What Is Included on
Viking Cruises?
One of the reasons many travelers choose Viking is the company's commitment to providing a more inclusive cruise experience.
While Viking is not a fully all-inclusive cruise line, many services, amenities, and experiences that cost extra on other cruise lines are already included in your fare.
Viking's Philosophy: More Included,
Less Nickel-and-Diming
Unlike many cruise lines that rely heavily on onboard upcharges, Viking focuses on providing a straightforward vacation experience.
Guests often appreciate that essential travel elements are included, allowing them to focus on enjoying the journey rather than managing additional expenses. The exact inclusions may vary slightly depending on the cruise type and itinerary.
- Accommodations
- Dining
- Wi-Fi
- Shore Excursions
- Educational Programs
- Beer and Wine with Meals
- Port Taxes and Fees
- Destination Enrichment
Explore Viking's Award-Winning Longships
Viking Longships showcase innovative engineering, streamlined Scandinavian design, and understated elegance.
The Core Inclusions Found
in Every Viking Cruise Fare
Several categories of inclusions appear across nearly every Viking sailing. Guests consistently benefit from included accommodations, dining, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, and educational enrichment programs.
Accommodations
Comfortable Staterooms in Every Fare
- Comfortable Furnishings
- Private Bathrooms
- Daily Housekeeping
- Premium Bedding
- Climate Control
Whether choosing a standard stateroom or an upgraded suite, accommodations are included in the base fare — thoughtfully designed cabins focused on relaxation and functionality.
Dining
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Breakfast — Buffet & Made-to-Order
- Lunch — Casual & Destination-Inspired
- Dinner — Multi-Course Regional Cuisine
- Specialty Dining (Ocean & Expedition)
- Room Service (Many Ocean Cruises)
Dining is designed to reflect the destinations visited while maintaining consistent quality throughout the voyage — one of the most appreciated Viking inclusions.
Beer and Wine with Meals
Included During Lunch and Dinner
- Beer
- Wine
- Soft Drinks
- Lunch Service
- Dinner Service
Unlike many mainstream cruise lines, Viking typically includes beer, wine, and soft drinks during meal service — adding significant value and reducing onboard spending.
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Stay Connected Throughout Your Voyage
- Staying Connected with Family
- Sharing Travel Experiences
- Checking Email
- Basic Web Browsing
While internet speeds may vary depending on location and ship type, complimentary Wi-Fi is one of Viking's most appreciated inclusions.
Shore Excursions
At Least One Complimentary Excursion Per Port
- Guided City Tours
- Historical Sites
- Cultural Attractions
- Local Landmarks
This allows guests to begin exploring destinations immediately without purchasing additional tours — one of Viking's most valuable benefits.
What Is Included by Cruise Type
Inclusions vary slightly depending on the type of Viking voyage, but each cruise type bundles in accommodations, dining, Wi-Fi, and destination-focused experiences.
What Is Included on Viking River Cruises
Because river ships visit city centers, guests often enjoy convenient access to destinations alongside a comprehensive set of included amenities.
What Is NOT Included on Viking Cruises ?
Although Viking includes many amenities, certain expenses remain additional depending on your booking and preferences.
Airfare
Unless purchased as part of a promotion or package, airfare is generally not included in the cruise fare.
Premium Shore Excursions
Optional upgraded tours beyond the included complimentary excursion may carry extra charges.
Premium Alcohol
Cocktails, premium wines, and spirits beyond standard beer and wine with meals may not be included.
Spa & Personal Expenses
Massages, wellness services, travel insurance, and personal purchases like shopping and souvenirs remain additional.
Inside the Viking Experience
Scandinavian Design, Dining, and Ocean Views
Viking ships are known for elegant Scandinavian interiors, comfortable accommodations, destination-focused public spaces, and thoughtfully curated dining experiences.
Destination-Focused Enrichment Programs
Education is a major part of the Viking experience. Viking's enrichment programs help travelers gain a deeper understanding of the destinations they visit through expert insights, cultural programming, and educational presentations.
Destination Lectures
Learn about local history, culture, traditions, and important landmarks before arriving in each destination.
Guest Speakers
Experts, historians, and regional specialists provide unique perspectives and valuable insights throughout the voyage.
Cultural Presentations
Programs designed to enhance understanding and appreciation of the regions, customs, and cultures being visited.
Expedition Team Briefings
Available on Viking Expedition Cruises, these sessions prepare guests for landings, wildlife encounters, and exploration activities.
Educational Value
For many travelers, these enrichment opportunities become one of the most memorable and valuable aspects of the Viking experience.
Access to Public Spaces and Amenities
Your Viking cruise fare includes access to a variety of onboard facilities designed for relaxation, enrichment, and scenic viewing.
Included AmenitiesPublic Spaces & Facilities
Guests enjoy complimentary access to many shipboard spaces throughout the voyage.
Depending on the ship:
- Observation Areas
- Lounges
- Libraries
- Fitness Centers
- Walking Decks
- Pools (Ocean Ships)
- Outdoor Viewing Areas
These facilities are available throughout the voyage without additional charges.
Included EntertainmentEnrichment-Focused Entertainment
Viking's entertainment emphasizes culture, education, and destination immersion rather than large-scale productions.
Guests often enjoy:
- Cultural Performances
- Musical Entertainment
- Educational Presentations
- Regional Experiences
- Guest Lectures
The focus remains on enrichment, learning, and destination immersion throughout the journey.
Viking vs Other Cruise Lines: What's Included?
| Feature | Viking | Many Mainstream Cruise Lines |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Included | Often Extra |
| Excursions | Included in Most Ports | Usually Extra |
| Beer & Wine with Meals | Included | Usually Extra |
| Educational Programs | Included | Limited |
| Port Charges | Often Included | Varies |
| Specialty Dining | Often Included | Frequently Extra |
| Kids Programs | Not Offered | Usually Included |
| Casinos | Not Offered | Usually Available |
Viking's value becomes more apparent when comparing included amenities side by side.
Viking Named a Leader in Ocean,
River & Expedition Travel
Watch as Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen thanks guests and colleagues after Viking was recognized among the top cruise lines for ocean, river, and expedition travel.
Why Travelers Appreciate Viking's Inclusions
Simpler Budgeting
Fewer unexpected onboard charges make it easier to plan a complete vacation budget in advance.
Better Overall Value
Many essentials — dining, Wi-Fi, excursions — are already included in the fare.
Enhanced Travel Experience
Guests focus more on destinations and less on managing additional onboard expenses.
Greater Convenience
Planning becomes easier when major travel elements are bundled into a single fare.
Educational Enrichment
Destination lectures, guest speakers, and cultural presentations are included throughout the voyage.
Included Dining & Drinks
Multi-course meals, regional cuisine, and beer and wine with lunch and dinner reduce onboard spending.
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Staying connected with family and sharing travel experiences comes at no additional charge.
Is Viking Close to All-Inclusive?
While not technically all-inclusive, Viking comes closer than many cruise brands. Many travelers find that once onboard, additional spending is minimal unless they choose premium excursions, spa services, specialty beverages, or shopping. For destination-focused travelers, Viking's inclusion model offers strong value.
Meet Angela Hughes
Angela Hughes
CEO · Trips & Ships Luxury Travel
121+ Countries Visited
Angela Hughes Authority Box
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about what's included on Viking Cruises.
The Best Vacations Aren't About
Constantly Reaching for Your Wallet
Viking Cruises has built its reputation on providing a travel experience that emphasizes value, simplicity, and destination immersion.
By including accommodations, dining, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, educational programming, and many other amenities within the cruise fare, Viking allows travelers to focus on exploring the world rather than managing additional expenses.
What's Included on Viking Cruises:
- Accommodations
- Dining
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Shore Excursions in Most Ports
- Beer & Wine with Meals
- Educational Enrichment Programs
- Port Taxes and Fees
Contact Trips & Ships Luxury Travel to learn more about what's included on your ideal Viking voyage.
Explore Cruise Brands
Stay informed with our comprehensive guides, reviews, and comparisons of the world's finest cruise collections.
