Viking Advantages

Our biggest news is the launch of Viking Legend, sailing the popular Grand European Tour itinerary. Debuting in 2009, this state-of-the-art and environmentally friendly vessel transports 189 guests in deluxe staterooms with either French balconies or large picture windows, both that open. Staterooms will have hotel-style beds, a 26-inch flat-panel Sony television, refrigerator and 115v outlets.

We have also dramatically upgraded our Russian fleet. After a full renovation, Viking Surkov offers deluxe staterooms throughout, plus suites and singles. In 2009 Viking Kirov joins her, sailing the Waterways of the Czars with staterooms featuring hotel-style beds, a flat-screen Sony television and a refrigerator.

Our China ships, Viking Century Sun and Viking Century Sky, remain the best on the Yangtze. All staterooms have a balcony—so you never miss the view—and our Swiss hotel management brings the Viking standards of service, cleanliness and excellence to the Far East.

Viking has many advantages when it comes to quality, service and value, but we are always looking to improve your travel experience with us. For 2009, we have introduced a number of new programs and amenities to do just that, and here are a few.

Free Wireless Internet

For 2009, all Viking ships in Europe will have free ship-wide wireless Internet access. And in Russia and China, we have an Internet café with computers for your use at a nominal fee.

Culture Curriculum

This new onboard lecture series takes you deeper into the culture and history of your destination. Depending upon your itinerary, you may discover works of painters inspired by France’s Seine region, learn about the fall of Communism in Russia, or explore the historical importance of China’s dynasties while sailing the Yangtze.

Premium China Hotel Package

All of our China hotel partners are 5-star, centrally located properties. And, our new China Premium Package provides those guests sailing in Category A staterooms or higher the very best hotel accommodations—featuring deluxe rooms at Raffles Beijing Hotel, Westin Shanghai and Shangri-La Xian.

Refer-A-Friend

Travel is one of life’s great treasures—and sharing the experience with friends and family increases its value in so many ways. So, recommend Viking and you can both save with our Refer-A-Friend program. Travel credits are unlimited—ask for details.

Always expanding our horizons, 2009 marks the launch of one new river cruisetour itinerary and seven additional pre- or post-cruise land extensions. Pre & Post Packages are a great way to extend your stay and maximize the value of your Viking vacation.

Ultimate European Journey

Embark on this 22-day cruisetour from the North Sea to the Black Sea via the 106-mile Main-Danube Canal. Along the way, visit eight countries showcasing various landscapes from the hilltop castles along the Rhine to the colorful capitals of Eastern Europe. Departures in May and September.

Pre & Post Packages

You asked...and we responded, with even more ways to enhance your journey. Depending on your itinerary, you can select from new multi-night land packages in Brussels, London, the Channel Islands, French Riviera, Istanbul, highlights of Switzerland or the Baltic capitals.

Viking River Cruises is supporting the efforts of the prestigious Bowers Museum to bring the largest loan of terra cotta figures and artifacts to ever travel to the U.S. from the tomb of China’s First Emperor, Qin Shi Huang (259–210 B.C.). Considered one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, the terra cotta army has often been termed the Eighth Wonder of the Ancient World. Terra Cotta Warriors: Guardians of China’s First Emperor is open from May 18 – October 12, 2008. The Bowers Museum is located at 2002 North Main Street, Santa Ana, California 92706. For Tickets: 877.250.8999