Day 6 - Sailing Up The Danube in Style or Calories Afloat

Today was a "Sailing Day" as we made our way up the Danube from Budapest to Vienna.   In the morning we had our requisite safety drill which took us up to the top deck on colorful life jackets.  We have not used that deck much as the weather has been cool, cloudy and showery most of the time.  But now I know where to go for a decent stretch. And so we sailed on to Vienna and as the river locks were in our favour, we tried up a couple hours earlier than expected.

So, as the day is devoted to sailing and not touring, what does Viking do?  They feed us. And they feed us, and then they feed us some more.    Between first breakfast - the continental in the forward lounge, to the second, heartier breakfast in the dining room, then lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.  Finally, they offered a late night snack of goulash back on the boat just in case those who attended the Mozart concert felt in need of sustenance at 10 PM. 

The redeeming factor is that the portions are much smaller than the normal North American portions.  (except for their 8oz Angus Rib Eye steak, and I admit I tried it and it was grilled to perfection, served with a Bearnaise Butter on the side)  The average protein portion is about 100 grams, the dessert portions are tiny, (2 or three bites at the most)

and all savoured with a glass of wine.  Now one of the joys of Viking is their Silver Spirits Beverage Package.  This little wonder works out to about $29 USD per person per day.  So, for our 14 day cruise, it was 798 for the both of us.  (However, if you are cagey when booking, they will comp it, Which they did for us.  )  It includes all drinks, beer, wine, spirits and cocktails and liqueurs, up to $15. USD.  I enjoyed some of the better wines, (by the glass).  and we both drank more on that trip than we have in the last 5 years.