If you’re embarking on a Viking river cruise, the thoughtfully designed staterooms might surprise you. I recently experienced a French Balcony stateroom on Viking Mani during the Rhine Getaway from Amsterdam to Basel in November.
Here are 10 things you can expect from your stateroom and a few tips to make the most of the space.
1) First Impressions
The room is compact—significantly smaller than staterooms on ocean cruises. At just 135 square feet, it’s immediately clear that every inch has been optimised. The ship’s width naturally limits cabin size, but clever design ensures comfort without compromise.
2) Smart Storage
Viking has worked wonders with storage. A dressing shelf spans much of the cabin, perfect for books or charging devices. At one end, a stool provides seating; in the middle, there are three drawers; and at the other end, a bar fridge for your drinks.
A full-sized wardrobe offers hanging space (with plenty of hangers), shelving, and a spot for the safe, hairdryer, and laundry bags. Shoes tuck neatly into the bottom, and there’s enough space under the bed to store even large suitcases.
Two bedside tables, each with a shelf and expandable top, provide extra storage.
3) The Window: A Room with a View
The floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors are a showstopper, taking up one entire wall. Whether you’re lying in bed or standing by the window, the stunning Rhine views are always within reach. The doors open easily, ideal for fresh air or just soaking in the scenery.
If you prefer air conditioning, each room is climate-controlled with an easy-to-use panel to set your perfect temperature.
4) Customisable Beds
The bed configuration is flexible: queen or two singles. We opted for two singles with the bedside tables in the middle, which gave the room a more spacious feel.
5) The Magic Bathroom
The bathroom punches above its weight. The shower, cleverly shaped with one wider end, feels spacious. Double doors allow easy access, and the water pressure and hot water are excellent.
Shelving under the sink and on the walls ensures everything has its place. Premium Freyja® toiletries are provided, and you’ll receive large towels, hand towels, and flannels, with extras available on request. Robes and slippers are also available on request.
But the standout feature? The heated floor. It keeps the bathroom cosy and ensures it dries quickly—a little luxury you’ll appreciate every day.
6) Onboard Entertainment
A large 40-inch TV provides information about the cruise, a modest selection of films and TV series, and live news channels. You can also tune into the bow camera or, at certain times, catch presentations from the lounge.
7) Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is included, allowing up to two devices per room at a time. Switching between devices is seamless, so you won’t miss out on staying connected.
8) Plenty of Power Points
You’ll find four generously placed sockets—both European and US-style—two near the bed and two by the dressing table.
9) Lighting at Your Fingertips
Lighting options abound: overhead, bedside, individual spotlights, and mood lighting. Best of all, you can control all the lights from your bed—perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.
10) Excellent Company
Finally, the best part of your stateroom? The company you bring. I shared mine with my brother, who provided endless entertainment as we cruised along the Rhine.
With such clever design and thoughtful touches, Viking’s staterooms make even the most compact spaces feel like home. So pack smartly, and you’ll have everything you need to enjoy the views, comfort, and magic of your river cruise.
