Want to see what a real Viking feast looks like?

Food is one of the most important aspects of cruising for me. If the food doesn’t come up to expectation then it is a major disappointment for me, a deal breaker. There are many other things that I am willing to compromise on when it comes to cruising but not the food.

My expectations were high when it came to Viking, after all they do market themselves as market leader in the world of river cruising so why would I expect any less?

Both breakfast and lunch were part buffet, part waiter service. I have to say that the choice was good at both sittings – hot and cold, savoury and sweet, as much or as little as you wanted. Something for every palate, and yes, there is an egg station at breakfast.! It wouldn’t be a cruise without one would it and let’s face it, you need to start a busy day with a goodly substantial breakfast inside you. I must admit though that the Egg Benedict defeated me, it was huge. Enough to satisfy a real Viking I think! Remember, breakfast and lunch can also be taken on the Aquavit Terrace on Vikings ships if you prefer just buffet style. A lovely place to eat during the summer months when the weather is warm enough to do so.

Dinner in the evening is always waiter service and what a delightful feast we enjoyed each night. We started off with a Mise en Bouche to whet our appetites followed by a choice of four starters, three main courses, several desserts, a cheese platter and coffee. Vegetarians were very well catered for along with guests who have special dietary requirements. One of our party had a food allergy to something or other and at every meal the Maitre D’ would go through the menu for the following meal so that she could make her choices, allowing the chef to prepare hers just for her. Worth noting, if you don’t fancy anything on the menu, every evening they offer Steak, Chicken or Salmon too.

The Captains Dinner on Thursday was an extra special treat as it was Thanksgiving – there were quite a few Americans on board. We had Turkey with all the trimmings and Pumpkin Pie for dessert! Absolutely delicious I have to say.

Remember too that wine is included with lunch and dinner and very generous they are with it too! They don’t hold back let me tell you! Something I wasn’t aware of, as it is only available to purchase once on board, for all your other alcoholic drink requirements, Viking offer an all-inclusive package which covers ALL drinks. At 150 euro per person per week it is absolutely excellent value I think and if you enjoy a tipple then it would be well worth purchasing.

As if all this isn’t enough, a lovely afternoon tea is served daily on the Aquavit Terrace. We had some beautiful German and Austrian cakes.

As with all the other river cruise lines Viking have a drinks machine outside the main lounge where you can get coffee, hot chocolate, a selection of teas, water and fruit juice 24 hours a day. I also noticed some baskets of home made cookies and muffins on display too, as though you won’t already have eaten enough!

All in all, fantastic food and hospitality from Viking, and needless to say, probably another couple of inches on my waistline although I must say that every mouthful was worth it!

For more information on Viking River Cruises please give me a call on 0800 408 6084 or from a mobile 0330 303 8184 – anytime!