My husband and I were looking for a ship with smaller passenger size and a great reputation. Viking provided us both. We were greeted when we arrived and immediately taken to our room. Our Program Director, Oliver, kept us fully informed in a light humored and friendly way. He made it a point to join us on the excursions to ensure satisfaction, coordination and kept us entertained along the way. He was thoroughly professional and very, very good at what he does. Oliver and his team made sure everyone could participate by planning "leisure" options for individuals that didn't want to or couldn't walk long distances. At the request of guests, they also arranged active excursions that were fully walking events vs. riding coaches and some walking. We participated in 2 of those and received a much closer and more intimate view of two of the cities we visited. Our guides for all of the excursions were very friendly, well-informed about their beloved cities and entertaining. Viking has done a great job of selecting the excursion companies and guides in their destinations.

Our Hotel Manager, Franz, runs a tight ship with a very talented staff. He seemed to be everywhere at once during critical times and like Oliver, paid special attention to all of the details. Everyone from the housekeepers to the bar staff to the wait staff in the restaurants and lounge were professional, courteous and well trained. They each made it a point to get to know us and to meet our needs. Our Concierge, Paulina, was always ready with recommendations if people were not taking the included or optional excursions and just wanted to see more of the areas we were visiting.

The last evening on board we were in Budapest, Hungary and the team organized a special cruise for us so we could see the evening lights on the river since we had arrived too late the evening before to see them. It provided a wonderful ending to our cruise. Read more