Viking Unveils Two New Longships for 2026 Sailings

Joining the Viking fleet in celebration of 20 years of sailing are two new Longships: the Viking Hild and the Viking Herja. Viking is widely regarded as a leader in river and small-ship cruising, and its Longships have earned consistent recognition—most recently receiving top honors in USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Cruise Poll for Best River Cruise Line. The Longship design features a patented corridor layout, advanced onboard technology, and upscale amenities. Each ship accommodates up to 190 passengers across 95 staterooms, including two Explorer Suites, which are among the largest river cruise suites available in Europe. In addition, the ships offer seven two-room Veranda Suites with full-size verandas off the living rooms and French balconies on the bedroom windows.

Staterooms are outfitted for comfort with features such as heated bathroom floors, mini-refrigerators, hotel-style beds, and both U.S. and E.U. outlets. The ships incorporate several sustainability measures—solar panels, onboard organic herb gardens, and energy-efficient hybrid engines—to reduce environmental impact while enhancing the onboard experience. Dining and itinerary design emphasize regional cuisine and wine, along with curated cultural enrichment activities that bring local traditions and history to life.

Many itineraries are intentionally scheduled for late departures and overnight port stays so passengers can enjoy evening performances, local theater, concerts, and other cultural events in multiple destinations. Signature sailings such as the Grand European Tour, Waterways of the Tsars, France’s Finest, and European Sojourn highlight “local life, working world, and privileged access” experiences, offering immersive journeys along some of the world’s most scenic waterways.