Hive read the reviews of others who were on our recent cruise. Concur with many of them in offering unqualified praise to the Viking Star. Beautiful ship, lovely staff, great food, first rate accommodations all the way around, The excursions were not of the quality that I have experienced on previous river cruises. I agree with the reviewer that said there was too much bus tour and looking at venues through the bus window and not enough "get out and be a part of the venue" time. Recommendations: Avoid the river cruise in Split; spend the time in the town instead. If you aren't extending your stay in Venice, skip the complementary lagoon cruise and wander around Venice; the lagoon cruise lasts too long.

Other concerns: our afternoon included tour in Barcelona was abruptly cancelled, even though I had been assured we could do both the Gaudi tour and the general tour. Customer Service phoneline was rarely answered; I let it ring 50 times once, just to see. Internet service unreliable and tech support not very knowledgeable. But don't be mistaken . . . it was an amazing voyage and we would certainly recommend it highly to anyone who asked.