Short answer on the minibar
On Viking’s river ships, the in-room minibar has generally been described as stocked with complimentary soft drinks, bottled water and beer, with spirits and other items charged separately. Viking has adjusted its inclusions over the years and they can vary by ship and sailing, so check your own itinerary’s current inclusions list or ask your travel advisor before you rely on it.
Drinks Viking includes
Viking river fares typically include:
- Beer, house wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.
- Bottled water, along with coffee and tea available throughout the day.
- Specialty coffees at the coffee machine on board.
Premium spirits and cocktails at the bar, as well as wines beyond the house selection, are normally charged to your onboard account. A gratuity is often added to bar bills. See how much tips are on Viking for more.
Other standard inclusions
Typical inclusions on Viking river cruises are:
- A guided excursion in every port.
- Free Wi-Fi on board, though speed varies. See Wi-Fi on river cruises.
- Meals in the main restaurant, plus alternative dining spots on the Longships.
- Port charges and taxes in most cases.
- Whisper audio headsets on tours.
What is not included
- Gratuities for crew, which are usually charged on top of the fare.
- Optional shore excursions.
- Premium and specialty drinks.
- Flights, unless you book a package.
- Spa and salon services.
Silver Spirits and other drink packages
Viking has offered an optional “Silver Spirits” package that adds premium spirits and cocktails. Pricing and terms change, so ask for the current brochure or menu rather than relying on a PDF you found online. If you think you’ll drink spirits most evenings, it can be worth doing the arithmetic. If you mostly stick to wine or beer with dinner, the standard inclusions may be enough.
Gym and onboard facilities
Viking river ships are not floating resorts. Most have a small fitness area or a walking track on the sun deck, a lounge, a restaurant and, on some ships, a small spa. If a full gym matters to you, check the ship’s facilities page. For how river ships compare with larger vessels, see river cruise vs ocean cruise.
How to check before you book
- Find your ship’s page and the “what’s included” list for your itinerary.
- Ask whether the minibar contents are replenished daily.
- Confirm the gratuity amount and how to prepay.
- Compare the total with other lines using our river cruise line comparison.