COVER STORY AND THERE’S MORE...
In 2012, Viking River Cruises will introduce four of its more sophisticated high-tech and revolutionary ‘Viking Long Ships,’ Viking Freda, Idun, Njord and Odin. Six additional sister ships are scheduled to enter service in 2014. These latest riverboats will boast
“Here, YOU BECOME ENTRANCED by the
river, and BEGUILED BY THE PEOPLE”
I started with a 7-night Main Canal/ Danube River cruise on the 189-passenger Viking Legend and followed with another 7-night Rhine voyage on the 164-passen- ger SS Antoinette of Uniworld. The Legend and sister ship Prestige entered service in 2009 and 2010 respectively, while the Antoinette was new this tear. These vessels have been touted as the latest and most innovative on the water- ways of Europe. Having sailed in previous years with both cruise lines, I was keen to see the changes in their offerings.
the largest real suites on the European waterways, with separate sleeping and living rooms in two 445sq ft Explorer Suites and seven 270sq ft Veranda Suites. All suites will feature a French balcony in the bedroom and full-sized verandas in the living room (Explorer Suites will have wrap- around balconies allowing a 270 degree view). Three-quarters of all accommo- dations will have a French balcony, full veranda or both. Other innovative features will include energy-efficient hybrid engines, solar panels, an organic herb garden, all-weather indoor/ outdoor Aquavit Terrace with retractable glass doors, as well as al fresco dining areas on the upper deck adjacent to the lounge.
Our Legend cruise commenced in Nuremberg and terminated in Budapest, with visits to Regensberg and Passau in Germany, and Melk and Vienna in Austria.
O
n both the upper and middle passenger decks (but not the lower deck), all staterooms and suites
had French balconies with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. This was an innovation from most of the pre-2009 Viking riverboats. Although a balcony cabin is desired by today’s cruisers, having one on a river voyage seems especially enjoyable since there is so much more to see. The 170sq ft stateroom was tastefully furnished, with sufficient storage and the usual amenities, such as a private safe, hair-dryer, fridge, telephone and a small bathroom with vanity, toilet and a circular shower stall. The two single beds could be pushed together but not converted to matrimonial style. TV programming included CNN, CNBC, Fox, BBC, ESPN, MGM movie, Sky Cinema, National Geographic and movies on demand. Generally speaking, there are not a lot
of activities on riverboats, so the TV variety was most welcome. Bottled water was replenished daily, while ice machines were
Autumn 2011 I WORLD OF CRUISING 21
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