Viking® (NYSE: VIK) has announced two new river cruise itineraries for 2030, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience Germany’s world-famous Oberammergau Passion Play. Performed only once every 10 years for nearly four centuries, the historic production will be featured on select departures from May through September 2030. The new Oberammergau, Innsbruck & the Rhine and Oberammergau with Salzburg itineraries both feature preferred seating at the 43rd Passion Play and allow guests time to explore Bavaria and destinations along the Rhine and Danube rivers, respectively.
“Our guests are curious travelers who value meaningful cultural experiences and a deeper understanding of the places they visit,” said Leah Talactac, President and CEO of Viking. “We have welcomed guests to the Oberammergau Passion Play for two previous installments and are pleased to introduce these new itineraries for 2030. By pairing this extraordinary event with a Rhine or Danube voyage, guests can explore some of Europe’s most historic destinations while experiencing a tradition that has endured for nearly 400 years.”
Oberammergau Passion Play
Since 2010, Viking has been privileged to host guests for this cherished event, and the company is the #1 North American partner of the Passion Play organizers. This long-standing relationship allows Viking to plan years ahead and to integrate the Passion Play seamlessly into thoughtfully designed itineraries, which include sailings on the company’s award-winning Viking Longships. Highlights of the new Oberammergau Passion Play itineraries in 2030 include:
- Oberammergau, Innsbruck & the Rhine (13 days; Amsterdam to Munich) – Sail the Middle Rhine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with castles, cathedrals and medieval towns. Savor the culinary traditions of the Alsace region and journey to Innsbruck, where verdant landscapes are framed by towering alpine peaks. In Oberammergau, experience the Passion Play, a cherished tradition that has been performed once a decade for nearly 400 years. Conclude your journey with an overnight stay in Munich, Bavaria’s historic capital.
- Oberammergau with Salzburg (12 days; Oberammergau to Budapest)– Embark on a journey through the heart of Central Europe. In Oberammergau, experience the Passion Play, a once-a-decade performance staged by villagers to honor a vow made in 1633. Explore historic Bavaria and charming Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for The Sound of Music. View scenic landscapes and visit historic cities as you sail the Danube River through Germany, Austria and Hungary.
For those who wish to learn more about Oberammergau and the Passion Play, Viking has also launched a dedicated online resource, featuring the history of the play, cultural insights and other destination information. The new webpage can be found at viking.com/Oberammergau.
Booking Details
From now through July 31, 2026, Viking’s Summer Sale offers North American travelers reduced fares and up to free international airfare on select all-inclusive river, ocean and expedition itineraries—and a $25 deposit for all itineraries. Call Viking toll-free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel advisor for details.
