Viking Hlin

The appeal of Viking Hlin is not tied to a single city or landmark. Instead, it comes from the contrasts found along the Rhine itself—from the orderly waterways of the Netherlands and Germany’s historic river towns to vineyard-covered hillsides, medieval castles, Alsatian influences, and the approach toward Switzerland. Hlin provides a comfortable way to experience those changes gradually, allowing the river to connect destinations that might otherwise feel like separate parts of a European vacation.

Built in 2014, Hlin is a 443-foot Longship carrying 190 guests in 95 outside staterooms. Her streamlined proportions allow her to navigate the locks, bridges, and established river infrastructure of Central Europe, while the interior follows the understated Scandinavian approach associated with Viking. Natural woods, contemporary furnishings, neutral tones, and extensive glass create spaces that remain visually connected to the destinations outside.

Hlin’s itineraries make especially good use of that connection. Rhine journeys can link Basel and Amsterdam through Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Cologne introduces Gothic architecture and centuries of commercial history, while the Middle Rhine brings an entirely different setting of castles, steep vineyards, and compact riverside communities. Strasbourg adds the distinctive character of Alsace before the landscape changes again farther south.

Rather than concentrating every guest in a single indoor observation area, Hlin provides several ways to experience the scenery. The Sun Deck offers 360-degree views and shaded seating, along with a walking track and putting green. Solar panels and an organic herb garden are incorporated into the upper deck as well. During scenic stretches, guests can move from one side of the vessel to the other as castles, villages, bridges, and vineyard slopes appear along both banks.

The Aquavit Terrace creates a more intimate relationship with the river. Positioned at the bow, this indoor-outdoor space faces the direction of travel and provides an alternative setting for selected meals. It can be particularly appealing during the quieter portions of a sailing, when breakfast or lunch becomes an opportunity to watch the next destination slowly emerge ahead rather than simply another stop in the day's schedule.

Accommodations take advantage of Viking’s asymmetrical Longship layout. Hlin includes 25 Standard Staterooms, 22 French Balcony Staterooms, 39 Veranda Staterooms, seven Veranda Suites, and two Explorer Suites. French Balcony rooms maximize interior living space while providing floor-to-ceiling access to the river view, whereas Veranda Staterooms introduce a private outdoor area. The suites provide separate sleeping and living spaces, with the Explorer Suites offering the most expansive accommodations and wraparound verandas.

Meals in the Restaurant are served against a backdrop of floor-to-ceiling windows, keeping the surrounding landscape present during breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Regional dishes can reflect the areas being visited alongside familiar international selections, while complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks accompany onboard lunch and dinner. The atmosphere remains intentionally relaxed, fitting naturally between excursions and scenic cruising.

Hlin’s Lounge and Bar take on different roles as the day progresses. Guests may gather for a destination presentation before arriving in a new city, return later for drinks and conversation, or attend cultural programming that adds context to what they have encountered ashore. A library provides a quieter alternative, while the ship’s manageable size means guests never have to travel far between their stateroom, dining areas, and public spaces.

What distinguishes Hlin within European river cruising is the balance between recognizable destinations and the landscapes connecting them. The ship provides consistency—one stateroom, familiar surroundings, relaxed dining, and intimate public spaces—while the Rhine continually changes outside. For travelers who want castles and cathedrals alongside wine regions, historic communities, and scenic cruising, Hlin offers a journey where the route itself becomes as memorable as the places along it.