A Viking Voyage on the Seine

After a slight delay due to bustling holidays and subsequent travels, I am thrilled to finally share the highly anticipated second chapter of our French escapade: the magnificent Viking River Cruise through the heart of France. Following our exhilarating explorations of Paris by bicycle and on foot, my husband Ed and I were eager to trade city bustle for the serene flow of the Seine. Now, with time to meticulously sort through a treasure trove of photographs, I’m ready to unveil the highlights of our remarkable 8-day river cruise, a journey that seamlessly blended relaxation with rich cultural discovery.

This detailed account will be presented in two parts, ensuring a thorough exploration of every aspect. In this first installment, we’ll cover the luxurious onboard accommodations of the Viking Kadlin, the exquisite culinary experiences that awaited us, and our initial captivating excursions into the towns along the Seine. Prepare to be transported to a world where ancient history meets modern comfort, all from the unique vantage point of a longship gracefully gliding through the French countryside.

Viking River Cruises offers an impressive array of itineraries across Europe, each promising a distinct blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. After extensive research on the Viking website, the “Paris & The Heart of Normandy” cruise emerged as the perfect choice for us. It presented a compelling opportunity to fulfill a long-held dream of visiting Paris for the first time, while also allowing us to explore the deeply significant WWII D-Day beaches in Normandy – two pivotal destinations bundled into a single, seamless adventure.

This itinerary brilliantly eliminated the logistical stresses of navigating a foreign country by car or public transport. Viking meticulously handled every detail, transforming our journey into a truly effortless and enriching experience. The convenience of waking up in a new, picturesque port each day, without the constant chore of packing and unpacking, is one of the most compelling aspects of river cruising.

River cruising offers a distinct mode of travel, unparalleled in its comfort and intimacy. It’s a casual and relaxed affair, where you feel genuinely pampered. Guests have the freedom to fully immerse themselves in the enriching daily excursions offered by Viking, or simply choose to unwind on board and explore each port at their own pace. This unique “floating hotel” concept allowed us to visit numerous historic sites and charming villages across France without the typical travel fatigue of constantly changing accommodations.

We embarked on our voyage during the last week of September, extending into early October, a timeframe I wholeheartedly recommend for European travel. The weather during this period is typically cooler and more agreeable, making sightseeing a pleasure. Furthermore, the crowds are significantly thinner compared to the peak summer months, and travel costs are often more favorable. It’s an ideal season to savor France’s beauty without the hustle and bustle.

Our elegant ship, the Viking Kadlin, proudly bears the name of a daughter of Norse nobility, a nod to Viking’s rich heritage. Throughout the cruise, we delighted in sharing stories with fellow passengers, many of whom were seasoned Viking travelers, having enjoyed multiple river cruises. This was our inaugural river cruising experience, and based on its sheer perfection, we are already eagerly anticipating our next adventure on the waterways of Europe.

Day 1 & 2: Paris and Le Pecq – A Serene Start to Our Seine Adventure

After four exhilarating days immersed in the vibrant energy of Paris, cycling through its iconic streets and exploring its magnificent landmarks on foot, we were more than ready for the tranquil embrace of our Viking Longship. Our journey officially began with the boat docked in Le Pecq, a charming town situated approximately an hour outside the heart of Paris. This initial docking location set a peaceful tone for the adventure ahead, allowing us to ease into the rhythm of river life.

Important Booking TIP: It’s crucial for prospective travelers to note that while many Viking Seine cruises traditionally dock in Paris itself, often near the iconic Eiffel Tower, our specific Longship, the Kadlin, was too large and heavy for that particular section of the river. This detail was a surprise upon arrival, as we had anticipated starting our cruise directly in the heart of Paris. If having a full day or two docked in Paris is a priority for your itinerary, especially if you’re not planning an independent pre- or post-cruise extension, we highly recommend confirming the exact docking location with Viking before finalizing your booking. This ensures your cruise experience aligns perfectly with your expectations.

On Day 2, a bus excursion was offered into Paris. However, having just concluded an extensive exploration of the city on our own, we opted for a more localized experience. We chose to stay and discover the quaint allure of Le Pecq and the elegant surrounding area of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, enjoying a leisurely day touring these delightful towns at our own pace, soaking in the local atmosphere without the crowds.

Accommodations on the Viking Kadlin: Comfort and Elegance on the Water

Upon boarding the Viking Kadlin and completing our seamless check-in, our initial priority was to settle into our stateroom, then embark on an exploration of the ship’s inviting amenities. We arrived early, before the majority of passengers, which afforded us the luxury of experiencing the ship in its quiet serenity. Even when the Kadlin reached full capacity later in the cruise, it never felt overcrowded; there was always ample seating in the spacious lounge areas, at meal times, and in the refreshing outdoor spaces.

The moment you step aboard, your eye is immediately drawn to the elegant open wooden staircase that serves as a central feature of the ship’s interior. This beautiful staircase ascends to the third deck, where both the main lounge and our comfortable stateroom were conveniently located. Its polished banisters and warm wood tones set a tone of sophisticated comfort that permeated the entire ship.

Beyond the staircase, discreetly positioned, were the doors leading into the main dining room, where every exquisite meal of our journey was served. The dining area was thoughtfully designed with both long tables, comfortably seating eight, and smaller, more intimate round tables, all strategically placed alongside expansive, floor-to-ceiling windows. We particularly favored the round tables, as they fostered easier, more engaging conversations with our fellow travelers, allowing us to connect with everyone at our table. In contrast, at the longer tables, it sometimes proved challenging to converse with passengers seated at the opposite end. We delighted in meeting new and fascinating individuals at nearly every meal, and by midweek, we had forged wonderful friendships and began to gather together regularly. A delightful coincidence: we even encountered two different couples who live remarkably close to us in South Carolina – truly a small world!

The Viking Kadlin boasts three main decks, topped by the expansive Sundeck. The Upper Deck is home to the inviting Lounge, the popular Aquavit Terrace, and a selection of Veranda Staterooms and Suites. The Middle Deck houses the Reception area, the main Dining Room, and additional staterooms. A few more staterooms are located on the Main Deck. Our own Veranda Stateroom, offering stunning views and easy access to the ship’s social areas, was ideally situated on the Upper Deck.

Our accommodation, a Veranda Stateroom, was a haven of comfort. It featured a plush queen-size bed, ensuring restful nights, and a surprisingly spacious bathroom equipped with luxurious heated floors and a generously sized shower. I had anticipated a much smaller space, characteristic of ship cabins, but was pleasantly surprised by the ample roominess, which made our stay exceptionally comfortable and relaxing.

A highlight of our stateroom was the full veranda, accessible through elegant sliding glass doors. While it offered a private outdoor space, we often found ourselves gravitating elsewhere because…

…we absolutely adored spending time at the bow of the ship, just off the main lounge area. This prime location offered unparalleled panoramic views of both sides of the river, ensuring we never missed a moment of the passing French countryside. From our stateroom veranda, while lovely, we could only glimpse one side of the river, and the desire to absorb every vista meant the communal bow lounge quickly became our favorite viewing spot.

The main lounge, strategically positioned on the top deck, served as the vibrant social heart of the ship. It was our preferred haven after exhilarating days of exploring the port towns and villages, or returning from a captivating excursion. Here, we could unwind in plush, comfortable seating, enjoy a refreshing drink from the well-stocked bar, and be serenaded by the talented pianist who entertained guests daily. The atmosphere was always welcoming and convivial, perfect for recounting the day’s adventures.

It was a truly pleasant ritual to gather in the lounge, enjoying pre-dinner drinks and savory snacks, before heading to the second level for our evening meal. On days when the weather was too chilly to comfortably sit outside, I particularly enjoyed settling into one of the comfortable swivel chairs positioned right beside the large windows. From this vantage point, it was effortless to gaze out, watching the picturesque landscapes unfold as the Kadlin gracefully glided along the Seine, making every moment onboard a scenic delight.

While our 8-day cruise didn’t always bless us with perfect sunshine, the occasional clouds and light rain certainly didn’t dampen our spirits or detract from the incredible experience. In fact, when the rain subsided and the ship was in motion, the Sundeck transformed into the ultimate observation platform. The 360-degree views from up top were simply magnificent, offering unobstructed vistas of the passing scenery. I was particularly grateful for having packed a cozy sweater, as it could get quite breezy, especially on those charmingly cloudy days, adding to the refreshing open-air experience.

Food & Drink On Board The Kadlin: A Culinary Voyage

As anyone who has experienced a cruise knows, culinary delights are a cornerstone of the journey, and on the Viking Kadlin, we were certainly never left hungry or thirsty. Mornings began with a lavish buffet-style breakfast served in the elegant dining room. Here, guests could savor made-to-order eggs, a generous selection of savory meats, an abundance of fresh fruits, an assortment of artisanal breads and flaky pastries, alongside a variety of hot and cold cereals. The attentive wait staff was always on hand to deliver beverages and take orders for any specialty items desired, ensuring a perfect start to each day.

Both lunch and dinner were full-service, sit-down meals, offering a refined dining experience. The dress code on board is wonderfully casual; jeans and comfortable sneakers were perfectly acceptable attire, fostering a relaxed atmosphere where guests could truly unwind and enjoy their meals without formality.

The ship’s bar offered a full range of services, and a delightful perk of the Viking experience is that most house wines, local beers, and soft drinks are thoughtfully included in the cruise fare. This inclusive approach enhances the feeling of effortless indulgence throughout the voyage.

Insider TIP: For those who appreciate a fine glass of wine with dinner or enjoy sipping on a variety of cocktails, we highly recommend opting for the Silver Spirits Package. This upgrade allowed us to enjoy premium bottles of wine at our table and an extensive selection of local wines, a diverse range of beers, and an array of specialty cocktails and mixed drinks throughout the cruise. If you consider yourself a connoisseur or simply enjoy a wider selection of beverages, this package significantly enhances the dining and social experience.

Each late afternoon brought another culinary treat with a special snack setup on the Aquavit Terrace. One day might feature an elegant tea service complete with delicate macarons, while another would showcase an enticing assortment of regional cheeses, cured meats, and crackers, celebrating the local flavors of the regions we were traversing. These delightful bites were precisely what we needed after a day of exploring France, providing a perfect bridge between our excursions and dinner. Furthermore, two self-serve coffee and tea stations, continuously stocked with muffins and cookies, were available 24/7, offering a constant source of warmth and comfort.

Returning to the ship after a day’s excursion was always a moment of pure delight, made even more special by Viking’s thoughtful touches. Passengers were warmly greeted with refreshing warm hand towels and sparkling glasses of champagne, transforming the transition back onboard into a truly welcoming and luxurious experience. It’s these small, elegant gestures that elevate a Viking River Cruise into something truly exceptional.

When the weather was agreeable, Ed and I particularly enjoyed dining in the charming outdoor section of the Aquavit Terrace. Located at the very bow of the ship, this al fresco setting offered breathtaking, unobstructed views of the passing scenery. Enjoying our meals with the gentle breeze and panoramic vistas made every dining experience truly memorable, blending gourmet food with the natural beauty of the Seine.

At both lunch and dinner, the menu consistently presented a delightful array of choices, typically featuring a few distinct options for each course. This variety ensured that there was always something appealing to every palate, from traditional French delicacies to international favorites. As you can see from a few of the meals I’ve captured, the culinary offerings were not only beautifully presented but consistently delicious, reflecting Viking’s commitment to exceptional dining experiences.

Day 3: Exploring Vernon & Giverny – Following in Monet’s Footsteps

Each day of our Viking River Cruise promised new adventures, with the ship docking in picturesque towns and offering a selection of engaging excursions. Most of these immersive tours were thoughtfully included in the overall cost of the cruise, providing incredible value and ease of planning. However, a few exclusive experiences were available for an additional fee, offering unique deeper dives into specific sites or activities.

Ed and I enthusiastically signed up for two of these special excursions. One was an enchanting bike ride from Vernon to Giverny, culminating in a tour of Claude Monet’s iconic house and legendary gardens. The other was a captivating journey to Honfleur, a stunning 17th-century coastal town that exudes historic charm. Details of our unforgettable visit to Honfleur, the magnificent coast of Normandy, and the other fascinating stops along our journey will be revealed in Part 2 of this travelogue, so stay tuned for more!

After the Kadlin gracefully departed from Le Pecq, our first captivating stop was the charming town of Vernon, France. Following a delightful breakfast onboard, Ed and I disembarked around 10:00 in the morning, eager to explore this historic locale. Vernon, with its ancient timber-framed houses and quaint streets, instantly captivated us with its authentic French ambiance, a perfect introduction to rural Normandy.

As we strolled through the town, we observed a fascinating local custom: nearly everyone we passed carried a traditional French market basket brimming with fresh produce, often accompanied by a wheeled tote bag, much like the one seen in the photo above. It wasn’t one or the other, but both – a clear indication that these charming and practical accessories are indeed “a thing” for everyday life in France, deeply integrated into the local culture of shopping for daily provisions.

Following the steady flow of locals, we found ourselves drawn to a large and vibrant Farmer’s Market, a true feast for the senses. The market was a kaleidoscope of colors, with stalls overflowing with the freshest produce imaginable. The air was alive with the mingled scents of ripe fruits, fragrant herbs, and the salty tang of the sea. It was a bustling hub of local life, offering a genuine glimpse into the culinary heart of Vernon.

Stall after stall presented an incredible abundance of fresh produce, exquisite seafood, and vibrant flowers. Our eyes widened at the sight of the colossal langostinos, a testament to the rich bounty of the nearby coast. The energy of the market was infectious, a celebration of local agriculture and culinary tradition.

Everywhere we looked, sturdy wooden produce crates were neatly arranged, showcasing the day’s harvest. I found myself wishing I could somehow bring one or two of these beautifully rustic crates home as unique souvenirs, each carrying a piece of Vernon’s market charm. After thoroughly exploring Vernon all morning, we headed back to the ship for a leisurely lunch, then took some time to relax and read before embarking on our much-anticipated bike ride across the river to Monet’s house in Giverny.

The weather, thankfully, was perfectly cooperative, making our approximately 20-minute bike ride to Giverny and back an absolute delight. The picturesque trail wound through idyllic French countryside, offering refreshing breezes and charming views, setting the stage for our artistic immersion.

Upon our arrival in Giverny, we secured our bikes and embarked on a captivating walking tour through the heart of this tranquil village. Giverny is an undeniably charming and peaceful enclave, distinguished by its subtle “Monet green” accents on many of the homes, its narrow, winding streets, and the sheer abundance of interesting homes and meticulously tended gardens at every turn. It truly feels like stepping into one of Monet’s own canvases.

While each house in Giverny possessed its own unique character and architectural charm, a unifying thread of beauty ran through the village: nearly every dwelling was adorned with lush climbing vines and an exuberant display of colorful flowers, creating a truly harmonious and picturesque setting that felt endlessly inspiring.

This image captures a charming side view of Monet’s iconic home, taken from within the property grounds. Behind that magnificent, vine-covered wall lies the very narrow street depicted in the preceding photograph, highlighting the intimate scale of the village. As a major tourist attraction, Monet’s house was, understandably, quite crowded. We patiently waited in lines to experience both the renowned gardens and the interior of the house, a testament to its enduring allure.

For anyone familiar with Claude Monet’s extraordinary body of work, a visit to these gardens immediately reveals the profound inspiration behind his distinctive style and his pivotal role as the founder of Impressionism. The vibrant hues, the interplay of light and shadow, and especially the serene beauty of the water lilies, are precisely as they appear in his masterpieces. Walking through these meticulously preserved landscapes is like stepping directly into one of his famous paintings, a truly immersive artistic experience.

The gardens are a symphony of color and form, with everything in glorious bloom, even in early autumn. Meandering paths invite visitors to explore every nook and cranny, all gracefully leading back towards the iconic house. The famous water lily pond, with its Japanese bridge, is an oasis of tranquility and reflected beauty, a living testament to Monet’s artistic vision and his deep connection to nature.

While the house itself is fascinating, it truly plays a secondary role to the overwhelming beauty and artistic significance of the gardens. Unfortunately, capturing photographs inside the house proved impossible due to the sheer density of visitors. However, the external architecture and the surrounding botanical artistry more than compensated, offering an indelible impression of Monet’s world.

After a deeply inspiring tour of Giverny village and Monet’s estate, we cycled back towards Vernon, making a deliberate stop at a captivating 16th-century brick and timber structure known as The Old Mill. This picturesque landmark, famed for its unique position spanning the river, has been a favorite subject for countless artists, including Claude Monet himself. Though it suffered significant damage during WWII, it has been lovingly restored, standing today as a resilient symbol of Vernon’s rich history and enduring charm.

At The Old Mill, our delightful bike tour hosts surprised us with a charming riverside picnic. We savored delectable apple tarts and delicate macarons, quintessential French treats, perfectly paired with refreshing local cider and celebratory champagne. Sitting on the banks of the tranquil river, indulging in these local flavors, provided a perfect moment of reflection and relaxation after our active day of exploration.

After approximately twenty minutes of savoring the snacks and the serene riverside ambiance, we once again mounted our bikes and made our way back to the awaiting ship, invigorated and filled with wonderful memories of Vernon and Giverny.

The ship cast off about 30 minutes after our return, setting sail for our next destination. With the sun still gracing us with its presence, we took the opportunity to relax on our veranda for a while, enjoying the gentle movement of the ship and the picturesque views, before heading to the dining room for a delectable dinner, reflecting on a truly fulfilling day.

Continue your journey with Part 2 of our Viking River Cruise adventure: Viking Cruise Part 2

If you’re curious about other captivating river cruise itineraries offered by Viking, you might enjoy reading about my friend Kelly’s experience on The Rhine Getaway from Amsterdam to Basel Switzerland, offering a different perspective on European river cruising.

Have you ever had the pleasure of embarking on a Viking River Cruise? If so, we’d love to hear which incredible itinerary you chose and what made your trip special. If you’re contemplating a river cruise and have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask in the comments section below – I’m happy to share more insights!

For those who missed my previous posts about our Parisian adventures and wish to catch up, you can find them here:

• Touring Paris By Bicycle
• Walking All Around Paris
• Why I Didn’t Take the Eiffel Tower Steps

My Must-Haves For Effortless River Cruise Travel

This post contains affiliate links. Should you purchase an item I recommend, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

When preparing for a memorable river cruise, especially one that combines exploration with relaxation, certain essentials can significantly enhance your experience. Consider packing compact, versatile items that maximize comfort and convenience onboard and during excursions.

For more details on highly recommended travel items that will fit seamlessly into your river cruise adventure, ensuring a truly effortless and enjoyable journey, see my carefully curated selections below: