This was an absolutely first rate experience. The crew were excellent - ranging from the chambermaid who left our cabin looking spotless to the serving staff - an excellent mix of Russian and Philippino staff. Cruise Director was very good. The ship is very comfortable with lots of places to sit (Viking Truvor) and they made a real effort to make the trip special - an impromptu BBQ at lunch time on the Sun Deck and two cocktail parties with limitless Russian 'champage'. As much wine or beer as you could drink at meal times. Bar prices, in Units=US $,were high (for a post Brexit Brit) with a tonic costing nearly £4 - and unless you say just a little ice you have a glass full of ice and very little tonic. If you are a light sleeper avoid Cabin 417 on the Upper Deck as it is just below the piano in the bar! 413 has a pillar in it - as do other cabins - so worth checking for one withou when booking. The shore excursions were generally excellent although the Ballet in St Petersburg was danced by a stand-in troupe while the real professionals spent the Summer touring.