Did comparison pricing on same cruise through several other companies. Chose Emerald as Gratuities were included as was wine/beer with meals. Also read other reviews. Trip was more than we expected. The ship was modern, clean and ample room. We had Panorama balcony and were very happy. Granted going through locks or tied up beside other ship you don't see anything. However scenery made up for this. Food was great and varied. Tour excursions and guides great and well paced. Service was amazing. Loved having less passengers than big cruise line so much easier to meet others. Really liked the casual atmosphere, not having to dress up for dinner. They had some local entertainment and some games nights. The cruise director was excellent and a very important part of the staff. So impressed with all the places we stopped at. We had great tours and lots of free time to explore on our own. Bikes were available if one wanted to tour that way. Highly recommend Emerald. Everyone on the trip we talked with were also very impressed with Emerald Waterways.