“Simply the best, better than all the rest”, as Tina Turner would sing. Just returned from a 15 day Viking River cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam aboard the Viking Vidar, 1 June to 15 June 2015. River cruising is something we have always wanted to experience as we are not fans of crowds and large ocean cruise liners so smaller more intimate boats suited us perfectly. After much research and talking with friends who had done this trip we decided on Viking River Cruises Australia, as they boast the most modern and extensive fleet of vessels in the region. Friends had actually done this trip with other companies but while docked next to various Viking boats they commented on the look and luxury of Viking. So decision made we booked online through the Viking website approximately six months prior to our departure, a very simple and easy process dealing with the same person every time. We had a very nice surprise from Viking at Christmas when my wife received a Christmas present, a L’Occitane toiletry gift pack similar to products we would experience while cruising.

So after a few weeks of touring Europe on our own we made our way to Budapest a day before joining our boat. Picking a centrally located hotel we walked down to the centre of Budapest and the Chain Bridge to find our boat the Viking Vidar docked directly beside the bridge in probably the best location in the city, a similar thing we found with every location we docked at. After a good night sleep and breakfast we walked to our boat and boarded just before midday, we were greeted by the very friendly for the very easy process, unfortunately our stateroom wasn’t quite ready but we were able to leave our baggage and directed to the Aqua Lounge at the front of the boat for a buffet lunch marvelling over the lovely sights of Budapest. Afterwards the staff gave us maps and directions for a walking tour of the city. Returning mid-afternoon our stateroom is ready with our baggage already in the room.

The Viking Vidar is a new longship only on its third journey, the luxury level is superb, a true five star ship. From the moment we stepped on board the staff made us feel extremely welcome and looked after our every need throughout our journey. On the first night during the pre-dinner briefing in the main lounge we were introduced to the major staff members, all the way from the Captain to head of housekeeping . The daily briefings are invaluable, we learn about the activities for the following day in a relaxed atmosphere while enjoying a drink with fellow passengers. Dinner is served each night at 7pm in the restaurant, shared tables with no reservations, a great way to meet our fellow passengers, Americans and Canadians aged from mid-fifties to eighties, mostly retirees. Although dinner is a three and four course full service feast, dress code is informal and relaxed. Alternately buffet style dinner is available in the Aqua Lounge in the front of the ship, providing indoor and alfresco style. Read more