Brace yourselves, lovers of leisurely river journeys and European culture! Viking® today made waves by announcing the launch of 'Treasures of the Rhine,' an all-new river voyage aimed at providing guests the rare opportunity to experience Europe's rich tapestry during the wintry season.
Making its debut in December 2023, this fresh itinerary places Viking® in the pioneering position of being the first cruise line to operate year-round on Europe's legendary rivers. This means a welcome shift for travelers, offering easier access to landmarks when the throng of tourist crowds is at a minimum.
Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking, shared, "The Middle Rhine is one of our most popular destinations—with constantly changing views of hilltop castles, historic towns and terraced vineyards along the steep valley sides, it is a region that will always be best explored by the river. Many of our guests have sailed the Rhine during other seasons, so we are pleased to offer a new option for those who may be interested experiencing Europe during a quieter time of year."
The 10-day 'Treasures of the Rhine' itinerary is like an enchanting voyage into a fairy-tale, taking guests through the stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures of the Middle Rhine, a UNESCO Site. Here, guests will be greeted with turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, medieval towns, and breath-taking scenery. This winter wonderland also offers a taste of history, with terraced vineyards dating back to the Romans, and a sip of the region's renowned red and white wines. Winter offers Viking guests the advantage of smaller crowds, and an opportunity to savor the culinary traditions of Alsace while exploring Amsterdam, Basel, and Cologne.
Each Viking Longship, the award-winning fleet synonymous with Viking®, is designed to house 190 guests in 95 staterooms. These vessels promise a delightful mix of luxury, comfort, and Scandinavian elegance, equipped with amenities including a restaurant, bar and lounge, library, and expansive sun deck. Dining gets a breath of fresh air with the revolutionary Aquavit Terrace, and the ships also boast environmentally-friendly features like solar panels, an onboard organic herb garden, and energy-efficient hybrid engines.
Departure dates for 'Treasures of the Rhine' begin in December 2023 and extend through early March 2024, with fares starting at an attractive $1,999 per person. And to sweeten the deal, Viking® is offering its 25th Anniversary Sale for residents of the U.S. and Canada until May 31, 2023.