Viking Helgrim

Launched in 2019, Viking Helgrim—a smaller iteration of Viking River Cruises' celebrated Longships—offers a distinct and intimate cruising experience on the stunning Douro River. Despite its modest passenger capacity of 106 guests, complemented by a dedicated crew of 35, this river cruiser is specially designed to traverse the scenic byways of Portugal and Spain, maneuvering through narrower locks and picturesque landscapes with ease. Viking Helgrim’s itineraries predominantly feature a round trip from Porto, inviting passengers on a comprehensive journey that highlights the quaint villages of the region and the historic university town of Salamanca, Spain. While the ship's more compact size means onboard amenities are scaled accordingly, Viking Helgrim maintains the brand’s high standards of quality, boasting exceptional dining options, Scandinavian-inspired cabins for ultimate comfort, and a unique feature among Viking's fleet—a small swimming pool on the sun deck, perfect for relaxation.

Dining on Viking Helgrim is a reflection of the rich culinary traditions of the Douro Valley, with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy a variety of classic Portuguese dishes and sample local wines, all within the intimate setting of the ship's main dining room. The atmosphere in the dining area is characterized by its warmth and the attentive service of the crew, ensuring a personal and memorable dining experience for every guest. Unlike its larger counterparts, Viking Helgrim offers a more concentrated dining experience, focusing exclusively on its main restaurant to preserve the vessel's intimate ambiance.

Viking Helgrim predominantly welcomes North American passengers, generally catering to an English-speaking demographic aged 65 and above. The onboard atmosphere is warm and friendly, fostering a sense of community as the crew makes it a point to remember guests' names and preferences. This creates a relaxed cruising environment, ideal for those who prefer a peaceful and personalized travel experience over a bustling, high-energy atmosphere.

Compared to other vessels in its class and to other Viking Longships, Viking Helgrim emphasizes a more intimate aspect of cruising, with a strong focus on local dining, personalized service, and in-depth cultural exploration. Although it may feature fewer onboard activities and amenities than larger ships, Viking Helgrim compensates by offering at least one specially curated shore excursion each day, designed to deepen guests’ understanding and appreciation of the Douro Valley's rich culture, history, and viticulture.

In summary, Viking Helgrim is an exemplary choice for travelers eager to delve into the heart of the Douro Valley. It stands out for its regional culinary offerings, bespoke service, and scenic routes, making it highly appealing to mature travelers who value tranquility and cultural engagement. While it lacks the extensive facilities of larger vessels, its charm and the quality of interactions it fosters among passengers and crew make it a compelling choice for those seeking a more personal and detailed exploration of the charismatic Portuguese and Spanish riverside towns.