saga vs viking cruises

• Saga Cruises

Saga v Viking

By Dave W 10 , October 1, 2022 in Saga Cruises

Recommended Posts

Long term Viking cruiser considering Saga Midnight Sun cruise in June 23 because the itinerary is just right. How do the two lines compare? They look very similar but am I in for any surprises?

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

I wrote the following for someone who had recently booked Viking and wanted a comparison with Saga. Some of it may not apply now with reference to Covid. Hope this helps a little. Both very good lines. Mostly British passengers and age range higher on Saga. 

Crew on both lines mainly Indonesian and Filipino, happy to help, excellent service, cannot praise them enough Cannot fault Viking’s Covid protocols, PCR and temperature tests every day along with a daily health questionnaire. All Viking ships have had Labs added for testing. Everywhere kept scrupulously clean Excursions included but have to stay in bubble and wear masks on coaches. Masks to be warn traversing ship indoors but not when seated. Cabins very similar at Verandah level and Deluxe Verandah equates to Penthouse Verandah on Viking Heated bathroom floor none on Saga. Ships are all Verandah Food in main restaurant very good but personally prefer the speciality restaurants on Saga Buffet in evening very good, seafood such as prawns, crab legs and sushi always available Living room area on both ships with bar / coffee bar and snacks Coffees and teas included. Preferred the layout of Viking’s Explorer lounge to Saga’s Britannia lounge Beautiful Winter Garden on pool deck and large screen for watching movies and a retractable roof IMO a huge plus for Viking Spa similar to Saga with the addition of a snow room Entertainment during day mainly lectures with singers in evening, quite low key but in the main very good No craft classes, a trivia session on a sea day and didn’t see any organised bridge etc. No formal nights but no jeans allowed in evening, people very smartly dressed Gentlemen generally didn’t wear jackets and ties but many ladies wouldn’t have looked out of place on a Saga formal night. Flights are included Unfortunately Viking rarely run cruises from / to UK Gratuities included and wine etc with meals. Possible to purchase drinks package for $19.95 per day, both people in cabin have to purchase. Package gave access to a wider range of wines and cocktails. Cannot help with how solos are treated but I'm pretty sure you'll have a great time 😃  

2 hours ago, Glenndale said: I wrote the following for someone who had recently booked Viking and wanted a comparison with Saga. Some of it may not apply now with reference to Covid. Hope this helps a little. Both very good lines. Mostly British passengers and age range higher on Saga.    Crew on both lines mainly Indonesian and Filipino, happy to help, excellent service, cannot praise them enough Cannot fault Viking’s Covid protocols, PCR and temperature tests every day along with a daily health questionnaire. All Viking ships have had Labs added for testing. Everywhere kept scrupulously clean Excursions included but have to stay in bubble and wear masks on coaches. Masks to be warn traversing ship indoors but not when seated. Cabins very similar at Verandah level and Deluxe Verandah equates to Penthouse Verandah on Viking Heated bathroom floor none on Saga. Ships are all Verandah Food in main restaurant very good but personally prefer the speciality restaurants on Saga Buffet in evening very good, seafood such as prawns, crab legs and sushi always available Living room area on both ships with bar / coffee bar and snacks Coffees and teas included. Preferred the layout of Viking’s Explorer lounge to Saga’s Britannia lounge Beautiful Winter Garden on pool deck and large screen for watching movies and a retractable roof IMO a huge plus for Viking Spa similar to Saga with the addition of a snow room Entertainment during day mainly lectures with singers in evening, quite low key but in the main very good No craft classes, a trivia session on a sea day and didn’t see any organised bridge etc. No formal nights but no jeans allowed in evening, people very smartly dressed Gentlemen generally didn’t wear jackets and ties but many ladies wouldn’t have looked out of place on a Saga formal night. Flights are included Unfortunately Viking rarely run cruises from / to UK Gratuities included and wine etc with meals. Possible to purchase drinks package for $19.95 per day, both people in cabin have to purchase. Package gave access to a wider range of wines and cocktails. Cannot help with how solos are treated but I'm pretty sure you'll have a great time 😃  

A useful summary by Glenndale but a little out of date since Viking have modified their Covid protocols and now no longer do daily testing and there will be other changes so it's worth checking both cruise lines website to see where there safety protocols are. Clearly they could both change significantly between now and June 2023.

We have sailed 3 times on Viking Ocean but only once on Saga (June this year). While the Saga ship (Spirit of Discovery) was impressive we preferred the more relaxed "Scandi" styling of the Viking ships. This is down to personal preference and is not really a significant difference. You won't be disappointed by the decor and appointments on either line. The food on both is excellent and the free specialty restaurants are very good. Saga has 3 specialty restaurants while Viking only has two and one of those (Manfredi's) is extremely popular and can sometimes be difficult to book. On Viking only the wine/beer at lunch and dinner is included unless you but the Silver Spirits package. Saga is all inclusive and for 2023 they are including premium wines and spirits in the offering.

No formal nights on Viking - dress code is smart casual in all eating venues (no shorts or jeans and collared shirts in the restaurants but the rules are more relaxed in the World Cafe buffet restaurant.) Saga has usually 2 formal nights on a cruise up to 10 days and 4 or more on longer cruises. Dinner suit, Tuxedo or dress suit for men and dresses or smart separates for ladies. Main restaurants enforce the dress code but the buffet is available if you don't fancy the formality schtick.

As said above you almost always have to fly from UK to join a Viking cruise. There are  a couple of itineraries where they start or finish in London but you still have to fly out or home at the beginning or end of the cruise. Saga cruises all leave from the UK and offer chauffer driven exclusive or shared transport to the port. This is free up to 250miles from the departure port (Dover, Southampton or Portsmouth). If you live outside the 250miles you will have a surcharge per mile over that limit.

All-in-all we would be happy to cruise with either line again (we have an Adriatic cruise already booked for August 2023 with Viking - a carry over from a pandemic cancelled cruise in 2021). For us that will entail flights from Birmingham to Venice and returning from Athens. So no direct flights (Viking only use the main scheduled carriers) and probably connecting flights through Amsterdam or Frankfurt. Not a prospect we are relishing but hopefully air travel may have got its act together by then.

On balance we might lean slightly towards Saga in the future - mainly for the lack of hassle getting to and from the ship. However if Viking ever start up round trip itineraries from a UK port then we will be biting their hands off.

wine-wine-wine

Note that gratuities are  not  included in Viking prices for those booking from the United States. Not a big deal but a bit of annoyance. 

9 minutes ago, arlowood said: Saga is all inclusive and for 2023 they are including premium wines and spirits in the offering.

Although premium spirits will be included in 2023, I believe the wines which are included will be the same sort as in previous years, which, while generally drinkable, could not be called "premium".

Thanks all for the very helpful replies. We are a UK couple so gratuities not an issue.

Sailing from and back to UK port (Dover in this case) certainly appeals having missed 2 days of a river cruise this summer due to BA flight cancellation. Do I recall correctly that you have the option of free parking at the port rather than the chauffeur?

1 hour ago, Dave W 10 said: Thanks all for the very helpful replies. We are a UK couple so gratuities not an issue. Sailing from and back to UK port (Dover in this case) certainly appeals having missed 2 days of a river cruise this summer due to BA flight cancellation. Do I recall correctly that you have the option of free parking at the port rather than the chauffeur?

Yes - you can opt for free parking at the port if you don't want the chauffer driven service.

Only observation I have on that was that on our cruise in June we were supposed to embark at Dover but the SoD was delayed at its final port of Cadiz and left there 17hrs late. It meant that there was no way to make it back to Dover for the turn-around so the embarkation port was changed to Southampton. Caused a few issues for those with their own cars as they had to be bussed from Portsmouth back to Dover to pick up their cars.

I accept that these were exceptional circumstances but the change of port did not affect those with the chauffer service

• 2 weeks later...

Saga is a lot better for solo travellers. Viking ocean cruise ships have no single cabins and a single supplement of 100% applies for sole occupancy of a twin. This makes them very expensive. The Saga ships each have 108 (?) single cabins at an effective single supplement of 40% - 50% compared with the equivalent twin. Much more single friendly!

On 10/15/2022 at 6:58 PM, Denarius said: Saga is a lot better for solo travellers. Viking ocean cruise ships have no single cabins and a single supplement of 100% applies for sole occupancy of a twin. This makes them very expensive. The Saga ships each have 108 (?) single cabins at an effective single supplement of 40% - 50% compared with the equivalent twin. Much more single friendly!

Off topic I know, but I understand that Oceania have introduced single cabins on some of their ships - see Oceania board. Maybe Viking and others will eventually follow suite.

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!
• How To: Follow Topics & Forums (Get Notifications)

435 What Kind of Cruise Ship Decor Do You Like Best?

1. what kind of cruise ship decor do you like best.

• Colorful and wacky! It sets the vibe for fun.
• Serene and soothing! Greige helps me relax.
• Arty and sophisticated! Whimsical pieces make me smile.
• Nautical and classic! I want to feel like I'm on a ship.
• Mod and shiny! Give me all the glass and chrome.
• Please sign in or register to vote in this poll.

Write An Amazing Review !

Click this photo by member XFrancophileX to share your review w/ photos too!

Parliament, Budapest

Features & News

LauraS · Started Thursday at 09:01 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 06:28 PM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 12:56 PM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 11:40 AM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 06:45 AM

Cruise Planning

Find a cruise, popular ports, member reviews.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

May We Suggest?

Is this it, how about this, search results.

Our reviewers evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.

Virgin Voyages vs Viking Cruises

Monday, September 16th

2024 Cruise Line Reviews

• Virgin Voyages
• Best for adults-only fun in the Caribbean, Europe, and South Pacific
• Four ships in the fleet
• 100+ destinations
• 20+ eateries featuring menus curated by Michelin star chefs (all-inclusive)
• All essential drinks (water, juice, soda, tea, coffee) included
• Complimentary WiFi
• Gratuities already included in the fare

Virgin Voyages is one of the newest cruise lines in the industry, getting its start in 2020. They offer a unique, fun, and modern experience strictly for adults, but there's nothing outdated or stodgy about these sailings. From the exciting onboard entertainment to the balconies with hammocks, Virgin Voyages does cruising differently. The amenities are tech-forward and eco-friendly, sailings are available that won't charge the dreaded "single supplement”, and you'll get a lot of premium perks at no extra charge (like WiFi and gratuities). For adults-only fun and relaxation, Virgin Voyages is a perfect choice.

• Viking Cruises
• Best for river cruises
• Over 60 river- and ocean-going ships in the fleet
• Viking Expeditions available to Antarctica, the Great Lakes, and Canada
• Must be 18+
• Complimentary amenities include Wi-Fi; house wines, beers, and soft drinks with onboard lunches and dinners; coffee and hot tea available 24/7; self-service launderettes
• Every sailing includes one shore excursion in each port of call, including visits to UNESCO sites

Viking Cruises is a luxury cruise line known for its sophisticated and immersive travel experiences. With a fleet of more than 60 river and ocean-going vessels, Viking offers river cruises in Europe, Russia, Ukraine, Asia, and Egypt, as well as ocean cruises to destinations including Scandinavia, the Baltic, the Mediterranean, North America, the Caribbean, and the Arctic. The company is well-loved for its all-inclusive pricing, which covers everything from onboard meals and drinks to shore excursions and WiFi (but not gratuities, FYI). Viking is also known for its emphasis on cultural immersion and enrichment, with onshore experiences designed to help travelers connect with local people, history, and traditions. With an emphasis on comfort, relaxation, and exploration, Viking offers a high-end cruise experience for adult travelers seeking a refined and enriching vacation.

More Cruise Line Reviews

• Royal Caribbean

• Disney Cruise Line

• Celebrity Cruises

• Regent Seven Seas

• Norwegian Cruise Line

• Princess Cruises

• Holland America

• MSC Cruises

• Carnival Cruises

The 15 Best Cruise Lines

Which cruise line is the best.

Cruising is a popular way of traveling for many people, offering a unique experience that combines the convenience of a floating hotel with the excitement of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. In an average year, over fifteen million people say "all aboard” and set sail on an amazing vacation.

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience. Some are geared towards families, while others are more focused on luxury or adventure. What would you like to see and do while you're onboard? Is a casino a must-have or a rather-avoid? Would a Broadway-caliber show tip the scales for you? Do you need a wide range of activities to keep the kiddos happy while the adults live it up or relax? The onboard activities and amenities can really make or break your vacation, so be sure you know what you're getting.

Cruise Line FAQ

Which cruise line is the best, what is included in the cost of a cruise, what is the minimum age to cruise, what are the dining options on a cruise ship, are cruise ships crowded, do i have to dress up, are activities included at destination ports, can i bring my own alcohol onboard.

Continued from above... Continued from above... -->

Another factor that can influence which cruise line you choose is the itinerary. Cruise ships travel all over the world, but some cruise lines may not have destinations available where you're hoping to go. You should also consider the size of the ship: larger ships offer more amenities, but smaller ships can access ports that bigger ships can't.

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing.

When you take a cruise, it's almost always expected that you'll tip the crew members who have attended to your needs while onboard: your cabin steward ( who probably leaves your towels folded into fun shapes every night ), your servers at your nightly meals, and the head waiter. Cruise lines have a recommended gratuity to cover all three of those staff members, usually $15-$20 per traveler, per day; the total gratuity amount may be charged automatically to your account, or you may be given envelopes to make cash payments.

While it usually isn't mandatory to pay those gratuities - you can ask to have them removed if they're applied automatically, especially if you've received poor service - it's typically considered in poor taste not to tip at the suggested levels (because crew members' salaries, much like servers at your local restaurant, are based on the expectation of tips paid by guests). And, if you receive service that goes above and beyond, adding to the recommended gratuity is always appreciated. Be aware that tips for bartenders, poolside servers, and professional services provided in the spa or elsewhere are not included in the daily suggested gratuity and may be charged automatically at the time of service.

Now that you have a good overview of the cruising experience, which cruise line should you choose? Beyond the points we already covered, here are a few additional criteria that might make it easier to pick:

• Embarkation port. You could get a great deal on a cruise, but what will it cost you to get to the port? That could involve airfare, an overnight stay or two in a nearby hotel (so that you're less likely to be affected by travel delays), and transportation from the airport or hotel to the port. This is especially true if you're taking a cruise that departs from an international destination.
• Perks for repeat cruisers. Like frequent flyer programs on airlines, most cruise lines offer benefits the more you sail. If you find yourself absolutely loving cruise vacations, it can be advantageous to put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. Rewards programs can include casino benefits, complimentary meals at the upgraded dining experiences, exclusive sail-away parties with free cocktails and tchotchkes, early-access booking on future cruises, and much more.
• Reputation. It's a really smart idea to see what other travelers have said about their overall experience with a cruise line before booking your trip. The ads on TV may make that private island look amazing, but someone who's been there might point out that you'll pay extra to get on that waterslide. Or, previous cruisers could tell you that despite having several formal nights on the schedule, a particular cruise line has no problem with people showing up to dinner in flip-flops and swimsuit coverups. Find out if the cruise line you're considering lines up in reality with what they advertise.

Here at Top Consumer Reviews, cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel and experience new things. And with so many different cruise lines to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But, don't worry: take a look at our in-depth analysis of today's most popular options, find the one that's the best match for your vacation ideas and your travel party, and book that trip you've been dreaming of. Bon voyage!

Compare Cruise Lines

Select any 2 Cruise Lines to compare them head to head

Trending Cruise Line News

TheStreet on MSN

Carnival Cruise Line defends beloved tradition despite backlash

Related: Carnival Cruise Line makes an unpopular beverage choice. Carnival Cruise Line even took the bold step of installing over 600 food waste biodigesters across its fleet in 2 ...

  Sun, 15 Sep 2024

Norwegian Cruise Line pushes singles and solo cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line has targetted both solo and single cruisers. A solo cruiser is someone cruising by themselves who has a partner who happens to not be with them. This group wants to meet other ...

Cruise Fever

Cruise Line Opens Cruises on Brand New Ship for Bookings

A cruise line has opened for bookings cruises on a new class of ship that will debut in late 2025. Windstar Cruises' new ship, Star Seeker, is now open ...

  Fri, 13 Sep 2024

Carnival cruise ship collides with large piece of ice

The words “Titanic moment” are possibly the last thing you want to hear on a boat – but that was the phrase used by one passenger on board the Carnival Spirit cruise ship last week, after the vessel ...

  Wed, 11 Sep 2024

Cruise Hive

Guest Complains About Smoking Onboard New Cruise Ship

A cruise guest expressed their frustration on Reddit regarding smokers on his recent cruise onboard Utopia of the Seas.

Disney Cruise Line will no longer accept photocopies of guest birth ...

Guests that board the Disney Cruise Line will now have to provide an original copy of their birth certificate instead of a photocopy of the document. Disney Cruise Line emailed guests booked on ...

Related Cruise Line Reviews

Since you're interested in Cruise Lines, here are some other reviews you might find interesting.

Luggage Stores

Which luggage store is the best? Luggage is something that everyone will need at some point in their life, whether it be a backpack for an overnight trip or school, or a full set of luggage ...

Passport Services

Where can you get a passport fast? Maybe you've found a last-minute travel deal to that far-flung destination you've always dreamed of visiting.

Photo Book Companies

Where is the best place to get photo books out there today? Photo books are a fantastic way to keep our special memories in a tangible, beautiful format instead of just storing pictures on ...

Travel Insurance Plans

Who offers the best travel insurance? With daily news stories of delayed and canceled flights, lost baggage, and travelers stranded overseas in the middle of a natural disaster, it's ...

Travel Visa Services

What's the easiest way to get a travel visa? Online travel visa providers have revolutionized the way individuals apply for visas when planning their international trips.

Vacation Rental Sites

What's the best website to use for booking a vacation rental? Are you tired of the same old hotel experience when you go on vacation?

Newest Reviews

Baby Stroller Stores

Where is the Best Place to Purchase a Baby Stroller? On your list of must-haves a mile long for your new baby, finding the right stroller should be right up at the top.

Business Startup Services

What is the Best Business Startup Service? Starting a business is an exciting venture - but making it safely through all the legal and bureaucratic hoops can be a real headache.

Pest Control Companies

Where Can You Find the Best Pest Control? Pests are just the worst, aren't they?

Reverse Mortgage Companies

Where Can You Find the Best Reverse Mortgages? As a senior homeowner, you may have heard the buzz about these types of loans as a way of having more money in your later years.

Water Filter Stores

Where is the Best Place to Get Water Filters? Knowing that you're consuming clean, safe drinking water can provide a sense of security and peace of mind.

Wireless Security Systems

Where Can You Find the Best Wireless Home Security Systems? Whether you're a renter or homeowner, there's a universal concern everyone has: security.

The Meandering Traveler

A Travel Blog with Travel Tips and Interesting Facts

The Best Adult Only Cruises: Viking and Virgin Voyages

Can’t stand screaming toddlers, children all over the pool deck or groups of teens congregating in public spaces? While a family vacation is fantastic fun on the high seas for many travelers, for others, it’s not. So, if having kids around isn’t your perfect vacation plan, what are the best cruise lines for adults only? Here’s our look at two popular cruise brands offering adult only cruises.

Specifically, Viking and Virgin Voyages will only accept travelers who are 18 and older on board. So, what can you expect aboard these adults only cruise lines? What’s their cruise personality? What dining, activity, enrichment, entertainment and touring options are offered?

To find out what makes these brands the best cruises for adults seeking kid-less vacations, chat with a professional travel advisor who can answer all your questions. Generally, though, here’s “our anecdotal take” about what to expect.

Adult Only Cruises: Viking 

All of Viking’s ships — ocean, river and expedition — are adults only. It’s a concept that works both for the line and its guests. Torstein Hagen , the line’s chairman, likes to bill these cruises as the “thinking person’s cruise.” That’s because Viking places a high value on enrichment programming and destination-focused itineraries across the globe.

Viking’s cruises are curated for travelers interested in history, science, food or culture. Guests also receive special access to behind-the-scenes destination experiences. And thanks to Viking’s long partnership with PBS and “ Downton Abbey ,” guests on certain itineraries can book pre- or post-cruise extensions that visit Highclere Castle , where Downton Abbey was filmed.

Alternatively, guests often enjoy cooking classes or lectures aboard. But while guests are indulging in exploration ashore and enrichment experiences aboard, Viking’s 930-passenger oceangoing ships also offer comfortable, Scandinavian-style accommodations. All have private balconies. It’s not a stuffy onboard aura, despite the luxurious nature of the product.

Viking’s expedition ships and river ships have similar Scandinavian decor and styling. No, you won’t find white-gloved butlers aboard, but you will discover a consistent product and great service.

Also, Viking doesn’t try to be different with every ship. It may tweak decor or some spaces with each new ship. But generally, if you’ve been on an oceangoing ship or Longship, then you know what to expect the next time. Consistency in product delivery is among the reasons why Viking has been chosen repeatedly as a top-rated luxury line by both Conde Nast and Travel+Leisure magazines.

Viking: Adult Only Ambience

With Viking’s “for adults only” concept, travelers will definitely find quiet, abundant spaces for relaxing with a good book or watching the ocean waves. Personally, I love the outside Aquavit Terrace . as well as the Living Room , the ship’s comfortable atrium/main gathering space.

A plus is that the ocean ships’ thermal suite, which is complimentary for all guests to use, has a nifty “snow room” with snowflakes wafting from the ceiling.

“Viking is adults only by nature,” emphasizes travel writer Chris Owen of Orlando, FL , who has sailed on the upscale line repeatedly. “It’s a highly intelligent experience that leads us through history that adults have lived through but not seen in person.”

Owen also says that culinary-focused adults appreciate Viking’s menu and wine list, both reflecting the specific part of the world they are traveling within. From his perspective, “it’s a flawless brand that is delivered with a high rate of consistency and quality.”

Or, putting it another way, Owen says: “In other words, most kids wouldn’t be interested.”

Adult Only Cruises: Expanding Horizons 

Having started sailing on Russia’s Volga River in the late 1990s, this year Viking is celebrating its 25th year. The new ships just keep on coming too. It’s amazing to consider that Viking has added 26 new ships — ocean, river and expedition — since 2019.

In 2022, Viking took delivery of two 930-passenger ships, Viking Neptune and Viking Mars. It’s also begun cruising to the Great Lakes and Antarctica, among other spots, wit h two new purpose-built expedition ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris ; they’re Polar Class 6 and guests can expect plenty of Zodiac excursions, hiking and other adventures.

On global rivers this year, Viking has welcomed eight new Viking Longships in Europe. Plus, new purpose-built river vessels have launched on the Nile, Mekong and Mississippi rivers. Did you know that  Viking operates more than 80 river vessels around the world? It’s amazing but true.

If you’re seeking adults-only and also a highly inclusive experience, this is a line to check out. Included in the cruise fare are dining, wine and beer at lunch and dinner, a shore excursion in every port and complimentary use of that thermal spa mentioned above.

Viking’s Diverse Global Itineraries

The sky’s the limit in terms of itineraries for Viking’s ships. They ply global rivers in Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. Plus, the line’s ocean and expedition ships sail across major oceans, sail to Antarctica and the Arctic, and visit all seven continents.

Giving just one example, on July 12, 2023, the oceangoing Viking Sea will depart on a 10-day “ E mpires of the Me diterranean ” sailing from Venice, Italy, to  Athens, Greece.  It explores both the Adriatic and Aegean seas.

Along the route, guests will go ashore at Koper, Slovenia; Zadar and Dubrovnik, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Corfu, Katakolon and Santorini, Greece. At presstime, fares for a Veranda Stateroom started at $4,599 per person, double occupancy.

More interested in an adult only cruise on global rivers? On August 6, 2023, Viking offers an eight-day “ Romantic Danube ” sailing from Budapest, Hungary, to Regensburg, Germany, onboard the 190-passenger V iking Jarl . Guests will visit Budapest’s Castle District and cross the famous Chain Bridge.

They can also explore Göttweig Abbey, a revered Austrian monastic center; make dumplings with Wachau Valley apricots; or visit historic Salzburg, Austria.

Cruisers will also spend two days in Vienna, Austria. During that time, they can attend a concert of Mozart and Strauss music. At presstime, fares for “Romantic Danube” started at $2,799 per person, double occupancy.

For all Viking itinerary, accommodations and fare options, contact a professional travel advisor, who can also discuss any discounts and deals.

Adult Only Sailings: Virgin Voyages 

From the beginning, owner Sir Richard Branson sought to create a different type of sailing experience. And so he did. Today, another adults only cruise line is Virgin Voyages. Sailors (Hint: They’re not called cruisers, per the line) can sail this winter from PortMiami .

The line’s first ship, the 2,770-passenger Scarlet Lady , is sailing from the line’s new terminal at that South Florida port. Sister Valiant Lady   is now sailing too. And in 2023, the line will take delivery of two more sister ships, Resilient Lady and Brilliant Lady. 

A larger fleet should help this line — which started amid the pandemic — to spread its reach across the globe. That can create more “kidless voyages” for those who prefer to travel without the youngest family members. The line’s upcoming itineraries span destinations in the Caribbean and Europe.

All ships feature 1,330 cabins, most with balconies. We’d recommend the RockStar Quarters suites, a step up on the luxury scale. Guests staying in any of these 78 suites can access to Richard’s Rooftop , an exclusive outdoor deck space.

Adult Only Cruises: Yacht Style and Romance

The Virgin ships have a radically different vibe than other cruise line products. John Diorio , vice president of sales, North America, Virgin Voyages, describes the experience as “boutique glamour.”

While they’re large, Virgin’s vessels also have a modern luxury feel. Think superyacht style combined with a romantic flair. The ships are designed for couples traveling on their own, solo travelers, or those traveling with adult friends and family members.

Although the ships offer adult only cruises, this definitely isn’t a ship experience that’s designed only for mature travelers. Instead, the line actually attracts mostly people who are 34 to 62 years of age. Some are older, some younger too. But most “sailors” travel as couples.

The most interesting factoid? Diorio says that 62 percent of guests have children under the age of 18 at home. Couples are simply heading to sea for an adult only cruise. They’re seeking a couple’s getaway and happy to leave their kids at home with relatives or friends.

Relaxed, Adult Only Luxury

Decor-wise, the vibe on Virgin Voyages is best described as hip and trendy. As noted, cruisers are instead called “sailors,” and crew are instead “hosts.” “This is relaxed luxury, says Diorio, “not a lot of stuffy formality.”

Guests who sail will discover 20-plus eateries including restaurants by Michelin-starred chefs. We like that all dining is included. One extra item we love, though, is that you can order a bottle of Champagne for yourself or friends anywhere on the ship; just use the Virgin Voyages Sailor App ‘s secret “Shake for Champagne” feature.

Guests will also discover onboard fitness and wellness spaces including the Redemption Spa; it offers such spaces as a mud room and salt therapy chamber.

Highly inclusive, the cruise fares cover meals at all the dining venues; basic beverages such as water, tea and coffee; gratuities for the crew; Wi-Fi for two devices; and unlimited fitness classes.

Guests can buy a “Bar Tab” for $300 which can be used aboard or at the line’s Beach Club at Bimini , in the Bahamas. If the Bar Tab is prepaid, the cruise line will provide an additional $100 in value as a perk.

While on board, be sure to indulge in a swanky dinner at The Wake and a show at The Red Room, the first multiform theater at sea. Oh, and also be sure to hang out in the hammock on your balcony, a great way to kick back and relax to the nines.

Eastern Caribbean Antilles

As an example of one voyage close to the U.S., on April 8, 2023, Valiant Lady will set sail on an eight-night “ Eastern Caribbean Antilles ” voyage from Miami. The ship will call at Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; offer a late-night stay in San Juan, and a visit to St. Croix.

After three days of indulging in the very good life aboard, guests will head ashore to the Beach Club at Bimini, t he line’s version of a Bahamian private island experience. They’ll enjoy a private beach club day ashore as well as a bonfire soirée. At press time, fares for the voyage start at $2,387 per person, double occupancy for a Social Insider cabin.

If you’d like to consider a voyage on Virgin Voyages, why not ask a professional travel advisor more about the onboard experiences, the vibe and the specific accommodations options.

Adult Only Cruises: More Options 

When it comes to best cruises for adults, certainly Viking and Virgin Voyages are good options. They’re the most recognizable cruise lines catering to the North American market with an all-adult approach. Another adult only cruise line, Saga, is based in the U.K., as is P&O Cruises , which has two adult only ships.

Interestingly, many cruise lines that aren’t adult only also DO HAVE great “just for adults” areas within their ships – allowing people to go and have different experiences. So, while the ships are kid-friendly and offer activities for families, they also have dining, shows, pools and even private island experiences classified as “adults only.”

Those also may rank high as best cruise lines for adults and we’ll get into that more in the next blog. In addition, luxury “ship within a ship” suite complexes (while not necessary adults only) tend to attract mostly adults seeking a quieter, more relaxed and exclusive onboard experience. We’ll cover those in Part 2 of this Adult Only cruises blog in the next few weeks.

But as the year begins to count down to its final month, talk with your travel advisor if interested in adult only cruises on Viking or Virgin Voyages in 2023. Happy Thanksgiving 2022 and let’s look ahead to a fabulous vacation in the new year!

Susan J. Young

Related posts.

Seabourn Asia: Exotic Travels in Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong & Vietnam

Micato’s Luxurious “Jewels of Southern Africa” – Wine, Culture and Safaris!

Savoring the Best Pizza at Sea, and on Land Too!

Wild Critters! Lions and Elephants on a Micato Luxury Safari

Close to Home for Viking Fans! Highlights of Viking Mississippi

Leave a reply cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

By clicking a retailer link you consent to third-party cookies that track your onward journey. If you make a purchase, Which? will receive an affiliate commission , which supports our mission to be the UK's consumer champion .

Best and worst river cruise lines

Our ratings reveal that paying more for your river cruise doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have a better time.

To help you find the best cruise for your budget for 2024 and beyond, we asked hundreds of customers about their experiences. 

Our survey didn't just uncover the companies offering great food and facilities. It also highlighted the brands with lacklustre cabins, unimaginative excursions and overpriced packages. 

We found peak-season Rhine cruises around £1,700 cheaper with Riviera than Uniworld. Yet, passengers were more impressed with Riviera’s cabins, shore excursions and food and drink.

We reveal which cruise lines offer the best value for money – and what customers really think of each brand.

Find airlines we rate

Use our ratings to choose your next flight with confidence

Service provided by Skyscanner.com

For more independent travel advice and recommendations,  subscribe to Which? Travel .

Best river cruise companies 

River cruises get you straight to city centres, so there’s more time for sightseeing and excursions. 

You won’t find the range of on-board facilities of the vast ocean liners, but then you won’t be spending whole days at sea either. 

That said, with nearly all meals taken on board – and usually only one dining option – you’ll want to make sure the food and drink is good quality.

The table below shows the results from our most recent survey – our first in four years. 

Using the table In November 2023, we asked 1,289 members of Which? Connect panel and the general public about their experiences of cruise holidays in the past two years. Indicative price/night Based on the price of two sharing a Rhine cruise in a French balcony cabin in June 2025 where available, including flights, train or coach travel. *Indicative price doesn’t include travel. Customer score Combines satisfaction and likelihood of recommending brand.

Best and worst ocean cruise lines – the results from our latest survey

What makes a Which? Recommended Provider? river cruise line

Which? Recommended Providers (WRPs) are the cream of the crop, and we only consider giving the accolade to river cruise lines with the highest customer scores.

That’s not all. We only make a company a WRP if it provides clear information about gratuities, excursions and drinks at the booking stage. We know price transparency is essential to help customers make informed decisions before parting with their cash.

All our Which? Recommended Providers also scored at least four out of five stars for both customer service and value for money.

Which? is independent. You can be sure that our recommendations are based on survey results and policy analysis only. We're not influenced by third parties and we don't accept freebies from product manufacturers, retailers or providers.

River cruise line reviews

Viking: the best luxury river cruises

The world’s largest river cruise line has a fleet of 75 ships plying Europe’s great waterways as well as the Mississippi, Mekong and the Nile. Its light-filled, 190-capacity ‘longships’ are thoughtfully designed with plenty of balcony cabins (a rarity on river vessels) and space to dine al fresco. 

Expect roomy modern ships, smartly furnished cabins and top-notch food, including local dishes. It was also the only operator to clinch the full five stars for its vast array of itineraries – it has 14 Rhine trips alone. 

Guests were equally impressed by the ‘friendly’ and ‘helpful’ staff for whom ‘nothing was too much trouble’. Drinks with meals, on-board gratuities and an escorted tour in every port are included. 

So, as one guest put it: ‘You could leave your wallet at home and still enjoy the holiday.’ Its ocean-going vessels are also first-rate, and it’s the only Which? Recommended Provider for both sea and river cruises. 

Should I book with Viking?  Yes. Viking’s all-inclusive cruises may be expensive, but they are also exceptional – money well spent according to its loyal customers. 

Browse Viking’s range of river cruises .

Riviera Travel: the best-value river cruises

The UK’s biggest provider has landed one of the top spots in our past five surveys. Riviera charters a dozen ships in Europe, carrying 120 to 169 passengers, and it uses local companies for its Egyptian and Vietnamese cruises. Despite being one of the more reasonably priced brands in our survey, it scored full marks for its elegant cabins and meals, buffet-style lunches and four-course dinners. 

Daily guided walks or coach tours are included in the headline price. Many guests were wowed by the knowledgeable local guides and superior customer service. One told us: ‘The staff, from the housekeepers to the managers, were so efficient and made the cruise a lot of fun.’ 

Tips cost extra, but Riviera throws in a premium drinks package with all of its European river cruises. It has more solo traveller and no-fly options than most operators, and you can travel by train to its Belgian, Dutch, French and German boats. 

Should I book with Riviera Travel? Our best mid-price cruise line. Reliable Riviera has classy cruises at a good price, and really looks after its customers.

See Riviera Travel‘s river cruises

Jules Verne: the best for small ships

Its péniche (barge) tours in France carry 20 or so guests around Provence, Bourgogne and Alsace, while its Danube cruise is on a plush 16-cabin boat that Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip sailed on. 

Bigger cruises often use French operator CroisiEurope’s ships. Jules Verne earned a solid four stars almost across the board and five for its excursions, which ‘all flowed seamlessly’ and ‘catered for everyone’. 

One satisfied customer summed up the appeal: ‘Very good value from a reliable company with service to match throughout.’ 

Should I book with Jules Verne? A great option if you’re after unusual itineraries, characterful boats and well-organised excursions.

Look for a river cruise with Jules Verne

Avalon Waterways: the best for themed cruises

As well as standard European itineraries, this all-inclusive line has a raft of special-interest cruises catering for music fans, foodies and photographers. 

Included excursions on its Active and Discovery cruises range from caving and kayaking to painting and cooking. It has 14 sleek ships in Europe and one on the Mekong, and charters high-end ships for Nile and Peruvian Amazon cruises. 

One guest said: ‘The customer service is superb.’ It also scored highly for food and drink – sparkling wine with breakfast, beer and wine with meals, and a daily happy hour are included. 

Should I book with Avalon Waterways? It’s pricey, but it has interesting excursions, good food and great service

Browse river cruises with Avalon Waterways

Shearings: the worst river cruise line

It’s not the first time the company – best known for its escorted coach tours – has been at the bottom of our table. Shearings reserves blocks of cabins on European river boats, and it drives customers from across the UK to their embarkation point and back home from their final port of call.

It’s one of the cheapest brands in our table, but guests have to fork out extra for drinks, excursions and tips – perhaps going some way to explain why it scores only two stars for value for money. 

Passengers were unimpressed by the facilities on board, while cabins and meals (described by one guest as ‘a bit school dinners’) tended to be mediocre.

Should I book with Shearings?  Don’t be tempted by the relatively low headline price – you’ll have a better time with any other cruise line.

Related articles

• Share on Facebook
• Share by email

Latest News In Which? Travel

Free entry to hundreds of UK tourist attractions in September

16 Sep 2024

Best European cities to visit by train

13 Sep 2024

Best holiday destinations for October

11 Sep 2024

Which? Shorts podcast: how to keep your home secure from burglars

Eurostar flash sale – how to get the £35 deal on tickets to Paris, Brussels and more

10 Sep 2024

UK holidaymakers need fingerprint checks to visit the EU from November

06 Sep 2024

Airport, ferry and airline strikes 2024

30 Aug 2024

Beyond Eurostar: New sleeper train routes across Europe

27 Aug 2024

Warning of Booking.com holiday home ‘scams’

23 Aug 2024

Are last-minute holidays cheaper?

15 Aug 2024

The best beach in the UK (if you’re looking for sun)

Best holiday destinations for September

14 Aug 2024

Best seaside towns for food and drink

09 Aug 2024

We reveal the city in Spain with the cheapest flights from the UK

08 Aug 2024

Which? Shorts podcast: which sunscreens passed our industry standard tests?

07 Aug 2024

Car hire firms’ rip-off tactics exposed

06 Aug 2024

Cheap train tickets for summer

01 Aug 2024

Don't waste your money: 5 things I'd never do as a travel expert

Which? Shorts podcast: how much do you need for a comfortable retirement?

31 Jul 2024

Travel firms fall short on customer service

The 3 types of Viking cruise ships, explained

Viking is unusual among major cruise lines in that it operates both ocean ships and river ships. Despite this, it has one of the easiest-to-understand fleets.

The vast majority of Viking's river ships — at last count, there were 80 — feature the same design. If you've seen one of them, you've seen them all.

Ditto for the line's ocean ships. Nine of Viking's 11 ocean ships are nearly identical. The two exceptions are the recently unveiled Viking ocean vessels specifically designed for expedition cruising — a type of cruising that involves traveling to remote, hard-to-reach places on hardy vessels that carry their own landing craft.

As a result, the bulk of Viking's vessels falls into one of just three groups; all the ships in each group sport nearly identical designs.

An introduction to Viking cruise ships

Viking has expanded enormously in recent years with the addition of dozens of new river and ocean ships.

Founded in 1997 with four river vessels, the company operated just 29 ships as recently as 2012. Now, there are more than 90 ships in its fleet.

The vast majority of these ships are river ships — the company's sole focus for its first 18 years in business. The company dominates the market for river cruises aimed at North Americans, accounting for about 50% of all such trips.

Starting in 2015, Viking began rolling out ocean cruise ships, too.

In early 2023, as noted above, Viking had 80 river ships in its fleet — almost all of which have the same basic design. The exceptions are a few vessels that Viking operates on rivers in Egypt and Asia (more on these ships below). The line also recently began offering cruises on the Mississippi River and its tributaries using a new type of vessel.

Related: The ultimate guide to Viking ships and itineraries

Viking's ocean ships fall into two distinct groups: a series of 930-passenger traditional ocean ships that began debuting in 2015, and a series of 378-passenger expedition ships that began debuting in 2022.

Unlike most cruise lines, Viking doesn't use the term "classes" to define different sets of ships in its fleet. Instead, it refers to its series of traditional ocean ships as the "Viking ocean ships" and its series of expedition ships as the "Viking expedition ships." We've followed the same breakdown of the line's ocean and river fleet below.

Viking ocean ships

Ships: Viking Saturn (2023), Viking Neptune (2022), Viking Mars (2022), Viking Venus (2021), Viking Jupiter (2019), Viking Orion (2018), Zhao Shang Yi Dun (2017), Viking Sky (2017), Viking Sea (2016) and Viking Star (2015).

Size: 47,800 tons.

For years, Viking only operated river ships, and some cruisers still think of the brand primarily as a river cruise company. However, since 2015, Viking has been rapidly rolling out a series of upscale ocean vessels; these new additions are increasingly dominating the world of higher-end ocean cruising.

As of June 2023, Viking has nine ships sailing the world's oceans, each with a capacity for 930 passengers. That gives Viking 8,370 berths in the upscale ocean cruise market — more than competitors Oceania Cruises and Azamara combined.

The series is far from finished. Six more of the vessels are on order from Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for delivery between 2024 and 2028, and the company also has options with Fincantieri for four more of the ships to debut in 2029 and 2030. Assuming they are all built, Viking's ocean division will soon be bigger than Oceania, Azamara, Seabourn and Silversea Cruises combined.

The first thing to know about the ships in this series is that they all are pretty much identical. When sailing on any one of them, you will be hard-pressed to tell what is different.

They're also quite upscale. While Viking doesn't market itself as a luxury line, some still consider it so. The vessels are full of luxury touches, from sumptuous bedding in cabins to heated floors in cabin bathrooms.

Related: The complete guide to Viking cabins and suites

Each of the ships in this series has a stylish, Scandinavian-influenced design that is a Viking trademark, and the cabins are large by cruise ship standards. Even the smallest cabins on each of the vessels have 270 square feet of space — a generous amount. Many cabins are significantly bigger than that, with 14 two-room suites on each of the vessels ranging in size from 757 to 1,448 square feet. Many of these bigger suites offer sweeping views from wrap-around private balconies.

Each of the ships' interior spaces is built around an elegant, three-deck-high atrium filled with comfortable seating areas that have a living room-like feel. Each also has a bar and guest relations desk. At the top of the ships, you'll find two-deck-high, glass-walled lounges that offer stunning views over the bow. Other interior spaces include a fitness center and a stylish spa with a thermal suite area that is open to all passengers at no extra charge (something that is not common on cruise vessels).

Multiple restaurants on board each of the vessels include Italian eatery Manfredi's (named after former Silversea owner Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, a friend of Viking founder Torstein Hagen) and The Chef's Table. The latter features rotating themed menus.

The centerpiece of the top deck of each of the ships is the main pool area, which features a glass magrodome that can close during inclement weather. The main pool area on each of the ships sits next to a lovely, glass-topped lounge with comfortable seating called the Wintergarden, which is home to afternoon tea. A den of serenity, it's one of our favorite places on these vessels.

A secondary pool area with an infinity pool is at the back of each of the ships.

While all of the ships in this series are essentially identical, you will find small differences on a few of them. Most notably, two of the vessels in the series — Viking Orion and Viking Jupiter — have a small planetarium built into the top level of the two-level lounge at their fronts (known as the Explorers' Lounge). Some of the later ships in the series have slightly larger fitness centers and slightly smaller hair salons.

Note that in addition to the nine Viking ocean ships officially in the Viking fleet, a 10th ship from the same series, Zhao Shang Yi Dun, caters exclusively to the China market as part of a joint venture between Viking and a Chinese company. When it debuted in 2017, the ship originally catered to the North American market and was called Viking Sun.

Viking river ships

Ships: Viking Fjorgyn (2022), Viking Kari (2022), Viking Radgrid (2022), Viking Skaga (2022) and more than 60 other Longships built since 2012, as well as additional river vessels.

Size: 4,000 to 5,000 tons.

River ships originally put Viking on the map, and they're still at the core of the brand.

As noted above, the line has 80 river ships in its fleet. The vast majority of them have the same basic design and are known as Longships — a reference to the historic vessels used by Vikings in the Middle Ages.

Unveiled in 2012 and designed specifically to fit into the locks used across many of Europe's rivers, the Longships broke new ground in river ship design in multiple ways.

For starters, they have a configuration that includes some of the largest suites ever for river ships in Europe. They also have a significant number of cabins with balconies — which is made possible by an innovative cabin area layout that offsets main corridors. (In other words, the corridors don't run down the middle of the ship, creating a wider side with space for balconies and a narrower side with cabins turned sideways to also create room for verandas.)

Related: The ultimate guide to Viking's cruise loyalty program

Other innovations include a squared-off bow that allows for eight more cabins than similarly sized ships operated by competitors. Also, quieter engines allow for more cabins at the rear. An enormous amount of groundbreaking engineering went into redesigning the bow areas of the ships, in particular, to enable extra cabins while still leaving room for needed machinery.

As a result of such innovations, the Viking Longships can carry more passengers than similarly sized ships operated by competitors. This has allowed Viking to offer lower prices than other river cruise lines and still bring in a similar amount of revenue per ship — a fact that has contributed greatly to the company's rapid growth.

Like many river ships, each of the Viking Longships has one main restaurant where most passengers eat their meals as well as one main interior lounge with a bar. There's also a secondary, casual dining area at the front of each vessel with indoor and outdoor seating. (The outdoor portion, called the Aquavit Terrace, also serves as a forward-facing outdoor lounge during off hours.) Unlike many river ships, the vessels have no spas or fitness centers.

As is typical for river ships, the top of every Viking Longship is covered with an expansive lounge area. There's also a walking track and an herb garden — the latter used by the kitchen staff to grow herbs used during the preparation of onboard meals.

Most Viking Longships are 443 feet long — the perfect length to fit into the locks on many of Europe's rivers. Viking also built slightly smaller versions of the Longships, measuring 361 feet or 410 feet in length, specifically to sail on rivers where lock sizes or other navigational factors require smaller vessels. The 410-foot-long versions of the vessels, for instance, were specifically built to sail into the heart of Paris on the Seine River.

Related: Fast-growing Viking unveils four new ships for the Seine

While the Longships come in several different lengths, they are essentially identical in their offerings and decor. The only notable difference is that the smaller versions of the ships have fewer cabins and thus hold fewer people. The 443-foot-long versions of the ship are designed for 190 passengers, for example, whereas the 410-foot-long versions of the vessels hold 168 passengers (since they have 11 fewer cabins).

While most Viking river ships are Longships, there are a few exceptions in the Viking river fleet. Viking operates several smaller, purpose-built vessels on the Nile River in Egypt. It also has several older river vessels that predate the Longships and traditionally have operated on rivers in Russia and Ukraine. (For now, river cruise itineraries in both countries are on hold due to the war in Ukraine.)

Viking also recently began sailings on the Mississippi River with a new ship specifically designed for the river and its tributaries.

As of May 2023, Viking had another 14 river ships either under construction or on order via provisional contracts.

Related: First look at Viking's stylish new Nile River ship

Viking expedition ships

Ships: Viking Polaris (2022) and Viking Octantis (2022).

Size: 30,150 tons.

Designed to hold just 378 passengers, the Viking expedition ships are specifically designed to take travelers to the most off-the-beaten-path parts of the world, including Antarctica and the Arctic.

As of now, Viking operates just two ships in the series, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, both of which debuted in 2022 . No more are currently on order.

As is typical for expedition ships, these are tough vessels with reinforced bows that let them bump through ice in polar regions; the ships also have extra tanks for fuel and food.

Each of these vessels has its own landing craft on board to bring people ashore in remote locations, as well as kayaks and even submarines for exploring. (The latter is the hot new thing for expedition ships — upscale cruise brands Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Seabourn have been adding submarines to expedition ships , too.)

Like other expedition ships, both Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris are designed to operate with a large and seasoned "expedition team" that includes biologists, botanists, geologists, glaciologists and ornithologists who lecture regularly.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Viking ship

Each of the vessels has several new and unusual features, too. Most notable is The Hangar: an enclosed marina that allows passengers to transfer to a 12-seat excursion craft while still in the protected interior of the ship. It's a first for an expedition cruise ship.

In another first for a polar expedition cruise vessel, every cabin has floor-to-ceiling glass walls that slide partially open from the top to create a balcony-like feel.

Both Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris are designed to be upscale. Like all Viking's vessels, they boast elegant Scandinavian designs. The restaurants on both vessels include a version of Viking's signature Italian spot, Manfredi's and the Scandinavian-inspired Mamsen's outlet.

Another feature of both ships that will be familiar to regular Viking customers is a top-of-the-ship, glass-walled Explorers' Lounge offering stunning views of passing scenery.

In case you're curious, Viking Octantis is named after Sigma Octantis, the current "south star" that hovers over the South Pole (also known as Polaris Australis). Polaris is named after the current "north star" that hovers over the North Pole. The names are a nod to the polar regions where these expedition ships will likely spend much of their time.

Bottom line

Viking operates more cruise vessels than any other major cruise company catering to North Americans. This is in part because it's involved in both the ocean cruise and river cruise businesses. Despite its large size, its fleet of vessels is relatively easy to understand. The vast majority of both its ocean ships and river ships are almost identical in their designs.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

AmaWaterways vs Viking River Cruises: A Comprehensive Comparison for Discerning Travelers

Have you ever wondered which river cruise line best suits your travel style? Picture yourself gliding along picturesque waterways, but you’re torn between AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises. It’s a common dilemma for many travelers seeking the perfect blend of luxury and adventure.

In this article, we’ll compare AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises to help you make an informed decision for your next voyage. From onboard amenities to shore excursions, we’ll explore the unique offerings of each cruise line. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of whether AmaWaterways or Viking River Cruises is the ideal choice for your dream river cruise experience.

Key Takeaways

• River cruising offers a unique and intimate way to explore destinations without constant packing and unpacking, focusing on the journey itself and maximizing time for exploring different locations.
• AmaWaterways provides a luxury experience with exceptional service, diverse destinations, and well-curated itineraries suitable for all travelers’ interests.
• Viking River Cruises offer elegance, comfort, and cultural immersion through Scandinavian-inspired design, carefully crafted itineraries, and immersive onboard amenities.
• Both AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises offer well-appointed staterooms and suites, personalized service, and a variety of onboard amenities to enhance the cruise experience.
• Dining experiences on AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises showcase regionally inspired cuisine, offering a mix of traditional and international dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• Shore excursions on both cruise lines provide opportunities to explore each destination in detail, with knowledgeable local guides and a variety of activities catering to diverse interests.

Understanding River Cruising

The appeal of river cruising.

River cruising offers a unique and intimate way to explore various destinations without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. Unlike ocean cruises that focus more on the onboard experience, river cruises emphasize the journey itself, with smaller ships that can navigate narrow waterways, offering stunning views of picturesque villages and landscapes along the rivers. River cruising allows you to immerse yourself in the heart of historic cities and towns as most ports are conveniently located near attractions.

What to Expect on a River Cruise

On a river cruise, you can expect personalized service, comfortable accommodations, and exceptional dining experiences. The onboard atmosphere is relaxed and casual, fostering a sense of community among fellow passengers. Unlike ocean cruises with multiple sea days, river cruises often dock at a new port each day, maximizing your time for exploring different destinations. River cruises typically include guided shore excursions led by knowledgeable local guides, providing valuable insights into the culture and history of each stop.

A Brief Overview of AmaWaterways

The amawaterways experience.

Embark on a river cruise with AmaWaterways for a captivating experience marked by luxury, comfort, and cultural discovery. AmaWaterways stands out for its exceptional service and attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of your journey is meticulously curated. From the moment you step on board, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and a commitment to creating unforgettable memories.

Destinations and Itineraries

AmaWaterways offers a diverse range of destinations and itineraries tailored to suit every traveler’s interests. Whether you seek the charm of European villages along the Rhine or the ancient wonders of the Danube, AmaWaterways delivers immersive experiences in iconic locations. Explore historic cities, vineyard-dotted landscapes, and cultural treasures while enjoying the convenience of unpacking just once as you cruise from one enchanting port to the next.

A Brief Overview of Viking River Cruises

When it comes to the Viking River Cruises experience, you can expect a blend of elegance, comfort, and cultural immersion. Here’s a glimpse into what makes Viking stand out among river cruise enthusiasts like yourself.

The Viking Experience

Embark on a journey with Viking River Cruises, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by Scandinavian-inspired design, offering a contemporary and elegant onboard ambiance. It’s like sailing through a floating boutique hotel, where every corner is thoughtfully curated for your comfort and pleasure.

Viking River Cruises covers a vast array of destinations, from the charming towns of Europe along the Rhine to the historic wonders along the Danube. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in local cultures, explore hidden gems, and witness breathtaking landscapes as you sail along some of the most iconic rivers in the world. Viking’s itineraries are carefully crafted to ensure a balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural enrichment, providing you with a well-rounded and unforgettable travel experience.

AmaWaterways vs Viking River Cruises: Accommodations

Staterooms and suites.

When comparing AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises for accommodations, you’ll find that both offer well-appointed staterooms and suites. AmaWaterways boasts spacious staterooms with innovative designs that maximize comfort and luxury. Their French and twin balconies provide stunning views of the passing scenery. On the other hand, Viking River Cruises features elegantly designed cabins inspired by their Scandinavian heritage. The Explorer Suites on Viking ships are particularly lavish, offering extra space and amenities for a truly indulgent experience.

Onboard Amenities

In terms of onboard amenities, AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises excel in providing a range of facilities to enhance your cruise experience. AmaWaterways spoils you with amenities like a heated pool with a swim-up bar, a fitness center, and a relaxing spa for utmost comfort and rejuvenation. Additionally, their fleet offers complimentary bikes for onshore exploration, adding an active dimension to your journey. Meanwhile, Viking River Cruises provides a cultural enrichment program onboard, featuring lectures, workshops, and performances that delve into the destinations you’re visiting. Their Aquavit Terrace is a favorite spot for panoramic views while enjoying a meal or a drink.

Whether you prefer the opulent staterooms of AmaWaterways or the culturally immersive amenities of Viking River Cruises, both cruise lines ensure a memorable experience through their exceptional accommodations and onboard offerings.

Dining Options Compared

Amawaterways dining experience.

Embark on a culinary journey with AmaWaterways as you indulge in a delightful dining experience. Enjoy regionally inspired cuisine crafted with locally sourced ingredients prepared by talented chefs. Savor exquisite meals in a relaxed and elegant setting, whether dining in the main restaurant, the chef’s table, or at the intimate Al Fresco dining terrace. You’ll find a variety of options to cater to your taste buds, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary preferences.

Viking River Cruises Dining Experience

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights offered by Viking River Cruises, where each meal is a celebration of flavors and cultures. Delight in a mix of traditional dishes and international cuisine served in beautiful surroundings, such as the main dining room, the Aquavit Terrace, or the casual River Café. With expert chefs creating delectable dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients, you’ll have the opportunity to taste the essence of each destination you visit. Whether enjoying a themed dinner or a local specialty, Viking ensures a gastronomic experience to remember.

Entertainment and Activities

Onboard entertainment.

On AmaWaterways cruises, entertainment options cater to various tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. You can enjoy live music performances, cultural shows, and themed parties. Whether you prefer a laid-back evening or a lively atmosphere, the onboard entertainment on AmaWaterways is designed to keep you engaged throughout your journey. Similarly, Viking River Cruises offer an array of entertainment choices, such as musical performances, lectures on local culture, and cooking demonstrations. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the destinations you visit through entertaining and informative activities on board.

Shore Excursions

Exploring the ports of call is a memorable part of any river cruise experience. Both AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises provide exceptional shore excursions led by knowledgeable guides. AmaWaterways offers a variety of excursions, from walking tours to biking adventures, allowing you to delve deeper into the local culture and history. Viking River Cruises also curate enriching shore excursions that cater to diverse interests, including visits to iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and culinary tours. You’ll have the chance to explore each destination in detail and create lasting memories during these well-organized shore excursions.

Service and Staff

Personalized service.

When it comes to personalized service, both AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises excel in attending to your needs. Cabin staff on both cruise lines are known for their attentiveness and friendliness. They make an effort to remember your preferences, ensuring a more personalized experience. For example, they may recognize your favorite drink or pillow type after just a few interactions, making you feel truly valued.

Crew Expertise

The crew’s expertise on AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises is top-notch. From the cruise director to the housekeeping staff, everyone is well-trained and knowledgeable about the destinations you visit. They are readily available to answer your questions, provide recommendations, and ensure your comfort throughout the journey. The crew’s expertise enhances your overall experience, making you feel in capable hands from the moment you step on board.

Pricing and Value

What’s included in the fare.

When comparing AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises in terms of pricing, it’s essential to consider what is included in the fare. Both cruise lines typically cover a range of amenities and services that contribute to the overall value of your experience. Here are some common inclusions:

• Accommodations: Spacious staterooms with various configurations are usually included.
• Dining: Most meals onboard are covered, with options for regional cuisine and international dishes.
• Entertainment: Live music performances, cultural shows, and educational lectures are part of the entertainment offerings.
• Shore Excursions: Guided tours at various ports of call are often included, allowing you to explore each destination.

Understanding what the fare encompasses can help you compare the overall value each cruise line offers based on your preferences and needs.

Analyzing Overall Value

To assess the overall value of AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises, consider the quality and quantity of inclusions compared to the price you pay. Here’s how you can analyze the overall value:

• Unique Offerings: Evaluate any exclusive amenities or experiences provided by each cruise line.
• Service Quality: Assess the level of personalized service and attention to detail.
• Additional Costs: Factor in any optional extras or add-on services that may impact the total cost.
• Customer Reviews: Research feedback from past passengers to gauge satisfaction levels and value perception.

By analyzing these aspects, you can determine which cruise line offers the best value for your preferences and budget, ensuring a rewarding river cruise experience.

Clientele and Atmosphere

Target audience.

For AmaWaterways, the target audience typically includes active and culturally curious travelers aged 50 and above. If you enjoy immersive experiences with a focus on local culture, wine, and gourmet dining, AmaWaterways may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, Viking River Cruises attracts a similar age group but with a slightly broader appeal. If you appreciate a mix of history, culture, and comfort with a more relaxed pace, Viking River Cruises could be your ideal choice.

On-Board Ambiance

AmaWaterways creates a warm and welcoming ambiance onboard, with a cozy and intimate feel throughout the ship. The decor is elegant yet comfortable, offering a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for socializing with fellow passengers. In contrast, Viking River Cruises exudes a sophisticated and classic ambiance with a touch of luxury. The design elements are chic and modern, providing a refined setting for travelers looking for a more upscale experience on their river cruise.

You’ve explored the distinct offerings of AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises, each catering to a specific demographic with unique preferences. AmaWaterways appeals to active, culturally curious travelers, offering intimate settings and cultural programs. On the other hand, Viking River Cruises caters to a similar age group but focuses on a blend of history, culture, and luxury. Whether you seek cozy socializing or upscale sophistication, both cruise lines provide exceptional service and well-organized excursions. Your choice between AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises ultimately depends on your travel style and the experience you desire. Happy cruising!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what are the key differences between amawaterways and viking river cruises.

AmaWaterways offers spacious staterooms, cultural programs, and a cozy ambiance, while Viking River Cruises provides panoramic views, a luxurious atmosphere, and a more upscale experience.

2. What is the target audience for AmaWaterways?

AmaWaterways caters to active, culturally curious travelers aged 50 and above who enjoy a cozy and intimate ambiance onboard.

3. Who does Viking River Cruises appeal to?

Viking River Cruises appeals to a similar age group (50 and above) interested in history, culture, and comfort, offering a sophisticated and luxurious atmosphere with modern design elements.

Hi, I'm Richard, a passionate traveler and cruise enthusiast. With over a decade of experience exploring the world's oceans, I've developed a deep love for all things related to cruising. Whether it's luxury liners or intimate river cruises, I enjoy sharing my insights and tips to help others plan their perfect getaway. When I'm not sailing the seas, you can find me writing about my adventures or planning my next voyage

Related Posts

Comparing explora journeys and ritz-carlton yacht cruises: luxury at sea unveiled, comparing ritz-carlton yacht cruises to un-cruise adventures: luxury vs. adventure – a complete guide, celebrity cruises vs holland america line: a comprehensive comparison exploring amenities, accommodations, and customer reviews.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

• Australasia
• Mediterranean
• Middle East
• North America
• Northern Europe
• Norwegian Fjords
• Pacific Islands
• South America
• Adults-Only Cruises
• All-inclusive Cruising
• Boutique Cruising
• Classic Cruising
• Cruise from the UK
• Expedition Cruising
• Family Cruises
• Fly Cruising
• Luxury Cruising
• Mini Cruises
• Ocean Cruising
• River Cruises
• Small Ship and Yacht Cruising
• Solo Cruising
• Ultra-Luxury Cruising
• World Cruises
• Cruise Lines
• Top 10 Ocean Cruise Deals
• Top 10 Luxury Cruise Deals
• Top 10 River Cruise Deals
• Top 20 Cruise Deals
• Cruise Package Deals
• Partner Deals & Offers
• Competitions

Which river cruise is best? How to pick the river cruise line that’s right for you

Author: Jeannine Williamson

Published on: 28 September 2021

Updated on: 11 May 2022

River cruise holidays are booming, with more lines, ships and itineraries to choose from than ever before. It’s easy to see why - but how do you know which river cruise is best?

River cruises are a wonderful way to relax, watch the world drift by at a leisurely pace and explore the towns, cities and countryside of Europe as well as faraway destinations in North and South America and exotic Asia.

They're also a stress-free way to travel as all the arrangements are taken care of, vessels visit a new port each day and there’s always something to see along the way.

Within the space of a week you can visit up to four countries, with the added bonus of only having to pack and unpack once. As ships moor right in the heart of towns there are no lengthy coach excursions to reach the city centre and, in most instances, the main sights, shops and cafes are within easy walking distance if you want to explore independently.

The only thing left is to decide where you want to go - your first choice - and then which river cruise line is the best one for you.

- READ MORE: Best river cruise lines in the world for 2021 from Viking to Crystal -

It’s worth pointing out that unlike hotels there is no official star rating system for river ships even though some companies give themselves self-styled rankings.

Also, lines give different names to their vessels, such as Viking’s Longships, Scenic’s Space-Ships, Emerald Cruises’ Star-Ships and Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection’s Super Ships.

While they differ in style on the inside they are essentially all the same size on the outside as their length and height is restricted by narrow locks and low bridges. They accommodate up to 190 passengers, fewer on more expensive lines.

Larger ships, carrying a higher number of guests and with more spacious facilities, can be found on the wide rivers of Russia and North America, while more intimate ships, some carrying fewer than 10 passengers, navigate the rivers of Asia.

To the uninitiated the choice of lines can be bewildering, so we’ve taken the hard work out it by putting together this easy reference guide so you can find out which line will suit you.

Riviera Travel boosts 2026 tall-ship programme

Saga announces new river cruise ship for 2025, american cruise lines to sail out of washington dc, riverside luxury cruises to launch third ship in march, tui river cruises announces first new-build ship, riviera travel ‘determined to deliver’ on new sustainability plan, edwina lonsdale on why river cruises rock, uniworld announces new ‘bucket-list’ itineraries, how to choose your excursions on an avalon waterways' river cruise, a-rosa becomes first river cruise line to offer swimming lessons, best river cruise for first-timers.

There are few people that won’t have heard of Viking , the world’s largest river cruise line. The size of the company’s global fleet means it’s easy to find a sailing in the destination of your choice and the company takes care of its guests every step of the way.

Geared for British tastes - with home touches such as kettles in every cabin - is Riviera Travel which is the UK’s largest provider of European river cruises and all onboard prices are in sterling.

For the ultimate peace of mind over-50s specialist Saga and Titan Travel provide a home pick-up service to take you to the airport and meet you on return.

Best river cruise for budget

The largest European-based line, CroisiEurope offers English-speaking cruises on its fleet of river ships and cosy hotel barges. Unlike the majority of lines, there is a set menu at lunch and dinner which is one of the reasons the line is so affordable. That said, a real bonus is the open bar, a perk usually associated with much more expensive lines.

Some readers might remember the River Cruise Line, a firm favourite with British travellers, which was taken over by Arena Travel to offer the same value-for-money sailings on friendly vessels including its new ship MS Arena.

A familiar name in the holiday world is Cosmos which offers low-cost river cruises. It has recently been joined by another well-known company TUI which has launched a fleet of three vessels and offers passengers a £120 credit towards shore excursions.

- READ MORE: TUI Maya review: What's it like onboard TUI River Cruises' first ship? -

Best river cruise for luxury

If you want to push the boat out take a look at all-inclusive lines where everything is covered in the fare, including drinks, shore excursions and tips. Ships also carry fewer passengers and have more dining options, including room service.

On Crystal Cruises there is butler service to every cabin. There are also butlers serving the suites on Uniworld Boutique River Collection which has a fleet of ships that are all individually decorated with artwork and antiques; some with four-poster beds.

- READ MORE: What to expect on luxury cruise ships -

Australian-owned line Scenic offers easy-going luxury in a contemporary onboard environment combined with butler service. Tauck also prides itself on seamless service where nothing is too much trouble.

APT features Signature Experiences on every cruise, such as private reception and music recital at a Viennese palace and trip on the Grand Empress steam train in Budapest.

If your idea of luxury is more space, AmaWaterways ’ AmaMagna carries 196 passengers on a vessel that’s twice the width of other European river vessels and sails on a stretch of the Danube.

Best river cruise for solos

With their small size and low passenger numbers, river ships are ideal for singles and it’s easy to make friends.

Riviera Travel has long embraced the needs of independent travellers and offers a range of sailings specifically for solos with no single supplements on any cabin.

- READ MORE: Solo travel: Which cruise ships have solo cabins? -

Tauck waives single supplement charges on all category 1 lower deck cabins on every ship in its European fleet, plus there are reduced surcharges on higher-grade cabins on a large number of sailings.

Other solo-friendly lines which have single cabins and/or offer no or reduced single supplements on selected sailings include Arena Travel, AmaWaterways, American Cruise Lines , American Queen Steamboat Company , CroisiEurope, Emerald Cruises , Scenic, and Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection.

Best river cruise for families

The past few years have seen a huge increase in the number of family-friendly river cruises, which are perfect for multigenerational groups. Tauck pioneered the family cruise concept with its Tauck Bridges programme; dedicated family sailings which include fun onboard activities and shore excursions such as treasure hunts.

Fellow luxury line Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has a Generations Collection of itineraries with special hosts to look after junior cruisers and themed shore tours including cookery classes.

CroisiEurope has a summer programme of family cruises and A-Rosa Cruises has a long association with multigenerational cruising. This will be enhanced further in 2022 when the line launches a dedicated family ship, a first for river cruising.

A-Rosa Sena, which will sail on the Rhine, will have family cabins sleeping up to five, a children’s club and separate kids’ swimming pool. Also consider hotel barges, available through CroisiEurope and European Waterways which can be exclusively chartered by family groups.

Best river cruise for food

You’re never going to go hungry (or thirsty) on a river cruise, and the standard of cuisine across all lines is high. However, some lines have exceptional features such as La Cave des Vins on Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection’s French ship Joie de Vivre.

The show kitchen can be booked by guests for a cookery class to help prepare a seven-course meal which is then savoured with wine pairings to accompany each course.

Crystal Cruises also offers a food and wine pairing menu in the exclusive Vintage Room. All of AmaWaterways’ European ships are members of La Confrerie de la Chaine des Rotisseurs, a prestigious international gastronomic society dedicated to fine cuisine.

Additionally, ships have the Chef’s Table restaurant with an open kitchen where the chefs can be seen at work. All guests dine here once on every cruise.

On Scenic Cruises passengers in suites are invited to dine at the intimate Table La Rive and all guests have the opportunity to eat at the speciality restaurant Portobellos. For vegetarians and lovers of healthy food Avalon Waterways has partnered with Viennese chef brothers Leo and Karl Wrenkh to create Avalon Fresh dishes which are available at every meal.

Best river cruise for active travellers

After all that good food you might welcome the chance to get active and offset some of the calories. AmaWaterways has dedicated wellness programmes on all vessels with wellness hosts who teach daily onboard classes, such as yoga and resistance band workouts, and lead active walking tours ashore.

Emerald Cruises has activity managers and also offers the EmeraldACTIVE programme of hiking, cycling and canoeing excursions. Avalon Waterways offers Active & Discovery sailings on the Rhine, Danube and Rhone where excursions include hiking, cycling, kayaking and jogging sightseeing tours.

CroisiEurope has walking and cycling-themed cruises and lines that carry free onboard bikes for passengers to use include AmaWaterways, APT, A-Rosa Cruises, Scenic Cruises, Tauck and Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection.

Best river cruise for exotic cruises

America’s most famous river is the mighty Mississippi and you can explore it in style on classic paddlewheelers run by the American Queen Steamboat Company, which operates the world’s largest steamboat American Queen, and American Cruise Lines.

Both lines also sail in other parts of America, including the lesser-known Columbia and Snake rivers and, for those who want a break with tradition, American Cruise Lines also has a fleet of modern ships.

- READ MORE: What to see and do on Mississippi and Columbia river cruises -

Viking Cruises is launching its first vessel on the Mississippi in 2022. Far Horizon Tours has pioneered journeys in India including the Brahmaputra in the shadow of the Himalayas and other itineraries include the tranquil backwaters of Kerala.

G Adventures’ has expedition sailings including an itinerary that goes deep in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon.

Best river cruise for unique itineraries

Enterprising CroisiEurope has cruises on the Loire in France, the Elbe in Germany, Guadalquivir in Spain and the Sava and Tisza through Hungary, Serbia and Croatia.

It is the only line operating on the Loire, with a modern paddlewheel boat specially designed to cope with the river’s shallow waters, and the Guadalquivir, where its dual-purpose boat also sails along the Atlantic coastline to reach the Guadiana river in Portugal.

- READ MORE: Best Christmas-themed river cruises for 2021 -

Best river cruise for pampering

While several lines have small massage rooms and pools A-Rosa Cruises stands out with its larger spas with a reception area, sauna and relaxation room. Amadeus River Cruises and Scenic Cruises have hair salons.

The rumour mill: Is Norway banning cruise ships after 2025?

Sir richard branson marries 3 couples onboard virgin voyages, a shared humanity: sos for ss united states, ss united states set to become artificial reef, the rumour mill: what’s going on with ambassador and edinburgh, virgin voyages returns to portsmouth with its third ship, resilient lady, celestyal cruises rewards team gb olympic medallists with complimentary cruises, interview: dr damon stanwell-smith on viking's genomics at sea programme, royal caribbean’s icon of the seas to star in channel 4 documentary.

Caribbean: Harvest Caye, Cozumel & Roatan

• 7 nights, departs on the 14 Feb 2025
• Norwegian Cruise Line, Norwegian Prima
• 7 nights, departs on the 21 Feb 2025
• Galveston, Texas, Costa Maya, Harvest Caye, + 3 more
• 7 nights, departs on the 28 Feb 2025
• 7 nights, departs on the 07 Mar 2025
• 7 nights, departs on the 14 Mar 2025

Dog-friendly cruises: Can you take a dog on a cruise? Guide to dog cruise holidays

How to pick a river cruise cabin - best cabins and what to avoid, exciting reveal from marella cruises: what’s in store for marella discovery 2, msc cabin types: everything you need to know about cabins on msc cruises ships, ambition cruise ship review: guaranteed best value at sea, disabled cruises from southampton: best cruise lines for disabled passengers in the uk.

• Saga Cruises

Saga compared with Silversea

By Tothesunset , May 14, 2021 in Saga Cruises

Recommended Posts

Tothesunset

We've booked a Saga cruise for 2022 that includes ports in Ireland and the Channel Islands. Normally we cruise Silversea (over 200 days sailed) but their British Isles  per diem  is nearly twice Saga's cost. We aren't prepared to take international flights until such time as our fractured world returns to normal. 

So will we find Saga a good alternative?  Nice cabin? Tick. All inclusive? Tick. Small(ish) ship? Tick. 

Does anyone have experience of both lines and care to comment on the similarities and differences? 

Looking forward to a new perspective on ocean cruising. 

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

  We have not yet sailed with Silversea, but we sailed with Saga for the first time in 2019 on Spirit of Discovery, and were very impressed with the ship. Lovely cabins. There are plenty of public spaces,  the crew were friendly and the food was excellent.  We are in our late 60s, and were concerned that the average age of the passengers might be quite a bit older than us, but this wasn’t the case.  We have also sailed with Azamara, and enjoyed that experience, particularly the mix of nationalities, which you  won’t get so much with Saga.  If you can find the right itinerary I don’t think you will be disappointed.  The home pick up and included travel insurance is a bonus!  Hopefully someone on these boards will be able to provide a comparison of the two lines for you.

I've done a few Silversea trips (West Africa, Galapagos etc) and one cruise with Saga - Southampton round-trip via the Caribbean - on their old ship Saga Sapphire.  They picked us up from home and basically threw money at us when we got on board - refund for a noisy cabin, refund for a downgrade to a better cabin, refund for a rubbish excursion, refund for unused on-board credit.  Service could not have been nicer though probably a notch or two below Silversea levels of prescience.  The library, bar, lounge area on the ship was fabulous and surprisingly contemporary in design given the elderly profile of their passengers.  Overall we had a great time despite someone coming up to us in Antigua and asking if we were on a hospital ship.

Saga now has two new ships.  And no matter what garbage they spout about boutique ships, these new ones are BIG - 1000 passengers.  Too big in my view for a UK cruise because many of the most interesting places won't be accessible - smaller islands in Scotland such as St Kilda for instance.  But I guess Silversea's new ships also have that drawback.

Silversea is twice the price because it's nearly twice as good - it's the small details, the more reliable food, the cosmopolitan vibe and, dare I say it, a younger and more sophisticated crowd.  And while Silversea is the more formal of the three great luxury lines - Regent and Seabourn (my favourite) are the others - Saga has a rigid dress code that I find quite ridiculous.  Given identical itineraries I would always choose a Silversea ship.

If I wanted a UK-based cruise I personally would choose something like this:

https://www.noble-caledonia.co.uk/tour/2653/hebridean-secrets/?search_url_id=0  

Windsurfboy

Can I suggest you look at Solent Richards blog and reviews of the  sagaspirit of discovery and silversea silver spirit and Seabourn Sojourn. Not direct comparisons but reviews of all three ships (and others Large and small) .

I must say, we are hoping that we enjoy Saga because, quite honestly, we are getting fed up with long distance air travel to catch a cruise ship. The ability to leave the house and be looked after all the way to the ship then back is very appealing. 

The only snag is that we have about half a million air miles to use up. A first class weekend trip to New York? Bangkok? Hong Kong? 

My favourite cruise line is Oceania, great food, service, comfortable beds and less inclusive than Saga and Silversea. 

However like yourselves we are disliking air travel more and more, so are seeking out cruises which originate and end in the UK.

Our next 5 cruises are with Saga and after our experience in 2019 on Spirit of Discovery are more than happy with that.

We should have been sailing on Saturday from Southampton on Sirena but sadly that was cancelled.   

Next cruise on SoD will be at the end of September - yay  😁

We have lots of airmiles too and have been using them for excursions in foreign ports.

About 6 or so on Silversea, though not for about 10 years after discovering Seabourn.  Recently about 6 on Saga, though not yet on the new ships.

IMO, one  main advantage of Saga is getting to the ship.  Fairly civilised, leaving home around 9 a.m., lunch on ship and you do not bother about your luggage after putting it  inside your front door to be taken by the driver until you see it in your cabin.  Disadvantage here of course  is time at sea before any port.  The atmosphere is obviously less cosmopolitan - which I confess to liking, as there are fewer people who barge in front of you at buffets etc. if any, and generally very good manners from fellow passengers. 

The special restaurants on the new ships get very good reviews, but the drinks are not as varied or top notch as on Silversea - a fair choice but no single malts or decent cognacs included for instance, and usually about four or six wines to choose from.

I find the staff just as helpful and perhaps rather warmer than those on Silversea, and also enjoy the rather British orientated things like the Speakers, various classes, bridge, the odd jazz concert etc. - that is a purely personal opinion of course.  We have enjoyed meeting some lovely fellow passengers from the USA and other countries on Silversea, but I guess getting older find it easier and more relaxing to fit in with our fellow countrymen.   You will certainly find people on board to whom you can relate, and make friends of if you want to, having read your contributions to the Cooler.

3 hours ago, Tothesunset said:   The only snag is that we have about half a million air miles to use up. A first class weekend trip to New York? Bangkok? Hong Kong? 

It will  be some time before a weekend away is worth all the fuss of testing. However given that you need normally to book well in advance to get air miles (on BA anyway) , might be OK by then.

My view is if you can get a route with the new club suites , then first is not worth it.

Back to the point if this topic, glad to see that most people like Saga, and no bad reports of new ships by anyone whose been on them.   

Obviously there are likes and dislike everyone will have about particular cruise lines. From the days of the old Spirit of Adventure onwards, the thing we have enjoyed above all is the very convivial, inclusive atmosphere on Saga. Even though the ships used to be rather old, the atmosphere on board more than made up for that. We didn’t find that quite replicated on the new ship yet, but it’s still early days. On some of the other lines mentioned above, we enjoyed the ships but overall felt somewhat anonymous. Although it can be good to meet people from other countries onboard, it can be difficult to suit the taste and expectations of all nationalities. Saga knows exactly who their market is and provides accordingly. Saga now has ships which compare very favourably with the more upmarket brands

Picking up the points above, without reference and meaning no ill-will or controversy:

Having almost exclusively UK passengers is not necessarily a plus point if, like us, you find other nationalities interesting and entertaining. I would say the same for the crew. (BTW, I'm not a Brit but OH is. I don't hold it against her.) 

Door to door service earns a multitude of gold stars. 

Speciality booze doesn't interest us but good food does. However I am fond of a good beer (what you probably refer to as lager beer) and enjoy trying different kinds. Is there a decent selection on Saga? 

When does one book the speciality restos? On SS this can be done online 120 days before departure but because I'm booked through a TA I can't access my Saga booking on the Saga site. 😞

Lastly, am I correct in thinking there is no indoor room for post-dinner port and cigars? 

Thanks for all the input so far. 

As speciality restaurants are "free" , my understanding from this forum is this can only be done on board, and one at a time. Objective is to ensure everyone gets an equal opportunity. 

Don't shoot me but I think they tow a lifeboat behind the ship for cigars

8 minutes ago, Windsurfboy said: Don't shoot me but I think they tow a lifeboat behind the ship for cigars

As long as there's a port decanter to hand, I'll be fine with that! 

29 minutes ago, Windsurfboy said: As speciality restaurants are "free" , my understanding from this forum is this can only be done on board, and one at a time. Objective is to ensure everyone gets an equal opportunity. 

I would certainly hope that is the case, and certainly the web page says bookings can only be made on board.

There’s definitely no indoor smoking! Outdoors it’s very restricted.No gambling either. Unless they change the system, you just pop along to each speciality restaurant and make bookings at the desk. We did so at each one on the first evening with no problem and were also able to book again at our favourites later on in the cruise (it was 18 days so lots of restaurant opportunity).

Yes Saga is very British, which has pluses and minuses. For instance, the library is excellent with predominantly British/well known international authors. Newspapers and magazines, where available, are British. Where tv channels are available they are largely British. Quizzes are British based. Beer is British, also the Hush Heath sparkling wine. The tea used to be from the Tregothen estate in Cornwall. Over 100 cheeses are stocked, many being excellent artisan British.

However it’s very convivial, civilised and welcoming to all.

4 hours ago, Tothesunset said: As long as there's a port decanter to hand, I'll be fine with that! 

As long as it's a good vintage port , I'd join you ,especially if its an open lifeboat 

Thanks for that reminder of the Saga experience, Kohima.  I had forgotten about the cheeses; served at the right temperature and lots of choice, unlike most other lines.

6 hours ago, lincslady said: Thanks for that reminder of the Saga experience, Kohima.  I had forgotten about the cheeses; served at the right temperature and lots of choice, unlike most other lines.

Can't wait, 100 cheeses , will take all 32 days to go through this selection even at 3 or 4 each night after dinner.  I can't think of any hotel or even cheese shops  with such a choice.  Hope the Port is up to it.

• 2 months later...

On 5/21/2021 at 11:13 AM, lincslady said: Thanks for that reminder of the Saga experience, Kohima.  I had forgotten about the cheeses; served at the right temperature and lots of choice, unlike most other lines.

Oh Lola can't believe you have popped up on saga .... I've only just replied to a silversea comment from you !!!!  Well I have  been very very bored today & have looked at regent.silversea( my favourite ) and seabourn...( Don't like the concept of the "elete  the retreat!!!)  And also saga where you popped up!!!

My friend lives in portishead Bristol & sent me a photo a few weeks ago from her balcony at home with a saga ship passing through so I thought I would look at there website ... Southampton is only just under 60 miles from home and it does sound very appealing ..no long drive to Heathrow .. air flight .. but still sat on the fence a little being it probably all British passenger base ( don't get wrong I don't have a problem with that but it's nice to meet people from all over the world ... Or maybe after 32 years of cruising would it matter ...  Oh and the cheeses wow very British old school ...keep safe happy cruising 🚢 soon day soon 

Hello Lvshack - yes, I am a bit bored too!   (My comment on Silversea was on the SALT site, and was a cruise line comparison, which often does not go down well, although it was perfectly polite).

We do love Seabourn - the Retreat thing is anathema to most Seabournites, and underused.  Otherwise SB is friendly and multi-national.  However, this is about Saga:  yes, pretty well everyone on board is a Brit. of some sort, but that does actually have advantages, as well as them all being over 50.  You would not find any pushy people, or noisy children, for example, and the passengers represent all walks of life,.  Advantages of being rather British are things like a great library, super cheeses, some things which many Brits enjoy like a passenger choir, and fairly British based quizzes.  Plus mostly very  good lecturers.  The entertainment is perhaps not as glitzy as other lines, and no comedians, that I can remember, but often very good classical musicians, and a band who like to do jazz concerts.

Even so, the number one attraction, if you are older or not particularly fit, is the door to door transport, with no need to carry luggage around at all.  If I could cruise again it would be with Saga, but then I am getting on in years.   I think you would find the food, especially  the specialist restaurants on the spiffy new ships, to be comparable to Silversea or Seabourn.  Wine perhaps a notch down price-wise, but quite well chosen and served generously.  And the dry sherry, served cold, is Tio Pepe, not so easy to find on an American ship.  Included spirits not anything like the quality found on the 'luxury' lines, but then the price is a bit lower overall.  Worth considering, IMO.

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!
• How To: Follow Topics & Forums (Get Notifications)

435 What Kind of Cruise Ship Decor Do You Like Best?

1. what kind of cruise ship decor do you like best.

• Colorful and wacky! It sets the vibe for fun.
• Serene and soothing! Greige helps me relax.
• Arty and sophisticated! Whimsical pieces make me smile.
• Nautical and classic! I want to feel like I'm on a ship.
• Mod and shiny! Give me all the glass and chrome.
• Please sign in or register to vote in this poll.

Write An Amazing Review !

Click this photo by member XFrancophileX to share your review w/ photos too!

Parliament, Budapest

Features & News

LauraS · Started Thursday at 09:01 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 06:28 PM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 12:56 PM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 11:40 AM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 06:45 AM

Cruise Planning

Find a cruise, popular ports, member reviews.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...