T'was the Night Before my Viking Christmas River Cruise

Basel Christmas Market. Photography: Property of Viking River Cruises unless noted. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

T'was the night before my Viking cruise, when all through the house,
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The suitcases were packed by the doorway with care,
In hopes that our ride would soon be there.

The travel bloggers were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of Christmas markets danced in their heads.
Villages aglow with their Christmas lights,
Toys, food and glühwein were sure to delight.

Christkindlmarkt or Christmas Market Glühwein. Photo: TheGirlRG.

When out on the river there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

Salzburg Castle at Christmastime.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the luster of midday to objects below.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a Viking Longship alongside the pier.

Captain St. Nick's helpers. 

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be Viking Captain St. Nick.
More rapid than eagles his longships they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

Eight tiny Viking Longships? ; )

"Now Freya! now, Odin!! now, Ingvi and Skadi!
On, Idun, On Gullveig, on Baldur and Magni!
To the end of the quay! To the rivers afar!
We'll sail down the Danube, under the northern star!

"Happy Viking Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

Winter night in Melk, Austria.

Read more about my upcoming Viking Christmas Market river cruise.

Here's a sneak peek into my upcoming cruise with Viking River Cruises.

Special thanks to Clement Clarke Moore from whom I borrowed these enchanting Christmas verses.