A Look Inside Viking River Cruises’ Explorer Suite

Updated March 2024.

The top suite on the widespread brand sailing Europe’s waterways is the Viking River Cruises’ Explorer Suite, and it’s time we take a look at why. With smaller ships, additional space becomes a valuable commodity, and this accommodation certainly takes the most comfort and space onboard.

Viking River Cruises are renowned for their commitment to Scandinavian design and unparalleled comfort. But for those seeking an extra level of luxury and spaciousness, the Explorer Suite takes river cruising to a whole new level.

Space meets comfort and luxury onboard the Explorer Suite, making it one of the most sought-after in the fleet.

Viking River Cruises’ Explorer Suites represent the pinnacle of river cruise accommodations, offering an unprecedented level of luxury on Europe’s waterways. At 445 square feet, these premium suites are nearly twice the size of Veranda Suites, providing guests with a spacious retreat that rivals high-end hotel rooms.

Design

Viking River Cruises maintains uniformity between ships, so guests never have to choose between the destination and their favorite ride. There are two Explorer Suites on each of Viking’s longships. Each 440 square-foot suite occupies deck three’s aft corners. On a premium river brand like Viking, 445 square feet equals a palace.

Each of Viking River Cruises’ Explorer Suites has a private bedroom featuring a French balcony from which you can look out directly. Connected to the bedroom, you have a spacious master bathroom designed in spa style, where you can enjoy a shower with a view!

This is one of the places where the added space shines.  The master bath has a generous sink, vanity, a spacious walk-in shower, and heated tile floors. 

Strategically positioned at the stern of Viking Longships, Explorer Suites feature wrap-around private verandas that provide 270-degree views. This premium location offers guests spectacular panoramic vistas of the passing landscapes, from medieval castles to rolling vineyards, making every moment of river cruising truly memorable.

Individual thermostat control and separate air conditioning units allow you to control the temperature in every space of your suite. At the same time, the state-of-the-art sound insulation technology provides greater privacy and ensures you get a good night of sleep anytime.

Using its trademark Scandinavian design elements, like mid-century modern furniture, light tones, and wooden accents throughout the rooms, the suites are stylish and come with a residential feel, making you feel at home throughout your journey.

Amenities

When sailing in a Viking River Cruises’ Explorer Suite, guests are showered with additional services and privileges onboard. Enjoy hotel-style amenities, as well as priority boarding and disembarking, twice-a-day cleaning inside your suite, and complimentary laundry and shoeshine services.

However, the most welcome inclusions in this suite are most definitely the free Viking Air, transfers, Silver Spirits beverage package, room service for breakfast, and premium WiFi.

Enjoy a daily fruit plate and welcome champagne, and worry not as your mini-bar will be replenished daily with wine, beer, and soft drinks.

Viking River Cruises is the most widespread brand in Europe, but there are only two Explorer Suites per longship. Enjoy this spacious suite when sailing along the Rhine or Danube River, but remember, booking early helps immensely when trying to secure your own.

Viking’s Explorer Suites represent the gold standard in river cruise accommodations. While the premium price point may not suit all travelers, those seeking the ultimate river cruise experience will find the extra space, enhanced amenities, and exclusive privileges well worth the investment. The combination of premium location, wrap-around veranda, and comprehensive suite benefits creates an unparalleled river cruising experience that sets these accommodations apart from standard stateroom options.

On top of everything we have mentioned, booking the Viking River Cruises’ Explorer Suite comes with a set of unique privileges: Explorer Suite guests receive enhanced housekeeping services such as twice-daily cabin service, fresh flower arrangements, and evening turndown service. Not just that, but in-suite breakfast is available, as well as a mini-bar with premium beverages, and a complimentary room service menu.

While Explorer Suites command a premium price point, they offer exceptional value for discerning travelers who appreciate maximum space and comfort, premium location with superior views, enhanced privacy, and exclusive privileges and services. We would particularly recommend this suite for special occasions and celebrations, an extended river cruise where you would expect greater comfort, or simply enjoying extra space, including outdoor areas.

Explorer Suites typically sell out well in advance. Book 12-18 months ahead for peak season sailings, and consider shoulder season for better availability. Look for special suite upgrade promotions, and combine them with Viking’s air promotions for maximum value,

Why Choose Viking River Cruises?

Viking River Cruises has established itself as the world’s leading river cruise line by consistently delivering an exceptional, destination-focused experience. Their award-winning Viking Longships are specifically designed to enhance your river journey, featuring streamlined Scandinavian design and innovative engineering that allows for maximum views and comfort.

What truly sets Viking apart is their commitment to cultural enrichment. Every cruise includes expertly guided shore excursions, creating meaningful connections with local cultures through food, history, and traditions. The ship’s intimate size (hosting just 190 guests) ensures a more personal experience, while the all-veranda design means you’ll never miss a moment of the passing scenery.

Viking’s signature “thinking person’s cruise” approach emphasizes enrichment through destination-focused dining, onboard lectures, and cultural performances. Their inclusive value proposition means your cruise fare covers everything from shore excursions to Wi-Fi, port charges, and beer and wine with meals. Plus, their adults-only environment creates a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for travelers seeking meaningful experiences.

Perhaps most importantly, Viking’s consistently high guest satisfaction rates and numerous industry awards reflect their unwavering commitment to excellence in every aspect of the river cruise experience.

For assistance planning your European River cruise lean on the experience of Luxury Cruise Connections’ seasoned team. As a Viking River Cruise specialist, I am personally able to provide you with great discounts, plus insider insights into choosing the best itinerary for your tastes, having cruised myself on several European river cruises, as well as in the Mekong River between Cambodia and Vietnam.