Age Policy
The policy for Viking River Cruises is identical to their Ocean line: they are strictly adults-only.
Since August 1, 2018, Viking has maintained a consistent age requirement across their entire fleet (River, Ocean, and Expedition) to ensure a uniform experience for their guests.
The Requirement
- 18 Years Old: All guests must be at least 18 years of age on or before the day of embarkation.
- No Exceptions: There are no family sailings or waivers for younger teenagers, even if they are traveling with parents or grandparents.
Why River Cruises Are Different (and Why the Policy Exists)
River cruising has some unique logistical factors that influenced this 18+ policy:
- Ship Size: River ships (Longships) are much smaller than ocean ships, usually holding only about 190 guests. There is very little extra space for play areas or separate lounges.
- Cabin Configuration: Most river cruise staterooms are designed for double occupancy. There are almost no triple or quad cabins, making it difficult for families with children to stay together.
- Active Excursions: River cruise itineraries are heavy on walking tours and historical lectures which, while fascinating for adults, are not designed to engage children or younger teens.
- Atmosphere: Viking markets a quiet, contemplative environment. By removing the possibility of children on board, they guarantee a serene atmosphere for their primary demographic.
Dining Information
Dining on a Viking River cruise is a more intimate experience than on their Ocean ships, primarily because the ships are smaller and designed for social connection. However, the high standard of food and the no-nickel-and-diming philosophy remains the same.
The Dining Venues
- The Restaurant: This is the main, upscale dining room. It features floor-to-ceiling windows so you never miss the scenery. It offers open seating, meaning there are no assigned tables or times—you simply show up when you’re hungry and sit with whoever you like.
- Aquavit Terrace: Located at the bow (front) of the ship, this is a revolutionary indoor/outdoor space with a retractable glass roof. It serves as a more casual alternative for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s the best spot on the ship for al fresco dining as you sail through the heart of Europe.
- Sun Deck: Occasionally, weather permitting, the crew will host themed barbecues or light luncheons on the top deck.
The Food Philosophy
Viking focuses on destination-focused dining. While you will always find classic American/Continental options (like steak, chicken, and salmon), the daily menus change to reflect the region you are passing through.
- Breakfast: A massive buffet with an omelet station, plus a full a la carte menu for items like eggs benedict or pancakes.
- Lunch: Features a soup and salad bar, along with hot entrees and regional specialties.
- Dinner: A multi-course, sit-down affair. If you are sailing through Germany, expect local sausages and schnitzel; in France, expect local cheeses and pastries.
What’s Included (and What’s Not)
- Included: Every meal on board is included in your fare. There are no specialty restaurant cover charges on Viking River ships.
- Drinks: Complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks are served with every lunch and dinner. High-quality specialty coffees, teas, and bottled water are available 24/7 at the self-service stations.
- Silver Spirits Package: For $27 per person, per day, you can upgrade to this package, which covers unlimited premium wines, beers, and cocktails at any time of day (not just at meals).
Note: Both guests in a stateroom must purchase the package.
Dress Code
The vibe on a river cruise is Elegant Casual.
- Daytime: Very casual. Jeans, shorts, and comfortable walking shoes for excursions are perfectly fine in the dining areas.
- Evening: Most guests change into “smart casual” attire for dinner. This usually means a collared shirt and slacks for men (no tie or jacket required) and a dress or nice trousers for women.
- Formal Nights: There are no formal nights on Viking River Cruises. You never need a tuxedo or a ballgown.
Dietary Restrictions
Viking is excellent with dietary needs. Whether you are gluten-free, low-sodium, vegetarian, or have specific allergies, the galley can accommodate you.
Pro Tip: Make sure to note your dietary restrictions on your My Viking Journey portal at least 30 days before sailing, and then have a quick chat with the Maître d’ on your first night to ensure they have your details.
Fuel Surcharge Policy
Viking’s fuel surcharge policy for river cruises is consistent with their ocean policy, providing a high level of price protection once you have committed to your trip.
The Lock-In Guarantee
The most important rule for travelers is that Viking will not apply a fuel surcharge once your cruise is paid in full. Even if global oil prices rise significantly after your final payment, the price you paid is guaranteed and locked in.
Potential Surcharges (Pre-Payment)
In their 2026 Terms and Conditions, Viking reserves the right to assess a fuel supplement if market prices spike before you have finished paying for your trip:
- The Trigger: A surcharge may be assessed if the price of light sweet crude oil (NYMEX) exceeds $75.00 USD per barrel.
- The Cost: If triggered, the surcharge is typically capped at $9.00 USD per passenger, per day.
- Airfare Protection: If you booked your airfare through Viking, your air price already includes air fuel surcharges and taxes. These are generally locked in once the airfare is paid, though airlines (not Viking) occasionally adjust fees on unpaid tickets.
Currency Exchange Surcharge (Unique to River)
Because Viking River Cruises operates heavily in the Eurozone, their contract also includes a clause regarding currency fluctuations:
- Viking reserves the right to impose a surcharge if the value of the US Dollar decreases significantly against the Euro between the time you pay and the time you sail.
- While this is rarely invoked, it is a legal provision they maintain because their operational costs (fuel, docking fees, local food) are paid in Euros.
Payments / Refunds
Deposits & Payments
- European River Cruise Special: $25 per person flat deposit (current monthly promotional special) for European river cruises.
- Deposit Rules: Flat rate that does not vary by sailing length, cabin category, or departure date. Deposits are non-refundable once paid.
- General Terms: Standard deposit amounts, final payment deadlines, and promotional rules vary across river, ocean, and expedition programs. Advisors must coordinate with Viking’s river reservations division to verify specific itinerary deadlines.
Cancellation & Refunds
- 120+ Days Before Sailing: $100 per person cancellation penalty.
- Under 120 Days Before Sailing: Subject to percentage-based penalty tiers that step up the closer the cancellation is to the sailing date.
- Program Differences: Policy details differ across river, ocean, and expedition programs, but the 120-day cutoff applies to most sailings.
Smoking Policy
Viking River Cruises maintains a strict non-smoking environment, very similar to their ocean fleet, but the designated areas are located differently due to the ship’s design.
The General Rule
- Strictly Prohibited: Smoking of any kind (cigarettes, cigars, pipes) and the use of e-cigarettes or vaping devices are banned in all interior spaces.
- No Balcony Smoking: Even if you have a Veranda Suite, smoking is strictly forbidden on your private balcony.
- The Penalty: Violating the policy typically results in a $500 cleaning fee and, in severe cases or repeat offenses, can result in being asked to leave the ship at the next port without a refund.
Where You Can Smoke
Because river ships are smaller and lower to the water, the smoking area is consolidated into one open-air location:
- The Sun Deck: This is the only designated smoking area on the ship. It is located on the top open-air deck, usually towards the aft (rear) of the ship.
- Ashtrays: You will find clearly marked tables with wind-proof ashtrays in this specific section.
- Shore Leave: Many guests find it easier to simply wait until the ship is docked (which is most of the day on a river cruise) and smoke on the pier or in town, where local regulations apply.
Important Limitations
- Cigar and Pipe Smoking: While allowed in the designated Sun Deck area, be aware that river ships are intimate; because the Sun Deck is also the primary spot for sightseeing and the walking track, Viking asks that smokers be mindful of non-smoking guests nearby.
- Safety First: Just like on the ocean, throwing cigarette butts into the river is a major safety violation and environmental hazard.
Travel Protection
Eligibility: Available to US residents only.
Pricing: Premium is based on the total package cost (varying by cabin category, airfare inclusion, and trip length).
Coverage Highlights:
- Covered reasons: Cash refund.
- Non-covered reasons: Voucher back for future travel
Tipping Policy
Tipping guidelines vary strictly by itinerary and region. Prepayment is optional:
- Europe River: Recommended $20.00 USD per guest, per night if prepaid, or €20.00 EUR per guest, per night automatically added to the onboard account. Suggested shoreside tips: local guides €3/day; drivers €2/day; Tour Escort €3/day.
- Egypt, India, & Mekong: Recommended $10.00 USD/night for the land portion, and $25.00 USD/night for the onboard portion. Suggested shoreside tips: guides $2/day; drivers $1/day; Tour Director $10/day (cash only).
- Mississippi River: Recommended $20.00 USD per guest, per night. Suggested shoreside tips: guides $5/day; drivers $2/day; Tour Escort $5/day.
Dress Code
Daytime wear is comfortable and casual. The dress code for dinner is evening casual, which includes open-neck shirts, slacks, dresses, and sports outfits.
Formal Nights
- Viking River Cruises features no formal nights. The Captain’s Welcome and Farewell nights are dressy but remain informal and casual.
Excursions
- Daily shore excursions are fully included in your cruise fare, such as hosted city walking tours with a certified local guide and narrated city orientation drives.
- Optional specialty excursions are available to book in advance (recommended) or while on your cruise.
Why Viking River Cruise?
Adults-Only Quiet Luxury
No children under 18, no casinos, no crowds.
Destination-Focused Itineraries
More time in port, overnights, and culturally rich destinations.
One Free Excursion in Every Port
Explore more without added costs.
Inclusive Value
Wine & beer with meals, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, lectures, and more included.
Scandinavian-Inspired Ships
Modern, elegant, and thoughtfully designed.
Award-Winning Service
Consistently top-rated in customer service and guest satisfaction.
Exceptional Enrichment Programs
Onboard historians, scientists, and cultural experts.
Small to Mid-Sized Ships
Avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate travel experience.
The Thinking Person’s Cruise
Built for curious travelers who love learning & discovery.
FAQ
Is Viking River Cruises adults-only?
Yes. Viking is strictly 18+ on all river, ocean, and expedition sailings.
What’s included in a Viking River Cruise?
Accommodations, all meals, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, Wi-Fi, one shore excursion per port, and enrichment programs.
Does Viking River Cruises have casinos?
No. Viking ships are casino-free for a peaceful onboard experience.
Are gratuities included?
No. Gratuities are recommended and charged daily, with amounts varying by region.
Is Wi-Fi included?
Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is included onboard Viking River Cruises.
