We took the VRC trip from Paris to Normandy (and back) in April 2012. We loved all the ports. The walkability at each site was terrific. The VRC tour guides were so informative and friendly. If you love history, this is a great cruise! (My only suggestion is to have VRC staff provide MORE onboard educational discussions about the history of the area while sailing.)
We really liked the ability of a river cruise to pull into small towns and explore them, rather than having all ports be busy cities.
The food was very good on the Spirit, with a variety of choices. We loved our waiter, Marco, who served us dinner each night.