As expected, this cruise exceeded our expectations! The service was impeccable. Arrived in Basel Switzerland for an early embarkation which was seamless and so inviting. The ship was in pristine condition as we think it was new. We had a veranda suite that was absolutely perfect with a balcony. Much room to separate at times when you wanted to take a nap but in separate rooms. You can easily close off bedroom from living area and relax. the dining as well was exceptional with amazing service. This is our 2nd river cruise with Viking and must say this was as perfect as the first. We did not choose as much entertainment in the evening as we were very tired and went to bed early, however when we did it was very nice and fun. We met the most amazing people on this trip and now even will travel with them during the year for fun weekends. We did many optional excursions including two that we found above exceptional..... In cologne, the beer culture tour took us into town to try many beers and have a traditional dinner that was great. In Strasbourg, we did the optional tour taste of Alsace and foodie tour. We gathered and tasted food from many family owned shops and then it was all prepared for us at the end in a wine cellar as lunch. Outstanding and our tour guide was "our friend" , we didn't feel like tourists, we were her family. There was a younger couple on the cruise in mid 20's but really seemed to enjoy themselves the entire trip. We are the upper 50's crowd and this was right up our alley. Again, this is our 2nd river cruise and already booked the viking ocean cruise in December from Athens to Venice. Will definitely do another river cruise with Viking. It is a 5 star river boat. My only comment that wouldn't be a 5 star rating and this is a huge stretch to even complain about is that the coffee onboard is mediocre. I'm a coffee snob so take it for what is worth. However I didn't go on the cruise for coffee so it doesn't affect my rating.