I chose Viking with a destination in Avignon, as well as a 3 day pre-trip to Paris. I have significant health issues and I wanted a cruise line with a good reputation that would take care of everything, and so I would not have to be packing up and traveling from town to town. I wanted a small ship with quiet amenities, and preferably no children to nearly eliminate noise. Most of our passengers were in their 70s, I would say. I am 60 so thereby a youth in comparison, but it was fine. Many of them were in much better shape than me! They were very friendly.

My birthday had occurred at the start of the trip, so the wait staff brought me a very unusual cake with a large sprinkler -- and they all knew my name. Every person at my table got a piece of cake and a glass of champagne, even though my husband and I didn't know them. It was a lot of fun.

The cruise was wonderfully done. Every member of the crew, including the captain, would help you find whatever you needed. I asked our very young housekeeper to find me some very soft towels, and she did (notice Viking: buy some new un-scratchy towels)! She also found us a top sheet for our bed (these seem to be not the style in France). Our cabin was very pleasant; however, we had a king-size bed and I think it took up too much of the room! I would have been happier with a Queen size and have a little more space in the room! The bed was very comfortable. But as I say, ALL the staff was wonderful. Read more