Viking Isn't Technically All-Inclusive — But It's Close
One of the most common questions I get from Bay Area clients considering Viking is: 'Is it all-inclusive?' The honest answer is: not exactly, but it includes far more than most cruise lines. Viking positions itself as a premium-inclusive cruise line, which means the base fare covers most of what you'll want — but there are notable exceptions that can add up.
Understanding exactly what's included (and what isn't) helps you budget accurately and avoid surprise charges onboard. After booking hundreds of Viking cruises, I know exactly where the hidden costs live.
What's Included in Your Viking Fare
These are covered in your base cruise fare with no additional charge.
Included in Base Fare
| All meals onboard | ✓ | Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the main restaurant. Multiple courses with wine and beer at lunch and dinner. |
| Wine, beer, and soft drinks at meals | ✓ | House wine, local beer, and soft drinks are complimentary during lunch and dinner service. |
| One included shore excursion per port | ✓ | Each port has at least one included guided tour — usually a walking tour of the major highlights. |
| Wi-Fi throughout the ship | ✓ | Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard. Speed is adequate for email and social media but not for video calls or streaming. |
| Port charges and taxes | ✓ | Unlike ocean cruises, Viking includes port charges in the fare — no surprise fees at checkout. |
| Self-service laundry | ✓ | Washers and dryers available on every ship at no charge — a major perk for longer voyages. |
| 24-hour specialty coffee and tea | ✓ | The Aquavit Terrace serves complimentary espresso, cappuccino, and premium teas around the clock. |
Silicon Valley Travel handles the details so you show up rested. Complimentary planning, direct-line support while you travel.
What Costs Extra
These are the main additional costs to budget for.
Additional Costs
| Premium drinks outside meals | $8-15 each | Cocktails, premium wines, and drinks ordered outside meal service are charged individually. The Silver Spirits beverage package ($27/night per guest) covers unlimited premium drinks. |
| Optional shore excursions | $30-200 each | Beyond the one included tour per port, upgrade excursions (cooking classes, behind-the-scenes tours, wine tastings) cost extra. |
| Spa treatments | $50-200+ | Massages, facials, and salon services at the onboard spa. Book early — spa slots fill up fast on every sailing. |
| Gratuities | $15-20/day recommended | Not technically required, but Viking suggests $15-20/person/day. This is the biggest 'hidden' cost — $210-280/person for a 14-day cruise. |
| Travel insurance | $200-500/person | Strongly recommended. Viking offers their own policy or you can purchase independently. |
Realistic Total Budget for a Viking River Cruise
Here's what to actually expect to spend all-in.
- Base fare: $3,000-6,000/person for 7-14 day itineraries (varies by season, cabin category, and route)
- Gratuities: $200-280/person for a 14-day cruise
- Optional excursions: Budget $200-500/person if you want 3-5 upgrade tours
- Drinks outside meals: $100-300/person depending on your habits (or Silver Spirits package at $27/night — roughly $190 for a 7-day cruise or $378 for 14 days)
- Realistic all-in cost for a 14-day Rhine/Danube cruise: $4,500-8,000/person including flights from SFO
- Pro tip: Book during Viking's 2-for-1 sales or early booking promotions to save 20-30% on the base fare
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Viking include alcohol?
Yes, partially. House wine, local beer, and soft drinks are complimentary during lunch and dinner in the main restaurant. Outside of meal service, drinks are charged individually ($8-15 for cocktails, $6-10 for premium wines). The Silver Spirits beverage package ($27/night per guest, must be purchased for full cruise length) covers unlimited premium drinks throughout the day and is worth it if you enjoy afternoon cocktails or nightcaps.
Should I tip on a Viking river cruise?
Tipping is not mandatory on Viking, but it's strongly encouraged. Viking suggests $15-20/person/day, which typically goes into a shared crew pool. For a 14-day cruise, that's $210-280/person. You can adjust the amount up or down. Some travelers pre-pay gratuities through Viking; others prefer cash envelopes at the end. Either approach is acceptable.
Let's Plan Your River Cruise
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