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Viking Announces New Treasures of the Rhine Itinerary and Extra Christmas Market Dates

Viking Announces New Treasures of the Rhine Itinerary and Extra Christmas Market Dates

Viking’s new winter Treasures of the Rhine itineraries will make the brand the first river cruise line to operate in Europe year-round.

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On May 23, 2023, cruise line Viking announced Treasures of the Rhine, a new wintertime river voyage that will let guests experience Europe’s rich culture during the less-crowded season.

The new Middle Rhine itinerary will debut in December 2023, establishing Viking as the first cruise line to operate year-round on Europe’s rivers.

Viking’s new Treasures of the Rhine itinerary will debut in December 2023 (image courtesy of Viking)

“The Middle Rhine is one of our most popular destinations—with constantly changing views of hilltop castles, historic towns, and terraced vineyards along the steep valley sides, it is a region that will always be best explored by the river,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking.

“Many of our guests have sailed the Rhine during other seasons, so we are pleased to offer a new option for those who may be interested [in] experiencing Europe during a quieter time of year,” Hagen continued.

Viking’s Treasures of the Rhine itinerary

The new 10-day Treasures of the Rhine itinerary will let guests discover the Middle Rhine—a UNESCO site with enchanting landscapes and medieval towns boasting turreted fortresses and grand cathedrals.

Cruisers can also admire the region’s Roman terraced vineyards and sample its renowned red and white wines.

An ideal time to visit, winter cruising offers guests smaller crowds, easier access to landmarks, and opportunities to savor the culinary traditions of Alsace while exploring Amsterdam, Basel, and Cologne.

Related: A Day Trip to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam

Aboard Viking’s longships on the Rhine

Each of Viking’s identical longships hosts up to 190 guests in 95 staterooms. Guests can choose from a variety of stateroom categories, including two-room suites with full-size verandas.

Amenities aboard each Scandinavian-inspired ship include a restaurant, a bar and lounge, a library, and an expansive sun deck. Viking longships feature al fresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace.

Each of Viking’s identical longships hosts up to 190 guests in 95 staterooms (image courtesy of Viking)

Environmentally-conscious features on the ships include solar panels, an onboard organic herb garden, and energy-efficient hybrid engines.

Booking a Viking Treasures of the Rhine cruise

Treasures of the Rhine departure dates begin in December 2023 and run through early March 2024, with fares starting at $1,999 per person, double occupancy.

From now through May 31, 2023, Viking is offering its 25th Anniversary Sale for residents of the US and Canada. Cruisers can make a $25 deposit to enjoy savings on all 2023-2025 river voyages including up to free airfare.


Cruise pro tip: You can find the best Viking prices and exclusive perks at CruiseDirector. Plus, they never charge a booking fee!


Viking’s expanded Christmas Market itineraries

In addition to the new Treasures of the Rhine cruises, Viking has added 20 additional sailings to 2023’s Christmas Market river voyages. With more departure dates on the new and popular Christmas on the Rhine and Danube Christmas Delights voyages, Viking plans to host an additional 3,686 guests this year.

Viking has added 20 additional sailings to 2023’s Christmas Market river voyages

Latest news about Viking cruises

Carrie Ann Karstunen