viking Cruises.

Cultural programs 

Participating in the cultural programs offered onboard is another way to enrich your experience– and some of my most memorable moments were on the ship. At least two of our seven nights included live music performed by expert guest musicians. One night we were entertained by a classical opera singer and another night the Bratislava Men’s Choir.

Before arriving in Vienna we enjoyed a musical evening that included our Program Director (a classical violinist) playing the violin for us, as well as learning about the classical music inheritance Vienna gave the world.  We also received the 411 on Vienna’s world-renowned coffee houses. 

Even though I’m a very independent traveler , I quickly grew to appreciate the scope of cultural knowledge and educational preparation that Viking offers; I could simply enjoy the immersion in the history and culture of each port.

A trip to Vienna must include a visit to Mozart!

 Make the most of Shore Excursions on the Danube

Important tip: your viking cruise documents.

Shortly after confirming your booking, you’ll receive your cruise documents in the mail. Everything you need to know about arrival, departure, currency, the cruise ship, the ports, food and beverage, tipping, baggage, and Viking’s commitment to you is within the pages of your cruise documents. Read it. It is for your convenience.

Online information 

You will find a wealth of information on the Viking River Cruises website, such as suggestions for films and mini-language lessons related to your itinerary. Everything is designed to enhance your trip. I read two historical books about Vienna from the suggested reading list. I have always found that having some historical context makes any experience more enjoyable and deepens my understanding.  The website also has extensive details about your Viking longship. 

Consider your interests and fitness level 

To make the most of the shore excursions offered, consider these two things:

Your interests and your level of fitness. For example, some tours involve steep walks or bicycling. If for some reason you are unable to walk up a steep hill or steps, don’t go on that tour. The level of difficulty is indicated in the description of the tour. If you don’t like dancing, then you shouldn’t take a waltz lesson in Vienna.

Our tour director jokingly referred to traveling with Viking as Bootcamp, but it’s somewhat true. Most tours begin early morning and leave by 8:00 am. If having free time on your own is more important to you, that’s ok, too… you’re under no obligation to take any tours.

Breakfast selections, Viking Hermod

There was fresh smoked salmon every morning, yum!

Preparation is key to a great day

You’ll want to get up early enough to have breakfast.  Most tours last one and a half or two hours unless it’s a destination like Gottweig Abbey or Cesky Krumlov, which are half-day trips. You won’t have a chance to eat again until the end of the tour. Of course, you can tuck something into your day bag if you need a snack before lunch.

Audio devices

Every room onboard the ship has a set of audio devices that you take with you on tours (one per person). They allow you to hear the tour guide even if you’re walking in the back of the group. Make sure your device(s) are charged and ready to go each morning.  I forgot mine once and yes, there was a spare, but don’t count on this.

The best practice is when you return to the ship and put it back on the charger so it’s ready for the next day unless you’re going out on another tour that requires it. 

The dock at Krems, Wachau Valley, Austria

Port talks, Viking’s 411

Before dinner each day there is a gathering in the lounge for a port talk with the Program Director . You’ll want to go to these. Aside from being informative, they’re fun. Have a drink, sit next to someone new, strike up a conversation, and make dinner plans. In addition, you’ll usually hear from the Chef about menu specialties for the evening. There is always a regional menu, as well as classical cuisine prepared with local ingredients. 

Get comfortable in the lounge where you’ll gather for daily Port Talks and evening cocktails and entertainment.

Each evening, you will find a Viking Daily newsletter in your room with information about the next port city, as well as some fun trivia about the region, food and culture, restaurant suggestions, and other tips. These are great for making note of things you want to be sure not to miss. The Viking Daily was often my evening reading material–I’m geeky that way. 

To recap: Sleep well, wake up early, eat breakfast, and have everything you need for the day ready to go. And make sure you don’t forget your earbuds and audio device. 

Rest well in your comfortable stateroom. photo courtesy of Viking.

Tip: Always carry the contact information for the boat with you, including the phone number– and make sure your cell phone is charged (carry a spare battery if needed.)  I was once separated from the group and my bag was on the bus. But, I had my cell phone in my pocket (because I was taking photos with it) and the card with the number for the boat. I was able to call the boat and explain what happened and where I was. 

Viking Danube Waltz: Ports & Excursions

 budapest to passau .

Now that all the details are out of the way, let’s check out the ports and shore excursions on Viking’s Danube Waltz cruise. In 2017, AFAR magazine’s Travelers’ Choice Awards named Viking the “Best Danube River Cruise Operator,” for its small ships, elegant staterooms, regional Austrian and Hungarian cuisine, and expert staff. Now that I’ve done this cruise I would offer my vote as well. I enjoyed my dance along the blue Danube–and my dance card was always full.

Viking Hermod docked near the Chain Bridge in Budapest, Hungary

I joined the Danube Waltz in Budapest– it was apparent right away why it is referred to as the Paris of the East– the lights along the river and bridges are very romantic. And because Viking is given first preference in Budapest, your ship will be docked within a short walk of the Széchenyi Chain Bridge , a suspension bridge connecting the two parts of the city. It is easily one of the most beautiful bridges crossing the Danube.

The Panoramic Budapest tour takes you by bus around Pest, then up Buda Castle Hill to visit Matthias Church (named for King Matthias) and the Fisherman’s Bastion. The views are spectacular, so be sure you have your camera or phone ready for action. 

Parliament building at night, Budapest

Budapest is intriguing because it is two cities divided by the river; on the west side is Buda and on the east side, Pest. Pest is a treasure of art nouveau and 19th-century architecture with a wonderful market, great restaurants, and shopping. More recent historical monuments, like Hero’s Square, can be seen on the Pest side.  Andrassy Avenue is the main street to know in this part of the city. It’s lined with gorgeous architecture, museums and galleries, and some good shops, too. 

Buda Castle Hill, the Parliament building, the iconic Chain Bridge, and the banks of the Danube have all received UNESCO World Heritage designation. 

Bratislava 

The capital of Slovakia, Bratislava is the only capital that borders two countries, Hungary and Austria.  In its heyday, Maria Theresa, Empress of Austria, spent quite a lot of time there, as it was part of the Hungarian Empire.  

The charming historic center is an inviting place to spend a day or two.  I would say Bratislava is emerging as one of the more interesting cities along the Danube. Despite being small for a capital city (population around 450,000), there is good shopping and fun pubs, and I spotted what looked like a nice wine bar. After your Bratislava Panoramic tour, shop for something special to take home. I brought home a music box with The Kiss, a painting by Gustav Klimt, on the cover.

Bratislava, Slovakia

The included excursion in Bratislava is either a walking tour or a drive/walk. The drive will take you up the hill to Bratislava Castle, the former home of the Hungarian crown jewels. Both tours include a walk through the charming old town along the Amber Road, once a trade route linking Northern and Southern Europe. You’ll also see St. Martins’ Cathedral, which was the coronation church for ten kings, and where Maria Theresa was crowned Queen of Hungary in 1741.

Nice shops for souvenir shops on the square in Bratislava, Slovakia.

Vienna excursions

Oh, Vienna! With so much beauty and culture to offer, how can anyone make a choice when it comes to excursions? In addition to the included city tour, six optional excursions are offered, from the Imperial Vienna tour to a classical music concert. I took the included tour, then spent the day walking the streets of Vienna before returning to the ship for the optional Heurigen evening excursion. For a great time filled with music, food, and wine I highly recommend it.

exterior St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna

St Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna by Charlie on flickr

The included tour, Panoramic Vienna , is a city tour that covers the highlights of the historic center, protected by UNESCO. This includes the exterior of the Hofburg Palace , a walk by the stables of the Lipizzaner Stallions, the Roman ruins that have been excavated just outside the palace, and the magnificent St Stephen’s Cathedral. A tour of the Schónbrunn Palace can be purchased as an optional excursion. 

Café Demel by a canvas of light on flickr

No matter what you do in Vienna, you’ll want to take some time for that most Viennese of traditions, coffee . Did you know that Viennese coffee culture is classified as an intangible cultural heritage and recognized by UNESCO? I managed to try three different places: Demel, Cafe Eiles, and Cafe Espresso.

What makes Demel special?

Everyone should try Demel, located in the historic center just outside of the Hofburg Palace. Demel served the royal palace and its inhabitants and is one of the oldest coffee houses in Vienna. I had hot chocolate because I knew I would have coffee later; my friends all ordered some sort of special Viennese coffee drink. Everything was served in classical style on a small silver tray with a shot of water on the side.

I quite like this tradition and wish it would make its way stateside. Demel is also known for its fantastic pastries and cakes. There’s a kitchen in the back where you can watch them making these sweet creations. 

Musicians at the Wolff Heuriger

Optional tour in Vienna

The Heurigen evening was a highlight of the trip for me . You’re probably wondering what a Heurigen is if you’ve never been to Austria. The Heurigen refers to a seasonal winery only open after harvest, when the winemaker will then sell the new wine. Heurige means from this year .  A Heurigen evening includes not only wine but lots of food too–something that is not traditional but has grown with the times and popularity with tourists.

As guests of Viking, we were treated to an evening at Heuriger Wolff, one of the oldest winemaking families in Vienna. You’ll see the sign above the entrance says 1609…that’s a long time! There was live traditional music, many toasts, and a feeling of gemutlichkeit, or good cheer, was present. One of the crew members who was along with us for the Heurigen evening said he never missed the opportunity to go. That’s a darn good recommendation. 

Fresh wine from the Wolff Heurige, Vienna

Krems and Gottweig Abbey 

Ah, Krems. I woke up and looked out my window to see church steeples piercing a heavy layer of fog.  We may have left the glamour of Vienna behind, but there was more Austrian treasure to discover. Krems and Stein, once two separate towns, are part of the Wachau Valley cultural landscape. Settlement in Krems dates back to the Neolithic era. It was once more important than Vienna for its wine and salt trade. Cobblestone streets and vineyard terraces are the hallmarks of this charming town.  Also, the tour to Gottweig Abbey departs from Krems.

Vineyards near Krems, Austria

Scenic Sailing through the Wachau Valley

 When the ship departs Krems, have your camera ready, because the rest of the day will be spent cruising the extraordinary Wachau Valley.

The Wachau Valley stretches from Krems to Melk and has been a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. It is considered the prettiest part of the Danube River. The Wachau is mainly known for picturesque castle ruins, medieval towns, and terraced vineyards.

Grapes are grown in the Wachau Valley

The signature grape is Gruner Veltliner, a white wine grape that produces a wine that is acidic and aromatic, with notes of citrus and pepper. Another important grape from the Wachau is Riesling – usually dry and crisp, though there are late-harvest dessert wines too.

Foggy morning in Krems, Austria

Linz and Cesky Krumlov excursions

The next port is Linz, and two excursions are included: a guided tour of Linz, home of the Linzer torte, and a walking tour of the storybook town of Cesky Krumlov , another Unesco World Heritage Site located in the Czech Republic. 

The castle tower, Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Linz was heavily bombed during WWII, as it was an important industrial city. However, there are still some buildings of architectural and historical significance, such as the Mozarthaus, where the composer wrote the Linz Symphony.  You can choose to stay in the port and tour Linz or travel to Cesky Krumlov, a full-day tour. Or, choose a day free to do whatever you like! 

Cesky Krumlov Walking Tour

Transport to Cesky Krumlov is by bus, which allows one to gaze upon the pretty countryside. Our guide regaled us with history and stories of growing up in a communist country, as well as what life is like in the Czech Republic today. I learned a lot! 

Cesky Krumlov

Once in Cesky Krumlov, the tour includes the exterior of the upper and lower castle, the town hall, the pharmacy, and the monastery. The castle buildings, as well as most of the buildings in the center of the town, are covered in the most beautiful frescoes. I marveled at how well restored they are.

 After the tour, we had lunch at a traditional Czech restaurant specializing in regional food, in other words, peasant food for hard-working people. I had the most delicious cabbage soup there thanks to the recommendation of our tour guide. It was so good I’ve prepared it at home several times. 

My only regret was that there wasn’t enough time to visit the castle museums, climb the tower, float down the Vltava River, and eat lunch.  My tip for this trip: if possible, go in the offseason or spend the night . Cesky Krumlov has become very popular and is crawling with tourists, especially around the castle. Once you filter into the town, it’s less congested.  However, if that’s not an option, just go! It’s worth it.

Passau, Germany

Passau excursions

The final port on this cruise is Passau, Germany, a most charming slice of Bavaria, founded over 2000 years ago at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz, and Danube rivers. Overlooking the town and the river,  Veste Oberhaus is an old fort, built in 1219.  Aside from the stellar views in season, there is a beer garden.

 The Passau Walking Tour, the included shore excursion,  is a stroll through the city culminating in an organ concert at St. Stephen’s church. A baroque dream that will surely remind you of Rome and Bernini, St. Stephen’s is home to Europe’s largest pipe organ. It has more than 17,000 pipes. 

I loved Passau – it felt like I was in Italy with its winding cobblestone alleyways, Baroque facades, arches, and even businesses with Italian names.  If you didn’t look at the street signs you might not know where you were but then again, there was no graffiti and everything was very clean and organized.

An optional tour from Passau is the Neuschwanstein Castle tour. Neuschwanstein Castle was the inspiration for the Disney castle. Transportation to Neuschwanstein Castle is by helicopter. Other optional tours here include hiking the Passau hills, Bavaria by bike, and a visit to a Bavarian farm.

Alas, Passau was our port of disembarkation. Not only that, but it was time to say goodbye to Viking and new friends. If you would like to extend your stay Viking can arrange that for you. Many people extend their time to visit Prague, Munich, or return to Vienna. 

 A Viking cruise guarantees a cultural experience like no other. Now, armed with all this pre-cruise knowledge, you can make the most of every shore excursion on the Viking Danube Waltz . 

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30 comments.

Penny – My sister and I are going on the reverse Blue Danube cruise that you took. We are going in July and are looking at the optional excursions; however, a lot of the ones on the website are not available or being offered. Is there another company that has similar excursions?

Hi Steve, Are you saying that you don’t see the same excursions on the Viking Danube Waltz trip for summer time? I had a look and it all looks the same to me. There are other cruise lines sure. You can just google Danube river cruise and many options will pop up. I have not sailed with any others so I can’t honestly reocmmend them.

Correct. Some of the excursions we want to take are listed on the website but not offered for our cruise. In your experience, are these offered as we get closer to the cruise?

Your best bet is to contact Viking directly and ask them.

[…] a recent trip to Hungary, I visited Tasting Table Budapest. Prior to my visit, I had never tasted Hungarian wine but I knew […]

[…] sure to read my article, How To Make The Most Of Shore Excursion’s, Viking’s Danube Waltz for in depth information about what to expect and  as the title says, how to make the most of […]

nice blog thanks for sharing this.

Thanks Penny, very helpful – gets me psyched for my 2024 trip with friends. Will review itinerary since I know included tours have been modified since your trip.

Hi Brian, Are you going on the Danube Waltz itinerary? If so, the excursions are the same. I’m going on this trip again soon and there is no difference except that there will be Christmas markets.

What a great article! My husband and I are taking this river cruise at the end of May 2024. We decided to only do the included excursions but after reading about the Heurigen evening excursion, we’ve added that to our itinerary. Thanks for sharing your review!

You will love it! So fun!

Fantastic article – I’m sending to all my fellow travelers! One question though, the Cesky Krumlov excursion is now all day and there is a hefty cost, as it is no longer an ‘included’ excursion. Is there enough to do and see in Linz itself or do you strongly recommend going to Cesky Krumlov? Thanks!

Hi Jayne, How must does it cost to go to Cesky Krumlov now? I can’t really comment on Linz because I didn’t go there. However, I do remember the people who did go enjoyed it. If it’s not too expensive I’d probably opt for Cesky Krumlov but maybe Google Linz and see what you think.

What a wonderful and informative article. I am going to be on the Viking Danube cruise in April, 2023. Has anyone gone to Salzburg after docking in Linz? I would love to see Salzburg since we have an entire day in Linz. Has anyone taken the train to Salzburg ? I was wondering how far the train station is from where we dock.T hank you for any information anyone could share.

Hello Ann, I’m sorry I do not know the answer to that question. If you are taking a Viking Cruise I recommend you reach out to your trip planner for assistance. They can arrange everything for you. I am envious. This is a wonderful itinerary.

Appreciate the tips provided in your article, very informative

Thank you Milena. I appreciate the feedback. I’m be traveling with Viking again soon on the Douro River of Gold itinerary. Have you taken that one yet?

Hello! We have plans for this cruise Dec 2024 in reverse. Do you know how Viking makes accommodations for the hard of hearing? Like the onboard programs, headset connections to earbuds during excursions, or other ways? Thanks in advance

Renee, Great question! I do not but I will reach out immediately to follow up. Stay tuned. I know they have headsets but I don’t know if they have special headsets for hearing impaired.

Penny, I’m going on the Danube Waltz i at the end of March 2022. I really appreciated your comments and recommendations. Thanks so much for sharing. I’d like to take the Cesky Krumlov tour. Do you have time when you return to be able to explore Linz on your own?

Hi Kay, I recommend asking your Viking contact this question. I took the cruise in the fall of 2019 and there may be some changes now. At the time you could choose to go to Cesky Krumlov or to tour Linz, but not both. Again, I’d ask Viking. It’s a fabulous trip and I know you will love it.

Thanks Penny for the helpful information. We are planning to take the Viking European Cruise in 2022. Do you or friends have any more info. / or would like to share their experience of taking the helicopter ride and the tour to go visit Neuschwanstein Castle?

I did not take that tour and I’m not sure if anyone on the cruise I was on did. Sorry, I can’t be of more help about that but I’m sure you can find reviews on other sites.

Great information! Thank you so much; this will be a great help to us as we plan our excursions. We just signed up for the Danube Waltz cruise today and I’m so excited even though it’s months and months away!

You will love it! Glad to be of help.

[…] I rarely bring home anything more than photographs, but I purchased a small music box in Bratislava last year. I keep it by my bedside, so that I am reminded daily of the last European trip I took, a wonderful cruise on the Danube River. […]

When can I leave?

Now seems like it would be a good time! And, no crowds! you’ll have Vienna and Cesky Krumlov to yourself. Heavenly. But of course, it is a personal decision.

Awesome article! I’ve always wondered about these cruises and now I can’t wait to plan our very own! Thanks for the info!

I know you will love it!

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A Danube River cruise unveils Europe’s rich and dramatic history. Glittering cultural capitals, lush vineyards, magnificent monasteries and endless scenic splendor line the river’s banks. Here are some sample highlights you will see with Viking:

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Danube river cruises: an ultimate guide to cruising Budapest and beyond

Why, when and how to sail along Europe’s second-longest river, which meanders through the likes of Vienna, Budapest and Bucharest

Its banks are lined with dramatic, unspoiled landscapes, postcard-perfect towns and villages, and grand, opulent cities . Take a river cruise down this majestic river and you’ll encounter some of the world’s most stunning countryside, including the UNESCO-protected Wachau Valley, along with an array of fascinating cultures.

Cruising Europe’s waterways is a great way to see more of the region in a short period of time than you might do by land, and a river cruise can be the ideal introduction to cruise holidays for first-timers.

While ships are smaller than those traversing across oceans, river cruise itineraries often feature big-name guests onboard – as is the case with our seven-night sailing along the Danube , when one of the UK's best-loved historians, Lucy Worsley (pictured below), joins guests on a private visit to Vienna’s Royal Lipizzaner Stables and Spanish Riding School.

What is the best time of year to cruise the Danube River?

The Danube is a year-round destination with the exception of January and February, when few cruise lines operate here. Summer, when the weather is hottest, is peak season and as a result Europe’s cities are particularly crowded. Because of that, we recommend taking a Danube river cruise in April, May, September and October. Good Housekeeping's seven-night itinerary sails in September, when the weather should still be balmy and dry, but the summer hordes have gone home.

Where does a Danube river cruise start and end?

The Danube either flows through or delineates part of the border of Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova and Ukraine. Many cruises traverse the stretch between the capital cities of Vienna, Austria and Budapest , Hungary, starting or ending at either location.

Our seven-night Danube river cruise with Lucy Worsley departs from the city of Engelhartszell in Austria before calling at Vienna (pictured below), the pretty town of Esztergom in Hungary and Budapest. You'll then loop back down the river, calling at Slovakia's capital Bratislava and the Wachau Valley in Austria before returning to Engelhartszell.

Is a Danube river cruise worth it?

Absolutely! If you love dazzling landscapes, magnificent architecture and fabulous food, a Danube river cruise is hard to beat. Exploring Europe by water requires no internal flights and train rides and eliminates schlepping around with your luggage in tow.

On a river cruise, you can discover multiple destinations – and even get to the heart of them with a guided tour, should you wish – in just one trip, all the while returning to the same luxurious stateroom and comfy bed each night.

What are the best things to do on a Danube river cruise?

One of the highlights of any Danube cruise is the Austrian capital, Vienna, with its musical heritage, imperial palaces, array of art museums, stunning Lipizzaner stallions, and delectable cuisine (a slice of Sachertorte chocolate cake is a must when in town!).

Secondly, Budapest, the capital of Hungary, boasts breath-taking architecture as well as historic thermal baths (pictured above), while Bratislava shouldn’t be overlooked with its lively 18th-century Old Town and impressive reconstructed hilltop castle from which you can look down over it.

Other hotspots along the Danube include the verdant Wachau Valley in Austria, which tumbles down to the riverbanks; and medieval Esztergom, Hungary’s former capital, which is home to the country’s largest church, Esztergom Basilica.

And that’s all without mentioning the entertainment and facilities onboard your ship. Join us on our seven-night Danube cruise and you’ll sail aboard A-ROSA FLORA, which boasts an onboard spa offering beauty and body treatments, gym, spacious sun deck, heated outdoor pool, outdoor restaurant with canopy top, bar and dancefloor, lounges and plenty of evening fun.

Which cruise lines offer Danube river cruises?

Among the companies offering cruises along the Danube are A-ROSA Cruises , with whom we have partnered to bring you our remarkable river cruise . A-ROSA has 20-plus years of experience in sailing couples, families, groups and solo travellers along some of Europe’s loveliest rivers in laidback style, giving you lots of freedom to explore port stops at your own pace.

How much does it cost to cruise the Danube?

Danube cruises can be great value, with our cruise through Austria, Hungary and Slovakia starting just over £2,000 per person for a week. All meals and drinks, including sparkling wines and cocktails, are included, as are snacks and afternoon tea. Also included is the use of the sauna, gym and top-deck heated swimming pool. You'll also get 15% off treatments in the onboard spa.

Sail the Danube and visit Vienna's famous riding school with Lucy Worsley in September 2024.

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Viking Egil Christmas Markets Danube River cruise Review with Lots of Photos and Menus

By MVPinBoynton , December 30, 2022 in River Cruising

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MVPinBoynton

I have just posted a review to my website with lots of photos of a recently completed Christmas markets Danube River cruise on the Viking Egil from Budapest to Regensburg.    

We had a great time on an awesome ship.     This was my first time on Viking, and I couldn’t have been more impressed with the ship, crew, food and great service throughout.     It was my second Danube River cruise.     My first one was in 2009 during much warmer weather.     This one was quite different.     Below are a few photos from the cruise.

The review is located on my website, which is linked to in my signature.     You can also just Google “Mike and Carol’s Cruise Reviews” to find a link to it.     I hope it is helpful for those of you that are planning to do a Danube River cruise; or that it brings back some fond memories to those of you who have already done one.

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@MVPinBoynton  well, your report on your site is exhaustive!

In the early bit you say you chose a table for 10 and were served last. As there were 4 in your party, perhaps the waiter was waiting for the other six seats to be filled?

A part of the report reads

Also in the square is the Soviet monument.  It was erected after WW2.  It is very controversial since some feel that it is a symbol of soviet oppression, while others view it as a sign of freedom from the soviets. 

Should the last word be Germans?  (This board doesn't allow my preferred word of which this is an anagram  - Nzais.)

Also a typo -   I stayed around long enough to see the lock fill up and the Egil begin to leave it.  After seeing it done once, there isn’t much reason to watch it again, since it does get old quickly.

I think get cold was meant.

I love river cruising and also Viking, and had an invitation from friends to join them on a Christmas markets cruise. Your report confirms my decision not to join them - too cold!!!

7 minutes ago, pontac said: @MVPinBoynton  well, your report on your site is exhaustive!   In the early bit you say you chose a table for 10 and were served last. As there were 4 in your party, perhaps the waiter was waiting for the other six seats to be filled?   A part of the report reads Also in the square is the Soviet monument.  It was erected after WW2.  It is very controversial since some feel that it is a symbol of soviet oppression, while others view it as a sign of freedom from the soviets.    Should the last word be Germans?  (This board doesn't allow my preferred word of which this is an anagram  - Nzais.)   Also a typo -   I stayed around long enough to see the lock fill up and the Egil begin to leave it.  After seeing it done once, there isn’t much reason to watch it again, since it does get old quickly.   I think get cold was meant.   I love river cruising and also Viking, and had an invitation from friends to join them on a Christmas markets cruise. Your report confirms my decision not to join them - too cold!!!

Thank you for your response.  We had pretty much the same 8-10 people at our table each night. They knew we were all there.   

it was the Soviet monument.  They were freed from Russia in 1989.   

I did mean that watching licks fill up does get old.  Maybe I have seen too many of them over the years.  

Thanks for the detailed review!   We are in the same route next year and appreciate the commentary on the excursions and the restaurant/bar menus

Canal archive

MV interesting review. I can well understand the non canal/river person feeling that more locks/licks get old unless your interested in the differences between locks or are a canal engineer, I find the sheer size of the European locks amazing. Loads of photographs did you have full permission?

3 hours ago, Canal archive said: MV interesting review. I can well understand the non canal/river person feeling that more locks/licks get old unless your interested in the differences between locks or are a canal engineer, I find the sheer size of the European locks amazing. Loads of photographs did you have full permission?

Locks are certainly most impressive.  I saw several on this cruise and many others on different cruises, so I don’t need to watch them all anymore.  

I only take photos where allowed. 

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Viking Vilhjalm Review: Festive Christmas Cruise on the Danube

Mimi Slawoff

Shortly after checking in at reception on the elegant Viking Viljhalm longship docked in Budapest, my daughter Christina and I were escorted to our stateroom. Our luggage arrived a few minutes later. Christina and I were excited to experience our first Viking river cruise as well as our first European Christmas markets.

The Viking Viljhalm sails along the Danube from Budapest, Hungary, to Passau, Germany, with port stops in Bratislava, Slovakia, and Vienna, Linz and Krems in Austria. For our Viking Danube Christmas Delights cruise, the Viljhalm was festively decorated for the holidays with garland, ornaments and a Christmas tree.

Since all fees are paid upfront (and we booked our shore excursions in advance), we enjoyed a relaxing and exciting week onboard Viking Viljhalm. The staff was friendly and the service was impeccable.

Viking’s all-inclusive fares cover one complimentary shore excursion, free beer, wine and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner, free wifi, port taxes and fees. Ground transfers are included with the purchase of Viking Air. Additional shore excursions, and pre- and post-cruise stays are available for purchase.

Read More: A Merry Viking River Cruise from Budapest

Viking Longships

The elegant Viking Viljhalm is among the river cruise company’s longships that sail in Europe. The 433-foot Viljhalm launched in 2016 and has the same design as the first longships that debuted in 2012. Reflecting Viking’s Norwegian heritage, these streamlined ships easily navigate the Danube and numerous locks – an exciting feature of a river cruise. The Viljhalm longship comfortably accommodates 190 guests and 53 crew members.

Like the other longships, the Viljhalm has four decks. The Main Deck (staterooms without balconies), Middle Deck (staterooms with balconies/verandas, restaurant, guest services and a shop), Upper Deck (staterooms with balconies, verandas, lounge, bar, Aquavit Terrace and library), and Sun Deck. There’s an elevator that travels from the Middle to Upper Deck.

The ship’s spacious public spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows and doors create a bright and airy environment for a scenic sailing experience. And a smooth and quiet sailing thanks to the ecologically friendly hybrid engines that produce less vibration.

Types of Staterooms

The Viljhalm’s 95 staterooms have private balconies and/or verandas and range in size from 135 square feet for a standard room to 445 square feet for an Explorer Suite.

We stayed in a Veranda Stateroom, which measures 205 square feet including the balcony with floor-to-ceiling windows. The beds in the staterooms feature plush king beds but can be configured for two twins, which is what we requested.

After we unpacked, utilizing ample dresser drawers and closets, we stowed our luggage under our beds to free up floor space. There was plenty of space for each of us to have our own side of the room to dress and primp for dinner.

Room amenities include a mini fridge, a flat-screen TV with an infotainment system featuring live TV channels, complimentary Movies on Demand and in-ship programming. Bottled water is replenished daily. While the bathroom was somewhat compact, it had premium bath amenities.

We enjoyed our balcony although our December sailing made it chilly to stay outside for long. However the floor-to-ceiling windows made it easy to watch the passing scenery from inside our room.

Read More: Corinthia Hotel Review: Luxury Stay Pre-Cruise in Budapest

Elegant Atrium

Located on the Main Deck, the spacious atrium has a reception desk, guest services and a small shop. It’s also where you check in and out for shore excursions.

Aquavit Terrace

Located at the bow, the indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace is a lovely space for a casual breakfast or lunch. Whether you sit indoors, which has floor-to-ceiling windows and doors, or outdoors on the terrace for al fresco dining, you’ll get great views of the passing scenery.

SheBuysTravel Tip: The Aquavit Terrace is one of the best places to watch the ship pass through locks.

Adjacent to the Aquavit Terrace is the Lounge, a spacious, inviting area with comfortable seating areas, a bar and a dance floor. During the day, people hang out reading a book or chatting with friends. It becomes more lively later in the evening when people gather for cocktails, port talks and after-dinner entertainment. Evening shows feature regional performers, sing-a-longs, trivia games, and music by Viljhalm’s onboard musician.

Main Restaurant

Meals are served in the main restaurant. Christina and I agreed the ship’s food was superb and exceeded our expectations. The menu features regional cuisine and chef specialties. For example, while in Austria, the chef’s tasting platter included pumpkin seed-crusted chicken thigh, braised beef, cheese-filled sausage, potato salad, dumplings, red cabbage and sauerkraut.

Throughout the week, there was a buffet and omelet station or you could order eggs, pancakes, French toast and other items from the menu. Lunch and dinner entrees included daily classic items (salads, cheeseburgers (including vegan), hot dogs, steak, etc) and regional dishes (goulash, soups, pasta, sausages, chicken paprikash, etc).

Complimentary beverages including beer and wine are served with meals. We upgraded to the Silver Spirits drink package ($25 per person, per day), which offers premium wine, champagne, cocktails and aperitifs.

On the ship’s Upper Deck, there’s a cozy library (with books and games) and two computers.

Although our Viking Veranda stateroom had a delightful private balcony, we often went up to the sun deck for spectacular 360-degree views. While cruising through Austria’s enchanting Wachau Valley, the ship’s program director pointed out castle ruins, vineyards, and charming towns.

The top deck has a walking track and lounge chairs.

Where does Viking Villhalm sail?

The ship sails from Budapest, Hungary to Passau, Germany, and from Passau to Budapest.

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Cruise line viking ipo fetches $1.54 billion.

(Bloomberg) -- Viking Holdings Ltd. priced its initial public offering near the top of a marketed range to raise $1.54 billion for the luxury cruise operator and two investors.

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Viking is offering 11 million shares and the selling shareholders are offering about 53 million for $24 apiece, the company said in a statement, confirming an earlier report by Bloomberg News.

Best known for its art- and history-rich river tours of Europe, Viking had marketed the shares for $21 to $25 each. It increased the number of shares offered by private equity firm TPG Inc. and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board at the time of the pricing, while the size of the potential over-allotment was also increased to 9.6 million shares.

At the IPO price, Viking will have a market value of $10.4 billion based on the outstanding shares listed in its filings with the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

Viking’s founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Torstein Hagen, will continue to control the company with his daughter Karine Hagen, exercising 87% of the company’s voting power. TPG and CPPIB will each control 4.5% of votes.

Founded in 1997, Viking operates cruises around the world and has 92 vessels, according to the filing. It has more than 10,000 employees in over 90 countries.

While the company has expanded beyond its original tours of rivers such as the Danube and the Rhine, it continues to cater to older, wealthier travelers seeking “more than just a vacation,” Torstein Hagen said in the company’s prospectus.

“We maintain a clear focus on our most relevant customer group: English-speaking travelers aged 55 years old and over, who have the time, money and desire to explore the world,” Hagen wrote. “We do not try to be all things to all people, which is why we only offer a single-language experience on board our ships; there are no casinos; and children under 18 are not allowed.”

Viking is the second-biggest consumer-oriented company to go public on a US exchange this year, after the $1.57 billion listing by Amer Sports Inc. in January. Since then, an assortment of tech, health-related and industrial businesses have held IPOs, raising more than $13 billion not including Viking, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

Bermuda-based Viking is joining its publicly traded peers Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Carnival Corp. and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. Royal Caribbean, the largest of them with a market value of about $37 billion, is the only one of the three whose shares have climbed back to where they started before the coronavirus pandemic.

In 2022, Viking reported a profit of $399 million on $3.2 billion of revenue, which rose sharply compared to the previous two years as the pandemic ebbed. Last year, the company lost $1.8 billion as revenue grew to $4.7 billion. The filings show adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciations and amortization of $1.09 billion for 2023, which included a gain of about $2 billion from the re-measurement of derivatives associated with preference shares that will convert with the IPO.

Viking’s offering is being led by Bank of America Corp., JPMorgan Chase & Co., UBS Group AG and Wells Fargo & Co. Viking’s shares are expected to begin trading Wednesday on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol VIK.

Read More: Viking’s Growth, Profit Potential Cruise Alongside Public Rivals

--With assistance from Ryan Gould.

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