My wife and I are considering a Viking river cruise — Paris to Zurich, in August. The itinerary starts in Paris, then a bus ride to the Rhine, 12 days of sailing to Basel, then a bus ride to Zurich.
We’ve done several ocean cruises, but never one of these river cruise things.
Has anybody taken a river cruise? Thoughts?
I understand that August is not a good time to go to Europe…what could we expect?
We found Europe delightful in August. Lower Danube river cruise. As compared to an ocean cruise, ours had: Smaller cabins. Less (but better) menu selection. Alcohol included. Excursions included. More intimate excursions in some cases (e.g., eating pastries with Croatian families). Easier riverside bird watching.
We enjoyed it very much!
Years ago my parents also took a cruise on the Danube. They had a great time, but I’m afraid that’s all I remember about it.
My wife’s been pestering me about these Viking river cruises.They look boring. We did enjoy the Windstar cruise we took in the 90s, but apples to oranges.
My uncle, who turns 97 in a few months and is still going strong, turned 90 on a three-day Danube River cruise. The captain hosted a special party for the occasion. My aunt – just a kid in her 80s – and he really enjoyed the cruise.
How are those Viking River Cruises for someone with mobility issues?
I can’t imagine anything worse than a cruise so I can’t offer any advice there other than a driving tour would be more preferable to me, you can see more and it is all your choice.
As for the time of year, it is perfect. I holiday and travel in Europe during August every year and have yet to find any downsides. Traditionally many French head for the coasts for a month but this is not the case for all of europe. Things are still open, it all still works.
How much do these river cruises typically cost? I assume they are more than ocean cruises?
mmm
A couple years ago I called and chatted with one of the Viking reps, at that point in time they only had one boat that was handicapped accessible. That may have changed in the past couple years.
Most of my travels in Europe have been in August, and I’ve never had a bad trip… except the time the entire country of France went on strike for a week. But that could happen in any month.
I’ve been on two river cruises . One from Basel to Antwerp , and one from Moscow to St Petersburg . I had a great time. The staff to passenger ratio is very good. It’s easy because once you are in your cabin you don’t have to change rooms.
They’re about 2x as much. :eek: The one we’re looking at (12 nights, which is about as long as it gets) is on a 2-for-1 special at $5400 per person for a room with a balcony. But unlike most ocean cruises, that includes shore excursions.