Our inaugural river cruise experience, a journey through Europe’s heart on Viking River Cruise’s “Castles & Legends” itinerary, proved to be an utterly captivating adventure. Our home for this remarkable week was the elegant Viking Longship Vili, a vessel that quickly transformed from a mere ship into a haven of comfort and discovery. Having now experienced the unparalleled charm of river cruising, we are eager to share every detail of what made our time aboard the Viking Vili so memorable.
Join us as we embark on a comprehensive tour of the Viking Vili River Cruise Ship, offering a firsthand look at the sophisticated design, thoughtful amenities, and exceptional service that defined our unforgettable week sailing the historic Danube River.
Short on time? Here are our top recommendations for planning your perfect trip:
🏨 Book Hotels and Vacation Rentals
đź“Ť Discover Local Tours and Activities
An In-Depth Tour of the Viking Vili River Cruise Ship
Stepping aboard the Viking Vili is like entering a refined, floating boutique hotel, designed with both comfort and exploration in mind. Every detail, from the carefully appointed staterooms to the inviting public spaces, contributes to an atmosphere of understated luxury and relaxation. Let’s delve into the various areas of the ship that made our Danube River cruise an exceptional journey.
Our Veranda Stateroom: A Personal Retreat (Room 317)
Our accommodation on the Viking Vili, Veranda Stateroom 317, was perfectly situated on the third floor, offering convenient access to all the ship’s amenities with just a short stroll down the corridor. This well-appointed space served as our private sanctuary throughout the cruise, providing a blend of comfort and functionality.
The centerpiece of the room was the hotel-style bed, generously sized at 79 inches by 63 inches. While initially set as a single large bed, Viking offers the flexibility of a twin-bed configuration upon request. The bed provided a firm yet supportive sleeping surface, ensuring restful nights after long days of exploration. We found the initial two pillows sufficient, but for those who prefer extra cushioning, additional pillows were readily available from the reception desk.
A defining feature of our stateroom was the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door, which opened directly onto our private veranda. This feature not only flooded the room with natural light but also offered breathtaking, ever-changing views of the Danube River and its picturesque surroundings. A crucial tip for new cruisers: always remember to draw your curtains when changing or settling down for the night, as the ship frequently docks alongside other vessels or directly next to town sidewalks, offering unexpected views to passersby.
The veranda itself was furnished with two compact chairs and a small table, creating an intimate outdoor space perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or an evening cocktail. Although our November sailing brought chilly weather, limiting our time on the balcony, we appreciated having this outdoor extension of our room, imagining its full potential during warmer months.
Without a doubt, one of the most cherished features of our stateroom was the heated bathroom floor. After a day spent exploring charming European towns, the warmth underfoot as we stepped into the bathroom was an unexpected luxury that truly rejuvenated tired feet. The bathroom, though not overly spacious, was highly functional, equipped with a well-designed walk-in shower, a toilet, ample mirrors, and two convenient shelves for personal items.
The shower, while not expansive, provided a refreshing experience. Guests are delighted to find a generous supply of Freya brand shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion upon check-in. What truly impressed us was the diligent housekeeping; toiletries were promptly refilled each time we used a bottle, ensuring we never ran out of these high-quality products.
Connectivity was never an issue, as the staterooms are thoughtfully equipped with both European and US electrical outlets strategically placed around the room. Despite this convenience, we still recommend bringing a versatile international adapter. This proved invaluable not only for any overnight stays off the ship but also for providing extra charging ports for our multiple devices while cruising.
Crucial for exploring ashore, each stateroom came pre-equipped with “quiet vox” headsets, indispensable for the engaging walking tours and excursions. It’s important to remember your responsibility to charge these devices nightly and grab them before each tour. Two sets of earpieces are provided on the desk upon arrival; however, you are welcome to use your own if you prefer an alternative to the over-ear style.
To keep guests refreshed, the stateroom featured a large glass bottle of water, two glasses, and an ice bucket, all ready for immediate use. The water bottle was consistently replenished whenever supplies ran low. Additionally, a discreet small refrigerator was built into the cabinetry next to the drawers, perfect for chilling beverages or snacks. A delightful policy on Viking allows guests to bring their own wine or beer purchased from ports back to their stateroom, adding a personal touch to their onboard experience.
Storage solutions were thoughtfully integrated into the stateroom. Six drawers, comprising four smaller and two larger ones, along with ample counter space, provided sufficient room for clothing and personal items. The closet was intelligently divided into two segments: one with hangers and open space for hanging garments, and the second featuring large shelves and a secure safe. The safe was spacious enough to accommodate a camera, an iPad, and other valuable devices. While we didn’t test it with a full-sized laptop, we believe a smaller laptop would fit comfortably.
Both sides of the bed were flanked by nightstands, each offering additional storage space. Overhead lamps and dedicated reading lights positioned directly above the bed ensured personalized illumination. We opted for the beds to be joined, creating one generously sized sleeping surface, which significantly enhanced our comfort.
For personal grooming, a high-quality hairdryer was conveniently provided in one of the drawers, saving precious luggage space. Entertainment was readily available via a 40-inch flat-panel TV, boasting a premium entertainment package that included international news channels like BBC News, CNBC, and CNN, along with National Geographic, TNT Series, Sky Sports, and a curated selection of on-demand videos and the unique “View From the Bridge” channel. We found a wide array of movies and TV shows to enjoy during our downtime.
Exquisite Dining and Inviting Lounge Areas
The culinary journey on the Viking Vili is as much a part of the experience as the destinations themselves. From casual breakfasts to elegant dinners, the ship offers a variety of dining environments designed to satisfy every palate. The lounge areas, equally inviting, serve as perfect spots for relaxation, socializing, or simply soaking in the passing scenery.
The Versatile Aquavit Terrace
Perched at the bow of the ship on the third floor, the Aquavit Terrace offers a unique indoor/outdoor dining and viewing experience. This bright and airy space is ideal for a relaxed start to the day, serving a continental breakfast or a small hot breakfast menu. For lunch and dinner, the Aquavit Terrace provides a more intimate alternative to the main dining room, featuring a curated menu that changes daily.
For guests with dietary preferences, particularly vegetarians, it’s worth noting that dedicated vegetarian options may not always be explicitly listed on the Aquavit menu. However, the crew is incredibly accommodating; simply request the vegetarian dishes from the main dining room menu, and they will be happily served to you in the Aquavit Terrace. While there was a slight initial confusion regarding this at the start of our cruise, the Viking Vili team swiftly rectified it, ensuring all our dietary needs were met with grace and efficiency. Similarly, gluten-free menu items can be requested even if not visible on the menu, highlighting Viking’s commitment to personalized service.
The Panoramic Observation Lounge
Also located on Deck Three, the Observation Lounge is a breathtaking space defined by its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, offering uninterrupted, panoramic views as the Viking Vili glides along the Danube. This versatile lounge serves as a central hub for various onboard activities. It was the primary meeting point for most evening entertainment programs, ranging from local cultural performances to engaging presentations. Additionally, the daily briefing, expertly conducted by the program director before dinner each evening, provided invaluable insights into the next day’s itinerary and destination highlights.
Adding to the lounge’s sophisticated ambiance, a talented pianist often played soothing melodies, creating the perfect backdrop for guests to relax with a cocktail or their beverage of choice, truly enhancing the leisurely cruising experience.
Convenient Coffee and Tea Station
Just outside the welcoming Observation Lounge, guests will find a highly convenient 24-hour coffee and tea station. This self-service hub is equipped with a versatile coffee machine capable of brewing a variety of coffee drinks, including rich espresso, creamy lattes, and comforting hot chocolate. For tea lovers, the machine also dispenses hot water, accompanied by a delightful assortment of tea varieties, from classic black teas to fragrant herbal blends.
An array of cups, including practical to-go cups, is always available, making it easy to grab a warm beverage before an early excursion or to enjoy a quiet moment back in your stateroom. A hidden gem of this station is the daily rotation of freshly baked cookies. Beyond the regular offerings of classic oatmeal raisin and chocolate chip cookies, we particularly enjoyed discovering regional specialties that changed with our itinerary. From delicate Linzer cookies as we sailed through Austria to delightful Hungarian treats as we approached Budapest, these sweet surprises added an authentic local flavor to our onboard experience.
For those with a specific tea preference or a love for a larger mug, we highly recommend bringing your own favorite tea bags and a travel mug. While the provided cups are standard coffee sizes, a larger mug can make all the difference for a long, leisurely tea or coffee experience.
The Elegant Main Dining Room
Located on Deck Two, the Main Dining Room is the ship’s primary culinary venue, offering an inviting and spacious environment for all passengers. The dining room ensures ample seating, comfortably accommodating every guest aboard the Viking Vili. Unlike some cruises with multiple dinner sittings, the Viking Vili typically operates with one set time for lunch and dinner, fostering a communal dining atmosphere. While a few minutes of leeway are acceptable, arriving close to the designated time ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
The tables in the main dining room are designed to encourage conversation and camaraderie, typically seating six to eight people. A thoughtful mix of chairs, some with full sides and others with open sides, caters to various comfort preferences.
During our “Castles & Legends” cruise, the main dining room offered a delightful array of culinary experiences throughout the day:
- Breakfast (7:00 AM – 9:30 AM): A bountiful buffet spread was complemented by a selection of dishes cooked to order, ensuring a fresh and personalized start to each day. From pastries and fruits to eggs cooked just the way you like them, there was something for everyone.
- Lunch (12:00 PM): Served at a set time, lunch combined a tempting buffet – often featuring fresh salads and appetizing starters – with additional cooked-to-order main courses. This balance allowed for both quick, casual meals and more leisurely dining.
- Dinner (7:00 PM): The evening meal was a highlight, featuring a meticulously crafted main menu. On several nights, themed buffet options were also available, allowing guests to sample regional delicacies inspired by the areas we were cruising through. These themed nights were a fantastic way to immerse ourselves further in the local culture through gastronomy.
Internet Area and Additional Lounge Space
For those needing to stay connected or simply desiring a quiet spot to read, the third floor houses a dedicated internet area. Here, several computers with internet access are available for all passengers, and we were pleased to find that internet access is included as part of the cruise fare. While the service typically performs best when the ship is docked in cities, we experienced remarkably consistent internet connectivity throughout our entire cruise, even while sailing.
While the internet speed might not be sufficient for downloading large movies, it proved perfectly adequate for staying in touch with loved ones, sharing stunning travel photos via social media, and managing blog updates without any issues. Adjacent to this area are comfortable lounge chairs, offering another peaceful nook for relaxation or catching up on emails.
Reception and Onboard Store
The main deck of the Viking Vili is home to a welcoming, yet compact, reception desk. This central point serves as the hub for checking in at the start of your journey and is where you’ll collect your essential excursion cards each morning before heading ashore. The staff at reception are always on hand to assist with any queries, provide local information, or help with any onboard needs, embodying Viking’s commitment to attentive service.
Adjacent to the reception area is a small but thoughtfully stocked onboard store. Here, guests can find a selection of high-quality Viking River Cruise branded merchandise, including stylish Helly Hansen jackets – perfect for cooler cruising days – along with a small assortment of jewelry, charming teddy bears, and a few engaging books. While not expansive, the store offers a pleasant variety of items, ideal for souvenirs or forgotten essentials.
The Expansive Sun Deck: A River View Paradise
The Sun Deck is undoubtedly one of the most popular areas on the Viking Vili, especially when the weather is favorable. It’s the ultimate spot to bask in the sunshine, enjoy a refreshing breeze, or simply immerse yourself in the ever-changing panorama of the riverbanks. During our November cruise, the weather was quite brisk, which meant much of our scenic viewing was enjoyed from the cozy confines of the Observation Lounge or our private stateroom veranda.
An important operational note for guests is that the Sun Deck may be temporarily closed during certain parts of the journey. This typically occurs when the ship navigates under low bridges or passes through the intricate lock systems. For some particularly low bridges, not only is access restricted, but the Sun Deck’s retractable canopy is lowered, and even the wheelhouse itself descends into the ship’s structure to ensure a safe passage. These maneuvers are a fascinating part of river cruising and demonstrate the intricate engineering of the longships.
When open, the Sun Deck offers a variety of amenities for recreation and relaxation. Guests can enjoy a gentle stroll on the walking track, challenge fellow passengers to a game of putt-putt golf, or partake in a friendly round of shuffleboard. Depending on the season, you might even discover an organic herb garden, tended by the kitchen staff, providing fresh ingredients for the ship’s culinary creations. Seating options are diverse, ranging from comfortable lounge chairs perfect for sunbathing to upright sitting chairs and tables, ideal for setting up camera gear, enjoying a casual meal, or even working outdoors amidst inspiring scenery. We heard delightful stories from fellow guests who, during warmer months, took full advantage of the Silver beverage package, savoring a bottle of wine while soaking in the views from the Sun Deck – a truly idyllic way to experience a river cruise.
Additional Onboard Services and Features
Beyond the main public areas, the Viking Vili offers several practical amenities designed to enhance guest comfort and convenience throughout the journey:
- Elevator Access: For ease of movement between decks, an elevator is available, servicing the 2nd and 3rd floors of the ship. It’s important to note, however, that there is no elevator access to the 1st floor (where some staterooms are located) or to the Sun Deck, which requires stair access.
- Laundry Service: Guests can avail themselves of a professional laundry service, managed by their dedicated stateroom steward. A cloth bag and a service form are conveniently provided in the closet. We were pleasantly surprised to have our laundry returned the same day, though the stated turnaround time is up to 24 hours, which is still remarkably efficient.
- Daily International News: To keep guests informed about world events, printed daily papers are thoughtfully placed in the lounge areas each morning. These papers feature highlights of news, sports, and weather from around the world, specifically catering to passengers from the US and Canada on our particular sailing. This thoughtful touch allows guests to stay connected with happenings back home while enjoying their European adventure.
The Heart of the Ship: The Exceptional Crew
While the Viking Vili herself is a marvel of comfort and design, it is undeniably her incredible crew that forms the very heart and soul of the ship. Their genuine warmth, unwavering professionalism, and heartfelt dedication transformed our cruise into an truly amazing and deeply personal experience. From the moment we first stepped aboard, greeted with sweet treats, warming GlĂĽhwein, and radiant smiles, their commitment to ensuring our utmost enjoyment was evident.
Throughout our entire cruise, every single crew member, from the meticulous cleaning staff to the knowledgeable hotel manager, went above and beyond. They didn’t just perform their duties; they took the time to engage with us, remember our preferences, and share a friendly word, making us feel genuinely valued and at home. This personalized approach truly elevated the entire journey.
A special mention must go to Flor, our absolute favorite waitress in the dining room. Her infectious humor and quick wit brought endless giggles to every meal. Flor possessed a remarkable ability to brighten our days, and we sincerely hope our paths cross with hers again on a future voyage! She was a true highlight of our Viking River Cruise experience – small in stature, yet immensely big in personality and charm. Her ability to make us laugh, even while John was seated, created countless cherished memories.
Unforgettable Excursions on the Castles & Legends Viking River Cruise
The “Castles & Legends” itinerary is aptly named, offering an incredible array of immersive excursions that bring Europe’s rich history and vibrant culture to life. Each day presented a new opportunity for discovery, meticulously planned and expertly guided by Viking. Here are some of the highlights from our journey:
- A Memorable Heurigen Evening in Vienna, Austria, offering a taste of local wine culture.
- Exploring the fairytale beauty of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Castles in Germany, iconic symbols of Bavarian splendor.
- A captivating visit to the majestic Melk Abbey in Melk, Austria, a stunning Baroque monastery overlooking the Danube.
- Follow our day-by-day adventures in our detailed Viking River Cruise Travel Diary.
- Experiencing the enchanting atmosphere of the Salzburg Christmas Market, a festive delight.
For more inspiration and detailed insights, be sure to check out all of our Viking River Cruise Travel Guides.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Viking River Cruises for hosting us on the magnificent Viking Vili. All opinions expressed in this review are, as always, our honest and unbiased own.