The 14 night Grand European cruise was our fourth VRC, and first over seven nights.

We are familiar with the longship design and layout and thus reserved our usual "aquatic" class room. We still see no value in a upgraded room for these river cruises. The cabins are all virtually the same size (save for the suites) and balcony/room time is usually limited to napping or sleeping. The party is on deck or in the lounge - and these cruises are essentially one big house party.

Consist was a bit older than last year's Bordeaux romp and less interested in the wines. The wine list therefore was lacking with the only reds available (aside from the house pours) being a Hungarian "Bull's Blood" blend, a German red (nuff said), a CA B-grade cabby, and a Valpolicella (best in class here). Also available (sometimes) were a right bank Bordeaux blend and a Barolo. I say sometimes because stock was limited. Wine lovers would be wise to shop early and often in port to take advantage if the no corkage policy aboard. Whites were similarly limited with no white burgundies or sancerres. Read more