This was our 4th Viking River cruise and it was our favorite thus far. Our airfare was included with the cruise and we had great flights both to and from Paris. We were greeted by our Viking transfer host as we exited baggage claim, so there was no wait at all at the airport. We did both the pre and post cruise extensions with Viking and our hotel, the Hotel Ampere, was wonderful, as were our Viking hosts, Paula and Emma. We quickly mastered the Metro and saw many sights around Paris before departing the hotel for the Viking Spirit. We were delighted to see the ship was docked very near the Eiffel Tower, and we were able to get some incredible photos later as we departed.
We were greeted warmly upon embarking the ship and advised of the available buffet lunch and told when our cabin would be available.
The Viking Spirit, though an older, smaller ship than the longships we have been used to, was quite nice and our cabin was quite comfortable and well laid-out. We were cruising with friends, and their cabin was across the corridor from ours.
Cabin was small, but nicely appointed. Bed was comfortable, good drawer and closet space.
We were on the fence about doing this excursion, but were so glad we did. Our guide was fantastic. It was very crowded that day and she tried very hard to keep us all together to show us areas that were not as crowded and to give us photo ops as well. Her knowledge of Versailles was very in-depth. Such a great tour.
Our walking tour gave us the highlights of the town and then allowed for time on our own.