Avalon vs. Viking

It depends on your style. Avalon is often preferred for larger suites and active excursions, while Viking appeals to guests enjoying Scandinavian design and traditional enrichment.

Avalon's Panorama Suites feature a wall-to-wall window that opens, turning the entire room into an open-air balcony. This creates more interior living space. Viking offers traditional step-out balconies.

No, Viking River Cruises do not carry bicycles onboard. Avalon Waterways carries bicycles and offers guided bike tours.

Both are excellent choices. Viking's highly structured and traditional approach takes all the guesswork out of traveling, which many first-timers appreciate. Avalon is great for first-timers who want a bit more independence and flexibility.

Generally, base fares for both lines do not include gratuities for the ship's crew and local guides (unless booked under a specific regional promotion). They are usually added to your onboard account.

Both offer excellent, high-quality cuisine. Viking focuses on regional specialties and destination-focused menus with their popular indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. Avalon offers flexible dining times, casual options in the Panorama Bistro, and healthy 'Avalon Fresh' choices.

Avalon has a very relaxed, resort-casual dress code with no formal nights. Viking is also generally casual during the day but leans slightly more elegant in the evenings, though formal wear is not required on either.

Because Avalon offers 'Active & Discovery' itineraries with hiking and biking, it tends to attract a slightly younger, more active demographic (often 50+). Viking’s traditional, enrichment-focused approach often attracts travelers 60 and older.

Viking is strictly adults-only (guests must be 18 or older). Avalon Waterways allows children 8 years and older, though there are no dedicated children's facilities onboard.

Both lines include regional wine, beer, and soft drinks during lunch and dinner. Outside of meal times, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, though both offer beverage packages you can buy.

Avalon Waterways is the clear winner for active travelers. Their 'Avalon Choice' program offers dedicated 'Active' excursions like guided hikes, cycling tours, and paddling, and they carry bikes onboard.

Avalon ships feature small fitness centers and offer yoga or stretching classes. Viking Longships do not have fitness centers or spa facilities, maximizing public lounge space instead.

Viking includes one traditional shore excursion (usually a guided walking or bus tour) in every port, focusing on history. Avalon includes a choice of excursions in most ports, allowing you to pick between Classic, Discovery, or Active tours.

Viking's included tours are set, but they offer optional 'Privileged Access' excursions for a fee, which grant exclusive access to cultural sites, museums, or performances.

Both lines occasionally offer waived or reduced single supplements. Avalon’s Panorama Suites are wonderful for solo travelers wanting to relax in their room, while Viking’s structured tours make it easy to socialize and meet fellow passengers.