viking cruises canada reviews

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.

Viking Cruises Review

Sunday, April 7th

2024 Cruise Line Reviews

• 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 that offers river and ocean cruises around the world. The company was founded in 1997 and is known for its Scandinavian-inspired design and focus on cultural experiences.

Small- to mid-range ship sizes

One of the most notable aspects of Viking Cruises is the company's fleet of ships. The river ships are relatively small, with a maximum capacity of around 200 passengers, which allows for an intimate and personalized experience. The ocean ships are larger, but still maintain a sense of exclusivity with a maximum capacity of around 930 passengers. All cabins feature a veranda or French balcony, and the ocean ships also have a variety of suite options available. The company's Scandinavian design aesthetic is evident throughout the ships, with sleek, modern decor and plenty of natural light.

Best choice for river cruises in Europe - and elsewhere

Viking Cruises is particularly known for its river cruises in Europe, which travel along the Rhine, Danube, Seine, and other scenic waterways. These cruises offer a chance to explore historic cities, picturesque villages, and stunning landscapes. Shore excursions are included in the fare and are designed to immerse passengers in local culture, such as wine tastings in Burgundy or a visit to a working windmill in the Netherlands. But, river cruising with Viking is hardly limited to Europe: you can just as easily sail the Mekong, Mississippi, or Nile.

Get to know your destination well

The ocean cruises offered by Viking Cruises also emphasize cultural experiences, with a focus on destinations rather than onboard amenities. The ships visit ports around the world, from the Caribbean to Asia to the Mediterranean, and often stay in port for longer periods of time to allow passengers to fully explore each destination. Excursions are again included in the fare and are designed to give passengers a deeper understanding of local culture, such as a visit to a traditional Japanese tea ceremony or a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra in Jordan. And, for the truly adventurous, Viking Expeditions can take you to sights few people have seen in Antarctica, the Great Lakes, and Canada.

Not your traditional spring break option

Still, it's probably not going to come as a huge shock when we say that there were no traditional "spring break in the Caribbean" options here, like we used as our comparison sailing across cruise lines. Sure, you'll get results if you enter a March date with the Caribbean as the preferred location, but the itineraries will include sailings like an Amazon and Caribbean Adventure from San Juan to Manaus, several Atlantic crossings, and Panama Canal/Pacific Coast. Nonetheless, it's pretty exciting to think of spending 15 days traveling from Barcelona to Ft. Lauderdale, taking three tours and visiting five countries, starting at just $3,299 per person.

Most amenities included in your fare

Moving on to amenities, Viking Cruises offers a range of options to keep passengers entertained and relaxed. Your sailing will always come with complimentary Wi-Fi; house wines, beers, and soft drinks with onboard lunches and dinners; coffee and hot tea available 24/7; and self-service launderettes. Viking Cruises also offers a range of wellness and fitness options on board, including a spa, fitness center, and yoga classes. The company's ocean ships feature a Nordic-inspired thermal suite with a snow grotto, heated loungers, and a sauna. All of these are part of the "Viking Inclusive Value" .

Gratuities are extra

However, Viking Cruises doesn't include your gratuities as part of their complimentary offerings. Your account will automatically be charged $17 per guest per day, which is shared among the waitstaff, stateroom stewards, laundry staff, and others.

All dining is included

Dining on Viking Cruises is a highlight for many passengers, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and regional cuisine. The ships feature a variety of dining venues, from a casual poolside grill to a more formal chef's table experience. All dining experiences are included with your fare.

Passengers tend to be older

One potential downside to Viking Cruises is the demographic of its passengers, which tends to skew older. While the company is making efforts to attract a younger crowd (still 18+, though) with its ocean cruises, these sailings still tend to be popular with retirees.

Top pick for river cruises - especially among retirees

Overall, Viking Cruises is a good choice for (older) travelers who are interested in cultural experiences, scenic destinations, and a luxury onboard experience. The company's attention to detail and emphasis on local culture make for a unique and memorable vacation.

More Cruise Line Reviews

• Royal Caribbean

• Disney Cruise Line

• Celebrity Cruises

• Virgin Voyages

• 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...

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.com on MSN

Carnival Cruise Line makes key beverage package change

The cruise line has faced pushback from angry passengers for doing something that Royal Caribbean already does.

  Sat, 06 Apr 2024

Cruise Hive

Norwegian Cruise Line Explains After Switching Port

Norwegian Cruise Line announced itinerary changes, shifting Norwegian Star to Southampton and cancelling visits to Portsmouth.

  Fri, 05 Apr 2024

The Telegraph on MSN

What happens when your cruise ship leaves you behind?

Entertainment managers on cruise ships love to have their little joke. “Don’t worry if you are late back to the port,” they tell passengers on their first day on board. “You’ll get great pictures of ...

Business Insider on ...

'Drunk' 20-year-old man missing after jumping off a Royal Caribbean ...

The US Coast Guard is searching for a 20-year-old who jumped off a cruise liner near The Bahamas.

CNBC on MSN

Richard Branson’s cruise line launches month-long cruise for remote ...

Virgin Voyages is targeting a new type of traveler: remote workers.In March, the Miami-based cruise line owned by Sir Richard Branson introduced a month-long cruise called the "Scarlet Summer Season ...

  Thu, 04 Apr 2024

New York Post

1,500 passengers trapped on cruise ship at port because of visa ...

A cruise ship at a port in Spain has been forced to hold all passengers on board after a group from Bolivia failed to obtain the correct visa documents to enter the European border-free Schengen ...

Cruise Line Issues Updates on Weather Impact and Berthing Incident

Strong winds disrupt itineraries of Ambition and Ambience cruise ships, leading to a cancellation and berthing incident in separate events.

INSIDER on MSN

An 80-year-old had a stroke during a Norwegian cruise excursion. ...

Julie Lenkoff had a stroke during a Norwegian cruise-sponsored tour on an African island, her son-in-law said.The cruise continued sailing, and the tour company said they left her with other stranded ...

Related Cruise Line Reviews

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

Cruise Vacation Sites

What's the best place to book a cruise vacation? You've finally got some time off, and you've decided you want the full-experience: sailing, relaxing, and new and exciting ...

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 ...

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

Beauty Box Subscriptions

What's the best Beauty Box Subscription online today? Looking for the best beauty box subscription to elevate your self-care routine?

Canadian Car Warranties

Where is the Best Place to Get a Car Warranty Plan in Canada? Whether you're buying a brand new car or a gently used resale, the prospect of an extended warranty plan may be on your radar.

Canadian Credit Monitoring Companies

Who Provides the Best Credit Monitoring Service for Canadians? Credit monitoring services have become very popular in recent years.

Hebrew Lessons

Where Can You Find the Best Hebrew Lessons? Suppose you find yourself contemplating a relocation to Israel, or maybe just a trip to visit the Holy Land.

Home Automation Companies

What's the best Home Automation system? Just a few years ago, the idea of home automation was a futuristic dream, a vision of Jetsons-style technology that promised to simplify every aspect of home life.

Korean Lessons

Where Can You Get the Best Korean Lessons Online? There are many reasons why people learn the Korean language.

Categories > Guides and Tips

The 10 Best Cruises in Canada

Viking ocean cruises, seabourn cruise, disney cruise line (caribbean), virgin voyages (caribbean), celebrity cruises (caribbean), princess cruises, carnival cruise line, royal caribbean, custom cruises in tourradar.

Ready to embark on a new adventure, eh? Well you’re in luck, ’cause we’ve sailed the cyber seas to bring you the absolute best of the best when it comes to cruising in Canada.

Whether you’re all about that luxurious, indulgent voyage or you’re a family seeking a getaway with fun for all ages, we got you covered with our list of the best cruises in Canada. Read on!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viking (@vikingcruises)

Website: www.vikingcruises.com  

Contact details: +1-888-488-0592

Price range: CAD $4,000 – $15,000 per person

You might ask, why is Viking Ocean Cruises considered the crème de la crème of Canadian cruises? 

Well, from the elegant staterooms to the world-class service and top-notch food and entertainment, Viking aims to ensure your journey is nothing short of a dream voyage. They excel at providing travellers with a laid-back, luxurious atmosphere where one can truly unwind.

If we’re talking about top-shelf all-inclusive packages, they take it a notch higher with complimentary meals (including in-room dining!), unlimited Wi-Fi , and access to their stunning Scandinavian spa.

Moreover, you shift from being a ‘tourist’ to a ‘traveller’ with their immersive experiences. With Viking, you get more time at the port, giving you ample time to delve into the local culture and landscape.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Seabourn (@seabourncruise)

Website: https://www.seabourn.com/en_US/cruise-destinations/canada-new-england.html   

Contact details: 1-800-442-4448

Price range: CAD $6,000 – $20,000 per person

Seabourn is known for its intimate, elegant ships and outstanding service that makes you feel like cruise royalty. Their all-suite accommodations come with stunning ocean views, and there’s even a personal stewardess service.

Its cruises around Canada don’t just follow the mundane voyage route. They take you through the magnificent Saguenay Fjord and the quaint, French-speaking city of Quebec.

Now mix all these experiences with gourmet dining and world-class entertainment onboard, and you’ve got yourself a cruise line that is as Canadian as maple syrup.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Azamara Cruises (@azamaravoyages)

Website: www.azamara.com  

Contact details: +1-855-292-6272

Price range: CAD $3,000 – $15,000 per person

Azamara is perfect for those of you who want to spend longer hours at the ports and explore every nook and cranny. This cruise is dedicated to providing destination immersion experiences.

The cruise ship’s boutique-style feel makes it feel more like floating hotels, offering all the bells and whistles without overwhelming size. You’ve got plush accommodations, a plethora of dining options, and a range of enrichment activities and entertainment options.

But what makes Azamara really stand out is their focus on ‘well-being’. With onboard spas and wellness programs, you won’t have to abandon your fitness routine while you vacation!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Disney Cruise Line (@disneycruiseline)

Website: www.disneycruise.disney.go.com  

Contact details: +1-800-951-3532

Price range: CAD $2,000 – $8,000 per person

Now, when you think Disney, you think ‘family-friendly’, eh? And, hey, they absolutely nail it. From meet-and-greets with beloved Disney characters to Broadway-style shows and themed deck parties, there’s always an avalanche of fun for the kids.

But don’t fret, adults; Disney thinks about you too! There are a plethora of adult-exclusive spots onboard, like lounges, restaurants, and even a secluded adult-only pool.

The seamless blend of ‘fun for all’ entertainment and top-tier services makes Disney Cruise a real winner. 

Plus, their thematic touches, such as Mickey-shaped waffles and fireworks at sea (the first and only cruise line to do that!), make every voyage a magical experience.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Virgin Voyages (@virginvoyages)

Website:  www.virginvoyages.com  

Contact details: +1-954-488-2955

Price range: CAD $1,500 – $7,500 per person

Virgin Voyages quite literally ‘bucks the trend’ of conventional cruising. They’ve shaken off the rigid schedules and have opted for a ‘do it your way’ style.

Reminiscent of floating cosmopolitan cities, there’s everything from tattoo parlours to swanky nightclubs. Fitness buffs: they’ve got state-of-the-art gyms, yoga spaces, and even boxing rings!

Virgin also offers more than 20 eateries (all included in your fare!).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Celebrity Cruises (@celebritycruises)

Website: www.celebritycruises.com  

Contact details: +1-800-647-2251

Price range: CAD $2,000 – $10,000 per person

Often termed modern luxury,’ Celebrity Cruises provides a sweet balance between style and substance. Their ships are simple stunners—they’ve got real grass lawns, folks!

Match that with an elegant modern design, world-renowned dining (did I hear a Michelin-starred chef?), and the coolest extras like the Magic Carpet, a movable deck that transforms into different venues at different levels.

Circling mainly around the Caribbean, they also offer thrilling shore excursions that take you deep into the heart of the local culture.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Princess Cruises (@princesscruises)

Website:  www.princess.com  

Contact details: +1-800-774-6237

Price range: CAD $1,000 – $5,000 per person

Princess Cruises ticks all those boxes on your ‘sea adventure checklist. What makes this cruise a darling among cruisers is their unique ‘Medallion Class Experience’.

With a wearable device (fancily called the Ocean Medallion), you can unlock your stateroom, locate your travel buddies, or even bet on a poker game with a simple tap—how techie cool is that?

Their Canada and New England cruise is a hit, with scenic sailing through Saguenay Fjord and charming Charlottetown offering a range of immersive experiences.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Carnival Cruise Line (@carnival)

Website: www.carnival.com  

Contact details: +1-800-227-6482

Price range: CAD $500 – $3,000 per person

Affectionately known as the ‘Fun Ships,’ Carnival’s got this whole cruising thing down to an art. These guys know how to have a good time, with jam-packed activities from dawn until dusk.

Got kids? They’ll love the dedicated kids’ programs and waterpark.

And for you? Let’s just say this: if non-stop parties, comedy shows, live music, water slides, and top-deck movie nights sound like your kind of ride, Carnival’s the way to go.

When you want some downtime, you can just snuggle in the plush staterooms or pamper yourself in the Cloud 9 Spa. Talk about having it all, eh?

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Royal Caribbean International (@royalcaribbean)

Website: www.royalcaribbean.com  

Contact details: +1-800-256-6649

Price range: CAD $700 – $4,000 per person

A favourite among many cruisers, Royal Caribbean has everything—global destinations, high-tech vessels, and signature offerings that redefine ‘fantastic.’ Ever thought of skydiving or bumper cars on a cruise? Yep, they have those!

Apart from daring activities, you have Broadway at sea, Dreamworks characters for the kids, and tranquil spas for a blissful escape.

And if you’re big on accommodations, know this: they’ve got it all, from inside staterooms to multi-level loft suites. As they like to put it, they’re not just a cruise line; they’re the ‘Nation of Why Not,’ where anything is possible and the sky’s the limit!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by TourRadar (@tourradar)

Website: www.tourradar.com  

Contact details: +1-800-935-2620

Price range: CAD $1,500 – $10,000 per person

If bespoke itineraries and flexibility sound like your idea of perfection, get on board. With TourRadar, you can pick and choose your journey, whether you wish to see the Northern Lights dance in the sky or dock in quaint ports in the Maritimes.

Their cruises offer both comfort and a personalised touch. Plus, their commitment to small groups means you won’t ever have to worry about the crowd.

A Local’s Guide to Conquering Ha Ling Peak 

A Complete Guide to Healy Pass Trail

A Local’s Guide to Lake O’hara

A Complete Guide to The Iceline Trails 

The 8 Best Neighbourhoods in Toronto

Beauvert Lake: What You Can Do Here

• [email protected]

Traveling with Sweeney

Inspiration and information for the best in luxury, cultural, and active travel, viking expedition cruise recap: canada and the atlantic coastline, viking expedition cruise of canada and the atlantic coastline.

• The adventure begins — embarkation in Toronto

Scenic Sailing on the St. Lawrence Seaway

• Shore excursions — history, culture, nature, and adventure

On-board activities

Focus on science, fun and games, lectures and enrichment, spa, fitness, and relaxation, self-guided art tour, dining options, expedition ship features, related posts:.

We’re back home in Scottsdale, Arizona after 15 days at sea with Viking on one of their incredible expedition ships, the Octantis. We’ll have much to share in future posts about the sights, excursions, onboard experiences, and sailing the St. Lawrence Seaway and North Atlantic Ocean. For now, we’re going to recap a few highlights of our trip that you may have missed on social media while we were on the cruise. This is a fairly new cruise for Viking as part of their Longitudinal World Cruises from the Great Lakes to Antarctica. Some of the other passengers we met began  their journey in the Great Lakes and were going all the way to Antarctica. We embarked in Toronto, Ontario and disembarked in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The adventure begins — embarkation in Toronto

Leaving Toronto for the Canada and Atlantic Coast cruise

From the easy transfer from the Toronto airport to the port and an introduction to the ship’s safety procedures, everything went smoothly during embarkation. After a nice lunch in the World Cafe onboard, we headed to our Nordic Balcony stateroom where a delicious cake, chocolate strawberries, and a bottle of wine awaited us to mark our wedding anniversary. And what a great view we had of the Toronto skyline!

Mr. TWS in our Nordic Balcony stateroom on the Viking Octantis in Toronto

After a night of cruising Lake Ontario, our first full day of sailing was a lovely easy cruise on the St. Lawrence River through Ontario. We spent quite a bit of time on the outer decks on this beautiful day to admire lush green trees (no fall color changes yet) lining the shore, waterfowl. alluring camping and beach sites, and riverside homes with docks that made us imagine life in such a pretty setting. In several places, we also spotted people on the shore watching our beautiful Octantis sail by and waving to passengers on deck.

Scenic sailing on the St. Lawrence River

Shore excursions — history, culture, nature, and adventure

Quebec City

There were multiple included and optional excursions in each port — Trois-Rivières, Quebec City, Lunenburg (I also had a great visit in Lunenburg several years ago), New York City, Norfolk VA, and Charleston SC. Due to extreme weather conditions, the captain wisely decided that we would have to skip the destinations of Cap-aux-Meules in Quebec and Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia (both normally on the itinerary) and head to Halifax, Nova Scotia, a great city to visit . Typical of Viking cruises, the excursions provided a nice diversity with history, culture, nature, and adventure.

Zodiacs returning to the Octantis

Adventure is also calling you with water activities available on Viking expedition cruises such as rides on zodiacs, special operations boats (capable of 40 knots per hour), kayaks, and most notably — the submarines (the dives are optional excursions and sell out quickly). Even if you don’t want to participate in excursions on these vessels, watch the Viking Daily bulletins while onboard to see a designated time to be able to tour the hangar (the first marina actually located on a cruise ship) where they are stored, maintained, and launched. It’s quite impressive! The watercraft are also used by the onboard scientists in conducting important scientific studies, unique to any cruise ship.

Special Operations Boat and kayaks in the hangar

On the Canada and Atlantic Coastline cruise there are six full days of sailing without any destination stops, so it’s important that you enjoy time on the sea. Our cruise had seven full days because of a change of itinerary due to the weather. There are many onboard activities to enjoy while sailing. You won’t get bored.

There are 36 experts onboard the ship for each expedition journey. They include naturalists, kayak guides. submarine pilots, and scientists who give lectures, hold workshops, and are enthusiastic about talking to guests about their work.

Expedition Central (weather balloon in the center)

In Expedition Central, onboard scientists are available to discuss projects on which they are working on and to share information about their studies, the local area, and wildlife. Hands-on workshops on topics such as radio communications and the making of boating and climbing knots are also scheduled during the cruise. One of the many real scientific studies of Viking expeditions is the weather balloon launch and real-time data retrieval officially authorized by NOAA ( National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ). The U.S. National Weather Service has authorized the Viking expedition ships as the first civilian ships to be official launch stations. We were lucky that the weather held out for us to be able to watch the launch of the balloon from the top deck one evening.

Launching of the weather balloon from the top deck

In the Science Lab, guests can request supervised access to get hands-on with some of the research activities of the scientists. The lab was developed in partnership with the University of Cambridge and Akvaplan-Niva.

Playing digital games in the Living Room

As you will find on Viking ocean cruises, there is a wide range of fun gatherings, games, and live entertainment. There are also pleasant places to relax including the Explorer’s Lounge, Living Room, other common areas, and your own comfortable stateroom.

Musicians in the Living Room

On this cruise, lectures included topics such as whale and dolphin identification, what seabirds and other creatures to look for on our cruise, how to tell a sea lion from a seal, and much more.

Lectures in the Aula of the Viking Octantis

We really appreciate the fitness center with cardio equipment, weights and more. There are also Zumba, Yoga, Pilates, and other classes offered throughout the cruise. The full-service onboard spa offers many health and wellness treatments, pool, sauna, and ice cold shower. There are also three small pools (hot, warm, and cold) on the Aquavit Terrace providing a real Nordic experience.

Walking the promenade is great for exercise and enjoying being at sea. Take time to watch for wildlife and admire the sunrises and sunsets over the ocean.

Mr. TWS on the lookout for wildlife while strolling the promenade

Each Viking ocean and expedition ship has an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and photography throughout. On the Viking Voyager app (which you’ll use while onboard) there is an art guide that you can follow to see and learn about all of the works. The art aboard Octantis had a theme accentuating Antarctica, the final destination for this Longitudinal World Cruise.

Art of the Octantis

Mr. TWS in Manfredi’s

There are two specialty restaurants, The Restaurant and Manfredi’s, just like on the ocean cruises, but reservations are required on the expedition ships. We like the fact that the dress code is elegant/casual, not formal as on some other cruise lines. Also like on the ocean ships, the World Cafe and Mamsen’s casual/no reservations dining areas are also very popular.

The food and wines were excellent, consistent with our previous Viking cruising experiences. Mr. TWS particularly appreciated the many seafood and vegetarian options.

Mr. TWS having breakfast in the World Cafe

Reservation tip: Prior to the cruise, you’ll have a chance to make one reservation in each of the specialty restaurants. We recommend choosing sailing days since on excursion days you might want to have flexibility for a late lunch in the destination (which we like to do) and then a lighter dinner at The Grill or World Cafe. Once onboard, you can make additional reservations in the specialty restaurants either at Guest Services on Level 1 or on the Viking Voyager app.

Room service is available 24/7 with a limited menu. Take advantage of this service at least once to enjoy the pampering.

Viking Octantis at port in Trois Rivieres

The Viking Expedition ships accommodate up to 378 passengers in 189 staterooms. The ship is similar to the ocean ships (which host 930 guests) in interior design, just on a bit smaller scale. We love the smaller size of the Viking ships. We were also happy to learn about the energy-efficient design of the Octantis that actually exceeds the Energy Efficiency Design Index requirements by 38%.

Stay tuned to Traveling with Sweeney as we will have more posts about the cruise. 

Thanks to Viking Cruises for sponsoring our sail on the Canada and Atlantic Coastline cruise . The commentary and perspectives in this post are totally our own, as always. 

• ← A Farewell to Sicily in Taormina
• Viking Shore Excursions: Canada and Atlantic Coastline Destinations →

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Suggested companies

Vikingrivercruises, avalon waterways.

Viking Cruises   Reviews

In the Travel & Vacation category

Visit this website

Company activity See all

Write a review

Reviews 1.6.

Most relevant

We gave Viking $8999.00 toward a future…

We gave Viking $8999.00 toward a future cruise. Due to illness we were unable to book a cruise. When we requested to use that deposit for another cruise and or return the money, they denied the request. Dealing with Miller Rubio was a lesson in duplicity and deceit.I would strongly encourage Ocean travelers to find a more honorable company.

Date of experience : April 04, 2024

Viking Corporate vs Viking Ship's Crew

This review is about Viking Corporate - NOT the Viking Vidar staff. Corporate lies - plain and simple. Trying to get specifics on a cruise itinerary was like pulling teeth. And, other than one Customer Rep - Patricia T - the Customer Reps will either tell you there's no way to find out an answer, or they will just tell you something to get rid of you. So what if what they told you made you make a certain choice of an included or optional tour, and THEN, WHILE ON THE CRUISE, you find out it was a LIE! Because of Viking Corporate, I will never go on another Viking cruise - which is sad because the Ship's Crew will do whatever it takes to make this the best vacation of your life

Date of experience : July 17, 2023

Privacy violation

Sent brochure without consent. I sent an email to be removed from the mailing list, but when attempting to call as a backup measure, I was notified that the privacy line was for employees and not for customers. The company is intentionally avoiding ways to respect consumer privacy. I will never be a customer of this cruise line.

Date of experience : February 03, 2024

Booked a cruise with Viking (which was…

Booked a cruise with Viking (which was listed as requiring $25 down to book). Shortly thereafter, Viking wanted full payment for a cruise 1 year in the future. Therefore, Viking is holding full payment and collecting interest on the funds. This appears to be a new money making mechanism by Viking using their client's money to increase their cash flow.

Date of experience : August 01, 2023

We have just returned from a wonderful ocean cruise

We have just returned from a wonderful cruise on Viking Sea from Athens to Venice. Unfortunately the airline lost our luggage for five days which was far from ideal but Viking staff provided us with toiletries and also laundered our clothes each evening returning them early next morning. Our cabin stewards, Angel and Rhuel went beyond the call of duty to help us out with a few other missing item. The food was very good, the cleanliness was excellent and most importantly, the Staff were lovely. We mainly did the included excursions and the guides were very knowledgeable and interesting. All transfers were well organised and there were representatives at the foreign airports guiding us to check in and sorting out our luggage transfer so we only had our hand luggage to carry. All in all we were very happy people and have already booked our next ocean cruise with them.

Date of experience : September 01, 2023

Bait and switch pure and simple

Bait and switch pure and simple. Reserve a cabin at a promotional rate, they cancel. Then, reinstate you at their rate that they want you to pay. Awful. Do not use this cruise line. Many other cruise lines honor their promotions. These people do not!!! Worst experience!!

Date of experience : December 03, 2023

Our first cruise with Viking and…

Our first cruise with Viking and definitely the last. A ship that was only a year old yet was already feeling its age. Staff service was hit and miss, tables for dining too close together and the meals in some occasions very inconsistent and not the 5* star we were expecting. Cleaning left a lot to be desired with housekeeping contacted on numerous occasions due to the poor state of public areas. We did our own flights thankfully as we heard horror stories from other passengers of misconnections and luggage taking extra days to arrive. The crew spent a lot of time cleaning the external areas of the shop - our balcony was cleaned every second day when this could have been better deployed into other areas. The oddest item was when ordering a Pina Colada received a mass of ice which was undrinkable. Complainants were given a tray of sugary cakes - not what we wanted , just good food and service which we paid a lot if money for.

Date of experience : October 03, 2023

Just received an email from Viking…

Just received an email from Viking informing us that half of the Xmas markets we were suppose to visit will not be open. They marketed the cruise as a Xmas market cruise which is why we booked it. We get the email 3 days prior to our trip and they knew from the beginning the markets would not open until early December. A clear case of bait and switch and will cause us to never cruise with them again.

Date of experience : November 21, 2023

Multiple airline delays and flight…

Multiple airline delays and flight cancellations resulted in my wife and I missing the first three days of the cruise and no realistic plan to meet up with the boat later, so requested a return flight to US ,which we got. After arriving home, we filed for reimbursement from Trip Mate. Payment was denied because we had used vouchers from covid cancelled cruises to pay for current cruise. $7,000 out the window. Never again Viking!

Date of experience : May 28, 2023

Viking Venus without most amenities.

Viking Venus : cruise round Med and on to Israel. This was a wonderful itinerary , a beautiful ship , excellent food and service. In fact, everything we have come to expect from Viking except…there were apparently a few cases of a GI infection . As a consequence all water amenities, main pool, infinity pool, jacuzzi and spa were closed for the whole of the cruise! As compensation we have been offered a derisory £200 voucher towards a future cruise. An insult! We will not be booking with Viking again.

Date of experience : November 25, 2022

I had a reservation for the Heart of…Delta

I had a reservation for the Heart of Delta Cruise including premium economy for the air portion. I was advised after booking and making my deposit that I was being downgraded to economy. I then called and was told if I wanted premium economy I would now have to pay a higher price. This is called bait and switch and is unethical if not down right fraudulent.

Date of experience : November 24, 2023

Uses stolen information to get…

Uses stolen information to get addresses for their mailing lists. I never use my living address, period. I only receive deliveries from Amazon here. Otherwise, only my state government and previous employers have had it. My state and one of those jobs were hacked last year and my information was stolen. Suddenly, I receive a Viking advertisement here. I have lived here 4.5 years and NEVER received junk mail for anything. What does this leave me to believe? Either 1) Viking brokered a deal to get my address from Amazon without my knowledge or consent--which I don't believe, or I would've gotten spam from other parties Amazon sold my info to in the past. Or 2) They bought it directly from my state. Highly unlikely since the only state dept that has this address is HIPAA protected. Or 2) Viking bought a blackhat list of stolen information from one of the previously mentioned data leaks. Even if I had the money to go on a cruise, I would NEVER use Viking at this point. Trash companies do trash things.

Date of experience : January 07, 2024

Viking Victim Unit

It's been three years now that Viking has held my family's money hostage because we don't wish to take the jab. Viking changed their policy after they took all our money, lured us into taking now worthless vouchers. They refuse to accept the fact that they changed the terms of the contract. Most all other cruise lines have dropped this mandate. The US gov has basically declared the "plandemic" over and all other mandates have been drop but Viking still won't change their policy. If you happen to be in the same position there is a group forming to file a class action law suit against Viking. #VikingVictims

Date of experience : February 01, 2023

What a cracking tour

What a cracking tour with the best guide Chris. Funny, interesting and a great way to see parts of Dublin and hear a bit of history to it too. Definitely recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Date of experience : November 12, 2023

I'm with Robin (see below)

I'm with Robin (see below). We are cancelling our river cruise due to viking's heavy handed covid vaccine requirement. Also lost out on the cruise vouchers. NEVER BUY A VIKING CRUISE VOUCHER We will be sailing with a different cruise line and will not be back to Viking. Viking has lost four loyal customers with 10 past cruises between us.

Date of experience : February 18, 2023

No Refund Policy

Had a planned eastern European river cruise starting mid-October for over a year. Just got order from Doctor to cancel due to sudden onset of autoimmune kidney disease. Vikings' policy allows no refund under the circumstances (i.e. , I am out the $3500 no matter what) and a friend who will take my place must pay her full share of the room as well! Viking collects 3 fares for a 2 person room. Don't sail Viking unless you are guaranteed of going on the trip. We will never try Viking again!

Date of experience : August 30, 2022

Profit before customer experience

Viking changed our flight schedule at very short notice. Wanted us to travel with 3 flights via 2 countries, when we complained they hid behind T & C’s very sneaky & very poor customer service, they cited they couldn’t absorb costs of a more direct flight routing. Cannot recommend whatsoever - there are better cruise lines who deliver & care about providing a decent level of customer experience - avoid them if you can.

Date of experience : January 12, 2023

Fantastic experience, highly recommended

Fantastic experience, just returned from a cruise with Viking and was blown away by the quality of food, excursions and especially the staff who go above and beyond to ensure you have an amazing time, the ship was outstanding too. Thank you Viking! I have some wonderful memories that will stay with me and my mother forever.

Date of experience : October 03, 2021

Reserved cruise in July 2023

Reserved cruise in July 2023. Final payment end of September 2023. Used e-check to get 3.3% discount and then Viking, after final payment, went in and took $2281 more without warning. Travel agent called them, same day they requested transfer, and advised them of their error. Several days later, money gone causing overdraft situation. Called Viking and they couldn't care less about getting me back the money they stole from me. Travel agent receiving same run around. All they say is the refund request is submitted and then had the audacity to tell me the refund could take 21 business days. This was a once in a lifetime cruise and they are ruining it. I understand mistakes are made but they couldn't care less about resolving it properly or holding themselves accountable. I have filed complaints with the Los Angeles BBB and the FTC. Stay away from Viking.

Date of experience : October 02, 2023

Viking River Cruises and Flights

Attempting to book flights with a Viking Cruise, Passau to Budapest, June/July 2024 - when calling and speaking with three different Viking reps., get three completely different answers to the same questions. Viking needs all their employees to have better training on the exact details of booking flights. I hesitate to book a flight through Viking

Date of experience : October 29, 2023

Is this your company?

Claim your profile to access Trustpilot’s free business tools and connect with customers.

• Trazee Travel
• WhereverFamily

FX Excursions

• The source for luxury travelers

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Itineraries

Specialty tours & events, viking polaris canadian discovery review.

by Elyse Glickman

© Elyse Glickman

eFlyer Reviews

While the 372-passenger Viking Polaris expedition ship, launched in September 2022, falls midway in size between Viking Cruises’ intimate river cruise ships and large-scale ocean ships, it is operated with the same attention to detail and personalized service.

Almost everything Viking devotees love, in fact, is firmly in place: stylish Scandinavian-style cabins with generous storage; on-board boutique stocking high-end Norwegian wool sweaters, souvenirs and outdoor essentials; and fragrant Freya bathroom amenities. The bookshelves in the expansive Deck 5 Living Room are filled with history and science volumes, best-selling novels, coffee table art books, traditional board games and touchscreen video table games. Talented musicians and singers perform classical pieces, Broadway show tunes and old-school pop hits in different lounges at night.

There are several hidden surprises on board the Polaris , however, adding up to a cruising experience that may appeal in particular to Generation X and millennial travelers. The Canadian Discovery itinerary offers several challenging on-shore excursions and onboard activities requiring a certain level of physical fitness. Although spots on slower-paced art and history walking and bus tours fill up, expedition-themed activities like kayaking, hikes and e-bike tours are equally, if not more, popular. Various boats and watercraft used for expeditions are on full display just below a working science lab, where onboard scientists and guests view matter acquired from daily expeditions.

If one were to go solely by descriptions on the Viking website, Zodiac (inflatable motorized rafts) and expedition boat rides led by Polaris’ expedition team members seem fairly tame. While those rides during the August voyage involved plenty of wildlife sightings and sample collecting, highly changeable, late summer weather along the St. Lawrence River revealed the adrenaline-boosting nature of the rides.

Although underwater excursions aboard the ship’s George and Ringo submarines were cancelled because of the weather, the Canadian Discovery itinerary is a “choose your own adventure” proposition. Travelers can mix tours or self-guided jaunts in Toronto, Québec City, Halifax and Charlottetown, with on-shore days fully devoted to nature and epic landscapes. Because a full-on expedition to the Antarctic or the Arctic on a Viking expedition ship is a commitment in terms of time, physical demands and fewer city visits, this type of itinerary can offer a satisfying taste of expedition cruising or a way for one to determine if a rigorous nature and science cruise is for them.

The way a lot of the ship’s space is used also suggests Viking is gradually shifting toward younger luxury travelers’ interests, even as it maintains the plush status quo. Expedition Central on Deck 1 is filled with museum-like displays and a touchscreen panel to keep passengers engaged in science events happening around the ship in real time. The Aula, modeled after a real-life Norwegian university lecture hall, stages discussions about science, history and helpful hints on iPhone usage when not being used for musical performances or updates about the next day’s events.

Much of Deck 2 is dedicated to wellness. A well-equipped fitness center with TechnoGym machines, a weight training/fitness class area and a thermal relaxation suite with heated ceramic loungers are open to all passengers free of charge, as is a circuit of hot and cold therapy areas consisting of a hydrotherapy pool, badestamp (hot tub room), wet and dry saunas and therapy showers. A combination of innovative modalities and equipment (such as the covered sand table used in the Hygge Massage that conforms to and supports the body) and talented practitioners make the specialty massages, body scrubs and facials worth the investment.

Viking’s food and beverage program also reflects a shift toward more adventurous passengers, evidenced by Southeast Asian dishes offered on the buffet, a dinner hour sushi bar and the many healthy options offered at Norwegian-themed café Mamsen’s. The Restaurant and Manfredi’s are on a par with big city restaurants in terms of quality, consistency and presentation, making the necessity of reservations understandable.

Mixology classes, spirit and wine tastings, and private events are staged in The Hide, a stand-alone bar tucked into Deck 1 with sleek, clubby décor similar to big-city terrestrial cocktail lounges — but with the clever added touch of displays paying tribute to Viking Expedition godmothers Liv Arnesen and Ann Bancroft.

While the service is unfailingly impeccable and personalized, it’s important to note many of the crew and expedition leaders are older millennials or Gen Xers. They are the heartbeat of this specific Viking Cruise experience that makes it a communal, multigenerational uniting of like-minded people interested in science, history and living in the present.

Viking Polaris Canadian Discovery

tel 1 800 381 4596

Get insider information and deals in your inbox!

• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Read This Next

El cielo resort and winery review, all reads on this topic, hotel indigo la paz puerta cortés review, the cabins at gulf state park review, intercontinental dominica cabrits resort & spa review, read them all.

Introducing

4 Wellness Retreats to Add to Your 2024 Travel List

Focus on your health at one of these wellness retreats around the world.

Sponsored Content

A new perspective on incentive travel.

Incentive travel has long been a way for organizations to drive sales and reward employees with opulent trips to exotic destinations. Today it encompasses even more.

Go off the Beaten Track on a Brazilian Beach at Pousada Vento Vinte

Pousada Vento Vinte is located in northeast Brazil on Emboaca Beach, about two hours from the city of Fortaleza and Pinto Martins – Fortaleza International Airport . The pousada (Portuguese for a small, family-run inn) offers unique architecture and 367 feet of Atlantic Ocean beach frontage. On the south side of the pousada is a convenient state highway and, on the north side, are dunes protected by one of Brazil’s environmental laws.

Tour Operators with Diverse Backgrounds Enhance the Travel Experience

Travel can have a profound impact on individuals and the destinations they visit. It connects us to various histories, cultures, people, cuisines and experiences whether we venture far from home or to a neighboring state. It becomes even more enriching when it is organized and guided by those with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences.

Revel in a European Summer with AmaWaterways

Pedal through sun-drenched vineyards, hike amidst blooming wildflowers and take a refreshing dip in your ship's sun-deck whirlpool. Indulge in the flavors of the region with delectable dishes featuring luscious Wachau Valley apricots and succulent Serbian plums. As night falls, watch as the cities along the rivers come alive, pulsating with an irresistible electric energy. The sun-soaked days and vibrant nights offer a compelling reason to embark on an AmaWaterways river cruise during the upcoming summer months.

These 13 U.S. Hotel Bars Promise Some Incredible Views

A good cocktail or glass of wine goes a long way, but good company and even better views can take the evening to a new level entirely. These 13 hotels have some of the best outlooks in the country. Why not stop by one?

Castelfalfi’s Authentic Tuscan Family Summer Getaway

5 sustainable travel brands for earth month, make monzie estate your scottish highland vacation spot, introducing summer senses luxury resort, paros, greece’s hidden gem, virgin atlantic unveils new aircraft, ruby rebel, eflyer news, raffles trojena comes to neom, saudi arabia, in 2027, zion canyon hot springs, a worldsprings property, opens in 2025.

On March 25, Zion Canyon Hot Springs , a WorldSprings Property, broke ground. The new property will redefine social wellness in Southern Utah when it opens in fall 2025. Located 30 minutes from Zion National Park, Zion Canyon Hot Springs will include 53 bodies of water and a wide range of amenities to replenish guests seeking revitalization.

Experience Luxury and Tranquility at Hamad International Airport’s Hotel

Known as one of the best airports in the world and voted Best Airport in the Middle East by Global Traveler readers, Hamad International Airport aims to set new standards for the airport industry that exceed the expectations of travelers through its facility.

eFlyer Deals

Vip broadway experience at intercontinental new york times square.

Are you a fan of Broadway? Don’t miss InterContinental New York Times Square’s V.I.P. Broadway offer. This one-of-a-kind experience spoils guests with a stay in a junior suite overlooking the city’s Theater District and The James Theater.

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures
• Montreal, Quebec to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
• Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to Montreal, Quebec

Canada & New England Scenic Shores

• From $5,999
• 8 Guided Tours
• 2 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• 2024 2025 2026
• Montreal, Quebec to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to Montreal, Quebec

Canada & New England Scenic Shores Map

Scenic landscapes & vibrant cultures

Admire the natural beauty and colorful autumn hues of Canada and New England. Learn about the rich history and lively culture of the province of Quebec. Discover the Scottish heritage and seafaring ways of the Canadian Maritimes, and immerse yourself in the striking landscapes surrounding Bar Harbor. Sail the scenic St. Lawrence River and the remarkable Cape Cod Canal, and experience the charm of Newport, one of the oldest cities in the US.

SPRING SALE

Viking Inclusive Value

Pricing that covers everything guests need—and nothing they do not.

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center.

Self-service launderettes

Alternative restaurant dining at no extra charge

24-hour room service

Your Stateroom Includes:

King-size Viking Explorer Bed with luxury linen

42" flat-screen LCD TV with intuitive remote & complimentary Movies On Demand

Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Direct-dial satellite phone & cell service

Security safe

110/220 volt outlets

Ample USB ports

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Montreal

From $799 | 2 Nights

Post: Ft. Lauderdale

From $299 | 1 Nights

From $899 | 2 Nights

On this itinerary, your Viking Resident Historian is delivering the following iconic lectures:

• - Canadian Exploration
• - The American Revolution
• - History of Navigation
• - Islands in History

Viking Resident Historian

As part of our onboard cultural enrichment program and commitment to destination-focused learning, our Viking Resident Historian faculty provides guests with lectures and roundtable discussions on the arts, architecture, music and culture of upcoming ports and various aspects of world history.

Sign up to receive updates from Viking

Stay current with special offers, news and destination-focused content.

Company Information

• Order a Brochure
• Special Offers
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Advisors
• Media Center
• Health & Safety Program
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Manage Cookies

Viking River Cruises

• Mississippi

Viking Ocean Cruises

• Scandinavia
• British Isles & Ireland
• North America
• Caribbean & Central America
• South America
• Mediterranean
• Quiet Season Mediterranean
• Australia & New Zealand
• World Cruises
• Grand Journeys

Viking Expeditions

• Great Lakes
• Longitudinal World Cruises

AmaWaterways vs. Viking: Which of these popular river cruise lines is right for you?

Among the cruise lines navigating the rivers of Europe, Southeast Asia and Egypt are two of the best-known names in the industry: AmaWaterways and Viking .

Each brand is distinguished by its hallmark attractions, such as AmaWaterways' selection of always-complimentary excursions and Viking's consistently sleek Scandinavian-inspired interior design. But is there really that much difference between these major river cruise brands that it matters which one you choose?

The answer is yes. Some of the variations may even surprise you, so read on for a head-to-head comparison of AmaWaterways versus Viking.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

AmaWaterways vs. Viking: Meet the river cruise lines

River cruise lines AmaWaterways and Viking launched within five years of each other. Both are helmed by well-known cruise and travel industry executives and feature fleets of modern river ships. Yet each takes its own unique approach to itineraries, tours and onboard ambience.

AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by Vienna-born Rudi Schreiner, Germany native Kristin Karst and the late Jimmy Murphy, who was Irish. The line has a fleet of 26 ships, with three new vessels launching in 2024 and 2025.

The brand's hallmark is offering multiple excursions, typically three or four per port, included in the cruise fare. These are usually a city walking tour, perhaps with a wine or culinary focus, or a bus tour to nearby sights. One "Gentle" group is dedicated to guests who need a little extra time getting around, and each port almost always includes a more challenging hike or bike ride for fitness-focused guests. AmaWaterways ships also carry bicycles on board, which are available for independent exploration.

The company is known for custom-designed ships with destination-inspired contemporary decor. Its public spaces feel like those you'd find in a locally owned boutique hotel. A key design innovation by AmaWaterways was the introduction of the "twin balcony," which consists of a French balcony and a full-size step-out balcony. This adds exceptional views and a sense of spaciousness to the cabins that feature them.

The Viking story started a few years before AmaWaterways. Launched in 1997 by Norwegian-born cruise veteran Torstein Hagen and several partners, Viking River Cruises was designed to be destination-focused and culturally immersive. Viking currently has 69 river ships, with two more scheduled to launch in 2024 and 2025.

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

Viking's river cruise fares include one complimentary shore excursion in each port, typically a panoramic bus tour or guided walking tour. Guests may also choose from among a range of other extra-fee tour options, most with a cultural or culinary bent but some a bit more active.

The company grew its river cruise business by attracting mature travelers seeking a convenient way to explore multiple cities and countries in Europe. However, its brand recognition and growth greatly accelerated with the introduction of its first Viking Longship in 2012 and a successful marketing campaign around the launch of the Longships (including sponsorship of "Downton Abbey" on PBS Masterpiece).

Today, Viking's 55 virtually identical Longships, named for Nordic gods and goddesses (from Viking Agir to Viking Vili), represent a certain standard of European river cruising, and all feature light and airy Scandinavian design.

Unlike AmaWaterways, which remains strictly a river cruise company, Viking has expanded into ocean cruising. In 2015, the company introduced the 930-passenger Viking Star and now operates a fleet of nine identical ocean ships. In 2022, it added a pair of 378-guest, Polar-6-Class expedition ships. That means Viking fans can vacation around the world without leaving the brand.

The ships in AmaWaterways and Viking's river cruise fleets range from intimate (28 guests) to grand (386 guests), with the size differences most notable on rivers such as the Nile, Mekong and Mississippi.

AmaWaterways' 29 ships aren't entirely uniform, even the 20 in its popular European fleet. Those ships are either 360 or 443 feet in length and carry 140 to 196 passengers and 45 to 70 crew members, respectively. The majority (15 ships) carry between 152 and 162 passengers and 51 crew, while four smaller vessels accommodate either 140 or 144 passengers and 45 crew.

The outlier is 196-guest AmaMagna, which is the line's flagship vessel on the Danube. At 443 feet long and 72 feet wide, it is almost double the width of the average river ship without significantly increasing the passenger count. This has created an abundance of space that AmaWaterways has used to enhance the cruise experience. Cabins and suites are larger than on its other ships at 205 to 710 square feet versus 160 to 350 square feet. AmaMagna also offers passengers a choice of four dining venues rather than two, as well as five onboard bars, unique for a river ship.

On Portugal's Douro River, AmaWaterways has two ships, AmaDouro and AmaVida. Each accommodates 102 passengers and 38 crew. A third vessel, AmaSintra, will launch in early 2025.

In Egypt, AmaWaterways currently operates AmaDahlia, which carries 72 passengers and 62 crew. When a second ship, AmaLilia, launches in 2024, it will accommodate 82 passengers and 65 crew.

On the Mekong River in Southeast Asia, AmaDara is the cruise line's sole vessel. This ship, featuring French colonial decor and beautifully carved wood furniture, accommodates 124 passengers and 52 crew.

AmaWaterways also operates one vessel on the Chobe River in Botswana, and like AmaMagna , it's an outlier — but for the opposite reason. At just 150 feet in length, Zambezi Queen was designed in 2019 specifically for wildlife viewing and accommodates just 28 passengers and 22 crew.

In 2024, AmaWaterways will add South America to its portfolio when it begins cruising the Magdalena River in Colombia. AmaMagdalena will carry 60 passengers and 30 crew.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

As for Viking, the company's fleet of 55 identical Longships is ubiquitous along Central Europe's major rivers. At 443 feet in length, each accommodates 190 passengers and 53 crew members.

On Portugal's Douro River, Viking operates four smaller ships. They carry 106 passengers and 33 crew members. On the Elbe River in Germany, the cruise line has two ships, Viking Astrild and Viking Beyla, each carrying 98 passengers and 33 crew.

On the Seine River in France, Viking's four identical ships, all built in 2020, accommodate 168 passengers and 46 crew.

Viking's fleet on the Nile River in Egypt currently numbers four ships, with two more in the pipeline. The two newest — Viking Osiris and Viking Aton — were launched in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Each accommodates 82 passengers and 48 crew members. The similarly sized Viking Hathor and Viking Sobek are set to join them in 2024 and 2025. Two smaller ships, Viking Ra (2017) and MS Antares (2007), carry just 52 and 62 passengers, respectively, with crew staffs of 55 and 75.

In Asia, Viking operates just one ship. Viking Saigon, which debuted in 2022 and accommodates 80 passengers.

Viking's largest river ship is actually cruising stateside. Viking Mississippi, which debuted in 2022 and is 450 feet in length, accommodates 386 guests and 147 crew.

If you do the math, you'll see that while both AmaWaterways and Viking's main European river ships are 443 feet in length, Viking's ships carry 30 additional guests. That means Viking ships will be a tad more crowded and cabins slightly smaller (135 to 205 square feet versus 160 to 235 square feet) to accommodate. (However, suites on Viking vessels are generally a bit roomier.)

AmaWaterways also has a slightly better crew-to-guest ratio on its core European river fleet: 51 crew members for 156-162 guests versus Viking's 53 crew members for 190 guests. Both cruise lines offer excellent service, however, and any discrepancy will most likely be felt when a Viking ship is sailing at capacity, and the ship's sole dining room is full at mealtimes.

Who is on board AmaWaterways and Viking?

Several factors play a role in the passenger mix aboard these competing river cruise lines. For one, Viking's ships are adults only (passengers must be at least 18), while AmaWaterways welcomes multigenerational families. That's not to say that you'll find kids running amok on the latter's ships, but you might share your river cruise with parents and teens or grandparents and younger children during summer and spring break.

The most obvious difference to the casual observer, however, will be the age and fitness level of each line's core clientele.

Viking is highly popular with Americans — especially older Americans age 65 and above who like the cruise line's consistency and emphasis on easy sightseeing by bus. More active passengers might find themselves frustrated by the pace of guided walking tours, but they can always book excursions coded as "moderate" or "demanding" rather than "easy" to lessen the odds of being slowed by fellow passengers who aren't as speedy.

AmaWaterways is also popular with U.S. travelers but attracts a slightly more international demographic that's also perhaps a bit younger — and fitter. Why? Not only does the cruise line offer active hiking or biking excursions in most ports, but its ships also have a Wellness Host on board leading morning and afternoon yoga, meditation and fitness classes. Guests who book AmaMagna can even play pickleball on a full-size court.

AmaWaterways also partners with bike touring company Backroads to host groups of cyclists on board, typically 30 to 40 at a time, for lengthier and more challenging bike rides than on its normal itineraries.

Wine lovers are another core group for AmaWaterways, which in 2024 will host more than 70 wine-themed cruises highlighting different wineries (mostly U.S.-based but also some European wineries on Rhone itineraries) that have been invited to bring their wine club members on board for tastings, lectures and special excursions. Some groups buy out the entire ship, but the average is 70 to 80 passengers, or about half the ship's capacity. That means you could be sailing with a large group that's keenly focused on wine.

Cabins and suites

Because 19 of AmaWaterways' core European ships fall into two size categories, accommodating 144 to 162 passengers, cabin and suite design is consistent across most of the fleet. Each of the generously sized rooms features a flat-screen TV and a bathroom with a roomy shower.

Fixed window cabins on the lowest deck are 160 square feet, French balcony cabins are 155 to 170 square feet, twin balcony cabins (with both a French balcony and step-out veranda) are 210 to 235 square feet, and suites are 300 to 350 square feet. The company's two Douro River ships, AmaDouro and AmaVida, feature similarly sized cabins and suites.

While the general theme uniting the accommodations across AmaWaterways' European fleet is contemporary design with destination-inspired touches, suite decor is unique from ship to ship. In general, cabin decor has become lighter and brighter with each new (or newly refurbished) ship, with interesting textures and patterns replacing more traditional fabrics.

In 2017, AmaWaterways also launched the first river ship (AmaKristina) with connecting rooms, designed for multigenerational families or groups of friends traveling together. Six additional ships (AmaLea, AmaMagna, AmaMora, AmaLucia, AmaSiena and AmaDahlia) now also have this feature.

Related: Best river cruises in Europe

Viking Longships are each a carbon copy of the others, so passengers know exactly what they are getting when they book. Cabins are more compact than those on AmaWaterways' ships but have an airy ambience featuring light woods, neutral fabrics and a well-designed bathroom with a heated floor.

Standard cabins are 150 square feet and have a small window just above the water line. French Balcony cabins are a snug 135 square feet, but feature wall-to-wall sliding glass doors. Veranda cabins are 205 square feet, while veranda suites are 275 square feet. The two Explorer Suites are 445 square feet, including a 270-degree wrap-around veranda.

For slightly larger accommodations, river cruisers should look to AmaMagna, as its double-width design allows for roomier accommodations. Its two top balcony categories offer a generous 474 and 710 square feet of space, similar to the square footage of suites on many ocean ships.

Dining options on AmaWaterways vs. Viking

There's no question that you will eat well on a river cruise. Both AmaWaterways and Viking have culinary programs designed to appeal to a wide variety of food preferences, including vegetarian. You can expect to enjoy classic preparations as well as destination-focused dining highlighting regional cuisines.

AmaWaterways, which is the only river cruise line that's a member of the prestigious culinary organization La Chaine des Rotisseurs, offers a la carte dining from menus that change daily for both lunch and dinner, as well as full-service breakfast from menus rather than a buffet. Options range from eggs Benedict or omelets to smoked trout or avocado toast.

Guests who prefer a lighter, more informal breakfast or lunch can skip the Main Restaurant and opt to enjoy a small selection of options served in a central buffet in the Lounge.

Sit-down lunch menus in the Main Restaurant feature a selection of appetizers served family-style and main course options that include at least one local preparation, such as goulash in Budapest or wiener schnitzel in Vienna. Dinner menus are more extensive and include three or four appetizers/soups and three or four mains (with well-conceived meat or fish options and delicious vegetarian dishes). There are two hard-to-resist dessert choices, along with seasonal fruits and a selection of cheeses.

All AmaWaterways ships also feature the Chef's Table, an intimate space (it seats 28) located at the back of the ship and offering panoramic views. Passengers can reserve a shared table here to enjoy a beautifully prepared multicourse meal at no additional cost.

In addition, AmaMagna offers two more restaurant options: Jimmy's for casual, family-style dining and Al Fresco for vegetable-forward menu options served in an outdoor setting.

AmaWaterways serves an excellent selection of complimentary wines (most from local vineyards along your river cruise route) and beers with both lunch and dinner, as well as a selection of complimentary mixed drinks, wines and beers during the nightly predinner Sip & Sail cocktail hour. Sparkling wine is also available during breakfast.

Viking's dining experience is also designed to offer plenty of options. At breakfast and lunch in the Main Restaurant, passengers can select items from the buffet — which typically includes freshly made pastries, cheeses, smoked salmon, oatmeal, fruit and eggs — and/or order off of the day's menu (buttermilk pancakes, eggs Benedict and more).

Lunch is similar, with buffet selections available as well as a menu with daily selections (soup, salad and two main options) plus always-available dishes (such as salad Nicoise and burgers). The lunch menu does not always have a locally inspired dish, but Viking guests can enjoy their midday meal while surveying local surroundings by opting to dine alfresco on the Aquavit Terrace. This aft space is popular on days when the weather is good and offers much of the same menu as the Main Restaurant.

It's at dinner that Viking's chefs inject more local flavors into the menu, with a suggested three-course Regional Specialties Tasting Menu (chicken paprikash as the main in Hungary, for instance). These offerings are complemented by a daily selection of two starters, two mains (always with a vegetarian selection) and one dessert. In addition, guests can choose from a Classics menu with always-available favorites.

Viking also serves unlimited complimentary wine and beer with both lunch and dinner, but the selection is a bit limited. Passengers wanting more options can purchase a Silver Spirits drinks package to enjoy a wider choice, including the sommelier's selection of wines, which are often excellent local varietals. The package also includes cocktails and other beverages, which can be enjoyed at any time.

Viking does not host a complimentary evening cocktail hour, but on certain days it does offer free wine tastings on the Aquavit Terrace.

What's on board

Most of the real estate aboard river cruise ships is taken up by guest accommodations, the main restaurant and the lounge, leaving little room for any fancy attractions beyond a small gift shop.

But AmaWaterways has managed to add a perk: a heated pool or hot tub on the Sun Deck of most of its ships. However, passengers who require an elevator can only access the two main decks, not the Sun Deck or the lowest deck.

In addition to their cache of bicycles, AmaWaterways ships also offer a wellness program, led by an onboard Wellness Host. Classes on the Sun Deck or in the Lounge consist of morning yoga, meditation or core strengthening and afternoon stretching or active walks. Every ship also has a small fitness center and a massage room. AmaMagna also has a full-size pickleball court.

Entertainment-wise, guests can expect nightly music by a piano player/DJ as well as guest performances by locals that range from folkloric song and dance to contemporary music.

Shipwide Wi-Fi is complimentary, but there is no internet center.

Viking's Longships don't feature pools or any wellness/fitness activities beyond a walking track and small putting green, but they do have a library with a good selection of books and an internet corner with laptops guests can use (shipwide Wi-Fi is free as well) and a small gift shop.

Related: Booking your first river cruise? Here's what you need to know.

The Sun Deck features a shaded sitting area, as well as solar panels and an herb garden that allows chefs anytime access to fresh ingredients. Elevators on Viking ships also offer access to the middle decks but not the Sun Deck.

Viking's entertainment is similar to most river cruise lineups and features a musician or DJ as well as local performers with a folkloric, classical or contemporary style.

AmaWaterways and Viking itineraries

River cruise itineraries, especially in Europe, don't vary that much from line to line. The cruise season is mainly from late March to mid-December. Certain rivers are more popular — namely the Danube, Rhine and Rhone — and most cruise lines, including AmaWaterways and Viking, visit the same key ports.

AmaWaterways offers 33 different itineraries in Europe on the Danube, Rhine, Rhone, Seine, Garonne and Dordogne, Douro, Main and Moselle rivers, as well as the waterways of Belgium and Holland. Cruises last five to 14 nights.

As of 2024, the company is offering February and March sailings aboard AmaMagna ("Magna on the Danube") on the Danube and AmaLucia ("Captivating Rhine") on the Rhine. Yes, the weather will be a bit nippy, but there will be fewer crowds, and the cruise fares will be hundreds of dollars lower than in warmer months.

The river cruise line does not only sail in Europe. In Egypt, the company features one Nile River cruise itinerary, "Secrets of Egypt & the Nile." It includes a three-night hotel stay in Cairo and a seven-night cruise.

It also offers two seven-night itineraries on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia.

AmaWaterway's seven itinerary options in Africa all combine a three- or four-night cruise on the Chobe River in Botswana with land stays in South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe or Tanzania for a total of 10 to 17 nights.

In late 2024, AmaWaterways will become the first upscale river cruise company to sail the Magdalena River in Colombia. Its two new seven-night itineraries include the "Magic of Colombia" itinerary from Barranquilla to Cartagena and the "Wonders of Colombia" cruise from Cartagena to Barranquilla.

Related: River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

Viking offers 29 different itineraries in Europe on the Danube, Rhine, Rhone, Seine, Garonne & Dordogne, Douro and Elbe rivers, as well as the waterways of Belgium and Holland. While most sailings, lasting seven to 16 nights, are from early March to mid-December, Viking has added a 10-night "Treasures of the Rhine" itinerary between Amsterdam and Basel for 2024, with dates in January and February.

Viking also offers river cruises beyond Europe. In Egypt, Viking offers one itinerary, the 10-night "Pharaohs & Pyramids," featuring four nights in Cairo and a seven-night Nile cruise. Its itinerary through Vietnam and Cambodia is the 14-night "Magnificent Mekong" from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, which includes an eight-day river cruise and hotel stays in Hanoi, Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City.

Finally, the new Viking Mississippi cruises five itineraries in America's Heartland. These range from seven-night roundtrips from New Orleans to 21-night journeys that cover the mighty Mississippi's entire 2,350-mile length from New Orleans to St. Paul, Minnesota.

Bottom line

While both AmaWaterways and Viking do have a lot in common — similar itineraries and pricing, excellent cuisine and a generally casual dress code — their differences will matter to certain travelers, especially those who prioritize active wellness or multiple included tour options ... or perhaps even both.

Choose AmaWaterways if you want a slightly more inclusive cruise fare, a good selection of regional wines and a passenger mix that's a bit younger and more international. Choose Viking if you appreciate airy, modern design and enjoy traditional guided tours focused on history, culture and cuisine.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• 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
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures

Find A Cruise

• 0 --> 0 }"> type to begin your search', visible: !setSelectedCruiseType().length > 0"> CRUISE TYPE   CRUISE TYPE 11, 'dropup': breakpoint() > 767 && dropupAvailable() }, selectPicker:setSelectedCruiseType, optionsText:'display', optionsValue:'value', selectPickerOptions: { optionsArray: cruiseType, isPortal: isPortal() }" aria-hidden="true" style="display: none"> CRUISE TYPE * cruise type is a required field
• 0 ) || ( !isPortal() && !widgetIsReady ) )"> 0 }"> REGION   REGION 0) || !isPortal() --> 11, 'dropup': breakpoint() > 767 && dropupAvailable(), 'disabled': isPortal() && !setSelectedCruiseType().length > 0 }, selectPicker:setSelectedRegion, optionsText:'display', optionsValue:'value', optionsCaption: regionCaption(), selectPickerOptions: { optionsArray: regions, isPortal: isPortal() }" aria-label="Find a cruise - Select cruise region" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-98" style="display: none">  
• 0 ) || ( !isPortal() && !widgetIsReady ) )"> 0 }"> DEPARTURE DATE   DEPARTURE DATE 0) || !isPortal() --> 11, 'dropup': breakpoint() > 767 && dropupAvailable(), 'disabled': isPortal() && !setSelectedCruiseType().length > 0 }, selectPicker:setSelectedYearMonth, optionsText: 'display', optionsValue:'value', optionsCaption: yearMonthCaption(), selectPickerOptions: { optionsArray: yearsMonths }" aria-label="Find a cruise - Select departure date" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-98" style="display: none">  
• DURATION   DURATION 11, 'dropup': breakpoint() > 767 && dropupAvailable() },selectPicker:setSelectedDuration, optionsText:'display', optionsValue:'value', optionsCaption: durationCaption(), selectPickerOptions: { optionsArray: durations }" aria-label="Find a cruise - Select cruise duration" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-98" style="display: none">  

Romantic Danube

Rhine Getaway

Grand European Tour • Free Airfare*

Sign up to receive updates from viking.

Stay current with special offers, news and destination-focused content.

Company Information

• Order a Brochure
• Special Offers
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Advisors
• Media Center
• Health & Safety Program
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Manage Cookies

Viking River Cruises

• Mississippi

Viking Ocean Cruises

• Scandinavia
• British Isles & Ireland
• North America
• Caribbean & Central America
• South America
• Mediterranean
• Quiet Season Mediterranean
• Australia & New Zealand
• World Cruises
• Grand Journeys

Viking Expeditions

• Great Lakes
• Longitudinal World Cruises

Where can I cruise without a passport?

At TPG, we always recommend cruising with a passport, but there are many reasons why you might want to set sail without one.

What if an opportunity pops up on short notice, and you don't have a passport yet? Or what if you forgot to renew yours when it expired? What if it's only a three-night cruise to the Bahamas, and the passport application fee is almost as much as the cruise fare? Or, maybe you have children nearing age 16 and can't justify paying for passports that will only be good for five years.

First of all, do you even need a passport to cruise ? The answer is often but not always. You have options to cruise without a passport because not every sailing requires them. Thanks to an international agreement called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative , U.S. citizens can cruise on certain itineraries within North American countries using government-issued identification (like a valid driver's license) and proof of citizenship (like a government-issued birth certificate).

The cruises that you don't need a passport for are closed-loop sailings, which depart from and return to the same port within the U.S. One-way sailings from one U.S. port to another or from a U.S. port to a foreign one would require a passport.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Before we go further, let's clarify that when we talk about cruising without a passport, we're referring to pricey passport books that some travelers do not wish to purchase. Passport cards can also be used for identification when cruising in all the places we are about to discuss; these cards are a low-cost alternative to traveling with your driver's license and birth certificate.

Let's look at the options for where you can cruise without a passport.

Cruising to Alaska is one of the easiest ways to experience all the state offers. You'll have opportunities to see glaciers and wildlife; stroll the streets of charming coastal towns; eat your fill of local crab legs and salmon; and enjoy nature on a kayak, zip line or hike.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska without a passport, look for itineraries that begin (and end) in Seattle , San Francisco or southern California ports, such as Los Angeles or Long Beach, California. The most common length for these closed-loop Alaska cruises operated by the major cruise lines is seven nights. Cruises early or late in the season might be only four or five nights, and trips departing from LA are usually 14 nights.

What if you really want to cruise one-way from Canada to Alaska (or vice versa)? Although Canada prefers U.S. citizens who arrive by sea or land to have a passport book, it is not required as long as they have proper identification and proof of citizenship. The U.S., however, requires one of the following WHTI-approved forms of identification for entries by land or sea: passport card, enhanced driver's license, I-872 American Indian card or trusted traveler program IDs like Nexus, Sentri and Fast.

Technically, if you have one of those forms of ID but not a passport book, you can take a one-way Alaska cruise — as long as you don't have to fly to or from Canada.

More complications arise for non-passport holders who book shore excursions that involve crossing from Alaska to Canada. White Pass and Yukon Route train rides are good examples. White Pass and Yukon Route allows cruise passengers to go on the three-hour train excursion without a passport but doesn't allow them to take any longer routes. That's their policy, not a legal requirement.

This means that Alaska cruises are one instance when the passport card would be a handy alternative to traveling with both an ID card and a birth certificate. It opens up one-way itineraries.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

A cruise to the Caribbean transports you to tropical islands bathed in turquoise waters. Whether you seek warm beaches, cool drinks, water sports or cultural education, you can find a Caribbean cruise to fit the bill.

It's easy to cruise without a passport in the Caribbean: Just book one of the many closed-loop, round-trip sailings departing from a U.S. port. Most major cruise lines offer sailings that range between three and 15 nights from ports like Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; multiple ports in Florida (including Miami and Fort Lauderdale); Charleston, South Carolina; Baltimore; Bayonne, New Jersey; and New York City.

Most Caribbean islands participate in the WHTI, but it's always best to check the details specific to the ports of call included in your itinerary. Don't forget that islands such as Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are U.S. territories, so visits never require passports for U.S. citizens.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, lying 643 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Hop on a cruise ship for a direct route to the island's famous beaches and golf courses. Spring and summer are the prime seasons to visit, but cruises are possible throughout the year.

Cruising without a passport to Bermuda is also easy. Apart from a few isolated cruises stopping in Bermuda as they come or go from other destinations, there are no one-way Bermuda cruises to confuse the situation. If you plan to sail without a passport, be wary of any Bermuda cruise longer than 10 nights. Those are likely to be point-to-point cruises that happen to include Bermuda.

Passport-free cruises to Bermuda include ample five- to 10-night sailings from the East Coast ports of Baltimore, Bayonne, Boston and Manhattan. Occasional itineraries also pop up throughout the Bermuda season departing from Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston; and the Florida ports of Miami, Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Jacksonville.

Related: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?

Long known for delightful strands of beach and access to every imaginable form of water fun under the subtropical sun, the Bahamas are the ideal destination for easy and quick cruise vacations.

Skip the passport on three- to five-night Bahamas cruises sailing round-trip on most major cruise lines from the eastern Florida ports of Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Miami.

A few longer, seven- to 15-night itineraries stop in the Bahamas on their way into the Caribbean. Departures from Bayonne, Manhattan, Baltimore and Charleston will often get you weeklong Bahamas itineraries, as will sailings from Tampa, Galveston and New Orleans.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

Our southern neighbor boasts two coastlines of cruise fun. Like most tropical cruise destinations, the top draws are the beaches and the ocean; however, cruise ports in Mexico also give you access to ancient Mayan ruins, delicious cuisine and an abundance of land activities.

Mexico's Caribbean and Pacific coasts are both accessible to cruisers who do not hold passports. If you want to visit Mexico's eastern shores, you can find three- to 15-night cruises to Costa Maya, Cozumel and Progreso. Sailings depart Florida from Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral; you can also find itineraries from New Orleans, Galveston and Mobile, Alabama.

Western Mexico, often referred to as the Mexican Riviera, includes the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, among others. Cruises with several major lines depart San Diego, San Pedro port in LA and Long Beach for voyages lasting anywhere from three to 10 nights.

Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

From water sports to American history and Hawaiian culture, there's a lot to experience on a Hawaii cruise . The best part might be the ability to hop from island to island, sampling the flavors of each as you go.

Closed-loop Hawaii cruises that don't require passports come in two varieties. The short option is to fly to Honolulu and take a seven- or 10-night cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Pride of America. This is the only large cruise ship allowed to operate entirely within the Hawaiian Islands without visiting a foreign port.

Small-ship cruise operator UnCruise Adventures also offers seven-night, inter-island Hawaiian sailings. The American-flagged ships only cruise to and from U.S. ports, so no passport is needed, as would be the case on any domestic trip.

The long-cruise options consist of 14- to 18-night round-trip sailings from San Diego, LA (Long Beach and San Pedro) and San Francisco. You won't need a passport for these closed-loop sailings, but you do need to be prepared for multiple days at sea as you cross the Pacific from California to Hawaii.

Beware of 20-plus-night cruises that are round-trip sailings from the West Coast and would seem to fit the bill for closed-loop cruises that don't require passports. Most of these cruises don't work because they also include stops in French Polynesia, which is outside of the WHTI agreement. Passports are required for the islands in the South Pacific, which means they're required for the entire cruise.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Canada and New England

Cruises up North America's East Coast allow you to take in historical sights of early Americana, stand atop rugged cliffs on the coast of Nova Scotia or revel in the French culture of Quebec.

Mainstream cruise lines operate numerous cruises along the U.S. and Canadian coasts that don't require passports. These depart from the ports of Bayonne, Baltimore, Boston, Manhattan, Brooklyn and occasionally Norfolk. The majority of these New England and Canada cruises are weeklong fall sailings; however, a handful depart at other times of the year or are a touch longer, ranging from eight to 10 nights.

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

Some cruise lines also offer one-way cruises in both directions between Canada and New England. These itineraries, like Alaska cruises, might be possible without a passport book. This is the case as long as your plans don't include flying into or out of Canada and your cruise line allows you to cruise with either a passport card or other acceptable form of identification and proof of citizenship.

We checked with a few lines for you. Princess, Holland America and Celebrity all strongly recommend passport books, but they allow one of the WHTI forms of identification. Again, the passport card opens up one-way possibilities, assuming you aren't flying and your cruise only includes Canada and the U.S.

Bottom line

While cruising with a passport is always recommended, it's not required by law in certain circumstances. Closed-loop cruises from U.S. ports that visit Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are part of an international agreement that allows U.S. citizens to cruise without a passport. In these cases, government-issued identification and proof of U.S. citizenship are acceptable alternatives to a passport book.

Passport cards are an affordable and unquestionable alternative to carrying an ID and birth certificate. If you want to go this route, know they are not valid for travel by air into or out of any foreign country, including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or Caribbean countries — which is the primary reason most travel advisers urge cruisers to have a passport book.

As we've shown, you have plenty of options for where to cruise without a passport, and many travelers do so without incident. However, anything from engine trouble on your cruise ship to bad weather or an accident in port might necessitate a flight home from a foreign country. This would put you in an awkward position if you didn't have a passport.

Plus, as much fun as simple round-trip cruises are, passports open up additional vacation possibilities in the form of longer, point-to-point and overseas trips. Don't dismiss registering for a passport, even as you consider where you can cruise without one.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• 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
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures

Sign up to receive updates from Viking

Stay current with special offers, news and destination-focused content.

Company Information

• Order a Brochure
• Special Offers
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Advisors
• Media Center
• Health & Safety Program
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Manage Cookies

Viking River Cruises

• Mississippi

Viking Ocean Cruises

• Scandinavia
• British Isles & Ireland
• North America
• Caribbean & Central America
• South America
• Mediterranean
• Quiet Season Mediterranean
• Australia & New Zealand
• World Cruises
• Grand Journeys

Viking Expeditions

• Great Lakes
• Longitudinal World Cruises