This 'cruise' is different from most other Viking River cruises in that several of the ports were relatively undeveloped and uninteresting. They were docking ports and we had long bus rides to visit the wineries and attractions. We did enjoy Lisbon and Porto, as well as Salamanca in Spain. We will likely visit them separately in the future rather than taking a river cruise.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Well organized, very efficient
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Seafood dishes were expertly prepared, meat dishes and deserts were just okay.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
Could not use the pool in December (to be expected). Deck activities were also limited.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
We had lunch at a restaurant where we had a wonderful Fado performance (included in the Viking itinerary). There was also an onboard performance by a University Tuna band that was very energizing and entertaining.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Very friendly, attentative room stewards and waiters. There were three Program Directors - very competent and excellent. The captain was also very friendly and engaging with the patrons.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Generally very good, rainy weather did make the deck more challenging to maintain.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
The room was a good enough size for a river cruise. Well designed, very comfortable. The room steward (Ivo) kept the room very clean and well stocked.
Ship tip
This cruise was quite different from other Viking River Cruise experience in that for most others, the towns/attractions were very close to the river. In this case, there were many long bus rides since most towns were small and relatively uninteresting near the dock (Porto was an exception). We spent many hours on the bus, so it is good to be psychologically prepared.
We went on the included excursion, which provided a good introduction to Lisbon attractions and neighborhoods. We also walked and explored on our own and enjoyed this vibrant town.
Beautiful town with interesting neighborhoods and historical attractions. The included tour again provided a good introduction, and we explored churches, neighborhoods that were very interesting.
This port was basically a docking port and Viking used buses to bring us to wineries and other areas. The port was relatively desolated and uninteresting.
Beautiful town with impressive architecture and buildings. Very walkable. The Universities made this a vibrant environment. Both the old and new cathedrals are worth a visit - especially to see the contrasts.
*Cruiseline.com is not a booking agent or travel agency,
and does not charge any service fees to users of our site. Our partners
(travel agencies and cruise lines) provide prices, which we list for our
users' convenience. Cruiseline.com does not guarantee any specific rates or
prices. While prices are updated daily, please check with the booking site
for the exact amount. Cruiseline.com is not responsible for content on
external web sites.
Contact us
Submitting...
Need help from a personal vacation planner?
Loading...
Find the perfect cruise with weekly tips and cruise deals for as little as $30/night!
Sign up for weekly cruise deals
Join other subscribers and get the best
cruise deals of the week in your inbox every Thursday.
