Are Other River Cruises Better Than Viking?

If you go online to learn about river cruises, you'll probably not only be confused but likely misled into believing something that is simply not true.

To correct this, of course, I am writing one more online article, which I'm sure you will treat as the definitive article so that you never need to consult another.

Let me start with the elephant in the room: Viking River Cruises.

Watching TV commercials and judging by their success, you logically conclude that Viking River Cruises must be pretty awesome.



You are correct, sir or madam.

Yes, indeedy-do.

Viking does an excellent job.

Then why do you also find articles that seem intent on denigrating Viking?

In trying to differentiate other lines for their unique marketing propositions, they position Viking, as the best known company, as an able foil.

For example, Uniworld is more inclusive, easily proven by their standard pre-paid gratuities, unlimited shore excursions and open bar with top shelf liquors.  Crystal undoubtedly provides more anticipatory service than Viking, but while they include the open bar like Uniworld, they don't have unlimited free shore excursions, so in that way they're more like Viking.



AmaWaterways and Avalon Waterways have larger rooms than Viking, but also larger than Uniworld, in most cases.

If you definitely would appreciate any of those specific advantages of other lines, then the alternatives should definitely be on your radar.

In the final analysis, none of that should make you think you wouldn't like Viking River Cruises, especially if you've never been on a river cruise before.

Make no mistake; a Viking River Cruise is not some bottom of the barrel experience.

There are lesser lines than Viking, to be sure, most geared for markets with less discerning tastes than well-traveled Americans, and you would be well-advised to avoid those, unless you happen to be more at the back-packing through Europe stage of life, which most likely you're not.

Once you factor in what is not included on those sub-Viking lines, not to mention what the average river cruise customer seeks, you may be surprised to find that the bottom line savings aren't as great as you initially believe, especially when air promotions pop up for Viking.




Nonetheless, many times price is more significant as a factor than we like to let on. We all want good value, and of course, we want to get the most out of our valuable vacation days.

While there are exceptions based on specific promotions, for the most part it is hard to beat Viking on price for a great river cruise at the base River View level.

If you're only going to cruise the Romantic Danube once, however, you'll want to do it right for you. Perhaps you insist on suites on ocean cruises or always stay at Ritz Carlton Hotels; then another line might be a better choice for you personally. Even then, however, finding a cruise that aligns with your schedule may take priority, and make Viking or another line the obvious choice.

I personally think many lines provide value as good as Viking, especially for those who appreciate larger rooms, though usually at higher price points.

For example, let's say you have a very discerning palate for fine wines and dinner, or if air promotions aren't in favor of Viking --- whether because you pick a specific date where AmaWaterways has one or when Viking doesn't --- then pulling the handle for AmaWaterways might be an obvious choice.

Never forget that timing of when you book can make a huge difference. Knowing when to book can be as significant as knowing what to book.

The bottom line is that your best way to choose a river cruise is to enlist the assistance of a knowledgeable travel consultant to help you make an informed decision on all fronts.