We cannot praise Viking highly enough. We chose the package that included a three day stay in Paris before the cruise and that was a wise choice. The hotel was a 5 star establishment and was wonderful. The transfers from the airport to the hotel and from the hotel to the ship were smooth.

Even though we booked very late and got the last cabin on the boat (way down below), we found the room comfortable and efficiently laid out. The staff and crew were outstanding. They were always helpful and friendly and made our trip a pleasure. In particular, Michael Bright, our Program Director, was terrific. His historical knowledge was most welcome and his humor (especially his exchanges with Chef Ricky) was always a daily highlight. Speaking of Chef Ricky, his meals were truly fabulous. I always followed his recommendations (there were several other choices) and I never regretted one of them.

The excursions along the way to and from Normandy were very good - knowledgeable and friendly guides, interesting sites, and enough free time to explore. But what made this trip sadly memorable was the attack in Paris while we were in Rouen. The Viking staff was very reassuring though they must have been feeling the stress of it. Since excursions scheduled (Versailles, for us) for when we returned to the Paris area had to be cancelled, Viking was able, between Friday night and Sunday morning, to arrange a tour of Chartres Cathedral - buses, tour guides, admissions - under what must have been very difficult circumstances. They went above and beyond what might have been expected. They earned five stars!