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Viking Christmas cruise |
| Reviewed By: Asquith, Redditch on 17th Mar 2008 |
| Cruise Line: Viking River Cruises |
Times cruised before: 6-10 |
| Cruise Ship: Viking Helvetia |
Sailed:
December,
2007 |
| Destination: Rhine |
Age: 26-35 |
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my first cruise aboard Viking Helvetia, with Viking River Cruises. We flew from London to Dusseldorf and meet by staff of Vikng River Cruises. We were taken from the airport to the vessel. We cruised along the Rhine. On arrival at the vessel we were quickly checked in and then shown to our cabins, which were immaculate and first class. The vessel is not very old, one of Viking's newest vessels. It was first class all th way. Could not fault them, the staff were fantastic and very welcoming and friendly. Nothing was too much for them.
The accommodation was very spacious and inviting. We had a deluxe cabin, which had a full sized window that we could open. There was plenty of storage space.
They have a large lounge area, which had full panoramic views. You can sit and watch the scenery whilst having a coffee. The cruise director will also announce each time you are coming to a land mark. As passengers will like to take pictures.
Food was out of this world, a 5 course meal. You need to go for a walk after to get over it. We had Beffet breakfast and lunch, and set main dinner. The staff were friendly and nothing was no trouble. We had some one with us, whom was very particular with her food. Our waiter George happily assisted us.
We visited Rudesheim, in which we had the day to visit and look around the christmas markets. Its great seeing these markets in their home countries. The smell of mulled wine as you walk around. This time of year is also very cold, so need to wrap up warm. They have lovely cobbled streets, so please beaware if you are un easy on your feet. We had a excursion included in the evening and was taken to the "Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Collection." Beware it can be very noisy and loud. It is great to go and see those magnificent instruments.
We then moved on to Cologne. We had a tour guide whom took us on a walking tour of the city. We the finished up at the famous Gothic Cologne Cathedral. We were taken in and shown around. This was the favourite stop for me. Loads of shopping, has main retailers you expect to have here. I have never been to somewhere that is so busy. The amount of people around was unbelievable. Cologne is also good for the christmas markets as they have three different ones. They have a Medieval Market, Market at the Cathedral, and Alter Market.
Over all review. This is a relaxing cruise, scenic, and very enjoyable. This river is very calm; great visiting the cities and not having to worry about transport. The river vessel docks on the river back and everything is in walking distance. You dont have to worry about costs for excursions as they are included in the price. Would certainly do another river cruise.
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A Taste of the Rhine
Viking Christmas Cruise
Viking Helvetia
Viking 
