Arrival/Check-In: We arrived at Basel Airport around 10 a.m. on the day our cruise departed. Just past baggage claim we met the Viking greeters and joined a large group that filled two buses to the ship. Although pre-trip information said staterooms would not be available until 3 p.m., we were pleasantly surprised when everyone was told rooms were ready. Within minutes of leaving the bus, we were escorted to our Veranda Stateroom A.
Guest Quarters: Located on the ship’s top deck, our cabin was an inviting size. The Viking Baldur was only a few months old when we sailed, and the room felt fresh and well-maintained. The layout was efficient, with a large wardrobe providing hanging space, shelves and a safe. A comfortable, hotel-style bed with storage beneath faced a dresser that housed a small refrigerator and a 42-inch flat-screen TV. With these discreet storage options, we unpacked quickly and settled in.
Sliding glass doors opened onto a full veranda furnished with two chairs. Even in December we often stepped outside to enjoy the close-up views of riverside scenery. The bathroom was modern and well-appointed, featuring a rain-style shower with glass doors, a heated floor and an anti-fog mirror. Viking supplied plenty of plush towels and L’Occitane bath products.
Services and Amenities: The lounge on our deck offered generous, comfortable seating arranged along floor-to-ceiling windows. A large bar occupied the forward area, while a dining section at the rear served continental breakfasts and light lunches. On warm days guests could use the outdoor seating. The lounge was also the location for daily itinerary updates and nightly entertainment. A coffee and snack station was available around the clock, and two public computer stations provided reliable web access when the ship’s complimentary Wi-Fi was inconsistent.
One deck below, the main dining room presented a more formal atmosphere, with tables set for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Although the dining space was elegant, most guests dressed casually during daytime meals, reserving smarter attire for a few special evenings.
The sundeck included a walking path for exercise and open seating to enjoy the river while sailing the Rhine.
Each day the ship docked in a different city along the Rhine and at least one guided tour was scheduled. The onboard concierge could arrange additional activities. A highlight of the excursions was the Quietvox headset system, which let us hear the guide clearly while walking at our own pace.
The Experience: The Viking Baldur provided a comfortable, upscale home base for exploring Rhine towns. Crew and staff were consistently attentive and focused on guest satisfaction. Over the course of the cruise we enjoyed friendly interactions with both fellow travelers and crew members, which added to the trip’s warmth and enjoyment.
GT CHECKLIST
Doorman/valet: yes
Less than 10 minutes for check-in: yes
Separate tub and shower: no
Large vanity: yes
High-quality towels: yes
Powerful, unattached hair dryer: yes
High-quality bed linens: yes
Large, flat-screen television: yes
Large desk with convenient outlets: yes
Large, complimentary laptop safe: yes
Complimentary in-room WiFi: yes
Complimentary bottled water: yes
Stocked minibar: no
Ample lighting: yes
In-room coffeemaker: no
Iron and ironing board: yes
On-site restaurant: yes
24-hour room service: no
24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center: no
Turn-down service: yes